Downsizing in Long Beach: Checklist
Timing the sale and the next move
Your 8-week countdown
- 8 weeks out: call me for a value range and a net sheet (what you'd walk away with)
- 8 weeks out: talk to a lender or your financial advisor about buying the next home
- 7 weeks out: ask your CPA about capital gains and Prop 19
- 6 weeks out: start sorting (see below), one room at a time
- 5 weeks out: small repairs, touch-up paint, clean the garage
- 4 weeks out: photos, list the home, start looking at your next one
- 3 weeks out: accept an offer and ask for a rent-back if you need time
- 2 weeks out: book movers, schedule utilities on and off
- Moving week: change your address, forward mail, final walk-through
Sorting what to keep
Sorting checklist
- Get the floor plan of the next home and measure the rooms
- Pick the furniture that fits first, then sort everything else
- Use five piles: keep, give to family, sell, donate, toss
- Ask family what they want now, with a deadline to pick it up
- Start with the garage, closets and spare rooms. Leave photos and keepsakes for last
- Scan old photos and papers you want to save but don't need to store
- Keep important papers in one box: deed, tax returns, insurance, wills
- Book a donation pickup and an estate sale or junk haul if you need one
- Ask me for local movers, organizers and estate sale companies I trust
Finding a home that fits the next chapter
What to look for
- Single-level living, or a bedroom and bath on the main floor
- Few or no steps at the entry
- Easy upkeep: small yard, newer roof and systems
- HOA rules and dues, if it's a condo or townhome (pets, rentals, parking, special assessments)
- Elevator, if it's an upstairs condo
- Distance to your doctor, grocery store, family and the places you go every week
- Parking and guest parking
- Room for visiting family, or a hotel nearby
David Black · Your Long Beach Broker · DRE 01076673 · Fathom Realty Group · 562-547-6319 · davidblackrealestate.com