When most of us picture an older adult moving out of a long-time home, we imagine a crisis — declining health, a loss of independence, a move someone else decided was necessary. This episode is about the opposite. Host Kirsten Howe welcomes back real estate agent Nathan Jines of Jines Real Estate Group to talk about homeowners 55 and up who are choosing to relocate — not because they have to, but because they want to. Nathan explains why this is his favorite group to work with, and why the most important question isn't "where should I go?" but "what do I want this next phase of my life to look like?" Whether the answer is a view, a 1930s Mediterranean in Berkeley, or simply being closer to the grandkids, the move finally gets to be about you. Kirsten also flags the good half of Prop 19 — the chance for California homeowners to take their property tax base with them when they move.

If you or someone you love is starting to think about a move later in life, on your own terms, this conversation is for you.

Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 0:40 Kirsten frames today's topic — relocating by choice, not out of necessity. This isn't about people moving into assisted living or a child's home for care; that's a different conversation for another day. 1:45 Who this episode is for — people 55 and up with good health who want a change. 2:50 The good half of Prop 19 — in California, relocating can let you take your property tax base with you, which gives real freedom to people in this stage of life. 3:25 Why 55-plus is Nathan's favorite group to work with — at this stage, you don't have to move; you GET to, and the goal is to design the lifestyle you want for the next phase. 4:30 The most important first question isn't where to go — it's what you want your next phase to look like and what excites you. 6:10 Moving to be near the grandkids — and the Texas "barndominium" one couple built after traveling out several times, buying land, and creating a home with all the features of a house that still qualifies as a barn. 8:15 Only move because it excites you — you no longer have to relocate for a job, a new baby, or the schools. The decision finally gets to be about the life you want. 9:05 Listen for more details about how Nathan takes the pressure off a big, stressful move — his goal is to help clients explore what's right for them at their own pace. 10:00 Try before you buy — connect with a local agent and rent an Airbnb to "try on" a location, even one nearby. He shares a Berkeley client weighing city life in Rockridge against suburban Lafayette. 11:10 Don't forget the commute — Nathan shares a story about a client who moved to San Jose just as his company called everyone back to the office, and grew tired of the hour-and-a-half drive. 12:05 Next, Kirsten and Nathan discuss the most daunting part — getting out of a home full of belongings, and why you don't have to do it alone.

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
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Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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