Selling a long‑time family home isn’t simply a financial decision. It’s an emotional rite of passage filled with memories. Yet for many north‑shore Long Islanders, the house that once fit a growing family can become difficult to maintain as lifestyles change.
Why boomers are choosing to “rightsize”
Baby boomers between 60 and 78 now comprise the largest share of sellers (Source: Realtor.com). Many decide to move closer to adult children, retire in a warmer climate or find a smaller, low‑maintenance property. Others simply want to free up home equity to fund travel or hobbies.
In real estate circles, this move is often called rightsizing, because it focuses on finding a home that matches your current lifestyle rather than just making it smaller.
Key motivations for rightsizing
- Proximity to family: NAR’s generational report notes that older boomers frequently sell to be nearer to children or grandchildren.
- Ease of maintenance: After decades in the same home, yardwork and stair climbing can become challenging.
- Financial flexibility: Boomers have accumulated substantial equity—half of younger boomers (60–69) and 62 % of older boomers (70–78) purchase their next home using proceeds from their previous sale.
- Changing lifestyle: Many desire single‑level living, community amenities or neighborhoods with walkable village centers like Stony Brook and Port Jefferson.
A thoughtful transition plan
- Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to sort through decades of belongings. Professional senior‑move managers can help categorize items for donation, estate sale or family heirlooms. I would be happy to set you up with providers that specialize in these services, places to donate to, and junk removal services.
- Understand the market: Suffolk County’s median sales price hit a record high of $725,000 in Q2 2025, while luxury homes start around $1.35 million. With inventory near historic lows, well‑prepared homes often receive multiple offers.
- Prepare the property: Simple updates—fresh paint, updated lighting and landscaping—can maximize your return. Decluttering not only enhances photos but also reduces moving costs. If you’re unsure if its something you can or should do, I’d be happy to stop over and give you a professional opinion, with no obligation or pressure.
- Plan for your next home: Decide whether you want a smaller single‑family house, a condo near the harbor or a townhome with amenities. Consider accessibility features (no‑step entry, wider halls) to make aging easier.
- Lean on expertise: As a top‑performing Long Island agent, I offer a network of estate‑sale professionals, contractors and stagers who specialize in helping baby‑boomer clients move gracefully.
Story from the field
Recently I worked with a Setauket couple who had lived in their colonial home for 38 years. With their children grown and grandkids living in Saint James, they wanted to be closer but dreaded the thought of moving. We began six months ahead—sorting belongings each weekend, selling unused antiques online and donating old sports equipment. Once listed, their well‑kept home received four offers in the first week, all above asking. They used the proceeds to purchase a single‑level home in Port Jefferson Station near their grandchildren—and they report feeling more freedom and less stress.
Final thoughts
Rightsizing isn’t about shrinking your life; it’s about aligning your home with your needs today. With careful planning, you can maximize your equity and simplify your lifestyle while staying rooted in the communities you love.
Shaughnessy Dusling
Licensed Associate Broker at Real Broker NY LLC
150 Motor Parkway St 401, Hauppauge NY 11788
cell 631.612.1616
shaughnessysells(at)gmail(dotted)com