Skip to main content
Created: September 30, 2024
Modified: November 22, 2024

Should You Relocate or Sell Your Home in Retirement?

Have your question answered on the Money Wisdom Question Series!

Today’s question in our Money Wisdom series is: Should I sell my home in retirement? This is a significant decision that retirees often face, and it can be approached from two primary angles: financial and lifestyle.

Financial Considerations

From a financial perspective, some individuals might consider the decision to sell their house purely based on their retirement budget. They review expenses such as living costs, healthcare, and recreation and compare them with income sources like pensions. They also consider home maintenance costs including property taxes, utilities, and fees.

For some, this might lead to moving to a state with a lower cost of living and lower taxes, where their savings can stretch further. Others might decide to downsize, opting for a smaller home or apartment to reduce their expenses while freeing up funds for travel or hobbies.

Lifestyle Reasons

The decision isn’t always about finances. Many retirees choose to relocate or sell their homes for lifestyle reasons that go beyond monetary considerations. After years of home maintenance—mowing lawns, completing repairs—you might simply be tired of the constant upkeep and the time it consumes. This may lead to the desire for a more carefree lifestyle, one that allows you to focus on hobbies, travel, and relaxation.

Many retirees consider moving somewhere with a different climate, where winters are milder, or summers are more temperate, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. Alternatively, you might seek out a community that offers amenities and social activities tailored to your interests, creating a new chapter in your life filled with excitement and new experiences.

Personal Priorities

Ultimately, the choice to relocate or sell your home in retirement involves personal priorities and significant decisions. It’s crucial to weigh both financial aspects and lifestyle desires to ensure a fulfilling retirement. By considering factors such as proximity to family, access to healthcare, climate preferences, and community activities, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your long-term happiness and well-being.

Download Now

10-Point Retirement Checklist

Here’s a checklist of our most important things you can do, to help you retire strong. 

Information presented in our podcasts is considered current as of the created date. Over time, some information presented may become stale. We recommend you consult with your Financial Professional before making any changes based on information contained here.

Johnson Brunetti is a marketing name for the businesses of JB Capital and JN Financial.

Investment Advisory Services offered through JB Capital, LLC. Insurance Products offered through JN Financial, LLC.
The guarantees provided by any type of insurance contract are based on the claims-paying ability of the insurance company.

Resources by Topic

10 Point Retirement Checklist


Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Share

Related Resources

  • Podcast Episode 405: Inside the Discovery Meeting

    Many people feel hesitant or intimidated about meeting with a financial advisor. They may worry about facing a high-pressure sales pitch or feel unprepared for the questions that could arise. At J…
  • How Does a Tax Return Work?

    As tax season concludes, it’s a good time to refresh your tax knowledge. In this week’s Money Wisdom Question Series, Ian Fergusson, RICP® discusses how filing your taxes works and why it’s essen…
  • What Is a Fiduciary?

    When it comes to managing your money, trust is everything. That’s why today’s question is one of the most common and important ones we receive: What is a fiduciary? In this week’s Money Wisdom …
  • Podcast Episode 404: Financial Goals You Shouldn’t Overlook

    When it comes to preparing for retirement, most people focus on the obvious goals of saving enough and building an emergency fund. But in this episode of Money Wisdom, Jake Doser, CFP®, CPWA® and …
  • Understanding Retirement Planning

    Planning for retirement isn’t just about saving – it’s about making smart financial decisions at every stage of life. A better understanding of the financial industry can help you avoid costly mis…
  • Podcast Episode 403: How to Approach Finances in a Second Marriage Later in Life

    Getting engaged later in life is an exciting time, but it requires different financial planning conversations. With blended families, different retirement timelines, and evolving goals, couples in…
  • Most Asked Social Security Questions

    It’s no question that Social Security plays a crucial role in retirement planning, helping to provide a stable income stream for millions of recipients. In this week’s Better Money Boston with …
  • Can I Get ‘Out’ of a Fixed-Rate Vehicle?

    When you lock into a fixed-rate vehicle like a CD, fixed annuity, or fixed-indexed annuity, you’re committed to a specific interest rate for a set period. But what happens when after a few years, …
  • Podcast Episode 402: How Often Should You Meet with Your Financial Advisor?

    A good relationship between a client and their financial advisor relies on clear communication and regular check-ins to ensure everything is on track. In this episode of the Money Wisdom podcast, …
  • Think Like the Rich

    As you enter retirement, your financial focus shifts from growing your wealth to preserving your assets and generating income. In this stage of life, adopting the mindset of the wealthy can go a l…
    Back to top
    Our Locations
    Johnson Brunetti
    Welcome to Our New Website!
    Everything was designed with you in mind, making our retirement planning resources more easily accessible to you.
    Check out your new resource center, where everything can be organized by article type or topic
    Are you ready to speak with a financial advisor?
    Skip to content