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How to offer support — with compassion, clarity, and care
For many families, the family home holds decades of memories: birthday parties, holiday dinners, quiet mornings, and noisy Sunday afternoons. Helping your parents prepare to sell that home can be a deeply emotional experience — for them and for you.

Whether the move is prompted by health, lifestyle, or a desire to simplify, it’s a major milestone. And with the right approach, it can also be a positive and empowering one.
Here are a few ways to help your parents through the process, practically and emotionally.

1. Start with a Conversation — Not a To-Do List
Selling a home can feel overwhelming, especially when there’s an emotional attachment. Begin by listening. Ask them how they feel about moving. Are they excited? Anxious? Unsure?

Let them share their concerns before jumping into action. This isn’t just a real estate transaction — it’s a life transition.

2. Focus on the Future, Not Just the Farewell
While it’s important to acknowledge the emotions tied to leaving the home, gently guide the conversation toward what lies ahead:

• • Less maintenance
  • A more accessible living space
  • Closer proximity to loved ones
  • Opportunities for new hobbies, travel, or community

Reframing the move as a step toward comfort and freedom helps build excitement and reduce fear.

3. Take It One Step at a Time
Decluttering, repairs, staging, showings… It’s a lot. Break things down into manageable phases, and offer to help with:

• • Sorting belongings
  • Donating or gifting items
  • Arranging for movers or junk removal
  • Coordinating with a real estate professional

Celebrate small wins — even if it’s just organizing one drawer or choosing what to pack first.

4. Work with a Specialist Who Understands Seniors
Older adults often face different challenges when it comes to moving, from physical limitations to emotional overwhelm. A Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) is trained to guide families through this exact situation with empathy and expertise.

As an SRES®, I:

• • Understand the emotional side of selling a long-time home
  • Offer a network of trusted professionals (movers, cleaners, downsizing experts)
  • Ensure the process moves at your parents’ pace
  • Advocate for their best interests at every step

5. Acknowledge the Grief — and the Gratitude
Leaving the family home is a form of letting go. Make space for stories, photos, laughter, and even tears. Consider:

• • Hosting a small farewell gathering
  • Taking photos of each room
  • Creating a keepsake book with memories from family members

These moments help your parents close one chapter with love and open the next one with confidence.

Moving Forward, Together
Helping your parents sell the family home isn’t just about real estate — it’s about honouring their past and supporting their future. With patience, compassion, and the right resources, you can help make this transition smooth and meaningful.

If you’re navigating this journey with your parents, I’m here to help every step of the way, with guidance, heart, and hands-on support tailored to your family’s needs.
Let’s talk about what comes next — together.