Updated June 17, 2024
Retirement should be relaxing: beach days, rounds and rounds of golf, and catching up with old friends. But standing in the way of this carefree dream is often a family home that demands to be cared for. And if this once-buzzing property has become an empty nest, it might be time to downsize. Here are our tips for making the move.
Plan ahead
Consider your options, including independent living in Honolulu or other retirement communities in Hawaii. These are great because they offer a range of living arrangements, a built-in social scene, and a supportive environment with caring staff. Make sure to do some research before you’re ready to move, so that when it’s time you’ll know what’s right for you.
An important step in planning is to make a downsizing checklist. Include where you’d like to live, how to handle all your belongings, and what your current financial situation looks like. Make sure to understand the value of your home, so you can include that as well.
Hire a real estate agent
Less stress is what downsizing is all about. So, if you decide to sell your home, find a real estate agent that can handle the hard stuff. Think you’ll lose out by spending on the extra help? Think again. Homes sold by experienced agents go for, on average, $60,000 more than homes sold without one.
Cut out the clutter
If you’re moving to a smaller space, whether it’s to an apartment at one of the best retirement communities in Hawaii or any other senior living situation, you’ll need to scale back. This means parting ways with the belongings you no longer need, and only keeping what counts. You’ll be surprised at how refreshed you’ll feel with the lack of clutter. And when you move into your new space, you’ll still have your favorite family photographs, cards, and mementos—meaningful items you need to feel at home.
Downsizing can be the key to unlocking your dream retirement. At the Plaza, we’re proud to have one of the best senior living communities in Hawaii, with a range of senior care options. If you’re considering making the transition to a simple, relaxing, and fulfilling lifestyle, make sure to visit one of our five communities in Moanalua, Mililani, Pearl City, Punchbowl, or Waikiki.