Key facts:
- Over 40% of owners over the age of 55 are considering a change of property in order to improve their living comfort and quality of life.
- Selling a large house creates financial flexibility and reduces running costs.
- Modern, compact living solutions offer lower maintenance costs and better connections to important services.
At some point, homeowners are faced with the question: is my current home still right for me? A large house with a garden may have been the ideal place for the family for years – but when the children have moved out or retirement is imminent, needs change. Suddenly the focus is on empty rooms, high maintenance costs and rising costs.
Baby boomer owners in particular are looking for a housing solution that offers more comfort, fewer obligations and a higher quality of life in old age. What options are there? How can you make a smooth transition? And what should you look out for when selling your home?
Downsizing: Why do owners decide to move home?
If life circumstances change, especially after the children have moved out or when you retire, you need to rethink your living situation as an owner . The most common reasons for downsizing, i.e. moving to a smaller or easier-to-maintain home, are obvious:
Statistics show that the most common trigger for a change of residence is children moving out – for 39% of owners, this is the decisive factor. Retirement also plays a major role, as retirement often results in new priorities and a changed financial situation. The need to renovate their home or health problems can also lead owners to prefer a simpler housing solution. A deliberate move to a smaller, well-located property can not only improve living comfort and flexibility, but also bring financial benefits.
How do I find the perfect new home?
Moving to a new home should be carefully considered. It is worth clarifying a few key questions in advance:
- Which location suits my needs? Close to family, city or nature?
- What infrastructure is important? Doctors, shopping facilities, public transport?
- How much space do I really need? What are my most important living areas?
- How flexible is the solution for the future? Is a later adjustment possible?
Individual advice from real estate experts can help you make the best decision and optimize all aspects of the sales process.
Living in old age: What forms of housing are available?
If you want to replace your current home with a barrier-free solution, you have various options. Which option is best depends on individual needs, wishes and financial situation.
Replacement purchase of a condominium – Independent, central and comfortable
Many owners who want to downsize in old age consider buying a modern city apartment or a well-located apartment in a quiet neighborhood. The advantages:
✔ Smaller living space, therefore less effort
✔ Lower energy costs and lower ancillary costs
✔ With elevator and barrier-free access
A rental apartment is often not considered as the first option, but it can be a flexible and economically viable alternative – especially if you want to keep your options open for adaptation in old age.
Multi-generational living – living in community
This form of housing is becoming increasingly popular: multi-generation houses or housing projects in which young and older people live together. They offer:
✔ Social contacts and support in everyday life
✔ Help with household chores or small tasks
✔ Mutual enrichment through intergenerational exchange
Serviced apartments or shared apartments for the elderly – security with privacy
If you want to remain independent but still make use of certain services, you can opt for serviced living. Here you remain independent and can flexibly book additional support such as cleaning, laundry service or meal deliveries if required.
A shared apartment in old age can be an interesting alternative if you don’t want to live alone but still want to remain independent. Here you share living space with others, remain active and benefit from mutual support.
What are the financial advantages of a smaller living solution?
Moving to a smaller property can create financial freedom. The large family home has increased in value over the years – and anyone selling can make targeted use of the liquidity gained.
- Lower fixed costs – less space means lower operating and maintenance costs.
- More capital for quality of life – The money from the sale can be used for travel, leisure or security in old age.
- Fewer obligations – no more high repair costs or maintenance work.
- Tax advantages – Depending on the canton, tax advantages may arise, especially when selling an owner-occupied property.
If you plan early, you can choose the best time to sell and ensure that the transition is relaxed and without pressure.
Tips for selling your current home
Selling a house is a big step – emotionally and financially. The choice between selling with or without an estate agent has a significant impact on the process, the price achieved and the personal effort involved.
Professional support: a broker saves time and ensures the best price
Many owners consider selling their home themselves to save on estate agent costs. However, this step can prove to be time-consuming and financially disadvantageous. Professional real estate agents bring decisive advantages:
✔ Valuation & pricing strategy
✔ Professional marketing & photos
✔ Viewings & negotiations
✔ Legal protection & conclusion of contract
A well thought-out sales process not only ensures financial security, but also a good feeling as you move into the new phase of your life.
properti goes one step further: digital processes, data-based marketing and transparent workflows make sales faster, more flexible and more efficient – without hidden costs or unnecessary detours.
Conclusion: A new living space as an opportunity
A move is not just a farewell to your old home – it is an opportunity for a new phase in your life. If you consider your wishes and options early on, you can consciously plan the move and enjoy the next few years in an environment that suits you perfectly.
Selling the existing property can create financial freedom, while a new housing solution offers more comfort, security and quality of life.
Data are without guarantee. The information on these Internet pages has been carefully researched. Nevertheless, no liability can be assumed for the accuracy of the information provided.