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Empty nesters—typically parents whose children have moved out—often find themselves back in the real estate market, even if they already own a home. Here are key reasons why they’re still looking to buy:
Downsizing to a Manageable Space
Many empty nesters want to downsize to a home that’s easier to maintain, with fewer rooms to clean and less outdoor upkeep. A smaller space can also reduce utility bills, making life simpler and more affordable.
Desire for a More Convenient Location
With children no longer in the house, empty nesters may want to relocate to be closer to amenities like shopping, healthcare, and social activities. Many also choose to move closer to friends, family, or even a favorite destination for their retirement years.
Interest in Single-Level Living
Empty nesters often look for homes without stairs to better accommodate potential mobility needs as they age. A single-story layout or a condo offers easier accessibility and reduces future renovation needs.
Desire for an Updated, Modern Home
After living in a family home for years, some empty nesters are eager for a fresh start with updated features, modern layouts, or energy-efficient designs. Moving to a newer home allows them to enjoy amenities without the hassle of a renovation.
Investing in Lifestyle and Amenities
Many empty nesters are interested in communities designed with their lifestyle in mind, like 55+ neighborhoods or properties with golf courses, pools, or social clubs. Moving to these communities allows them to embrace an active lifestyle and build new social connections.
Leveraging Home Equity
Empty nesters often have significant equity in their current home. By selling, they can access this equity to buy a smaller home outright, invest the difference, or create a financial cushion for the future.
Building a Retirement Income Stream
Some empty nesters choose to purchase an additional property, such as a vacation home or a rental property, as a way to generate passive income in retirement or enjoy a second location.
Preparing for Family Visits and Future Needs
While they may want to downsize, empty nesters also look for homes that can accommodate visiting family members, like extra guest rooms or flexible spaces. They may also look for features like an in-law suite or an adaptable floor plan to prepare for any future needs.
For empty nesters, buying a home is often about embracing a new chapter that’s more aligned with their lifestyle, needs, and aspirations. Whether they’re simplifying, investing, or relocating for enjoyment, they’re still a vibrant part of the real estate market.
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Kelly Raulston
“Reliable and Ready” REALTOR® since 2016. I was born in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, but was raised in Texas since 1997. When I found out we were moving to Plano, Texas, I remember looking forward to riding a horse to school and a brand-new pair of cowboy boots! Growing up in Plano prepared me to be competitive, quick, and to have a strong work ethic.
I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Axe’em Jacks! That is where my love for East Texas began. The nature, warm smiles, football games, and community values can't be beat! I graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I was a middle school math teacher in Tyler, Texas. I met my husband, Travis, in Sunday school, and we have been married since September 2016.
I love being a REALTOR® in East Texas! Relationships are genuine, the area is beautiful, and the market is rockin’! I am an involved REALTOR® to better the community. Some of the organizations I am involved with are: The Professional Development Committee, Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee, and Tyler Educational Networking Group. Some awards I have won were “The Hustle Award” in 2016, and “Rookie of the Year” in 2017.
When I am not working with my clients, I like to spend quality time with my friends and family doing the following: running, target practice, read and participate in book club, and playing with my dachshund Greta.
