As a marketing or sales director, you know most prospective residents must overcome the challenge of downsizing before moving to a retirement community. Going through the plethora of items they have accumulated over the years can be emotionally and physically draining to think about — much less do.
Over half of retirees over 50 move into a smaller home after retirement, but that decision doesn’t come without challenges. Moving from a comfortable place where they have collected deep memories and sentimental items is difficult, no matter how much assistance they have from friends and family.
There are some resources that your community could offer to make downsizing a little easier. Not only does it empower prospective residents, but it sets you and your team apart as the supported, trusted experts.
Host a Seminar
Showcase your downsizing expertise at a seminar to educate prospective residents and their families. They may not know where to start when it comes to downsizing, and you can help.
Think about hosting your seminar in a neutral location, like a local senior center or library. This can feel less intimidating than hosting on the campus of your retirement community. You may even attract some new leads this way.
Some seminar topics you may want to consider include:
- Decluttering: Getting a handle on the amount of “stuff” in your life
- What’s It Worth: Valuable items you may be able to sell
- Downsizing 101: Where to start
- Simple Home Updates: How to prepare your home for market
Cover Moving Costs
Prospective residents may face thousands of dollars in moving expenses, depending on the size of their home. From packing to moving and unpacking again, it’s a significant expense. And it may be a barrier for some prospects.
You may consider paying a percentage of their moving expenses or offering an allowance to go towards moving costs. If your budget has the wiggle room for it, this can be a great way to remove a financial barrier associated with downsizing.
Partner with Local Downsizing Experts
You and your team may have all the expertise you need. But you may consider partnering with local downsizing experts who offer decluttering and moving services tailored to seniors.
Senior relocation experts often help seniors and their families with:
- Decluttering
- Finding a new home
- Estate sales and online auctions
- Packing and moving
Forming relationships with your local senior relocation experts can be mutually beneficial, with referrals going both ways. For example, you may be able to showcase your community to their clients, and you may want to recommend their relocation services to your prospective residents.
Invest in Virtual Visualization Tools
It can be challenging to visualize yourself in an empty apartment or home. Offering prospective residents 3D renderings of their new space can help them envision themselves in your community.
Prospective residents may be worried that their favorite furniture pieces aren’t going to fit. Or they can find it challenging to configure their new living room or bedroom. You can use home décor measurements to see precisely what furniture they can place where.
You can also use virtual reality when selling to prospective residents relocating states away. They may be able to tour your campus and their new home using virtual reality technology. Experiencing their new home virtually can reduce feelings of anxiousness that often occurs before a big move.
Set Yourself Apart
Downsizing and moving to a retirement community can be both stressful and exciting. Seniors and their adult children often have a lot to do in a short amount of time. Offering downsizing resources that reduce challenges and empower families may be what sets your community apart from your competitors.
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