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Selling a Home After 65: What No One Tells You (But Should)

August 21, 20254 min read

Most people over 65 aren’t just selling a house… they’re closing a chapter.

I recently worked with a sweet couple in their early 70s. They’d lived in the same house for nearly 40 years - raised their kids there, celebrated birthdays, hosted family dinners, and watched grandbabies run through the backyard barefoot.

But now? The stairs felt steeper, the rooms quieter, and the upkeep a little more tiring. They weren’t just selling a house… they were starting a new chapter. Not smaller, not lesser. Just different.

If you or someone you care about - is thinking of selling after 65, here’s what most people won’t tell you… but should.

 

Tip 1: Understand the Emotional and Logistical Load

Selling a home in your 30s is not the same as selling one in your 60s, 70s, or beyond. It’s just not.

It’s not only about market value, fresh paint, or how many showings you can line up. It’s about the memories, the emotions, and the mental load of making such a big transition.

Here’s what I’ve seen again and again in my 20+ years of helping older sellers:

  • The hardest part usually isn’t letting go of the house - it’s letting go of the meaning inside it.

  • Logistics like decluttering, timelines, and deciding what to keep can feel overwhelming.

  • Many people need space to process - not just information about comps and appraisals.

One client once told me, “It’s not the price that’s stressing me out - it’s the kitchen table. That’s where the grandkids had their first birthday cakes.” 🎂

And I get that. That’s why I always take things one step at a time. No rush. No pressure. Just a plan built around your pace. Whether it’s creating a soft timeline, helping sort through decades of belongings, or simply making space for hard emotions - I’m here for all of it.

You don’t have to “tough it out.” You get to feel all the feelings and still move forward.

 

Tip 2: Rightsizing > Downsizing

Let’s talk about a word that gets thrown around a lot: downsizing.

Honestly? I’m not a fan of it.

Downsizing makes it sound like you’re losing something. Like you’re shrinking your life. But that’s not what’s really happening.

What’s actually happening for many is rightsizing.

You’re choosing a space that fits your life right now:

  • Fewer stairs

  • Less yard to deal with

  • Lower utility bills

  • Being closer to grandkids or a doctor you trust

That’s not giving up. That’s leveling up.

One client told me, “I don’t want to feel like I’m losing anything.” And I reminded her, “You’re not. You’re gaining peace of mind, simplicity, and probably a whole lot more joy.”

So let’s change the way we talk about this. You’re not moving down. You’re moving forward into a chapter that better supports your lifestyle, comfort, and happiness.

Let’s call it what it really is: smart.

 

Tip 3: Why Working with Someone Who Understands Seniors Matters

Not every real estate agent is the right fit for every seller.

Helping seniors sell isn’t just about knowing the local market or staging a home. It’s about understanding where people are—emotionally, physically, and financially.

It’s about:

  • Having the patience to sit and listen

  • Explaining things clearly, without jargon

  • Guiding clients through the parts they don’t even know to expect yet

I’ve worked with all kinds of sellers, but the ones closest to my heart? The seniors. The ones who say, “I don’t even know where to begin,” or “I just don’t want to feel rushed.”

To them, I say you’re not alone. I’ll sit with you, figure out your goals, and create a plan that feels calm, organized, and doable.

One step at a time. No surprises. No pressure. Just steady, respectful support.

You deserve to be heard. You deserve to move forward with confidence. And yes, you deserve dignity every step of the way.

 

Final Thoughts

Selling a home after 65 is about more than real estate - it’s about real life.

There’s so much more to consider than square footage and sale price. And that’s okay - that’s why I’m here.

If you’re thinking about selling - or helping a parent or loved one do it - I hope this brought clarity and comfort. Because the right move isn’t just about the house, it’s about your future. And I’d be honored to help guide the way.

 

Free Guide: The Home Seller’s Survival Kit

Before you make any big decisions, I’ve got something for you:

📘 The Home Seller’s Survival Kit: 7 Mistakes That Can Cost You Thousands (and How to Avoid Them)

Inside, you’ll find:

  • The most common missteps sellers over 65 make

  • How to plan without feeling overwhelmed

  • Tips to protect both your money and your peace of mind

Whether you’re just planning ahead or ready to sell soon, this guide will help you take the first step with confidence.

👉 Click here to download your free copy

And remember, if you just want someone to talk through your situation with? I’m here. No pressure. Just good, honest support when you need it.

 

As a full-time Licensed Realtor since 2003, Marian has sold over 180 homes which has given her a wide range of experience with a variety of different clients and properties. Marian has sold commercial and residential properties in the Washington DC metro area as well as in the Reno/Tahoe areas of Northern Nevada. She is passionate about real estate and would love to support you through the buying or selling process whether its your personal home or an investment property.

Marian Huish

As a full-time Licensed Realtor since 2003, Marian has sold over 180 homes which has given her a wide range of experience with a variety of different clients and properties. Marian has sold commercial and residential properties in the Washington DC metro area as well as in the Reno/Tahoe areas of Northern Nevada. She is passionate about real estate and would love to support you through the buying or selling process whether its your personal home or an investment property.

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