Preparing For An Empty Nest

When the kids move out, the house can suddenly feel very different.

For some parents, watching their children spread their wings and fly the coop brings a welcome sense of freedom. For others, a quieter house can take some getting used to.

It can also raise a practical question: does your current home still suit this stage of your life?

Many empty nesters start thinking about downsizing, but moving may not always be the right choice.

Before deciding whether to stay put or start fresh somewhere new, here are a few things worth considering:

Know Your Why
Think about what you’d actually like to gain from a move, whether it’s less upkeep, lower expenses, a different location or simply a fresh start.

Do the Math
Compare your potential sale proceeds with the cost of another home, moving expenses, transaction costs and any renovations or monthly fees.

Picture Daily Life
Think beyond square footage. Consider the layout, outdoor space, parking, storage and other features that will make everyday living comfortable for years to come.

Stay Connected
Think about how a move could affect your proximity to family, friends, shopping, medical care, recreation and other places that are part of your regular routine.

Condo Culture
If less exterior maintenance and a lock-and-leave lifestyle appeal to you, a condo may be worth considering, especially if you plan on travelling.

You Guest It
If you enjoy having family or friends stay over, make sure your next home still has enough space to host guests comfortably.

There’s no need to make a decision the moment the nest empties. Decluttering, exploring your options and giving yourself a little time can make the right choice much clearer.

You may decide that moving makes perfect sense, or you may realize that the home you already have still suits you just fine.

Either way, it’s a good opportunity to think about what kind of home and lifestyle make the most sense at this new stage of life.