Seniors - Helping Them Move

by Julie Wilson
(Kitchener,Ontario, Canada)

Helping Parents to Plan Ahead for a Real Estate Move

Confusion to Clarity

Seniors who have lived in their homes for twenty, thirty, even forty years find themselves facing a troubling decision: To move or not to move?

Naturally, these seniors find comfort in continuing to live in the home that holds so many fond memories for them. But, as the years pass by, they also find it more and more difficult to maintain their home as they had in the past.

When is the best time to move?
Only they know when they are ready to move.
Unless their safety becomes a concern.
My advice is to plan ahead before a crisis happens.
When you notice signs of aging start planning.

Sometimes the thoughts are so overwhelming it gets put off until a crisis situation arises. Don’t be concerned about the Real estate market trends and the stories you hear about spring is better than winter. Buyers market vs. sellers market. Interest rates up or employer downsizing.

Research shows that families are, for the most part, unprepared for elder care and the challenges that lie ahead. Making plans on the fly will be a costly and create havoc within the family.

In your plans you need to write out a list of pros and cons to move. Be clear and honest. Does what you want match your needs? Consider health now and in the next 10 years. Consider desired location, maintenance, companionship, affordability and most importantly consider safety.

There are many types of homes to consider from independent living to long term care. Some adult communities have different stages of care available so you can just move around within the same complex. Keep in mind many having waiting lists. That is another reason planning is so important.

A move should be and can be a new beginning, offer freedom and independence as well as a peace of mind for the senior and the adult children.
Second important question to answer is: How Much money will I have after I sell my home?

Research your options and costs involved. Need help call me and I will provide you more information on the living options available to you while evaluating your present home so you know the equity you will have.