People buy and sell for a multiplicity of reasons. Over the years I have assisted many clients whose families were expanding and many whose families were contracting. Of late, I have seen more and more (or maybe I am just more aware of them) who are planning for (or reacting to) the oft referred to “empty nest syndrome”. This proliferation has prompted me to develop a program tailored to address the exercise (and yes, it is an exercise that warrants much thought and careful planning). Simply put, it is the process of taking existing Real Estate and converting it into the desired next home (sometimes, retirement dwelling) and ideally, maximizing proceeds and minimizing outlay.
We hear the term “timing is everything” and I’m sure we believe it, but, alas, oft times we fail to make the effort to ensure that we take advantage of that “timing”. In our busy, personal lives too, we often allow action-time to arrive, making these decisions in what is likely a less than optimal manner and moment. Think about the tax and estate planning we know we should be doing! This “shelter” part of the equation isn’t rocket science and can actually be most enjoyable. Truth is, that with our “busyness” we often just don’t really know where to start. To help in creating a “road map” I have developed a program incorporating some checklists designed to simplify the process and act as an aide memoir. Hopefully it enables us to get our ducks, kids, parents, pets, jobs etc in a row. I have entitled the first part of the exercise “The When & Where Check List”. This is really a memory jogger which highlights the many necessary considerations – our present family position, financial situation, employment and so on, and enables a considered creation of the action plan (or plans) necessary. E-mail me at
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and I’ll be only too happy to forward a copy to you (I have done this in “Word™” format for ease of customizing and printing). I will also attach the “New Home Checklist”. While many favour a “do it yourself” approach, I am totally happy to pop around and discuss the process with you over a cup of coffee [glass of wine ;)]. Some parts of the process are pretty standard but what I have learned is, that with our different situations, some “customization” is invariably necessary. Just call and set up a time. Oh, and by the way, Pam and I are knee deep in our personal planning!
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