Should You Sell the House Before or After a Move to Assisted Living

We all know moving has its challenges, but it can be especially difficult when it is prudent for an elderly person to change their living situation. Many times a move to assisted living is triggered by an emergency medical event such as an injury due to a fall or a substantial decline in the person’s health. The senior may not only feel threatened by the change in their health and lifestyle but leaving a home they may have lived in for decades. 

Often families are faced with a decision of whether to sell the home before the parent moves or to wait until after they have left and are settled into their new community. Since a person’s home is typically their biggest asset, one thing to consider is if they will need the proceeds from the sale to help finance their new home? 

However, experts caution selling an occupied house can be tricky as you want potential buyers to view the home in the best light. It should be free of clutter and personal belongings, which makes keeping it ready for short notice showings difficult. 

Selling a home without an occupant allows you to have it showcase ready at all times. If need be, hire a company to come in and stage it. Most importantly, it is a lot easier on mom or dad to not have the added stress of strangers coming in and looking at their beloved home with a critical eye. If proceeds from the home are needed to fund their move, many experts recommend taking out a bridge loan on the money expected from the sale.   

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we provide a lifestyle that focuses on wellness, comfort and community. Assisted living residents receive a whole range of services and amenities including meals created by our Executive Chef.  Other services include 24/7 care managers, certified medication care managers, and scheduled health & wellness evaluations. We also provide memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care.