It's been said that moving can be one of the most stressful times in life, it ranks right up up there with death, job loss, and divorce. If you're a senior (55+) you may also be faced with additional challenges.  Here are some things to consider:

Going solo...or family ties, sharing the decision with others.     All time for some seniors moving is an absolute necessity, yet for others it could be discretionary. Maybe it's time for you to downsize, or move to that golf community, your time  to enjoy more time in your life!  Just in case you missed it check out Moving ~ How Do You Know When the Time is Right for You? (part one of the CA Senior Real Estate series).  

So now as a senior, if your home has been the family homestead, be prepared.  This could be even more emotional for everyone,  not just you as a senior, it can impact the entire family.   Adult/grown children may or may not be in support of your move, so it may be wise to consider other opinions.  You may want to the help of of a trusted adviser, a very close friend or professional peers. 

If you're considering a move, make an effort to understand both sides of the issue and explore your options.  Remember, your decision may not be a popular choice.   Unless you have a compelling need to make the move, it's o.k. to delay your decision...take your time until it's the right time for YOU.  

So now, if you've made the decision to move, keep first things first,  what happens next?  

• Do you sell your home first, and then find another?  Good question! 
• Which comes first, the chicken or the egg?  Some agents may say  it's best to sell first, yet without a safety net, unless you have a back up plan, it could be risky. Depending on the re-sale demand in the market-place, it can take six weeks, or six  months (or more)  to sell your home. 
•  Best solution: 
• Have a plan, know your destination prior to selling your home, or  have a back up place to move in the event you has a faster than expected sale.  

Regardless of your sale, be prepared to be flexible and have that contingency plan in place.   Most U.S. home sellers have enjoyed a very strong  market  for  years, yet in late 2006 and 2007 many markets  have cooled off. Best advice:  Don't be caught off guard, have a back-up plan!

Now as a senior, at this time in your life 55+, you've worked hard and paid your dues over the years. You may have special concerns or needs when it comes to matters of real estate. Lynda Eisenmann is a Senior Real Estate Specialist, SRES.  A SRES is a professional who has completed a series of educational requirements demonstrating expertise and knowledge when it comes to representing seniors in real estate. See more at Senior Real Estate Specialists to see how a SRES could help you.

• Lynda is a Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) who is experienced and knowledgeable in meeting specific needs of a senior, those who are 55+.  In addition, Lynda's three decades of real estate experience can make all the difference in the world to you or your loved one. Lynda has also created a senior real estate guide, If your 55 or 105 this guide is for you. Contact Lynda call or text Lynda directly, or email at Lynda@PreferredHomeBrokers.com

If you're a senior... or you know of a senior who needs help with real estate, check out CaliforniaSeniorRealEstate.com for great senior real estate help.  

This is the second in Senior Real Estate articles by Lynda Eisenmann, SRES.  Watch for the "Million Dollar Question" for Seniors When it Comes to Selling Your Home ~ Organizational Home Selling Help for Seniors ~ Things Some Seniors Don't Want to Talk About ~ Family Ties-Sharing the Decision vs. Going Solo ~  The Chicken or the Egg-Which Comes First? ~ Not Ready to Move, or "Over My Dead Body" ...Exploring Other Options ~