As I’ve traveled around the US speaking on the subject of my book, Rightsizing Your Life, and talking to audiences about the obstacles standing in the way of a midlife move–any move!–I also have had a chance to do a quick survey of the cities and towns I pass through.
In the process, I have been introduced to scores of wonderful communities designed for the 50-plus crowd that “New Nesters” like my husband and myself might want to live in, once we finally “simplify our surroundings while keeping what matters most.”
Given the ongoing mortgage crisis and the difficulty in finding buyers for the family homes many would like to sell in order to start this new chapter in our lives, I hit upon what I think is a great way to “try out” other communities while waiting for this housing disaster to right itself.
So, surely you’ve heard of Vacation Rental by Owner?
If you have, would you consider listing your own home as a short-term rental on such an Internet service (there are several to choose from), and then search online for the kind of residence you’ve been considering for the next phase of your life?
Image source: San Francisco Chronicle
My husband of thirty-two years and I live within view of the San Francisco Bay…a wonderful place that visitors from all over the world want to experience. I also love high desert climates–but am unsure if I would really want to make New Mexico, Arizona or Nevada my permanent home, despite many cost savings compared to living in California.
A friend described how she rents out her place in the maritime village of Sausalito when she plans to be away for more than two weeks, so it occurred to me that if my square footage was in “show place” condition (meaning ALL clutter banished), then I could rent it out at the same time that I signed on for two-week to month-long furnished rentals on VRBO in spots like beautiful Santa Fe, New Mexico—which has been on our “short list” for years.
Here’s one listing I found for a darling “casita” right in the heart of town:
I realize, of course, that Rightsizing one’s home to rent to perfect strangers may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but what a great opportunity it provides for finding an economical way to experience a new locale without having to make a big decision about moving until you were sure a community felt like the right fit?
Now, another place I’ve always wanted to live is Venice, Italy….
Hmmmm…..on VRBO you can check it out and have a wonderful time imagining the possibilities!
Tags: Active Adult Communities, New Nest, Online Renting Services, Renting Houses, Retirement Planning, Vacation Rental by Owner
