Should you stay or should you go?

Any feelings you have when watching your children drive off to college are completely normal. Perhaps you’re a bit down because they’re leaving. Perhaps you’re elated to get on with this next chapter in your life. Regardless, the time has come to answer the all-important question: Now that the kids have flown the coop, do you remain in your old home, or downsize?

Homecoming

No, “homecoming” doesn’t refer to the dance where, it seems like just yesterday, you were chauffeuring your teenagers to! Children returning to the place they grew up isn’t uncommon in the early adult years. If you think this may be the case with your son or daughter, and you can’t imagine hosting holiday gatherings anywhere else, you may want to stay where you are.

Flex time

On the other hand, holidays aren’t the only important events on the calendar. Now is your time. You’ve done the hard work of raising the kids. Maybe you want to enjoy yourself in a location closer to amenities you enjoy without the hassle of home upkeep.

Money

There can be no denying it: downsizing can mean significant savings in home upkeep and taxes. If you’re not keeping the house so the kids can return there every December, consider investing the savings in their future. Did someone say “graduate school?”