Home & Garden
Not Ready to Move? You Can Still Start Planning
Why planning early gives empty nesters more options and less stress.
As the year winds down, I’ve been hearing a familiar refrain from longtime homeowners and empty nesters across Oak Park, River Forest, Elmwood Park, and nearby communities:
“We’re not ready to move… but we know we should probably start thinking about it.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you’re not behind.
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As we head into January, I’ll be sharing a short series focused on downsizing as a process, not a sudden decision. Too often, people only start thinking about downsizing when a deadline appears or a life change forces their hand. That’s when stress creeps in and options narrow.
But downsizing doesn’t have to work that way.
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For many homeowners, the smartest approach is simply planning early, without pressure or urgency. That kind of planning can help you:
- understand what your current home is really worth
- explore right-sizing options like ranch homes, condos, or lower-maintenance living
- think through timing that works for your life, not just the market
- make decisions calmly, instead of reactively
Importantly, planning does not mean committing to a move in the near future. For some people, it’s about clarity for next year. For others, it’s about laying groundwork for five years from now.
January is a natural moment to step back, reflect, and ask better questions. Not because you need to act immediately, but because understanding your options early creates flexibility later.
If downsizing has been on your mind in a vague, “someday” way, I’ve already gathered several practical, no-pressure resources on my website that may be helpful as you start thinking ahead. You can browse them here:
👉 Downsizing resources and guides
In January, I’ll be building on these ideas with a series focused on clarity over urgency. I’ll break the process down into manageable steps and address the questions I hear most often from empty nesters who want to plan thoughtfully.
No sales pitch. No countdown clock. Just information and perspective for people who want to understand their options before they need them.
Sometimes the smartest move is simply getting clear.
Laurie Christofano
Realtor with RE/MAX In The Village | Chicago, Oak Park & West Suburbs
Phone: 630-248-1976
Email: laurie@OPRFhomesforsale.com
Frequently asked questions about downsizing planning
No. Many people start planning well before they move. Planning early gives you clarity, reduces stress, and helps you understand options so you can move on your timeline, not under pressure.
Often, earlier than you think. Many empty nesters begin exploring downsizing several years ahead, especially if they want flexibility around timing, location, and home style. Starting early makes the process feel manageable.
It means you do not have to decide everything at once. Most downsizing journeys include small steps like clarifying priorities, understanding your home’s value, learning about home types, and thinking through timing before any big decisions are made.
Yes. Many homeowners start planning before they know exactly where they want to move. Early planning helps clarify priorities like walkability, maintenance, stairs, parking, and neighborhood feel, which makes choosing easier later.
Not always. For many homeowners it is more like right sizing. The goal is a home that fits your life now, which could mean fewer stairs, less upkeep, different layout, or a more convenient location.
Start by listing your non negotiables and your nice to haves. Then browse a few resources to see what options look like. A little clarity now can make future decisions much easier.
