For many, a home is more than just a place to live—it’s an investment, a source of comfort, and a space filled with memories. But as we age, maintaining a home becomes increasingly challenging. Proactive planning can help ensure that your home remains a safe and valuable asset while also supporting your long-term financial well-being.

Decluttering: A Gift to Yourself and Your Family

Americans are known for accumulating stuff—large homes, full basements, and overflowing storage spaces. But at some point, all those belongings will need to be sorted, donated, or discarded. As financial advisor Ginger Weber CFP® puts it, “We all have too much stuff, and at the end of the day, what do we really need?”

Taking a more minimalist approach as you age not only simplifies your life but also eases the burden on your loved ones. If your home is to be sold after your passing, significant preparation will be required. By decluttering gradually, you make life easier for your family and create a more manageable living environment for yourself.

For some, downsizing is another option worth considering. Moving to a smaller home naturally forces you to part with unnecessary items, and it can reduce the upkeep and expenses associated with a larger property. However, if you plan to age in place, make sure your home is well-maintained and suited to your future needs.

The Risks of Delayed Home Maintenance

A home requires ongoing care, and putting off maintenance can lead to costly problems down the road. Ginger shares a personal experience: “In addition to running a company, raising kids, and caring for my parents, my kitchen faucet failed and flooded my house. It was a life lesson—updating one’s home cannot be put off for too long.”

Deferred maintenance can lead to unexpected expenses and serious damage. Roof leaks, plumbing failures, and outdated electrical systems pose risks that increase with time. Keeping up with essential repairs—such as replacing aging appliances, inspecting your roof, and servicing heating and cooling systems—can prevent small issues from becoming expensive emergencies.

If you’re unsure about the condition of your home, consider hiring a home inspector to assess any potential risks. Investing in upkeep now can save you from major financial headaches later.

Aging in Place vs. Downsizing: What’s Right for You?

As people approach retirement, they often ask, Should I downsize or stay in my home? While downsizing may seem like the obvious choice, it’s not always financially beneficial.

“It used to be that you could sell a larger home and buy something smaller and more affordable,” says Ginger. “But in today’s market, property taxes and high real estate costs can make that less appealing. Many retirees are choosing to stay in their homes longer.”

If you plan to age in place, consider modifications to make your home safer and more accessible, such as:

  • Widening doorways for mobility devices
  • Installing grab bars in bathrooms
  • Adding a stair lift if needed
  • Ensuring that key living areas are on one floor

Planning ahead for these adjustments can prevent sudden and costly decisions in the future.

Your Home and Financial Peace of Mind

For many, a home is their largest asset. Keeping it in good condition ensures that it remains a valuable part of their financial plan. Ginger emphasizes the importance of treating home maintenance like an investment:

“A home requires active management—just like a financial portfolio. If you neglect it, you’re putting a major asset at risk. Maintaining it well brings peace of mind, reduces financial surprises, and preserves its value for you or your heirs.”

If you’re considering a remodel or wondering how home upkeep fits into your long-term financial plan, Premier Financial can help you assess the best approach. Whether you choose to age in place or explore downsizing, having a plan in place ensures that your home remains an asset—not a burden.

At Premier Financial, we help clients achieve financial peace of mind through smart planning and thoughtful decision-making. If you’d like to discuss your home as part of your financial strategy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.