Women, Men and Downsizing
Last year I listed a 55 & Over condo in Lindenhurst NY. The couples that came to my open houses and called to preview the home taught me one thing: Men and Women feel differently about downsizing.
Men: They could have moved last week.
Women: On the fence about moving.
Why?
Men: They are tired of mowing the lawn and shoveling snow.
Women: They raised their kids in their home, there are special memories in every room of the house, more closet space, larger kitchen for food prep and cooking, love their flower and vegetable gardens, more privacy from neighbors, no stairs (most owned a one-level ranch), overall living space.
Being a woman, I understand how the women feel. The "man" side of me sees the men's point of view. My husband and I moved from a 2 bedroom co-op apartment to a 2 bedroom townhouse almost 5 years ago. We needed more room and a full basement. Both of us didn't want to spend our time mowing a lawn and shoveling snow. I wanted a larger kitchen and closet space. Not too big and not too small living space-wise. Since it's a HOA, we have landscaping service and snow removal service. We got lucky and found our "perfect" home. For us it was a move-up with downsizing elements.
But, not all buyers who are looking to downsize will not be as lucky as us. It will be a wait to get the kind of space we have unless they want to go at least 30 minutes East on Long Island. Or, Nassau County where condos/townhomes are more expensive and not as much space.
The advice I give to the men: Be patient, she will come around. It's going to take time. Downsizing is very emotional to women.
My advice to the women: No matter where you go, your memories are a part of you. When you move, the memories go with you. Nothing can take that away. As far as living and closet space, either wait it out for "the one" or learn to downsize your home now to get you emotionally & mentally prepared. Whatever you do not use, donate or give things away to family and friends.
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Office: (631) 226-5995 Ext. 242
Email: JackieC@century21aa.com
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