When preparing over 55 real estate for sale, there are some challenges retirees or their loved ones face: Namely, a lifetime worth of belongings to pare down.
This is no easy task. Plenty of emotions are in play when putting a family home on the market, and you’ve got a big job ahead of you.
Whether you’re a child selling your parents’ home or a senior citizen who must navigate the waters alone, these tips should help you. I also recommend you contact a seniors real estate specialist (like me) who works often with over 55 real estate and can help guide you through the entire process from prep to closing.
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Over 55 Real Estate: Separating clutter from memories
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Your parents may not see clutter; they may see a whole lot of “memories.” Yet, a well-staged home is a “depersonalized” one. So, how can reconcile what needs to be done with your own feelings about your belongings or those of a loved one?
Decide what to keep, not what to throw out
We’re all aware of the items we use on a daily basis, and most of us have a few precious, sentimental items that we’d never want to give up. Focus on what items you or your loved one cannot live without, and then go from there. This is a more positive approach, and can help seniors cope with that panicked feeling that they are throwing out their lives.
Donate items to a good cause
Instead of thinking about how you’re getting “rid” of your belongings, consider how your items can help others. Contact local libraries, homeless/abuse shelters, community rec departments, churches and others for donation of books, old clothing or bedding, toys, household goods and more. The right real estate agent can help you connect with community resources, as well.
Over 55 real estate: Staging is crucial
When selling a longtime home, you’ll most likely be confronted with closets and storage rooms filled to the brim. However, if your closets and cabinets are overflowing with items, buyers will get the impression that the house is short on space. They may even buy a home that actually has less physical space but appears more spacious due to well-organized storage areas.
Less is more.
* Make sure closets and cabinets are no more than half full.
* Keep your bookshelves sparse, with minimal decorative items.
* Garages, basements and attics should be empty and clean.
* Furniture should be reduced, usually by half, to showcase the space inside the home.
I hope this will give you a few ideas of how to get started in the process to preparing over 55 real estate for sale.
Teri Barton writes articles relevant to senior real estate at Boomers and Beyond, and she writes articles relating to the community and global real estate at navigatingyourmove.co
