RIGHTSIZING? EMPTY NEST? READY TO DOWNSIZE?
Do you have rooms that aren’t being used? Stuff that you don’t remember using for the last ten years? Yard seems to grow bigger every year? These are questions that I ask myself as I approach the 60 year old mark. Am I really using all this space? Do I need all this space? Do my hobbies and passions require the home I am in or can I free up time and equity by finding a more suitable home?
Time, space, passions, budget and maintenance all play a role in staying or moving. The community and neighborhood, mainly neighbors can play a role as well. Some of us stay where we are just because our neighbors are so awesome! I know we have such thoughtful neighbors it would be hard to say good bye to them.
There comes a point in time when hard decisions just have to be made. Your home starts to become a ball and chain around your neck. Property taxes, water bills, heating, electricity and yard care are just too much. You really don’t want to rely on friends and family for constant help. Independence is still a top priority!
As I write this article my Father and Mother still live in the house where I went to grade school. In his 80’s it takes him all week to do what he did in a day. In a good way he keeps occupied and active. The yard looks like a photo out of a gardening magazine! So for now this works for them. I ask myself do I want to move when I am 85? Probably not! I know my Grandad stayed in his home after Grandma passed for at least 15 years. Alone and on his own. Family made frequent visits but still he was alone most of the time till passing in his 90”s.
In reflecting on when best to make a move it would be before my mid 70’s or when my health declines. Once you pass a certain age I think your move would be to assisted living. Not my idea of what I would want. Everyone is different.
Find out What Your Home is Worth
New report reveals how one fast-growing expense is impacting homeowners: ‘Many may feel like they can never own a home’
Home insurance premiums in Utah have surged by 59% in three years, the highest increase nationwide, driven largely by climate change-related extreme weather. Rising costs are worsening the housing crisis, making homeownership harder, especially for first-time buyers....
US Homes: Will Growth Return in 2025?
U.S. home sales peaked in 2021, declined through 2024, and are expected to see mild growth in 2025-2026.Mortgage interest rates will continue influencing market trends, impacting prices and buyer demand.
Property Tax Trends Across the US
Rising property values have led to higher tax burdens, though some states cap assessments to limit drastic increases. Northeastern and Midwestern states generally impose higher property taxes, while Southern and Western states tend to have lower rates.
Value Adjustments according to Ai
Appraisal adjustments vary according to build quality and area While specific dollar values for adjustments in residential home appraisals can vary based on numerous factors, including the specific neighborhood and current market conditions, here are some typical...
7 Things I Wish I’d Known as a First-Time Homebuyer
Robert and Kacie share insights on personal finance and home buying. Robert emphasizes the importance of a good real estate agent and home inspections. Kacie advises looking beyond bad online listings for potential hidden gems. Both stress the financial challenges and...
10 Tips for Finding Cheap Housing
Looking in less popular neighborhoods or cities and being willing to relocate can reduce housing costs. Strategies include low-income housing programs, finding roommates, negotiating rent, and making compromises. Making a detailed budget plan is crucial to determine...
Selling Your Home in 2025? Expect More Competition
More homeowners will list their properties as mortgage rates stabilize, improving inventory but increasing competition.Buyers may gain leverage, leading sellers to offer price cuts or concessions in competitive markets.
New Tariffs Could Raise Construction Costs by 60%!
U.S. construction faces rising costs as new tariffs could increase material prices by up to 60%. Construction inputs for multifamily projects have already surged 35% in 5 years, squeezing project feasibility.
Follow These 5 Steps to Own a Home in 2025!
Before buying a house in 2025, ensure you are debt-free and have 3–6 months of expenses saved. Limit your home budget to 25% of your take-home pay, covering mortgage, taxes, insurance, and HOA fees.
Renting costs a lot less than buying a home, especially in the West
Salt Lake City ranks fifth in the U.S. for the rent-buy cost gap, with renting at $1,680 monthly and buying at $3,197, making buying 90.4% more expensive. Nationwide, renting is cheaper as mortgage payments rise while rents decline or stabilize. The largest gaps are...