Stay vs Sell: A Calm, Clear Guide for Homeowners 55+

This guide is designed to help you think—not push you to decide.
There is no right or wrong answer. The best choice is the one that fits your life, your comfort, and your timeline.

Start Here: The Big Question

Ask yourself:

• Do I still enjoy this home—or am I managing it?

• Does my home support how I want to live in the next 5–10 years?

• Would simplifying free up time, energy, or finances?

You don’t need certainty. You just need clarity.

OPTION 1: STAY IN YOUR HOME

Staying can be the right choice—especially if the home still works well for you.

Pros of Staying

• Familiar routines and neighbors

• Emotional connection to the home

• No moving or transition stress

• Potential tax advantages

Consider Carefully

• Maintenance costs rising over time

• Accessibility (stairs, laundry, bathrooms)

• Property taxes and insurance

• Who will manage the home if health needs change?

Ask Yourself

• Can this home adapt to me as I age?

• What will this home cost me monthly in 5 years?

• Am I staying because it works—or because it feels hard to change?

OPTION 2: SELL YOUR HOME

Selling isn’t about giving something up—it’s about creating options.

Pros of Selling

• Unlock home equity

• Reduce monthly expenses

• Less maintenance and upkeep

• Flexibility to move closer to family or services

Consider Carefully

• Timing the sale with your next move

• Emotional impact of leaving a longtime home

• Choosing the right next housing option

Ask Yourself

• What would I gain by simplifying?

• Would selling reduce stress in my life?

• If I were starting fresh today, would I choose this home again?

COMMON MYTHS (That Stop People from Deciding)

“I have to move twice.”
Not true. There are strategies to coordinate selling and buying.

“I’ll be rushed.”
With planning, you control the timeline.

“The market might change.”
The best time is when your life—not headlines—says it’s right.

A SIMPLE COMPARISON

The Best Next Step (No Pressure)

You don’t need to decide today.

The smartest move is a planning conversation where you:

• Understand your home’s value

• Review real options (stay, sell now, or later)

• Create a plan that fits your pace

Shawn Palmer
Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)
📞 612-220-8668| ShawnPalmer@EdinaRealty.com

Helping homeowners 55+ sell with clarity, patience, and a plan.