Many people assume that when the kids leave home, their newly
empty nest automatically signals that downsizing into a smaller house or condo
is the next step. In truth, for such families living in Charleston, SC , downsizing
is a common option—one that could very well be the best choice.
But, as the old Gershwin tune says, “it ain’t necessarily so...”
For many of us, once we establish a firm direction in
life, a lot of decisions are more or less made without much hesitation. Career,
family, and even community needs head us in certain directions, so a lot of
choices are obvious. But every once in a while the paths open up, and it’s time
to take a breath, clear the head, and realize that there may be a lot more
freedom to change course than we are used to. When the downsizing idea bobs to
the surface, it’s likely to signal such a turning point. That’s when it’s your true
interests and passions should govern your next step—especially with respect to your
residential options, which will shape much of what happens next. If this summer
you find yourself musing about downsizing, it might be fun to also consider-
Upsize: It
sounds backwards: moving into a larger home with your smaller family. Yet if
you have special interests or hobbies that have always called for a lot of elbow
room, this could be the chance to add a workshop, rehearsal space, or studio
that you’ve never quite been able to wangle. A larger home can also provide extra
space you may need to accommodate the rest of the family when they come for a
visit (especially if that family is going to be growing!).
Follow your heart:
Have you always wanted to live near water, or wake up to a view that looks like
it belongs on a magazine cover? Maybe you’d like to move close to a totally new
metro area with museums, shows and restaurants you’ve never been able to
explore before. Or perhaps it’s a planned community that suddenly doesn’t look
so much like a refuge for ‘old people’ as a place that’s loaded with bustling
sporting and cultural activities...or a development built around a golf course…or
winter sports complex. Downsizing in Charleston area may be able to deliver on your
ideal dream refuge…or maybe it beckons from far away. It might involve
downsizing, or upsizing, or same-sizing!
Splurge a little: With the children gone,
it may also be time for some guilt-free indulging. A luxury home or condo could
include some amenities you’ve always wanted: a swimming pool or home spa—or classic
architecture set in a storybook garden. Downsizing in Charleston, SC by selling
the family home and claiming a smaller but more upscale residence might also be
a way you wind up claiming the home of your dreams.
Of course, many considerations will go into choosing your
next home. As an experienced real estate professional, I’m here to help guide
you through the process of selling and/or buying here in Charleston, SC —and
depending where your move takes you, can very likely help with referrals there,
as well. If and when the pull to downsizing strikes, I’m here to discuss all
the many possibilities!
Interested in selling your
Charleston area home? Visit: www.jeffcookrealestate.com Interested
in buying a Charleston area home? Visit: www.discovercharlestonareahomes.com
-Jeff Cook
Jeff Cook
Real Estate
Charleston,
SC
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