I have been blessed to speak to thousands of seniors at seminars designed to enlighten folks who have been in their homes for many years. In these seminars I talk about reasons for procrastination, how to prepare and start the downsizing process as well as the actual process of selling and moving from a home of many years. The average time spent in a home for attendees of these seminars is 33.7 years, however the range of years lived in their current home is 20-76 years. Yes, I had one wonderful lady who had lived in her home from birth until the day she moved into a senior community (and by the way she is very happy she made the move).

Without fail several of the people attending the seminar will want me to stop out and help them begin the process of downsizing and preparing to put the home on the market. They put a deposit down at a senior community fully intending to simplify their lives and make the move. Then hesitation sets in. Doubt and confusion begin to dominate their thoughts, and the next thing you know (more…)

My article last month addressed the question, what is the top fear keeping seniors from making a move? The answer was fear of change.

I discussed steps you can take if fear has kept you from improving your situation. This week I would like to answer the question, what is the top reason for making a move. In other words, why would a senior want or need to move after living in the home for several years. The answer Maintenance! The many chores and back breaking work needed to sustain a home. Comments from the folks surveyed, were anything from snow shoveling, yard maintenance, home deterioration, lawn maintenance, to finding it hard to rely on maintenance or handymen, and worry as to how the work will get done.

A few months ago I received a letter from a client, Marion. She is a wonderful lady who lived in her home for over 30 years. Her husband had passed away a few years ago, and was alone in her home. She was left with the responsibility of (more…)