To move or not to move? That is the question… in retirement

WHEN DECIDING WHERE TO LIVE IN RETIREMENT, CONSIDER THE FINANCIAL AND PERSONAL IMPLICATIONS.

When we think about retirement, we often think of the early years, when we are more likely to be in relatively good health. We may not want to think about the later retirement years, when we may experience more health complications or not be able to live independently. Thinking about your housing situation and what changes may occur throughout your retirement is an important part of your retirement plan.

Some questions to ask yourself when planning your retirement include:

Can and will you continue to live in your current home?
Do you plan to downsize? Or rent?
Will you look for additional income through a tenant or a roommate?
Will you need to renovate to accommodate mobility restrictions or house a caregiver?
Is it possible to move in with your family?
Will you need to move to an assisted living facility?

Approximately 85% of older Canadians would prefer to stay in their homes as they get older.1 However, as Canadians age, they’ll most likely require renovations to their homes, need to move to a pedestrian-friendly urban area or to a low-rise apartment, or move in with a family member or to some form of assisted living facility.

The plain truth is, the longer you live, the less likely you’ll be able to spend your entire retirement in a mortgage-free home. Housing may, in fact, become the largest expense you have in retirement, especially if you move to an assisted living facility or nursing home.

Considerations

Financial impact. Be sure to talk to your financial advisor to fully understand the financial implications of transitioning from one home to another.
Non-financial impact. While the bottom line is always an important consideration, it’s important to consider the emotional and lifestyle impact as well

For more information on establishing a retirement plan that will meet your changing needs, talk to your financial advisor