What to Know Before You Decide
A Gentle Shift, Not Just a Transaction
Retirement is often seen as the time to slow down, simplify, and enjoy what you’ve worked so hard to build. But for many South Australians, retirement also raises an unexpected question:
Should we sell the family home?
This decision — while practical — is often deeply emotional. The house you’ve lived in may carry decades of memories, routines, and meaning. So how do you approach a possible sale in a way that respects both your future goals and your emotional ties?
At Plaza Real Estate, we’ve helped many retirees through this exact stage. We know it’s not just about real estate — it’s about timing, support, and clarity.
Let’s explore what matters most when considering a sale in retirement.
Is It Time to Move?
There’s no single sign that says now is the time — but here are a few common reasons our clients start the conversation:
- The upkeep feels overwhelming
- You’re using fewer rooms than before
- You’d prefer to live closer to family or medical support
- You want to free up equity for lifestyle or travel
- Health or mobility concerns are influencing your future plans
It’s okay to simply explore the idea. A real estate conversation doesn’t mean commitment — it just opens up options.
What Makes Selling Different in Retirement?
Selling in retirement is rarely rushed. Most people aren’t under time pressure — which means you can afford to ask better questions and make steadier decisions.
But that also means the emotional weight is heavier. You might be parting with more than bricks and mortar — you’re letting go of habits, roles, gardens, spaces once filled with children or visitors.
That’s why any good advice during this time needs to balance practicality with patience.
Preparing the Home (Without Overcapitalising)
We’re often asked: “Should I fix this before selling?”
The answer depends on the buyer you’re likely to attract.
In retirement sales, we help you consider:
- What work (if any) is worth doing
- How to present the home simply but well
- Whether buyers will see it as move-in ready or ripe for renovation
The key is not to overinvest in last-minute changes. Clean, functional, and cared for often speaks louder than shiny upgrades.
Sale Method & Timing
There’s more than one way to sell a home.
Some retirees benefit from a quiet pre-market or low-key sale to test interest before going public. Others prefer a full campaign with maximum reach and a defined end date.
Our job isn’t to push you into one approach. It’s to explain the pros and cons clearly, so you can choose based on what matters to you: privacy, control, flexibility, or speed.
We’ll help you consider:
- Auction vs. private treaty
- How to attract the right buyer
- Whether you need time to prepare a move-out strategy
- What marketing tools are truly necessary
You’ll never be rushed — just supported.
Where Will You Go?
For some, the decision to sell only makes sense when the next step is clear. That might be:
- A smaller villa or unit nearby
- A retirement village or over-55s community
- A move closer to family or services
- A tree or sea change to support lifestyle
Our book includes stories from real clients who’ve moved into simpler, more manageable homes — and what they learned in the process.
Why We Wrote This Book
Selling Your Home in Retirement isn’t just another real estate booklet. It’s a calm, step-by-step guide designed specifically for South Australians making this transition.
It includes:
- Emotional and practical preparation
- How to present your home
- Sale method options
- What happens once an offer is accepted
- Post-sale planning and support
It’s based on real conversations, not just theory — and written with respect for the decisions you’re facing.
No Pressure, Just a Conversation
You don’t need to have everything worked out. You just need to start where you are.
If you’d like a free copy of the book — or want to talk through your own situation in a calm, confidential setting — I’d be honoured to help.
📘 Download the Free Guide
📞 Call Eriks at Plaza Real Estate on (08) 8396 1100
🌐 Or visit plazarealestate.com.au/books
You’ve already lived through life’s harder decisions.
Let this one feel a little easier.
