How much house is too much? Do you enjoy the maintenance or is the amount of upkeep getting to be excessive? If these are some questions you’re currently thinking about, it may be a sign it’s time for you to consider downsizing. Many seniors downsize at one point or another; most of them for these very reasons. Read on for some key questions to ask yourself when deciding whether the time is right for you!
1. Is the maintenance becoming too overwhelming?
If the physical work to maintain your house and property has become too much, it is probably a good time to start looking into other options. Your home should bring you a sense of peace; it should never cause you undue stress and physical exhaustion.
2. Do you have unused space?
Are your guest rooms being used? Do you have a three-stall garage but only one car? Bigger is not always better. If your spare rooms are mainly collecting dust, it’s time to think about downsizing. They are costing you unnecessary money in taxes, heating/cooling, and eventual maintenance (paint, carpet, plumbing, etc.).
3. Does your house meet your lifestyle needs?
When thinking of the years ahead as you age, will you be able to live safely and comfortably in your home? You may be able-bodied now, but, for example, will you be able to climb the stairs in your two-story home in 15 years? Medical needs and disability are some of the primary reasons people choose to move out of their homes. Planning ahead to be prepared and able to stay in your surroundings should physical limitations occur is a good reason to consider downsizing now.
4. How often will you be home?
Do you travel frequently for work? Or is travel high on your agenda for retirement? What’s the point of having a big, beautiful home if you’re never home to enjoy it? If you’re rarely home, it may be foolish to continue paying to maintain a large home.
5. Is it time to cash out?
Are houses in your neighborhood selling for big money? Keeping a pulse on local real estate and knowing the appreciation values in your area are very important and could be a major influence in whether downsizing is right for you. If your home has appreciated in value, selling and rolling to profit into your retirement fund will make for more comfortable living it the years ahead. Or it can allow you to start checking items off your bucket list with more disposable income!
These questions should be used as a downsizing guide as you start to think whether the time is right for you or not. It is always wise to consult a trusted investment or tax advisor when considering this decision as well. The need may arise for self storage when you’re ready to make a move. Sunshine Self Storage has many Florida locations and is happy to help with any storage needs you may have. Please contact us today if we can help!
