TRANSITIONING TO A NEW HOME: WHAT IS NEXT?

By Isabella O’Brien, Red Rock Real Estate Agent

I am a transplant from beautiful North Carolina. Two years ago, our children surprised my husband and I with the announcement that they were moving to Utah. We said, “Utah!” But after thinking about it, we followed them and somehow found our way to St. George. Now, as a transitional coordinator, I help people get acclimated to their new homes, neighborhoods, and communities.

What Home Transitions Have You Experienced?

Do you realize how many home transitions you make during your lifetime?

First-time home buyers may feel excited and overwhelmed when making the first major purchase of their lives. Guidance may be needed to find the right property, understand the homebuying process, and secure financing.

Many families eventually outgrow their starter home and need to upsize. The arrival of children, the need for a home office, or simply a desire for more space is often the catalyst for this transition.

As we age, the desire to simplify and reduce expenses often leads to downsizing. Because it involves letting go of possessions accumulated over a lifetime, this transition can be particularly challenging.

A change in employment, a health problem, or a family issue may necessitate relocation. This can be stressful because it often means leaving behind family, friends, and familiar surroundings to start life again elsewhere.

A transition at retirement can be motivated by the desire to move to a new location or to a smaller home. It usually involves the sale of the family home and the distribution of assets among family members.

Whether you move from another state, another city, or across town, moving can be an overwhelming experience. Change can be scary!

To make any new home transition less anxiety-fraught, take steps to ensure that everything connected to your home is in order. Here are some key points:

• After the purchase of your home, it’s a good idea to consult with an attorney to be sure that all your legal needs are met. They can help you draft or update legal documents, such as a will, power of attorney, and health directives.

• Homeowners insurance is required, but it’s a good idea to consider additional coverages, such as flood insurance or an umbrella policy.

• Get your finances in order. This includes budgeting (including setting money aside for property taxes), creating an emergency fund, and considering other options such as refinancing, home equity loans, or a reverse mortgage.

• Homeownership comes with ongoing maintenance. Keep your home in good condition with regular inspections, repairs, and updates as needed.

• Make the safety of your home and family a priority by checking into security systems and updating your locks.

• Prior to transitioning into a new home, set up utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, and internet. You may also need to set up garbage and recycling services.

A home is more than just a structure; it is a family’s most significant financial asset and a place where memories are made. Having everything in order means that your transition can go smoothly with no surprises or unexpected expenses.

For more information or to attend workshops that will aid you in your home transitions, call Isabella O’Brien at 910-264-4060 or email Isabellaob13@gmail.com.

About the Author

Isabella O’Brien is funloving and enjoys life. Her motto is KIS (Keep It Simple) and her favorite pastimes are riding her bike, quilting, and reading. Isabella is a realtor working for Red Rock Real Estate. She became a real estate agent because she loves working with and helping people. How can she help you?