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From our partner mentalhealthforseniors.com
As children grow up and move out to start their own lives, many parents find themselves facing a new chapter of life: the empty nest. Some may decide to downsize or move to a new location that is closer to their adult children. However, the process of relocating can be overwhelming and stressful. From The Autonomy Group (TAG), here are some steps empty nesters should take when they are looking to move closer to their kids.
Consult Your Children
It’s important to involve your adult children in the process of relocating. They can help provide insight into the neighborhoods and areas that you might be interested in. Ask for their opinion on what they think would be the best location for you based on what your needs are. It’s also helpful to get their input on the type of house or apartment that would work best for you. They can offer suggestions and recommendations based on what they know about the area and can help make the entire process smoother.
Explore Potential Neighborhoods
One of the first things you’ll have to do is decide whether you want to buy or rent. The latter has its appeal since it means less maintenance responsibilities, as well as less upfront costs. There are plenty of rental houses out there to choose from as well, so it pays to shop around and decide what’s the best fit for you.
Visiting the areas you’re interested in gives you a feel for the community and daily life in the area. Take some time to explore the neighborhoods and local shops to see what the area is really like. Walk around the neighborhood or nearby parks to get a sense of the community. This will give you a better idea of what to expect if you do move to the area.
Learn More From Locals
Your adult children may not know everything about the area you’re interested in moving to. Talk to locals to learn more about the community. Get their thoughts on the area and what they like and don’t like. They can provide valuable insights that are not available online or in any guidebook.
Learn About Healthcare, Transportation, and Dining Options
Make sure to check out the locations of healthcare and dining options in the new area. You want to make sure that you’re able to access quality healthcare and have plenty of dining options in your new neighborhood. Additionally, transportation is important to consider. You want to live in an area that has easy access to public transportation or is within walking distance.
Establish a Moving Budget
Relocating involves a lot of expenses, so it’s important to budget for all the costs involved. Make sure to include the cost of hiring movers, rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, and any additional expenses that may come up. Having a solid budget in place can help ensure a smoother relocation.
Address Repairs ASAP
Settling into a new home after a move can initially seem overwhelming, but addressing repairs or problems immediately can turn chaos into comfort. The key is to swiftly unpack essentials and identify any issues that need professional attention, from leaky faucets to electrical quirks. To streamline this process, it’s advantageous to learn about available services through a reliable app that connects homeowners with skilled professionals and contractors. Such a digital tool can be a lifeline, allowing for quick booking and transparent communication, ensuring that any repair, no matter how minor or major, is resolved promptly. With this proactive approach, the new house quickly starts to feel like a well-functioning home, providing peace of mind and the opportunity to enjoy the new beginning.
Start Building Connections
Moving closer to your kids means finding your place in a new town. A great way to start is by making friends through local activities. Check out what’s happening at the neighborhood library or community center, where you might find groups that share your hobbies, like knitting or chess. Clubs are an easy way to meet people who like the same things you do. Also, consider volunteering. It can be as simple as helping out at a food bank or joining a community garden. It’s a nice way to meet people and feel like you’re part of the community. Plus, it keeps you active and engaged with the world around you.
In conclusion, moving closer to your adult children can be a big change, but it can be a wonderful opportunity to start a new chapter of your life. By following these steps – from finding a new home to printing out invitations for a housewarming party – you can make the process smoother and less stressful. Take your time and do your research, and you can find the perfect location to start your new adventure.
The Autonomy Group (TAG) is available for estate planning, probate, and elder law. To learn about our services, please call us at (803) 262-0442
Call 803-262-0442.
Teresa Greenhill,
mentalhealthforseniors.com
