Empty Nest?

The Empty Nest

I always laugh, albeit internally, when a client says to me that this is the last home we are ever going to buy. The statistics used to be that the average homeowner moved every 5-7 years and I am sure that has been extended somewhat by the housing bust that anchored people in homes longer than they wanted or imposed waiting periods to buy a new home after short sale or disclosure. The reason for this is simply that family situations and needs change dramatically over time. The buyer that needs 5 bedrooms may need to downsize when the kids are gone to college. Later they may need to upsize or move to a single story to accommodate parents or siblings or simply aging knees. In any case, the crux of the message is always make purchases of homes based on a 5-7 year plan. If it ends up being your final home then enjoy it but the statistics say differently