When you sell a home after retirement, your priorities often shift from growing wealth to protecting it. In Snohomish and King County, many retirees choose to sell to downsize, relocate closer to family, or access the equity they’ve built over the years. With REALTOR® Marie-Noelle Metseye by your side, you can make the transition confidently, balancing your financial goals, timing, and lifestyle needs.

Every retirement journey looks different. Some homeowners are ready to move into a smaller home with less maintenance, while others are excited to relocate or spend more time traveling. The key is understanding what matters most to you.

Common reasons retirees sell include:

• Downsizing to a more manageable home

• Moving closer to children or grandchildren

• Freeing up home equity to fund retirement goals

• Reducing property taxes and maintenance costs

The first step is knowing what your home is worth today. Marie-Noelle provides a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) that evaluates your property based on recent sales, market trends, and condition. Many homeowners in areas like Bothell, Mill Creek, and Shoreline are pleasantly surprised at how much equity they’ve gained over the years.

Retirees often qualify for significant capital gains tax exclusions, up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for married couples, if they’ve lived in their home for at least two of the last five years. It’s always wise to consult a CPA or financial advisor before selling to understand your specific tax situation.

Timing also matters. Selling when demand is high, typically in spring or early fall, can help maximize your return while giving you flexibility to plan your next move.

Once you understand your financial picture, consider how you want your next chapter to look. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, just the path that aligns with your lifestyle and comfort level.

Here are three common paths retirees take:

• Downsize locally – Move to a smaller home or condo for easier living.

• Relocate – Enjoy a new climate or move closer to loved ones.

• Keep it as an investment – Rent out your property for passive income.

Marie-Noelle helps retirees weigh the pros and cons of each option, ensuring every decision supports your financial security and peace of mind.

A few thoughtful updates can make your home more appealing to today’s buyers. Marie-Noelle offers access to trusted local vendors for cleaning, painting, landscaping, and professional staging to help you showcase your home beautifully.

Simple touches like decluttering, bright lighting, and fresh paint can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your home.

Selling your long-term home is both exciting and emotional. Marie-Noelle helps you plan the transition carefully, coordinating sale and purchase timelines, exploring bridge loan options if needed, and helping you secure short-term housing if you’re relocating.

Her hands-on, personalized approach ensures that every detail is handled with professionalism and empathy.

Snohomish and King County remain among the most stable and desirable real estate markets in Washington. Homes in communities like Everett, Lynnwood, and Kirkland continue to attract strong buyer demand, particularly for well-maintained single-family homes and condos suitable for downsizing.

Even in shifting markets, retirees with significant equity are in an excellent position to make the most of their next move.

Selling after retirement isn’t just about moving homes, it’s about turning a new page in life. Marie-Noelle understands the emotions tied to saying goodbye to a family home and the excitement of creating a new lifestyle. Her role is to make the process easy, transparent, and tailored to your goals.

Selling a home after retirement can be one of the most empowering decisions you make. With clear planning and expert guidance, you can protect your equity, simplify your lifestyle, and start the next chapter with peace of mind.

If you’re considering selling your home in Snohomish or King County after retirement, contact REALTOR® Marie-Noelle Metseye today for a personalized home valuation and downsizing consultation.