Three Signs It Might Be Time to Make a Move

How to know when your home is no longer serving you—and what you can do about it.

For many longtime homeowners, especially seniors, the idea of moving can feel daunting. But the earlier you start thinking about your needs, the more options and control you’ll have. Here are three gentle signs it might be time to explore your next move.

1. Your Home Is Starting to Feel Like a Challenge If climbing stairs, shoveling snow, or maintaining the yard is becoming physically difficult, that’s a signal that your home may not be serving you as well as it used to. Many people adapt gradually—until something happens that forces a change, like a fall or a hospitalization. Taking a proactive approach can help prevent that

2. Deferred Maintenance Is Catching Up

Over time, small things like leaky faucets, worn-out carpeting, or aging roofs add up. When those projects are delayed, the home can become less safe—and harder to sell down the road.

But the good news? You don’t have to tackle it alone.

In two recent sales, I helped older homeowners who were overwhelmed by the idea of getting their homes ready. After they moved out and into their next homes, I brought in trusted contractors for small repairs and updates that made a big difference in both safety and sale-ability.

I managed the entire process—they didn’t have to do a thing. And the result? Both homes sold for significantly more than they would have “as-is.”

Taking care of updates before they become bigger problems not only protects your health—it protects your investment.

3. You’re Feeling More Isolated

As neighborhoods change, loved ones move away, and driving becomes more difficult, it’s easy to feel more isolated—even in a familiar home. If you find yourself spending more time alone or wishing for more connection, it may be time to explore a community or living situation that brings those things back into your daily life.

Thinking about a move doesn’t mean making one tomorrow. But starting the conversation now ensures that you remain in control. Whether it’s downsizing, staying with support, or selling when the time is right, I’m here to walk with you—every step of the way.

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Kate Busch Gervais, senior housing transition specialist, Connecticut
About the Expert

Kate Busch Gervais

Realtor®
SRES®, SRS®, PSA®, CDP®
Clear Path Moves is run by Kate Busch Gervais, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty, who brings more than 25 years of experience across senior services, nonprofit leadership, housing, care navigation, and community advocacy. She guides older adults and their families through housing transitions, bringing clear answers, trusted resources, and specialized real estate expertise.

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