By Tersia de Beer | Property practitioner in Kroonstad, Africa Estate
Smaller is not less. It is less lawn to mow. When the children have left, the big house in Suidrand or Presidentia suddenly feels very big. The question then is: a townhouse, or a smaller freestanding house? Both are good choices, for different people.
The townhouse
No garden to maintain, shared security, and neighbours close by. You pay a monthly levy, and the body corporate's rules apply: on pets, parking and what you may change outside. Read the rules and the finances before you buy.
The smaller freestanding house
Your own stand, your own rules, and no levy. But the roof, the fence and the garden remain your responsibility, even if smaller. Choose a stand you can still manage in ten years.
What to check, whichever you choose
- Stairs: a single storey is a blessing in ten years.
- Parking: covered, close to the front door.
- Distance: to the doctor, the pharmacy, the shop and the church.
- The total cost: levy or maintenance, plus the municipal account.
The order
First have your big house valued, so you know what you have to buy with. Then you know exactly which class of smaller home is within reach, and you can plan the two transactions together.
The emotional side
A house where you raised children is more than bricks. Give yourself time. Start sorting early, choose what comes with you, and visit the new place a few times before you decide. The people who downsize happiest are those who planned it rather than those who had to. Ask your bank early whether you will need a new bond at all; many people who downsize pay cash from the sale of the bigger house, which makes their offer stronger.
I often help people downsize. Start with a free written valuation of your current home, or talk to me.
Tags:kroonstad · retirement · townhouse · free-state
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