I’ve always enjoyed this time of year. After the busy holidays, the new year brings a sense of renewal and fresh opportunity — an excellent moment to start something new.
Maybe conversations with family over the holidays led you to resolve to move into a continuing care retirement community (CCRC or life plan community) this year. It’s a major decision, but many people feel immediate relief once they make it. In a CCRC, care across the continuum is available in one place, which offers many residents comfort and security.
Top 5 tips for prepping your home
With your senior living decision made, the hardest part is behind you. Now comes the “small” matter of selling your house. While that can feel overwhelming, the process doesn’t have to be. Spring is an ideal time to sell — many buyers want to move before the new school year — so starting preparations now, in January or February, is wise. Below are five practical ways to increase your home’s value and make it more appealing to buyers.
-
Clean-out time
Decluttering is one of the first and most important jobs when preparing to sell. For some, it’s a big undertaking; for others, it’s manageable. Enlist family and friends to help. Consider hosting a “declutter party” with music and snacks to make the task more enjoyable. Sort belongings into keep, sell, give away, and discard piles. Having adult children participate can prevent you from holding on to items you think they want but don’t.
If the project feels overwhelming, hire a professional organizer or “declutter specialist.” Many realtors can recommend experienced providers who regularly assist sellers with downsizing and staging.
>> Related: Making a Move: Packing Parties and Other Creative Ideas
-
Make it shine!
After removing excess items, deep-clean the entire house. Wipe down counters, sinks, tubs, baseboards, and floors. Address lingering odors from pets, smoking, or cooking by shampooing carpets and airing out rooms. Repainting walls may be necessary to remove strong smells and brighten spaces.
-
Curb appeal
First impressions matter. Tidy the lawn, trim bushes, and add colorful flowers or fresh mulch to garden beds. Pay attention to the front entrance: remove cobwebs, sweep away leaves and debris, repair peeling paint on doors or trim, and consider a tasteful planter or seasonal wreath to welcome visitors.
-
Make repairs
Now is the time to tackle that honey-do list. Fix loose gutters, repair broken fixtures, and silence squeaky steps. Consult your realtor about which cosmetic repairs will give the best return, and ensure major systems and appliances (HVAC, water heater, etc.) are in good working order. Inspection reports often reveal mechanical issues once a property is under contract, so addressing known problems early reduces the risk of derailing a sale.
-
Neutralize your color palette
Personal decor choices may not appeal to every buyer. Bold colors and distinctive wallpaper can be off-putting, so consider repainting walls in neutral tones like cream, light gray, or beige. Neutral paint makes rooms feel brighter and more spacious, helping buyers imagine their own furnishings in the space.
>> Related: “…but I love my home”: Is Staying in Your House the Right Move?
Expert real estate advice for seniors
A realtor provides an objective perspective on which tasks will most improve your home’s marketability. If you don’t already have a trusted agent, consider a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES). These agents have additional training to address the specific needs of older clients buying, selling, or refinancing a home.
SRES realtors often have extended networks of professionals — real estate attorneys, financial planners, and accountants — experienced with senior-specific legal and financial matters. Be sure to vet any agent and request references before deciding who to work with.
>> Related: These Experts Can Ease Seniors’ Stress About Relocating to a CCRC
Still making a decision about senior living?
If you’re not yet ready to list your home or move into a CCRC, there are many resources to help with your decision. Explore blogs and community search tools that focus on senior living options, compare communities, and gather the information you need to make the move that’s right for you.