Downsizing in St George: Complete Guide for Empty Nesters

Why Downsize in St George?

After raising a family in your much-loved home, the decision to downsize is significant. Many of my clients choose to stay in St George when downsizing - and for good reason. The area offers excellent downsizer-friendly properties while allowing you to stay close to friends, family, and familiar places.

Best Suburbs for Downsizers

For Waterfront Living

• Sans Souci: Villas and apartments with water views
• Brighton-Le-Sands: Beachfront units and townhouses

For Convenience

• Kogarah: Close to hospital and shops
• Hurstville: Everything within walking distance

For Value

• Rockdale: Quality townhouses near station
• Beverly Hills: Modern developments with amenities

Property Types for Downsizers

Villas

• Single-level living
• Small courtyard garden
• Often in small complexes
• Price range: $900,000-$1.4M

Townhouses

• Modern layouts
• Lock-up-and-leave convenience
• Often 2-3 bedrooms
• Price range: $1.0M-$1.5M

Apartments

• Minimal maintenance
• Building amenities (gym, pool)
• Views in some cases
• Price range: $600,000-$1.2M

Financial Considerations

Downsizer Super Contribution

• If you're 55+, you can contribute up to $300,000 per person from the sale of your home into superannuation
• Doesn't count toward contribution caps
• Great way to boost retirement savings

Capital Gains

• Your principal residence is CGT-free
• Plan the timing of sale and purchase carefully

Stamp Duty

• Budget for stamp duty on your new purchase
• No concessions for downsizers (unlike first home buyers)

The Emotional Side of Downsizing

I've helped many families through this transition, and I understand it's not just about bricks and mortar. Here's how to make it easier:

1. Give yourself time: Don't rush the decision 2. Involve family: But remember it's your decision 3. Focus on the positives: Less maintenance, more freedom 4. Plan the declutter: Start early, room by room 5. Create new memories: Look forward to your new chapter

Decluttering Tips

• Start 6-12 months before you plan to move
• Work through one room at a time
• Ask: "Do I use it? Do I love it? Does it fit the new home?"
• Digitize photos and documents
• Consider hiring a decluttering specialist

Moving Checklist

3 Months Before

• Research new suburbs and property types
• Get your home appraised
• Start decluttering

2 Months Before

• List your home for sale
• Start serious searching
• Get quotes from removalists

1 Month Before

• Finalize purchase
• Book removalists
• Organize utility transfers

Moving Week

• Final pack
• Clean old home
• Celebrate your new chapter!

Find Your Perfect Downsizer Property

I specialize in helping downsizers find their ideal next home while achieving the best possible result for their current property. Let's discuss your plans over a coffee - no pressure, just honest advice.