When is the right time to downsize in Clarkston?

When maintenance takes 50+ hours/month, stairs or yardwork are difficult, taxes consume 3%+ of income, or you want to unlock equity for retirement. Most clients move between ages 60–70—earlier is easier than crisis-driven moves.

How much can downsizing save in Oakland County?

Typical savings run 30–50% across taxes, utilities, insurance, and maintenance. Many Clarkston families reduce monthly costs by $800–$1,500 and eliminate a mortgage by purchasing the next home with equity.

Do I need to renovate before selling?

Not necessarily. We often list as-is or recommend light, high-ROI updates (paint, deep clean, curb appeal). Major remodels rarely return 100% right before a sale.

How long does the downsizing process take?

Plan on 6–12 months from first conversation to move-in. Fast-track paths can finish in 3–4 months; we adapt to your pace and health, family, and seasonal needs.

What do we do with decades of belongings?

Use our four-category system: Keep, Family Distribution, Estate Sale, Donate/Discard. We coordinate senior move managers, estate sales, and donation pickups—while honoring sentimental items.

Can you help us buy the next home too?

Yes. We find right-sized ranches, downtown condos, 55+ communities, and smaller waterfront homes—often timing both transactions to avoid temporary housing.

How does SRES® specialization help?

SRES® training covers Medicare/Social Security impacts, reverse mortgages, estate and tax coordination, accessibility, and 55+ housing—so your move fits both lifestyle and financial plans.

Which Clarkston areas work well for downsizers?

Walkable Downtown (condos/townhomes), ranch homes on smaller lots in Independence Township, nearby 55+ communities, and waterfront condos for low-maintenance lake living.

Will we owe capital gains tax when we sell?

Most sellers qualify for the IRS exclusion—$250,000 single or $500,000 married—if the home was a primary residence 2 of the last 5 years. We coordinate with your CPA to optimize timing.

Can you coordinate a same-day sell and purchase?

Yes. We align possession dates, arrange rent-backs when needed, and keep lenders, title, movers, and family on one shared timeline to avoid double moves.