Who to Turn to for Help When Moving After a Loved One Dies

Who to Turn to for Help When Moving After a Loved One Dies

 The death of a loved one is never easy. Sometimes, the best thing for you is a change of scenery. Selling your home and embracing a fresh start someplace new can be emotionally rewarding and financially smart, especially for seniors who are at an ideal stage of life for downsizing the amount of space they have or for relocating to be closer to other family members.

The experience of leaving a space you shared with your spouse (or other loved one) can be emotionally trying. However, you don’t have to bear the burden alone. Here are the people you should be looking to for assistance and support throughout the process:

Real Estate Agents & Accountants

Homeowners benefit from the experience of a professional who knows the business end of buying and selling homes. This is especially true for people who have lived in their homes for decades, but it also applies to folks who have only been in their homes for a few years. Real estate market conditions move quickly, and things have likely changed quite a bit since your last foray into the world of real estate. A qualified real estate agent will know the local market and understand how best to drive up interest in your home. They will know whether the best buyer for your space is a fellow senior or a new family who sees this as their starter home. Their fresh set of eyes will help you see past any emotions that may be clouding up your judgment.

The same logic applies for certified public accountants or other financial professionals. Seeking them out to discuss your specific financial situation is important, especially after the death of a spouse when making mistakes is common, warns U.S. News & World Report. Professionals can help you understand the financial pros and cons of relocating and discuss any tax implications that may apply if your late spouse or loved one was a co-owner of your home.

Cleaners & Movers

If you have recently dealt with the loss of a loved one, the experience of packing may come with additional steps and added emotions. That is why it’s important to minimize your stress and get assistance wherever you can. One of the easiest ways to do this during the moving process is to hire someone for a one-time cleaning service prior to moving out. This will save you precious time and energy. According to HomeAdvisor, the average price for a maid service that cleans the interior of your home is $113 to $246, and the process takes six hours on average. The same logic applies to movers. The cost of hiring movers is negligible in the grand scheme of things, and it is worth it to know your belongings are being properly handled by people trained specifically to do the task.

Family & Friends

Hiring professionals is generally good advice for someone dealing with the loss of a loved one and the stress of moving. But there are some jobs that are best suited for your family, friends and faith community. It’s important to remember that there will be some emotional tasks for you during the moving process. For example, you will have to sort through your loved one’s belongings and decide what to take with you, what to donate to others, and what to throw out. For seniors who have a lifetime of cherished memories (and boxes of mementos that go with them), it can be especially bittersweet. Don’t face the task alone. Ask them to be there to help you work through the grieving process.

Making a major life decision like selling the home you shared with your late spouse and embracing a fresh start can be a difficult one to make. Once you have made it, make your life easier by leaning on those around you. You’ll find the process goes much easier and you’ll get the new start you need.

Photo via Pixabay.