I'm retiring and want to downsize. What should I consider?
Answered by Chris Deutsch, Founder & Editor
Licensed Minnesota Realtor #20382264 ·
The short answer
It isn't really about square footage — it's about designing your next chapter. Start with lifestyle questions, not house questions.
On stage The 60-second answer
Captions on · Transcript below
The stage is set.
Chris's video answer is on its way. Until then, the short answer above says the same thing.
The transcript posts with the video.
The longer answer
Do I want yard work? (If no: condo or townhome. If yes: think about the physical reality in ten years.) Do I want to maintain a home? (If no: an HOA covers the exterior. If yes: budget for hiring help eventually.) Do I need to be near medical care? (Proximity to good hospitals matters more than people expect.) Do I want to travel? (Lock-and-leave changes the equation.)
Answer those first and the house usually picks itself. When you're ready — no rush, no timeline — let's talk them through over coffee.
The next department over
What people in this spot usually ask next.
- Senior transitionsWhen is the right time to downsize from a family home?Read the answer
- Senior transitionsOur children are upset we're selling their childhood home. What do we tell them?Read the answer
- Senior transitionsEveryone keeps telling me to "downsize." Why does that word feel so bad?Read the answer
- Rules & representationHow does Chris approach senior moves?Read the answer
- Senior transitionsHow do I talk to my parents about moving without making them feel pushed out?Read the answer
- Relocation to the Twin CitiesWhat should I know before relocating to Minneapolis?Read the answer
From the editor's desk
“As Founder and Editor, I review, correct, and stand behind every answer.”
Is your situation more specific than the market? That's the one worth talking through.