Rightsizing is not just about downsizing; it’s about finding the right fit for your current lifestyle. It generally happens in later life when people move from a family home to a smaller and more manageable property.
Tony Kavanagh, regional director of Sherry FitzGerald Galway, has supported many clients through such a move. "It’s a big decision," he says. "A home where you’ve lived for 20 or 30 years will be full of memories. Moving on can be quite an emotional process." While the emotions are valid, rightsizing can also be a liberating experience. "It’s exciting – you’re embarking on the next chapter of your life!"
Moving to a smaller property can free up equity, allowing people to enjoy their retirement. It can also facilitate a simpler, more sustainable, lifestyle with lower running costs. The Healthy and Positive Ageing study conducted by Age Friendly Ireland in 2022 reported that a quarter of older adults found their homes difficult to maintain and 10 per cent were unable to keep their home adequately warm.
The first step is to consider why you want to move. If you have a partner, make sure you both feel the same way. "Take time to think about what you want," Tony Kavanagh advises. "Do you want to stay in the location, or do you want to be closer to family?" If you’re moving to a different area, make a checklist of what you want. Some will look for a home without stairs. Others need a garden for the dog. "People like to relocate somewhere that’s not isolated. They look for a home in a nice community that’s close to transport and shops."
Once you’ve decided to make a move, begin the process of decluttering. Take one room at a time and separate unnecessary belongings from those you want to keep. Some of the furniture can be brought with you, but a smaller home will accommodate fewer possessions. Divide them into categories: some things can be donated; some can be sold; and some will need to be thrown away. Keep the things that you use regularly and that are close to your heart. "People find this process challenging but making a start on it will make it much easier to stage your property for prospective buyers."
Then, begin viewing properties and see what you could imagine yourself in. "Everyone thinks they know what they want until they go out there and look," Tony explains. "Do a bit of soul searching but waste no time in getting your own home on the market. If you delay, you might find your dream home and miss out on the purchase because you’re not far enough along with your own sale." The further you are with your own sale the stronger position you’ll be in to buy.
Putting your house on the market without knowing where you’re going to move to can be very daunting, but a good estate agent will make sure you have total control of the process. "We’ll be there to hold your hand every step of the way," Tony says. "As a seller, you’re always in control. You’ll never be left without options."
Sometimes the highest offer isn’t necessarily the best choice. "The decision is yours, but we’ll present all offers and help you choose the one that’s best for your needs. A slightly lower offer from someone who’ll give you the time to find your next home could be invaluable. Moving home is an important decision. You don’t want to do it in a rush."
If you are looking to expand your space, or downsize to something cosier, Sherry FitzGerald Galway can help. Contact your local Sherry FitzGerald office today on 091 569123 and let the team help you find the perfect solution for your changing housing needs.
