Thinking of Downsizing? Here’s What You Need to Know

Downsizing can feel like a big step, but with the right plan in place, it can be an exciting opportunity to simplify your lifestyle, reduce expenses, and start fresh in a home that better suits your needs. Whether you're an empty nester looking to downsize from a larger family home or simply seeking a lower-maintenance property, taking the right approach will help you make the transition smoothly and profitably.

At Fishman Group, we specialize in helping sellers navigate the downsizing process with confidence and ease. Here’s what you need to know before making the move.

1. Determine Your Goals and Priorities

Before you start the downsizing journey, take a step back and consider your long-term goals. Ask yourself:

Do you want to reduce costs and free up equity?
Are you looking for a home with less maintenance and upkeep?
Do you need to stay close to family and friends?
What amenities and lifestyle features are important to you?

Clearly defining your priorities will help you narrow down your options and ensure you find the right fit for your next chapter.

2. Timing Matters – When Should You Downsize?

The real estate market is always changing, and timing your move strategically can make a big difference in maximizing your sale price. If you're selling a larger home in today's market, there may be strong demand from upsizing buyers looking for more space. At the same time, smaller, more manageable homes can move quickly, so having a solid plan in place is key.

Not sure if now is the right time? We’ll provide market insights tailored to your specific situation to help you make an informed decision.

3. Preparing Your Home for Sale

One of the biggest challenges when downsizing is preparing your current home for the market. Buyers in today’s market are looking for well-maintained, move-in-ready properties, so it’s essential to focus on:

Decluttering and Depersonalizing – Make your home feel inviting by removing excess furniture and personal items to create a spacious, neutral environment.
Essential Repairs and Updates – Address any minor repairs and consider upgrading outdated appliances or systems to add value and avoid buyer objections.
Staging for Success – Professional staging can help highlight your home’s best features and attract more potential buyers.

Need help getting your home market-ready? Our team will guide you through every step, from staging to listing.

4. Finding the Right Next Home

Downsizing isn’t just about selling—it’s also about finding the perfect home that meets your new needs. Whether you’re looking for a condo with great amenities, a bungalow with fewer stairs, or a smaller property in a specific neighborhood, having a clear plan will make the search easier.

Key factors to consider when choosing your next home:

Size and layout that fits your lifestyle
Proximity to amenities and family
Affordability and potential cost savings
Accessibility features if needed for future comfort

We specialize in helping downsizers find homes that align with their goals and budget.

5. Financial Considerations When Downsizing

Downsizing can provide financial benefits, but it’s important to carefully assess the numbers before making the move. Some key factors to consider include:

Potential savings on property taxes, utilities, and maintenance costs
Closing costs and fees associated with buying and selling
Whether to pay off your new home in cash or explore financing options
Long-term investment potential of your new property

We can connect you with trusted financial professionals to help you make informed decisions every step of the way.

6. Why Work With Fishman Group for Your Downsizing Journey?

At Fishman Group, we understand that downsizing is more than just a real estate transaction—it’s a major life transition. Our expert team is here to:

Provide personalized guidance to maximize your home sale
Offer tailored advice on downsizing strategies
Help you find the perfect next home that meets your goals
Make the process smooth, stress-free, and rewarding

Ready to downsize with confidence? We’d love to chat and create a personalized plan that works for you.