For many people, the thought of their parents moving is a daunting one. After all, they’ve probably lived in the same house for decades, and the thought of them uprooting their lives can be scary. But, if the time has come for your parents to move, there are some things you can do to help them through the process. Here are a few tips for helping your parents find a new home.
1. Understand Their Needs and Wants
Before you start your search, it’s important to take the time to sit down with your parents and talk about what they’re looking for in a new home. Do they need more space? Are they looking for a smaller home that’s easier to maintain? What kind of amenities are they hoping for? Once you understand their needs and wants well, you can start your search with a much better idea of what they’re looking for.
If your parents are downsizing, you’ll want to look for homes that offer plenty of storage space. They may also be looking for features like a first-floor master bedroom or an open floor plan. On the other hand, if they’re looking for more outdoor space, which more than 40% of homeowners used for entertaining in 2017, you’ll want to focus your search on homes with large yards or patios.
No matter what their needs and wants may be, it’s important to take the time to understand them before you start your search. This will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect new home for your parents.
2. Identify Potential Neighborhoods
Once you know what your parents are looking for in a new home, you can narrow down your search by identifying potential neighborhoods. If they’re looking for a quiet and scenic area, you’ll want to look at suburban communities. For those who prefer an urban lifestyle, there are plenty of great options in cities across the country.
Once you’ve identified a few potential neighborhoods, you can start to narrow down your search even further by looking at available homes in those areas. This will help you find the perfect new home for your parents in the ideal location.
3. Schedule Showings and Tours
Once you’ve found a few homes that meet your parents’ needs and wants, it’s time to start scheduling showings and tours. This is an important step in the process, as it will allow your parents to see the homes in person and get a better idea of what they’re like.
When showing homes to your parents, be sure to point out any features that you think they’ll appreciate. If a home has senior-friendly features, be sure to point them out. If a neighborhood is known for being quiet and scenic, mention that as well. The more your parents know about a home and its surroundings, the easier it will be for them to decide.
4. Consider Your Financing Options
Once you’ve found the perfect new home for your parents, it’s time to start thinking about financing. There are a few different options available, and the best one for your parents will depend on their situation. If they’re able to pay cash for their new home, that’s great! If not, they may need to get a mortgage. There are various mortgage options available, and you’ll want to work with a lender to find the one that’s best for your parents.
You may also need to consider other financing options, such as a home equity loan or a reverse mortgage which is only available to persons who are 62 or older. No matter what financing options you’re considering, it’s important to shop around and compare rates before deciding. This will help you find the best option for your parents and ensure that they can afford their new home.
5. Carefully Choose a Moving Date
According to Move Buddha, approximately 60% of people move between May and August. However, that does not mean that this is the best time for your parents to move. Your parents’ moving date will depend on several factors, such as their work schedules, the availability of movers, and the weather. You’ll want to consider all of these factors when choosing a moving date.
These are a few tips to help you find the perfect new home for your parents. By taking the time to understand their needs and wants, you can narrow down your search and find a great option that meets all of their requirements. With careful planning and consideration, you can help make their move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
