Should we stay or should we go?

The big decision after the kids leave for university

I think it is time ‘empty nest’ got a rebrand.  It sounds so negative, so over, and so sad, when actually it can be a time for positive changes. Agreed it can come at a time when you are spinning many plates, ageing parents, perhaps a demanding position at work, or maybe some personal health concerns, but I have seen for myself dealing with many clients over the years,  that it can be a time to lean into and embrace – a new chapter if you will.

Every situation is unique are there is absolutely not a ‘one size fits all’ approach, which is why it is really important to engage with an experienced team you can trust and build a rapport with.  The big question we always start with is;  ‘What do YOU want?’ I’m sure the last time you bought a house it was with a growing family in mind: Are there enough bedrooms?  Is the garden fully enclosed?  Safe? Is there enough storage?  Now it is entirely your call.

For example, if you have always had a hankering for growing your own fruit and veg then a rural move with a large garden space is for you.  If you want to go out for dinner more, the theatre, the cinema, maybe it’s time for a smart city flat?  Is there a hobby you’d you have more time to indulge in and space for a workshop/craft room is now required?  Perhaps fitness is a priority so somewhere that could comfortably house gym equipment might be the way to go.

In my professional experience there is no limit to answers.  It is a time to explore what is important to you and what you want to get out of this stage of life. Remember this does not have to be your ‘forever’ move and something that needs to meet your needs where you are now, so don’t get overwhelmed trying to choose a property that will see you for the rest of your life. Good grief that is far too much pressure to put on yourself.

A point worth noting is that some clients can take the downsizing element too far and end up with a property that is far too small for their requirements.  If your family still comes home over the summer, or if you are the one that still hosts everyone at Christmas, do remember to choose a property that might not have as much square meters as the ‘family home’ did, but still offers options for summer sleeping arrangements and/or a large enough dining table for the festive season.

Downsizing can also be a shrewd financial move, selling and purchasing with a healthy amount of change left over, which perhaps opens some other property purchase options, if something is perfect but you’re not crazy about the bathroom, you can sort that out very quickly, so it needn’t be a deal-breaker.

Even beginning to mull over the possibility of selling the family home can be an emotional thought and we never underestimate this.  It’s a head and heart decision and we are here to guide you with both.  A good starting point is to book us to value your property so we may give you a good idea of the numbers you’ll be playing with.  It is also a chance for us to get to know you and find out what you want.  We have a buyer’s bank too and can match you with properties we think will suit you, so you may start to dip your toe into the process, without commitment, and view.  This will give you a clear idea of how you feel about things and how you wish to move forward.

It may be the end of one chapter, but it is the start of a new and often very exciting one, so lets all agree to bin any reference to empty nest and move forward as free birds.

The information and opinions contained in this blog are for information only.  They are not intended to constitute advice and should not be relied upon or considered as a replacement for advice.  Before acting on any information contained in this blog, please seek solicitor’s advice from Gilson Gray.