A guide to
Selling your house
Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or you’re ready to take the next step, this guide provides practical advice, a helpful checklist, and insights to help you make your move.
Section 1
Your options for when to sell
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to timing your home sale. Here are three common strategies to consider:
1. Sell Before You Move
This option gives you access to the proceeds from your home sale upfront, which can help cover entrance fees or other costs. Just keep in mind that you may need temporary housing or storage while you wait to move into your new home.
2. Sell After You Move
Moving first can make the transition less stressful – you won’t have to worry about showings or open houses while you’re still living in the space. However, you may need to explore bridge financing, a home equity loan, or use savings to cover costs in the meantime.
3. Sell When You Move
Coordinating your sale and move at the same time can streamline the process, but it requires careful planning and timing to ensure everything aligns smoothly.
Section 2
Understanding the financial side
Selling your home is more than just a transaction; it’s a key part of planning for your future. Here’s how it fits into the bigger picture.
Community Fees and Monthly Services Fees
Most retirement communities, including Immanuel, require a one-time community fee and ongoing monthly service fees. These cover your residence, amenities, and services.
Traditional vs. Capital Return Entrance Fees
Immanuel offers flexible financial plans to fit your needs. Our Traditional entrance fee offers lower upfront costs, while the Capital Return Plan returns a portion of your entrance fee to you or your estate (Traditional and Capital Return entrance fees are only available at Immanuel Signature communities).
Using Your Home Sale Proceeds
The equity from your home can help fund your move. In many Immanuel communities, you can even transition from a Traditional to a Capital Return Plan later.
How We Can Help
Our Retirement Living Consultants are here to help you explore the financial options that work best for your situation.
Section 3
Preparing your home
A well-prepared home can attract more buyers and better offers. Here’s how to get your home ready for the market.
- Declutter: Remove personal items and extra furniture to help buyers imagine themselves living in the space.
- Deep clean: A sparkling clean home feels well cared for. Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, and windows for the biggest impact.
- Make minor repairs: Fix items that might raise concerns – like leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or chipped paint.
- Boost curb appeal: First impressions matter. Tidy up the yard, add fresh mulch, and consider a new welcome mat or a pop of color on the front door.
- Light updates go a long way: A fresh coat of neutral paint, updated lighting, or new cabinet hardware
How We Can Help
Immanuel Retirement Living Consultants can offer recommendations for reputable companies in your area. Call 404-491-8857 to start the conversation.
Section 4
Moving assistance
Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are many ways to get the help you need.
Family and Friends
Many people start by leaning on loved ones for packing, sorting, and emotional support. Hosting a “moving day” gathering can make the process more fun and efficient.
Professional Services
Senior moving specialists can help older adults downsize and relocate with care. Moving companies can handle everything from packing to setting up your new home. Estate sale and donation services can help you part with items you no longer need.
Here are some downsizing specialists/senior moving coordinators to make the process easier:
- Senior Moving Services (Omaha)
- Simple Senior Solutions (Omaha)
- Senior Transitioning Services (Des Moines)
- Changing Spaces SRS (Lincoln)
- Organize by Design LLC (Lincoln)
Transportation and Logistics
Plan ahead for how you’ll get to your new home – especially if it’s a long-distance move. Temporary storage or short-term accommodations may also be helpful during the transition.
Section 5
Planning your move with confidence
Every move is unique. Use this checklist to help you plan your next steps with clarity and confidence.
Evaluate Your Current Home Situation
- Understand your home’s market value: A real estate agent can help you understand what your home might sell for.
- Talk with a real estate professional: Ask about the best time to sell, how to prepare your home, and how to time your sale with your move to a retirement living community.
Explore Retirement Living Options
- Visit Immanuel’s retirement living communities: Take tours, meet the teams, and see what daily life is like.
- Compare residences and features: Look at available community options. Explore amenities and think about what fits your needs and lifestyle best.
Understand the Financial Plans
- Learn about Entrance Fees: There are one-time costs when you move in. They vary depending on the community you choose.
- Ask about Traditional vs. Capital Return Plans: These plans vary by community. A Retirement Living Consultant can explain the differences.
- Talk about switching care levels: Ask about the care levels available at different communities to make sure they fit your needs now and in the future.
- Plan how to use the money from your home sale: Think about when to sell and how that money will help with your move.
- Ask about short-term financial help: A financial advisor can help you explore options if your home hasn’t sold yet.
Create a Timeline That Works for You
- Decide when to sell your home: You can sell before, during, or after your move to a retirement living community – whatever works best for you.
- Talk with family or trusted friends: They can help you make decisions and stay organized.
- Get your home ready to sell: Clean, fix small things, and make it look welcoming to potential buyers.
- Make a moving plan: Choose a moving date, find movers, and make a list of what to pack and when.
Section 6
Helpful resources to support your journey
Immanuel offers an online library of resources to help you make informed decisions about retirement living. Here are a few we recommend.
- A Guide to Downsizing
Tips and strategies for simplifying your space and making your move easier. - Understanding the Costs of Retirement Living
A clear breakdown of what to expect and how to plan financially. - A Guide to Entrance Fees
Learn how entrance fees work and how they support your long-term security. - Straight From the Source: Your Guide to Independent Living
Discover the lifestyle, services, and community benefits of independent living
at Immanuel.
How We Can Help
Have questions? Our team is here to help you navigate every step. Contact us at 404-491-8857 to speak with a Retirement Living Consultant.