Making a Smooth Transition to
Retirement Living
Moving is rarely
easy. But the thought of making a retirement move can become
overwhelming. The physical and emotional realities are often complex
– and a retirement move is usually seen as a necessity – not a matter
of choice. But look at it this way; you’re moving into a
low-maintenance or no-maintenance
lifestyle.
Psychologically,
it helps if you know where you're moving to before you sell your
current home. Here are few tips to help you prepare.
·
Ask
a Realtor for a home evaluation to find out how much your current
home is worth. Have a good understanding of your finances.
·
Ask
family members to help by removing the belongings they should have
claimed long ago.
·
Don't be surprised if your children discourage you from selling the
family home. Their memories are tied to the home just as yours are.
Selling the family home confirms the end of an era.
·
Start looking at retirement residence options well before you plan to
move. This could mean condo living, retirement villages, assisted
living facilities, or maybe moving in with your children.
·
Many retirement homes have waiting lists. Even though you may have to
wait months or years to move in, prepare your home for sale so you’re
ready to sell quickly.
·
If
you’re looking at condo living, carefully read the rules and
regulations of the condo association.
·
And
if you’ve decide to move in with your child, have a clear
understanding of boundaries, routines, and responsibilities up front
to create an atmosphere of mutual respect.
It's natural to
feel sad at times about making a retirement move. But it’s easier for
everyone, including you, to make the move when you are able to – and
not when you have to. The benefit is that you'll be free of home
maintenance worries, which will free up time for more enjoyable
activities. |
