Harvard Health defines aging in place as “living safely and independently for as long as possible—wherever you choose to live.” The trend of aging in place is becoming more popular among the elderly and many want to stay in their lifelong homes. There are many reasons why aging in place is attractive. For example, you are already familiar with your home and may not want to have to learn a new layout or neighborhood. Not to mention, you likely have a strong emotional attachment to your home and are reluctant to leave it behind. You may also want to maintain your independence for as long as possible and see moving as a loss of autonomy.
There are some challenges that come with aging in place. For example, if you live alone, you may need assistance with tasks like cooking and cleaning. Living in a large home can be especially difficult if you are dealing with mobility issues; you might be more susceptible to falls and other accidents. Having to navigate stairs or keep up with house and yard work can become an overwhelming burden. Additionally, living alone can be dangerous for someone who is not able to take care of themselves. If you live in an unsafe neighborhood, you may feel like selling your home is the best way to stay safe.
After years of living in the same home, you may find that you simply need to downsize or move to a safer place. Here are a few things to keep in mind when selling a home later in life:
1. It’s okay to be sentimental. After living in a home for many years, it’s natural to be attached to it. Be sure to take the time to reminisce and take a few photos as you say goodbye to your home before putting it on the market. Think about the positives – less maintenance, fewer stairs, no more yard work, etc. Selling can help you start fresh, and you can create new memories in your new home.
2. Get help from a real estate agent. When it comes time to sell a beloved home, getting help from a real estate agent can be a big help. An experienced agent can help you navigate the selling process and ensure that you get the best possible price for your home. They can also help you find the right buyer and handle all the paperwork involved in the sale. Selling a home is a big decision, but with the help of a real estate agent, it can be a smooth and stress-free process. Ask friends and relatives for a good real estate agent recommendation and read a few articles like this one on how to select a good agent.
3. Be prepared for changes. When selling a home that you’ve lived in for many years, it’s important to be prepared for changes. This may mean making some modifications to your lifestyle to make the sale. For example, you may need to declutter your home and get rid of any personal items that could potentially turn off buyers. You might also need to make your home more presentable by deep cleaning and making minor repairs. If you have any pets, you’ll likely need to make arrangements for them to be out of the house during showings and open houses. And finally, you should be prepared for the possibility that your home may sell quickly, which could mean having to move out on short notice. It’s wise to think through what will happen if it sells fast and plan for where you can stay at least temporarily if your next permanent home isn’t available yet.
4. If your home has deferred maintenance, is filled with “stuff”, or the traditional selling process is not for you, there are other options. You can sell your home as-is to a cash buyer. There are many reputable as-is home buyers out there, so make sure to research those in your area. This can be a quick and easy way to sell your home without having to make repairs or clean out the clutter. Another option is to rent your home out. This can provide you with income while still allowing you to eventually sell the property when the time is right. There are also companies that will buy your home and then lease it back to you, so you can stay in your home until you are ready to move. Whatever option you choose, there are ways to sell your beloved home without going through the traditional process.
No matter what the reason is for selling, it’s important to consult with family members or other loved ones before making any decisions. Weigh your options carefully. Our sister company, Anna Buys Houses, is a good resource for helping to sort through some good options. They have helped many people by either purchasing their home or pointing them to resources that can help in their unique circumstance. They understand that your home isn’t just a financial asset, it’s a lifetime of memories and are known for doing what is best for their clients. Check out some testimonials from satisfied clients of their company!