Part One
There comes a time in the lives of many seniors when staying in their current home is no longer a safe or wise choice. It may be because the stairs have become more difficult or impossible to negotiate. It might be that the general upkeep of the house has become overwhelming. Or it may simply be because they're experiencing declining health. Sadly, too many seniors continue to live in homes which do not meet their physical and/or mental needs.

I have been a Realtor in the Metro Milwaukee area for over 30 years. I am also a Senior Real Estate Specialist - that is, a specialist in helping senior citizens to make appropriate housing decisions. I have been in the homes of hundreds of seniors, listening to their stories and watching their faces. In too many cases, those faces have painted a picture of fear and frustration. I needed to get to the root causes of their trepidations, hopes and desires. I wanted to know what seniors were really thinking about when it came to such an important aspect of their lives - their home! Why were they staying in their homes when it was obvious a move should be made?

I decided to survey my senior clients who were still in their homes. The majority of the respondents had attended a “moving seminar.” These seminars provide information regarding affordability of senior housing, downsizing and the process of selling their home and moving. Most of the seniors were ages 72-83 years old.

Seven hundred surveys were distributed. Statistically, I expected to get back one percent, or seven. However, I received about 10 percent or 70!

The survey questions were open ended (subjective) with no choice of answers. The seniors were free to answer any way they chose. This was not a scientific study, but simply an attempt to compile the beliefs of seniors faced with the decision whether or not to sell their home.

Following are the compiled results, including respondents' comments: 1. What are the top three reasons that you are considering a move?

42% -- Maintenance
• Home and yard too much work (can't find reliable or affordable handy man).
• Home deterioration (can't afford or physically maintain good condition).
• Snow shoveling or plowing drive way.
• Responsibility of caring for a home.

34% -- Health Issues
• Will need medical help in the future.
• Reduced physical abilities.
• Beginning stages of dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
• Can't take care of self.
• Loss of eyesight.

10% -- Downsizing
• Home too large for current needs.
• Kids moved out, and not using space.

6% -- Loneliness
• Looking for companionship.
• Someone to see if you're o.k.
• Contact with people in health
emergencies.
• Spouse passed away, now alone.
• Children have moved out.
6% -- Transportation
• Location is not close to shopping, doctors.
• Security (don't feel comfortable in current surroundings).
• Physically unable to drive.
• Too much traffic and noise.

6% -- Age
• Getting too old (unable to enjoy home as before).

4% -- Finances
• Too expensive to stay.
• Will the taxes keep going up?
Too high already.

2. What are the top three fears that are keeping you from making a move?

32% -- Fear of Change
• Going to strange surroundings.
• Familiar to less familiar.
• New setting.
• Leaving our neighborhood.
• Loss of neighbors/secure with current friends and neighbors.
• Emotional separation from home.
• Fear of unknown.

26% -- Fear of Downsizing
• Packing and sorting.
• Giving up treasures, possessions.
• Where do you start?
• Entire process too difficult.
• What to do with the things you won't have room for in your new home?
• Physical exertion of moving.

24% -- Emotional Fears
• I'll miss my home.
• Will my new neighbors be
compatible?
• What if I make a mistake? Bad
decision.
• Will I get cabin fever?
• What if I can't take my pet?
• I'm afraid I'll take too long to decide.

8% -- Financial Concerns
• Monthly costs of new residence.
• Income won't cover costs.
• Cost increases in new residence.
• Costs of moving.

4% -- Loss of Independence
• Will others make decisions for me?
• Lose control of my life.
• Sharing living space.

3. How many years have you been in your present home?
• 0-20 YEARS -- 22%
• 21-30 YEARS -- 10%
• 31-40 YEARS -- 26%
• 41-50 YEARS -- 34%
• 50-60 YEARS -- 8%

(Note that 68% of respondents have been in their current homes more than 30 years.)

Watch for part two in the September issue of 50 Plus.

Bruce Nemovitz is a Senior Real Estate Specialist, as well as Certified Senior Advisor. Bruce has sold residential homes in the four county Milwaukee-Metro areas for 30 years. You may reach Bruce at 262-242-6177.