As the kids leave home, many empty nesters in Ridgewood are rattling around their large family homes. Ridgewood offers a range of housing options, from low-maintenance condos to charming cottages, allowing individuals to downsize, simplify their lifestyle, and reduce expenses. The following essential downsizing tips for empty nesters highlight some charming homes for sale in Ridgewood that offer space and features tailored to your needs as a couple:
Getting your home ready to sell
To get the best price, you’ll want your home in tip-top shape to attract buyers. Declutter inside and out by holding a garage sale or donating unneeded items. Do deferred maintenance like exterior painting, gutter cleaning, or carpet replacement. Organize cabinets and closets so they appear roomy. Consider staging your home with the help of a professional who can remove personal artifacts and furnish them with trendy, neutral décor that appeals to buyers.
Ridgewood real estate: Choosing where to downsize
Ridgewood and surrounding communities offer many options for empty nesters looking to downsize without compromising too much on space or amenities. Older couples may enjoy low-maintenance condos or townhomes in downtown Ridgewood or neighboring Paramus and Glen Rock. These provide easy access to the train station, restaurants, and shops. Single-level living is also possible in adult communities with freestanding homes built for seniors. These are often located in quiet residential neighborhoods and include clubhouses with organized activities.
Making the move stress-free
The act of downsizing and moving can seem daunting, but proper planning makes it manageable. Hire a moving company to transport your belongings so you don’t have to. Schedule the closing dates for both home sales strategically to minimize double housing costs. Sort and discard items room-by-room well in advance so you’re not overwhelmed later by clutter. Distinguish what should be sold, donated, trashed, or moved to your new home. Consider renting a storage unit temporarily if needed.
Settling into your new lifestyle
A smaller living space often comes with freedom from maintenance and greater opportunities to travel and enjoy retirement activities. Take time to rearrange furniture, hang art, and make your new residence feel like home. Maintain openness about letting go of unused possessions from your former house. Develop new routines and hobbies focused less on material things and more on experiences that enrich your life. Join clubs or volunteer organizations to build a new network quickly.
Ridgewood real estate market
Ridgewood is an affluent suburban community in Bergen County, New Jersey, known for its excellent school system and family-friendly neighborhoods. Real estate in Ridgewood is characterized by large single-family homes on tree-lined streets and some luxury townhouses and condominiums. Home prices in Ridgewood are high, with the current median listing price around $1.2 million. The market is competitive, especially for updated homes in top school districts. Low inventory continues to drive bidding wars over the most desirable properties.
Living in Ridgewood
Ridgewood is a lovely suburb to call home with a quaint, small-town feel despite its proximity to New York City. Ridgewood provides suburban convenience and comfort with charming downtowns, offering urban culture and amenities like country clubs and parks, making it an ideal location for retirement.