Borrowers / Tips for stress-free downsizing

Tips for stress-free downsizing

Downsizing is your time to focus on what matters most, whether that’s freeing up finances, moving closer to loved ones or finding a home that just feels right. At Funding, we’ve helped many over-50s navigate this important step, and we understand it can sometimes feel stressful. But with the right plan in place, you can approach downsizing with peace of mind.

funding bridging loans downsizes retirees brian & sue looking at camera

Key takeaways

  • The key to moving to a smaller property is preparation. We’ve listed some tips to help you get started below
  • Downsizing your home is the perfect opportunity to declutter and sell or donate furniture and belongings you no longer need

Know your goals

Get clear on why you want to downsize: How do you see your life now and what are your priorities moving forward? When you understand your motivation, you’re more likely to find a home that enhances your quality of life.

Understand your financial position

Before you start house-hunting, take a close look at your current financial health including home equity, debts and monthly expenses. Use an online loan calculator to get a sense of your borrowing power. Clarity around your finances can help you feel in control.

Find a home for today and tomorrow

Look for a place that will make your life simpler and happier, both now and in the years to come. Consider your future needs like single-level living, good lighting, low-maintenance spaces and easy access to healthcare and other essentials.

Discover your community

Search for areas that offer social opportunities, such as fitness centres or activities you enjoy. You’re choosing a neighbourhood, not just a house—it should support your lifestyle and keep you connected to what you love.

Lighten the load

Downsizing can mean sorting through years of memories. Break it into small steps and focus on keeping the things that bring you joy. If the process feels a bit much, enlist professionals like removalists to give you a hand.

Embrace the journey

Moving on from a long-time home can stir up all sorts of feelings. Take the time you need to adjust. Bringing along a few treasured items can help your new home feel more welcoming.

For extra guidance, checklists and insider tips, download our free Downsizer’s Guide.

Make downsizing stress-free with a bridging loan

Lastly, to help you take the next step in your downsizing journey, consider a Funding Bridging Loan. For many downsizers, a portion of their wealth is tied up in their current property. A bridging loan is a short-term financing option that unlocks your home’s equity, so you can purchase your new home before selling your old one. Once your existing property sells, the proceeds can help pay off the bridging loan.

Here’s how it helps:

Faster funds: Jump on the perfect property right away without waiting for your current home to sell.
Less stress: Avoid rushing the sale of your old home or dealing with rigid age-related loan criteria from traditional lenders.
Smoother transition: Move into your new home at your pace, without juggling two mortgages or tight timelines.

Getting started is simple, requesting a quote only takes 5–10 minutes. Once you’ve submitted your details, a member of our friendly team will be in touch to discuss and provide a personalised quote.

Get a quote

Learn more

Read out Downsizer guide

Use our Downsizer calculator

Planning to downsize but want to buy your next home first?

Finance that fits every goal

Borrow

$25k - $10m

Settle

Within 3 days*

Loan terms

1 to 24 months

LVR

Up to 70%

DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this page is for general informational and educational purposes only and is never intended as financial advice. While we strive to ensure that the content is accurate and up-to-date, it may not reflect the most current legal or financial developments. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any financial decisions. Use the information at your own risk.

Funding guide to downsizing billboard

Downsizing?

It's your time.

Get our free guide to downsizing your home fast and stress-free.

Confidence grows with knowledge

Get ahead with our useful resources and expert insight.
In Australia’s competitive property market, timing is often critical. For many property buyers, securing a new home or investment property...
Starting a construction company requires significant capital investment, careful planning and strategic financial management. For many start-up construction companies, securing...

Move Forward Faster

Reach your goals sooner with our borrowing and investing solutions.
arrow pattern

Manage subscription preferences

Enter your email to subscribe and choose the topics you’d like to receive.

Refer to our Privacy Policy for information on how we collect and store your personal information.

Choose your path to get started

funding icon borrow loan
I'm looking for a loan
Funding icon calculator
How much can I borrow
Are you a broker?
Login as a broker
investment 2 color
I'd like to start investing
funding original icon personalised service
I'd like to speak to an expert
Already have an account?
Login as an investor
Funding icon upload
I'd like to submit a client scenario
Funding icon accredited
I'd like to become an accredited broker
Already have an account?
Login as a broker