If retirement has gone from “someday” to “wow… that’s actually soon,” you’re not alone. Demographers are calling this “Peak 65” for a reason: close to 12,000 Americans a day are turning 65 for the next couple of years. And a recent survey suggests a meaningful wave of older Americans are planning to retire in 2026 and 2027.
Here in San Diego—especially along the coast—downsizing usually isn’t about chasing a number on a spreadsheet. It’s about making life easier.
Why people are “right-sizing” in San Diego
When the kids are grown and the house feels more like a weekend maintenance job than a home, priorities change. The most common reasons buyers 60+ move are refreshingly simple: be closer to family and friends, and find a home that functions better (often smaller, fewer stairs, easier upkeep).
In real life, that looks like:
- Fewer stairs (and fewer “I’ll just carry this in one trip” moments)
- Less yard and fewer repairs
- A floor plan that works now—and later
- Being closer to grandkids, doctors, the beach, the golf course… or all of the above
The financial tailwind: equity
One big reason downsizing is more doable than many expect: home equity. Even after recent shifts, the average U.S. homeowner with a mortgage still has around $299,000 in equity. In Southern California, the average equity in 2025 was $603,000. Many long-time San Diego owners have more—simply because they’ve owned longer and watched values climb.
And for California homeowners 55+, Proposition 19 can sometimes help you transfer your lower property-tax basis to a replacement home (up to three times, with rules and timelines). (Always confirm details with your tax advisor—this is too important to “wing it.”)
How I help San Diego seniors downsize with less stress
I’m Loren Sanders with Compass, and my job is to make this transition feel organized—not overwhelming. In 34 years serving San Diego home buyers and home sellers I have seen every market and have the perspective to guide you using proven strategies to help you get what you want, in the time you would like it. Go to DownSizeAlly.com and you can get your DownSizing Guide.
That means:
- A clear, step-by-step plan (timing, logistics, and “what happens first?”)
- Vendor coordination (repairs, movers, donation/estate-sale resources)
- Compass Concierge options to prep the home now and pay at closing (when it fits)
- A smarter launch using Compass’ 3-phase marketing, including Private Exclusives and Coming Soon—great for privacy, testing demand, and avoiding unnecessary open-house traffic
If you’re even thinking about downsizing, the first step isn’t selling. It’s understanding your options—on your terms. Let’s do a quick, no-pressure conversation and map out what “easier” could look like for you. Call or Text Loren today 760-583-7100
