Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

Planning to Retire? It Could Be Time To Make a Move

December 15, 2022

Seller

Planning to Retire? It Could Be Time To Make a Move

If you’re thinking about retirement or have already retired this year, you may be planning your next steps. One of your goals could be selling your house and finding a home that more closely fits your needs.

Fortunately, you may be in a better position to make a move than you realize. Here are a few things to think about when making that decision.

Consider How Long You’ve Been in Your Home

From 1985 to 2008, the average length of time homeowners typically stayed in their homes was only six years. But according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), that number is rising today, meaning many homeowners are living in their houses even longer (see graph below):

 

When you live in a home for a significant period of time, it’s natural for you to experience a number of changes in your life while you’re in that house. As those life changes and milestones happen, your needs may change. And if your current home no longer meets them, you may have better options waiting for you.

Consider the Equity You’ve Gained

Additionally, if you’ve been in your home for more than a few years, you’ve likely built up significant equity that can fuel your next move. That’s because the longer you’ve been in your home, the more likely it’s grown in value due to home price appreciation. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) illustrates that point (see graph below):

While home price growth varies by state and local area, the national average shows the typical homeowner who’s been in their house for five years saw it increase in value by over 50%. And the average homeowner who’s owned their home for 30 years saw it almost triple in value over that time.

Consider Your Retirement Goals

Whether you’re looking to downsize, relocate to a dream destination, or move so you live closer to loved ones, that equity can help you achieve your homeownership goals. NAR shares that for recent home sellers, the primary reason to move was to be closer to loved ones. Plus, retirement played a large role for those moving greater distances.

Whatever your home goals are, a trusted real estate advisor can work with you to find the best option. They’ll help you sell your current house and guide you as you buy the home that’s right for you and your lifestyle today.

Bottom Line

Retirement can bring about major changes in your life, including what you need from your home. Let’s connect to explore your opportunities in our local market.

 

(2022, December 15). Planning to Retire? It Could Be Time To Make a Move. Keeping Current Matters. https://www.mykcm.com/2022/12/15/planning-to-retire-it-could-be-time-to-make-a-move/

Explore Our Other Blogs

Stay Updated On Our Most Recent Blog Posts

From “Just Looking” to “Let’s Write the Offer”: A San Jose Realtor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Hesitant Buyers

Real Estate

From “Just Looking” to “Let’s Write the Offer”: A San Jose Realtor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Hesitant Buyers

Thao Dang Pham  |  September 18, 2025

From “Just Looking” to “Let’s Write the Offer”: A San Jose Realtor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Hesitant Buyers
“The Other Side of Silicon Valley: 12 Real Downsides of Living in San Jose (And How to Work Around Them)”

Real Estate

“The Other Side of Silicon Valley: 12 Real Downsides of Living in San Jose (And How to Work Around Them)”

Brian Ng  |  September 17, 2025

“The Other Side of Silicon Valley: 12 Real Downsides of Living in San Jose (And How to Work Around Them)”
“How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy a House in San Jose? (A No-B.S. 2025 Guide)”

Real Estate

“How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy a House in San Jose? (A No-B.S. 2025 Guide)”

Thao Dang Pham  |  September 16, 2025

“How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy a House in San Jose? (A No-B.S. 2025 Guide)”
“San Jose Living, Decoded: The 9 Best Neighborhoods (and How to Pick Yours)”

Real Estate

“San Jose Living, Decoded: The 9 Best Neighborhoods (and How to Pick Yours)”

Brian Ng  |  September 15, 2025

“San Jose Living, Decoded: The 9 Best Neighborhoods (and How to Pick Yours)”
“Does San Jose Really Have the Nation’s Priciest Homes? Here’s the Data (and What It Means for You)”

Real Estate

“Does San Jose Really Have the Nation’s Priciest Homes? Here’s the Data (and What It Means for You)”

Brian Ng  |  September 12, 2025

“Does San Jose Really Have the Nation’s Priciest Homes? Here’s the Data (and What It Means for You)”
“Is San Jose Declining? 11 Signs to Watch—And How Savvy Buyers Still Win”

Buyer's Real Estate Tips

“Is San Jose Declining? 11 Signs to Watch—And How Savvy Buyers Still Win”

Thao Dang Pham  |  September 11, 2025

“Is San Jose Declining? 11 Signs to Watch—And How Savvy Buyers Still Win”

Let's Talk

You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM