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7/27/2009 - COLUMBUS, Ohio, (July 27, 2009) – As kids graduate, start their own families or move out on their own, many parents find their home has gotten too big for their needs. While it may seem like you were running out of room a moment ago, taking on the title of empty-nester can mean rethinking your current living space. And you’re not alone. According to a recent survey on retirement trends, 53 percent of Coldwell Banker real estate professionals have observed an increase in retirees who plan to downsize from their primary residences into smaller properties this year. “Downsizing enables empty-nesters to consolidate their space and simplify their lives,” said Jerry White, executive vice president of Coldwell Banker King Thompson. “With a smaller home, expenses are decreased and housekeeping is reduced so homeowners can spend more of their time and money as they choose.” Here are a few things to consider when debating downsizing: · Determine your maintenance needs. Find out what maintenance requirements are realistic for your lifestyle. You want little exterior upkeep? Consider buying a condo or town home that manages outdoor maintenance for you. · Know what’s important. Small spaces can pose a difficult design and storage challenge, so make sure your next home will accommodate your desire to become the next Julia Childs or a hotel for the grandkids. · Simplify and set priorities. Now that you’re ready to simplify your life, it’s prime time for that garage sale you’ve been putting off. Downsizing is a great excuse to inventory personal possessions, eliminate excess for sale or donation and give special pieces to family and friends. You’ll be left with all of the things that matter most for your new abode. Across Ohio, Coldwell Banker King Thompson and Coldwell Banker West Shell have 21 offices and over 1300 sales associates serving central Ohio, greater Cincinnati, northern Kentucky and southeastern Indiana. The companies are part of NRT LLC, the nation’s largest residential real estate brokerage company. NRT, a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, operates Realogy’s company-owned real estate brokerage offices. For more information, please visit www.kingthompson.com or www.cbws.com.
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