Moving to a bigger house as one’s family expands is one thing; it’s easier to deal with more space.
Dealing with the shrinking of the household as children grow up can be decidedly trickier. For many people, there’s more to the equation than merely downsizing. That’s where right-sizing comes into play.
Location
Where would you like to live? Determine what’s important to you, whether that be proximity to family and friends or a walkable neighborhood in an urban location.
Lori Steiner, president of Truberry Custom Homes, says living in a community designed solely for their age group might be important to some retirees. Others might prefer a wider variety of housing choices.
Format
How large should your new space be? Consider whether or not you need a study to work from home, a large kitchen to tackle baking projects or a separate living area for guests. Many people are satisfied with a couple of spare rooms and a simple family room, Steiner says.
Perhaps you’re right-sizing to save money, and you’re not too keen on hiring a housekeeper or a gardener. If that’s the case, determine how much housework you can manage on your own.
Amenities
What can’t you live without? If exercise is a part of your everyday routine, you might want a workout room in your new space.
If you’re moving into a complex, should your new community have a pool or other easily accessible facilities? If it’s a freestanding home, how much property maintenance are you comfortable doing? Steiner says social butterflies might want to live near a country club or a wide selection of restaurants.
Straits Farm
Straits Farm, a new M/I Homes community located in New Albany, has proven to be a popular spot for empty-nesters. All of them are free of outdoor maintenance, such as lawn mowing and snow plowing.
Prices range from $450,000 to $610,000, and the location is within walking distance of Market Street, the Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, the Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany and more.
Hannah Bealer is an assistant editor. Feedback welcome at ssole@cityscenemediagroup.com.
