💰 Financial Clarity: “Can I Afford This Move?”

“I’ve spent years taking care of this home — paying it off, maintaining it, and building memories. Now that I’m considering a move, there’s one question that sits at the center of my thoughts:

“Can I really afford to do this — and will it be the right move for my future?”

The decision to move isn’t only about lifestyle or location. For many of us, it’s also about security. We want peace of mind that our next step fits comfortably within our means — today and for the years to come.

Let’s walk through some things I’ve learned (and had to face) as I work toward financial confidence in this next chapter.

📊 1. Take a Clear Look at the Whole Picture

  • Gather recent statements on your income sources — pensions, Social Security, savings, investments, or any part-time income.

  • Understand your home equity — how much value you’ve built over the years.

  • Review any ongoing expenses — insurance, utilities, property taxes, maintenance.

Expanded Thought:
For years, I only focused on what my house was “worth,” not how much it cost me to live here.
Once I looked at all the numbers, I realized my current home was tying up money and energy that could be better used elsewhere — travel, comfort, or just a financial cushion. Seeing the full picture helped me stop guessing and start planning with confidence.

🏡 2. Consider the True Cost of Staying vs. Moving

  • Staying often means continued expenses: upkeep, repairs, property taxes, and sometimes healthcare adjustments for accessibility.

  • Moving may mean a smaller or more manageable space with lower monthly costs.

  • Compare both sides — not just in dollars, but in time, energy, and stress.

Expanded Thought:
When I added up what I spent just to maintain my current home — landscaping, maintenance, heating rooms I no longer use — the total was eye-opening. Downsizing wasn’t just a financial decision; it was a quality-of-life improvement.
I realized that by moving, I wasn’t losing security; I was creating it.

💬 3. Talk with a Trusted Financial Planner or Fiduciary

  • A fiduciary must act in your best interest — that’s important.

  • Ask them to help forecast how a move could impact your income flow, savings, and long-term care options.

  • They can coordinate with your real estate professional to make sure everything aligns.

Expanded Thought:
When I spoke with a fiduciary and my Certified Senior Advisor, it was like connecting the puzzle pieces of my later-life plan. Together, they showed me not just what I could afford — but what would keep me safe and comfortable ten years from now. I finally felt like I was building a plan, not reacting to a worry.

🧭 4. Plan for Later-Life Care Early

  • Think ahead: What might your healthcare or assisted living needs look like in the next decade?

  • Could part of your home equity help secure a safety fund or care plan?

  • Investigate community options that scale with your needs — independent living, assisted care, etc.

Expanded Thought:
I’ve seen friends delay this conversation until it’s urgent, and it always feels harder then.
Having this talk early gave me power. I set aside part of my home’s value as a cushion for possible medical needs. That simple act brought calm — I wasn’t just moving, I was protecting my future self.

📅 5. Understand the Financial Impact of Downsizing

  • Selling your home can unlock equity — but also consider closing costs, moving expenses, and potential taxes.

  • A smaller home often means lower utilities, less maintenance, and fewer hidden costs.

  • Think about how those monthly savings can enhance your lifestyle or add to your nest egg.

Expanded Thought:
When I first looked at the numbers, it was easy to focus on what I might lose — space, familiarity, even control. But once my advisor helped me map out how my net monthly costs would drop, I realized how much financial breathing room I’d gain. It wasn’t about “downsizing my life.” It was about right-sizing my budget.

🤝 6. Build a Trusted Team Around You

  • Your real estate professional, financial advisor, and possibly estate planner should communicate with one another.

  • Choose professionals who understand your priorities — not just your property.

  • Look for those with senior-specific designations (like CSA® or fiduciary licenses).

Expanded Thought:
Having professionals who spoke the same language and respected my situation gave me so much peace. My CSA–Broker made sure I always understood each financial step, and my financial advisor reviewed every decision with me.
It didn’t feel overwhelming — it felt supported and informed.

💡 7. Make Confidence Your Goal, Not Guesswork

  • Real clarity comes from knowledge, not assumptions.

  • The right information turns fear into focus.

  • Whether you move this year or five years from now, financial readiness helps you choose, not react.

Expanded Thought:
I realized that “Can I afford this?” wasn’t really a financial question — it was an emotional one. I wanted to feel secure, safe, and wise about my choices. Once I had that clarity, I finally felt excitement again — the kind I hadn’t felt in years — about what comes next.

🌟 Final Reflection

Financial clarity is not about the numbers alone — it’s about peace of mind.
It’s knowing that you’ve made a thoughtful, informed decision that supports your lifestyle, your legacy, and your independence.

And the truth is, you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
A trusted CSA–Broker, a financial planner, and your family can walk with you — one clear, careful step at a time.

“I work with your family and advisors to help you make financially sound, confident decisions.”

Jeremy Hickling / CSA®, Broker, CAPS
Certified Senior Advisor & Real Estate Broker / Transition Specialist
📞 425.894.4316
🌐 HeartWiseAllies.com