Advice for seniors selling their home to move in assisted living

Selling a home to move into assisted living is a significant life transition, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience. For those in San Diego, working with a San Diego senior real estate specialist is a great first step. Here are some essential tips for seniors preparing to sell their home and make the move to assisted living.

1. Start with a Realistic Timeline

Give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Selling a home while planning a move into assisted living can take longer than anticipated. A San Diego senior real estate specialist can help set a clear timeline, ensuring the process stays on track and all your needs are met.

2. Declutter and Utilize Downsizing Services

Decluttering is one of the most important steps when preparing for a move. Start with sentimental items and move on to larger belongings. Hiring downsizing services for seniors in San Diego can make this process much easier, helping you sort through years of belongings and ensure only essential items make the move.

3. Work with a Senior-Specialized Realtor (SRES or Seniors Real Estate Specialist is an accreditation by the National Association of REALTORS)

When it comes to selling a home for retirement in San Diego, working with a senior downsizing expert in San Diego is key. Realtors who specialize in senior transitions will understand the unique challenges and emotional aspects of selling a home during this phase of life. They can provide expert guidance, ensuring a smooth sale while keeping your personal needs in mind. Your SRES Realtor can recommend a team of people to support including Certified Senior Advisor, Senior Move Manager, Senior Placement Manager etc.

4. Make Necessary Repairs

Before listing your home, address any necessary repairs that could improve its value. Simple fixes such as updating fixtures, repairing leaks, and enhancing curb appeal can make a significant difference in attracting buyers. Consulting with the best real estate agent for seniors in San Diego can help prioritize these repairs for maximum return.

5. Staging and Preparing the Home

Consider professional staging to present your home in the best light. Whether your home is older or has a unique layout, staging helps potential buyers envision the space. A San Diego senior real estate specialist can recommend the best strategies to make your home appealing to the right market.

6. Emotional Preparation for the Move

Moving into assisted living can be emotional. It’s important to take time to process the memories attached to your home while focusing on the exciting new chapter ahead. If you're relocating to retirement homes in San Diego, a supportive real estate professional can help ease the transition.

7. Seek Financial Advice

Ensure you’re financially prepared for the transition. The costs of assisted living, combined with selling your home, can be complex. A financial advisor and a senior-friendly real estate services San Diego professional can help you navigate this aspect with ease, ensuring you make the best financial decisions for your future.

8. Legal Documentation

Before listing your home, review all legal documents, including wills, trusts, and property titles. Ensuring these are in order will prevent complications during the sale. Work with a SRES REALTOR like Melina Rissone in San Diego to make sure everything is legally sound.

9. Assistance with Downsizing

Selling a home and moving to assisted living involves a lot of decisions, but with the right help, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Professionals who specialize in assisting seniors with downsizing in San Diego can make the process more manageable by offering support with packing, organizing, and decision-making.

10. Plan for the Future

As you move into this new chapter, keep your focus on the benefits of assisted living and the opportunities it provides. Whether you’re selling your home for retirement in San Diego or making a fresh start, this move is a chance to enjoy a community that offers support, care, and a simplified lifestyle.


If you're considering selling your home for retirement in San Diego, I specialize in San Diego real estate for senior downsizers and offer expert downsizing services for seniors in San Diego. Let me help you navigate the selling process with ease. Reach out today to discover how I can assist you with this important transition! My clients would say that my superpower is to bring a team of professionals together to help you move with ease.

Need Help? Contact Me Today!

If you have any questions about protecting your property or need a real estate consultation in San Diego, I’m here to help. As a San Diego real estate broker, I specialize in providing trusted real estate services to San Diego seniors and Active adults. Contact me today for a free consultation, and let’s ensure your transition is as smooth and scam-free as possible. Your home is your sanctuary—let’s keep it that way.




San Diego Realtor

Melina Rissone

Having sold properties for more than 19 years and earning various prestigious awards throughout the course of her career, Melina Rissone has more than earned her reputation as one of San Diego's most skilled and trustworthy real estate brokers selling homes and luxury condominiums. Her loyal clientele would share that Melina brings structure and planning to chaos. She specializes in supporting her clients and their referrals; families and individuals going thru divorce and seniors and active adults planning their moves and financial decisions during their retirement years..

  • Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and Institute of Luxury Home Marketing certified.
  • Cartus Network Inventory Specialist and Cartus Network Marketing Specialist since 2015.
  • RCS-D Designation, a Real Estate Collaboration Specialist for Divorce.
  • SRES Certification through NAR is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist certification.
  • Melina is bilingual in English and German.
  • Recognized as the Top 4% of all real estate brokers in San Diego County in 2021 and the Top 3% of Coldwell Banker International.
  • Coldwell Banker Presidents Elite Award.
  • Recognize as the To 2% of Coldwell Banker West in 2024.