Moving from one home to another, with all that entails, may not be easy at any time. But planning a move as a retiree can be particularly distressing for a variety of reasons. For some, it may signal the promise of a more relaxed and enriching lifestyle, the opportunity to travel, and a way to enjoy life in a way not possible before. For others, it is a prelude to downsizing, moving to a planned community or getting closer to children and grandchildren. It might involve selling or disposing of belongings other than the house, and it can mean leaving a community filled with long-time friends and a lifetime of memories.
Allow Yourself Plenty of Time
Most financial planners and health advisers caution against making spur of the moment decisions. The economic and emotional impacts of a pending retirement are often serious enough without adding the stress of selling a house and planning a move, especially if the move is to another locale. Begin discussing retirement, if not actually planning for it, should begin at least five years in advance, according to experts. And the plan should be constantly evaluated in terms of viability and changing needs. If your goals remain the same, it is still important to revisit the details and update the timetable, if necessary.
Some couples, particularly baby boomers in good health, look forward to an active lifestyle and embrace the freedom. Others have purchased vacation properties that beckon. Still others plan to buy smaller homes or condos nearer children and grandchildren or in resort communities.
The important thing, say the pros, is to “test drive” a lifestyle or a location in advance. Many retirement developments offer prospective residents an opportunity to “visit” or to rent a unit for as long as a month, prior to making a commitment. Some prospective retirees take short trips to different parts of the country, much like college visits with the kids, in order to find pleasant weather, proper amenities, and an acceptable cost of living.
What’s Important to Retirees?
Most retirees face this pending relocation as “the final move,” vowing that they’ll never pack another box. Although you might say it in jest, it is a serious concern. Before making a decision, think about the following:
- Quality of life
- Health care
- Shopping and senior services
- Transportation and public facilities
- Location of friends and family
- Proximity to other people with similar interests
Moving To Instead of Moving From
If there is a single thing that is true of all seniors, it is that every one is different, with varied experiences and a variety of needs. While some will be content to play golf or bridge for their excitement, others will embrace consulting positions, start new businesses, become active with non-profit organizations, travel the world, and play with grandchildren. Taking that all into account, finding a new place to call home is often related to weather and children, or grandchildren. Florida and Arizona are popular relocation destinations because of their favorable tax climates as much as their sun and warm temperatures. Housing costs and cost of services are generally reasonable, utility costs are low during most of the year, restaurants and shopping encourage activity, and there are lots of other seniors for company.
In addition, beaches and Disney World in Florida mean that visits from grandchildren are likely. Arizona has similar appeal, and is close enough to California, Colorado and Mexico to serve as a destination for family vacations.
But, there are other choices. A moving guide with specific details about possible locales can be invaluable as you make your plans. Modern cities with good public transportation, active arts communities and strong business climates attract active seniors who enjoy urban life, cultural events and technological advances. The Carolina’s offer a quieter lifestyle with a a sophisticated vibe, and the weather is pleasant much of the year. Other destinations popular with active adults include the Pacific Northwest, with mountains and sea, environmental awareness, sustainable policies and ethnic diversity.
It All Comes Down to Personal Choice
There is no perfect formula that will lead you through the maze of planning necessary for a retirement move, but there are checklists to follow as you ready your existing home for sale, plan for a move across town or across the country, and prepare to settle in to a new community. Counselors concerned with senior health and happiness recommend that you make a special effort to strengthen and expand your circle of friendship even as you prepare to move on. Old friends, even if you only keep in touch via Facebook and social media, can help you establish newer relationships in unfamiliar surroundings. They can also be a source of comfort and care in case of emergency. And periodic reunions are anticipated events that become honored traditions.
Some “old friends” travel together once or twice a year, with each member of a group taking a turn planning a destination trip. Not only does that spell a way to keep in touch, but seniors themselves acknowledge that it is a great way to “stay young in spirit.”
The Logistics of a Move
If you are moving toward retirement, this is definitely the time to lighten your load a bit by paring down on possessions. Ask your children what furnishings and heirlooms you can pass on to them. Plan a garage sale or estate sale prior to your move; contribute to a thrift shop, church bazaar or homeless shelter. Such actions will help you, and make you feel good as well.
Know your limits. Give yourself plenty of time; and don’t overdo in a physical sense. If friends, family and co-workers offer assistance, whether it’s in the form of packing help or potluck suppers, graciously accept the offers.
Finally, look forward to the new adventure. Retirement is not the end of anything, but rather the beginning of a new life. Make it a good one, wherever you go!
2 Point Highlight
A move that coincides with retirement does not have to be an end in any way; it should, instead, signal the beginning of a new phase of life.
Consider your own interests and needs, in conjunction with financial and health planning, in addition to your desire to be close to friends and family, as you plan for your retirement, whether it involves a move or not.
