Timing is the part most people get wrong. A common pattern looks like this: a couple decides to downsize, defers it by a year, then repeats that decision until five years have passed and they are still maintaining a house they stopped needing a long time ago.
Waiting rarely improves the position. Markets move, and the gap between what a family home sells for and what a smaller property costs can widen or narrow without warning. Health and mobility change too, and they tend to narrow the options rather than expand them.
There is no universally correct moment to downsize. There is, however, a difference between choosing the timing and having it chosen for you. Planning early keeps the decision in the owner's hands.
A useful starting point is to work out what the next home actually needs to do, then look at what is available in that bracket. Most people find the exercise clarifies whether they are waiting for the market or simply waiting.
Transcript
They wanted to downsize 5 years ago. Every year they said maybe next year. 5 years later, they're still maintaining a home they no longer need. If you're waiting for the perfect time, let's have a chat.
