Many people think of downsizing as a downgrade for those experiencing financial losses, seniors struggling with stairs, or lonely empty nesters. However, downsizing is a smart financial move that can benefit retirement-age adults of all backgrounds and financial goals.
One of the most common misconceptions about downsizing is that it’s a response to financial trouble. In reality, choosing to downsize can be the catalyst for your financial wellness and growth in retirement.
Downsizing can help you save money for more of the things you care about in this stage of your life. The money you save can give you the financial freedom to:
While you might have less space, downsizing will allow you to have more spending power and more time for what matters to you.
Reduce Your Homeowner Payments & Responsibilities
If you own a home, you’re likely tied down by mortgage payments, property taxes, and costly home repairs. Even smaller home maintenance tasks add to your bills and take up your time and energy.
When you downsize, especially if you decide to rent an apartment in a senior living community like Affinity, you won’t have to worry about as many bills, mow the lawn weekly, pay the plumber when your pipes act up, or sweep as much floorspace. Just imagine the dollars and hours you could save. Makes downsizing sound pretty great, right?
If you choose to rent when you downsize, you can also consider using your current home as part of your savings strategy. If you live in a desirable area, renting out your larger home as an apartment or AirBnB instead of selling it can be a lucrative source of additional income.
Live Your Life to the Fullest
What you do with the extra time and money you save is entirely up to you! Use the freedom of downsizing in retirement to pursue what you care about.
With reduced housing expenses, you can allocate more funds toward travel — whether you’re traveling across the globe on new adventures or simply visiting your grandkids more often.
Downsizing may also be the motivation you need to literally “put yourself out there” and make new friends. It’s easy to stay cooped up when everything you need is at your house or community activities are far away. Moving into senior living like Affinity allows you to grow your community: neighbors, fun events, leisure activities and hobbies are all right down the hallway.
The money you save on housing costs can also be invested in learning a new skill, taking up a hobby, or enrolling in classes that interest you. Whether it's painting, dancing, cooking, or any other passion you've always wanted to explore, spending less on your home can provide the financial resources to make it happen.
Continue Saving for the Future
While you want to focus on enjoying retired life, it’s still important for many seniors to plan for their elderly years, when assisted living or additional healthcare costs may be necessary. You may also want to save money for your legacy by building up wealth you can leave to loved ones, children, and grandchildren.
Whatever your financial goals are, reducing housing expenses can help you save money for what matters most to you. Downsizing is not just about reducing square footage — it's about upsizing your life. By moving to Affinity, you’ll see how less is more: more fun, more friends, and more spending power.