Home Tours and Open Houses

Before you begin your home search, think critically about what you want your new home to look like. More importantly, consider whether buying a home with aging in place features is a good idea. Aging in place features can include things like open floor plans and stepless entries, and these design elements can be important for staying safe in your golden years. Once you have a list of home features, you can start looking for a smaller home. With concerns about COVID-19 transmission, especially for older adults, you will likely need to conduct most of your search online. Thankfully, real estate tools like virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs can provide the same experience as in-person viewings without any of the risks.

Decluttering and Packing Belongings

Even in calmer times, decluttering your home can be an emotional and exhausting process. You may not even realize how much attachment you have to “things” until you begin sorting through them. Just know that emotional reactions to everyday objects are completely normal but you shouldn’t let those emotions keep you from throwing out or giving away things you no longer need. Since decluttering can be somewhat stressful, and you are likely already feeling stressed over COVID-19, give yourself plenty of time to work through your emotions and belongings. When it comes time to pack the items you plan on keeping, you should also give yourself ample time to research local moving services. Moving costs can depend on the timing, distance, and speed of your move, so comparing rates from different companies can keep your costs lower.

Travel and Long-Distance Moves

Hiring movers is just one of the steps you should include in your moving plan. Planning out your move carefully is important because it’s all too easy to miss a crucial step, like changing your address for Medicare, when you are juggling so many tasks. Coronavirus risks may also require you to add some steps to your moving plan, especially if you are moving over a long distance. Make sure to research COVID guidelines before you move so you’re aware of any new protocols. It’s also a good idea to call and book hotel rooms ahead of time, since hotels may be operating at reduced capacity.

Dealing with such a significant life change can always feel a little nerve-wracking. When you are dealing with that change during a global crisis, it’s normal to feel more stressed than usual. Especially if you are a senior who is more at risk for coronavirus. Thankfully, the tips and information above can help you mitigate those risks without complicating your move. Just remember to put your health and safety first as you downsize your home.

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