IT CAN BE COSTLY AND INCONVENIENT, TO MOVE ONCE YOUR CHILDREN HAVE LEFT HOME

One of the most common mistakes made by middle-aged home owners is to defer, often indefinitely, their decision to move to a more appropriate home; one better suited to their needs and lifestyles as they grow older. Previously, says Rowan Alexander, Director of Alexander Swart Property people frequently stayed in one home all their lives and quite often stuck to only one or two jobs. "Life was more settled and predictable and people were prepared to be less adventurous but nowadays they are likely to have three or four career changes and to move home every seven years, ore even more often. Those who do this sensibly, tend to improve the values and assets of their homes with every move."

When older people stick to one home, they can be far larger that the ageing couple need, says Alexander.  This can prove costly because older homes not only require a great deal of maintenance (often far more than was allowed for) but also tend to go out of fashion quite rapidly and therefore lose value in the current market. This, he says, can easily take place without the couple realising it, especially if they have not followed a regular maintenance programme. Such homes are often bought only by those who are prepared and able to undertake a major renovation\upgrade.

It is understandable that those who have raised families in a home may be reluctant to cut their ties with the past and abandon the happy memories associated. In his experience it shows that those who do so timeously e.g. in their late fifties or early sixties, find that they enjoy the novelty and challenges of establishing a new home.  By embracing the latest opportunities in the market they do well financially, whereas those who hang on to older properties too long, all too often discover that their much-loved old house does not appeal to today's buyers.

It is surprising how difficult it can be for a couple whose offspring have long since flown from the nest to ask themselves basic questions such as, "What are our current needs?", "Would it not be sensible to live in a better designed, more compact, more easy-to-maintain home on a smaller property but with improved security?" and "What purpose is my present large home really serving?"

"The older the couple grows, the more difficult it becomes for them to face up to and be decisive on such matters, until eventually the  decision to move becomes traumatic and often cannot be taken without the support and backing of their children. "The problem with giving "move-on-now" advice to ageing people is that it can be seen as insensitive and heartless. In my opinion, a GOOD move can be thoroughly stimulating and refreshing to those not yet too old to enjoy a change. The onus therefore lies with the children to help and support them to make the right decision before it is too late."

For further information on this topic, consult Rowan Alexander on cell phone 082 581 3116 or by email: rowan@asproperty.co.za