Finding what's right for you: Making the move
You've done all the research, compared different options and consulted your trusted advisors. You’ve made the decision about either moving in with family, downsizing somewhere smaller, or moving into a retirement village.
Now, you've got the final stretch ahead of you: Moving day.
Moving can be the start of an exciting new chapter, but it can also be an emotional time for many. There's a lot to plan for - particularly if you are leaving a larger family home - and this may sometimes feel overwhelming.
Keep reading for some helpful advice about making the move into a retirement village.
Feelings about leaving home
Preparing to leave the home you may have lived in for many years is bound to be an emotional time. So is having to sort through and sometimes let go of the possessions that hold significant meaning to you.
Experts say it’s a good idea to embrace your emotions and share treasured memories with your loved ones. Gaining a sense of closure will help you move on to a new exciting chapter.
Preparing to move
If you’ve lived in a larger family home for a while, it’s likely you’ll have many possessions that may not fit into the smaller space you’ll be moving into.
Decluttering experts recommend creating a to-do list to go through one room at a time. They suggest making a list of all the items, and separate them into what you want to keep and take with you, and what you may like to sell or give away.
Removalists suggest enlisting the help of family, friends, or professional removalists for your move. They also say it’s important that you remember to notify relevant organisations of your upcoming change of address, as this can sometimes be forgotten in the rush to pack and move. Speak to your local post office about redirecting your mail and begin setting up your utilities like electricity and internet before you move.
Selling your home
If you’re selling your home, you’re likely to know from past experience that this will take some time and planning.
Real estate experts recommend that you research your local agencies and meet with local professionals who understand the emotions of leaving a loved home behind. Experts say it’s important that your agent knows your local area like the back of their hand, are across current sales trends and can offer up the right advice.
Real estate professionals say they are often asked by prospective clients about their approaches to sales and auctions, their commissions, and agency marketing fees, and suggest you ask them these questions, too. You might also like to ask friends and neighbours who live in the local area for their recommendations. If others have reported positive experiences with a particular agent, then that agent may also be worth approaching.
Moving day
Professional removalists say that having help on hand will mean moving day is as stress-free as possible. Ensure your removal team has a clear plan and timeline for the day.
They say many clients will also hire a cleaner to clean their old home the day after the move. This means you aren’t rushing on moving day to get everything out in time for cleaners who have been booked to come that day.
The information provided is current as at April 2024 and is subject to change. It is general in nature and is not personalised for your unique needs, objectives or financial situation. Some information may be provided by a third party. Aveo encourages you to seek independent legal and financial advice about your particular circumstances before moving to an Aveo retirement village. Any external service provider you engage may charge a fee for services.