Those who possess larger homes but no longer require the space they provide are more and more likely to downsize. The reasons why more and more people are eager to release the value they have accrued in their ancient family houses are numerous and varied.
Some people may wish to downsize so they can make their life more comfortable and have a little extra money for retirement, while others may just not want to juggle around a big house once their children have moved out. Whatever the reason be, Alexander & Co Brackley estate agents can help you through the process efficiently. Another reason people choose to downsize is so they may provide their children with the much-needed financial support they need to purchase a family home of their own and help them climb the property ladder.
Whatever the reason, many people who are considering downsizing have questions regarding the procedure, therefore we decided the time was ripe to create our very own downsizing guide. Here, we’ll examine some of the most often asked questions before providing you with a step-by-step manual for stress-free downsizing.
Let’s begin with a few of the most frequently asked queries:
When should I think about downsizing?
It is tough to establish a precise age on when you should relocate because the choice to downsize naturally depends significantly on your own unique circumstances and scenario. However, many are taken aback by how young on average most people decide to downsize. Most people decide to downsize before retirement. To some, this might seem early, but it’s generally agreed that the sooner you make the transfer, the better. It makes sense to do this given that many people consider moving to a new home to be among the most stressful experiences of their lives.
Does downsizing need a long-distance move?
Not always, although relocating farther away could free up more equity, particularly if your current location is in a hot market. Money isn’t everything, though, so you should consider the change both practically and financially. Will the extra money you earn by leaving the area to which you have become accustomed to outweigh the distance you will have to travel to see your family and friends?
Mobility is another factor. Moving away from your current location could make you wish for that idyllic home in the country, but would it be useful as you become older? As you get older, getting about might be difficult, so it’s crucial to make sure the region you’re considering moving to has good transportation options and enough services close by. Before you make a firm choice about where you will move, consider factors like the distance to nearby stores, medical facilities, and other services you may require.
Are retirement communities preferable to purchasing private property?
Once more, this is a very subjective choice. Many will find the idea of a pre-existing community to be appealing, while others could find comfort in the idea of having a warden on hand. What is proper for you can only be determined by you. Everyone who is thinking about purchasing a retirement property should, however, make sure they thoroughly investigate all of the options before making a decision.
It can be confusing to go through the long lists of restrictions and caveats that many retirement homes come with. It is crucial to understand exactly what you are agreeing to, therefore seek assistance if you believe that the fees or terms and conditions listed in the documentation are unclear. You can get assistance from organisations like Citizens Advice, but you can also ask your family or friends for some insight that will give you the confidence you need to move forward.
Detailed instructions for downsizing
Now that we have looked at some of the more popular queries about downsizing, it is time to walk through the procedure itself:
1. Make sure downsizing is a good fit for you
Make sure you truly want to downsize before you do anything else. Since it’s not really possible to change your mind after the fact, give this some serious thought. Selling your home and moving to a smaller space must be something you firmly intend to undertake.
2. Start considering more compact properties
Investigate various neighbourhoods and property sizes to give yourself a good start. If you believe that retirement properties will meet your needs, look into them and get a sense of what is currently available.
3. Determine costs
If you want to get the most out of the equity you will be released when you sell your house, figuring out the cost of your move is crucial. Ask for quotations from local lawyers and keep in mind to account for any ongoing costs you may have, especially if you are moving into a retirement home or an apartment where you could have to pay service fees and/or ground rent.
4. Start looking for a new residence with seriousness
You will have a better notion of the type of property you want to move into now that you have done your research. To find the ideal home at the best price, begin your search right now.
5. Organise your possessions
It can be easy to put things off when things are going quickly but don’t make this mistake. Sort your belongings into retain and dispose of groups after you’ve organised them. Determine to who you will give your unwanted items to and make plans for their prompt collection. This will lessen your stress level on a moving days.
