Embrace the Journey
BY BILL BUDLER
For most seniors, our family home has been a traditional house. The type you see along seemingly endless neighborhood streets. Each home is surrounded by its own yard. The property lines are defined by a friendly neighbor fence. The various architectural designs and sizes reflect the style and needs of each family. It’s our own little piece of the world.
As the children move out in pursuit of their own lives, the bedrooms begin to sit empty. The maintenance becomes more laborious. The stairs are more challenging with each passing year. The yard work is no longer as enjoyable. And dealing with the snow and ice, well that is a task best left for a younger back. There comes a time when we begin to consider a change in lifestyle.
The current real estate market makes it a great time to sell the family home. It is probably worth more money today than it ever has been in history. But what’s next? Health situations may lead you toward one of the many assisted living facilities offering a variety of care levels. Or is downsizing to a townhome or condominium a better option? That lifestyle can be very appealing. Especially having a Homeowner’s Association providing lawn care, sharing the maintenance, and of course, handling the snow removal. The big question: should you buy or rent? The challenge today is a limited availability of either option.
For a positive outcome in today’s hyperactive real estate market, it is more important than ever to utilize the assistance of an experienced professional. Along the way there will be many important decisions to make. Lots of emotions. Dozens of details. Through it all, embrace the journey and enjoy the next chapter of life.
Bill Budler is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist© with BancWise Realty and a contributing writer for Lincoln 55+ magazine.