Step-by-Step Guide to Downsizing (or Right-Sizing) for Empty Nesters and Recent Retirees

Downsizing—or as we like to call it, right-sizing—isn’t just about moving into a smaller space. It’s about finding a home that fits who you are now and the lifestyle you want to embrace in this exciting new chapter. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.

1. Envision Your Next Chapter

Before you start browsing listings, take some time to imagine your ideal day-to-day. Do you want to be closer to nature, have space for hobbies, or enjoy a vibrant community? Maybe you’re dreaming of lakeside mornings with your kayak or a quiet home office with a view. Make a list of what matters most to you now and what you want for your future.

2. Assess What You Have—and What You Need

Walk through your current home and take stock of what you truly use and love. This is a great time to declutter. Ask yourself: Which furniture, keepsakes, and tools are essential for your new lifestyle? Letting go can be freeing, and it makes moving much easier.

3. Set Your Budget and Priorities

With your wish list in hand, review your finances. Consider not just the price of a new home, but also ongoing costs like taxes, utilities, and maintenance. Prioritize features that will enhance your life—whether that’s a guest room for visiting family, a chef’s kitchen, or easy access to hiking trails.

4. Explore New Neighborhoods

Now’s your chance to rethink location. Without the daily commute, you can focus on areas that offer the lifestyle you envision. Spend weekends exploring lakeside communities, walkable towns, or peaceful rural spots. Talk to locals and get a feel for each place.

5. Find the Right Fit

Work with a real estate agent who understands your goals. Tour homes with a critical eye—does the layout fit your needs? Is there space for guests or hobbies? Picture yourself living there, not just visiting.

6. Plan Your Move—at Your Own Pace

Once you’ve found the right place, give yourself time to transition. Start packing early, label boxes clearly, and enlist help if needed. This is also a great moment to celebrate: you’re creating a home that reflects your present and future, not your past.

7. Embrace the Possibilities

Right-sizing is about more than square footage—it’s about freedom. With less to maintain and more time for what you love, you can savor this new chapter. Whether it’s kayaking at sunrise, hosting family gatherings, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, your new home should support the life you want to live.