The housing market is changing radically in some areas. Property values in formerly-hot locales like San Francisco and New York have seen big drops during the pandemic. In places like good old Omaha and even Lincoln, Nebraska, properties are changing hands quickly right now.
I’ve written about my own recent home purchase as well as my process of downsizing. But I know plenty of folks who are looking at low interest rates and new opportunities… and wondering if things are pointing them toward a move of their own.
Here are some things I’ve considered as I’ve sold one home and bought another.
How does this decision affect how I get to live my life?
Some folks are in a prime position to “upgrade” right now: they can afford more square footage than they ever thought possible. Taking on more considerably more debt for a larger home or a big move may mean making cuts to other areas of lifestyle expenses.
Some folks have spent more time in their own home than they ever have, because of the pandemic! This may have shifted perspectives about what makes home “home.” Maybe it’s time to prioritize location over home type.
Lots to consider. But maybe this change is part of some larger shift going on in life, which leads me to a related consideration.
What is the time horizon for this next chapter?
Followers of our work will recognize a few key phrases here. We are all about time horizons: the greater the time horizon, the more closely aligned this moment becomes with the big picture, the long game.
Just like many wonderful books, lives have chapters. In what ways would this new home suit the chapter I’m anticipating next?
To what extent does the return on this “investment” matter?
I tend to think about housing as a short to cover, a good that we consume for the support of our lifestyle and livelihood. I don’t tend to think about housing as an investment the same way I would, say, the stocks chosen within my retirement account. That’s not the main purpose.
However, if you bring a different attitude to housing, give careful consideration to the questions above, and then check whether you’re bringing expectations about future equity into your decision-making process—for better or worse, depending on your attitudes about housing.
What’s next?
The great thing is that this process will be unique for each of us. If we can be of service as you navigate any of the decisions mentioned, call or email.
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