Seniors Prefer To Downsize

Seniors are downsizing to 55+ communities vs. younger people who usually look to upsize.

The past year and a half brought about significant life changes for many of us. For some, it meant entering retirement earlier than expected. Recent data shows more people retired this year than anticipated. According to the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis, 2021 saw a retirement boom:

“At least 1.7 million more older workers than expected retired due to the pandemic recession.”

If you’ve recently retired, your home may not fit your new lifestyle. The good news is, you’ve likely built-up significant equity that can fuel your next move. According to the latest Homeowner Equity Insights report from CoreLogic, homeowners gained more than $50,000 in equity over the past 12 months alone. That, plus today’s sellers’ market, presents a great opportunity to sell your house and address your changing needs.

You Can Move Closer to Your Family or Friends
The 2021 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) provides a look at the reasons people buy homes. For those reaching retirement age, the number one reason to buy is the opportunity to be closer to loved ones, friends, or relatives.

If you find yourself farther from your loved ones than you’d like to be, retirement and the equity you’ve built in your home may enable you to move closer to the people in your life who matter most.

You Can Find the Right Home for Your Needs
Not only can your equity power a move to a new location, but it can also help you purchase the right size home. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, says many homebuyers 55 and older choose to downsize – or buy a smaller home – when they make a purchase:

“Clearly from the age patterns, young people want to upsize, and the older generation is looking to downsize. . . .”.

Seniors are downsizing to 55+ communities in Torrance, Redondo Beach or Palos Verdes.

Whatever your home goals are, a trusted real estate advisor can help you to find the best option for your situation. They’ll help you sell your current home and guide you as you buy your next one while you move into this new phase of life.

South Bay has many great options for active 55+ seniors – our 55+ communities offer wonderful options for active seniors such as worry and maintenance free living, opportunities to meet new friends. Torrance 55+ communities are not only attractive homes but also come with clubhouses, gyms, golf courses, tennis courses and many activities that seniors find attractive.

If you’ve recently retired and your needs are changing, you’re not alone. Contact your local expert – Krystyna Baty Ryan at (310)918-5027 to review your options and how to find a home that will match your situation.