Your children are married, you’re ready to retire, and the old homestead has lost its charm. Relocating to the Delaware beaches or a balmier state is more appealing each day.
However, it pays to take your time. “Relocating for retirement is a huge decision,” says Christine Davis, associate broker and owner of Active Adults Realty in Lewes.
Here are seven ways to make the right choice:
Explore the options
Sarah Ridgeway Willoughby and her husband, Gary, knew they wanted to move to Florida after retirement but hadn’t settled on a town. The former executive director of the Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau spent two years investigating the state to pinpoint a prime location. They chose a home on the Nature Coast—eight counties on the bend fronting the Gulf of Mexico (yes, Mexico). “We fell in love,” she says.
If you’re pondering a move to the Delaware coast but haven’t spent much time there, book a stay in several towns. From Lewes to Fenwick Island, Delaware’s beach towns have different personalities and charms, particularly in the offseason.
List your interests
The Willoughbys love fishing, so water access was essential. Davis would approve. “Make sure the location you choose matches your hobbies and interests,” she says. If you love the beach, an inland community such as Millsboro or Millville might be too far away in summer. Admittedly, there is more bang for the buck west of Route 1.
Justin Damadio, an agent with Iron Valley Real Estate in Ocean City who represents Sussex County buyers and sellers, also asks clients if they want to be close to grocery stores, restaurants, and shops.
Review your budget
In most states, proximity to the water has a high price tag. However, the cost of living is also a factor, and there are other financial pros and cons. For instance, Delaware has no sales tax, low property taxes, and no tax on Social Security benefits. “Make sure you compare these factors when considering other states,” Davis says. Talk with your accountant about the pros and cons, Damadio suggests.
Consider the political climate
Die-hard liberals might feel uncomfortable in a conservative environment—and vice versa. It’s better to know now, before you move.
Note the transportation options
Many retirees love to travel. But if you move to Rehoboth Beach, you have a two-hour-plus trip to major airports. (Wilmington Airport and Salisbury Regional Airport are closer, but their destinations are limited.) Davis doesn’t consider two hours a dealbreaker; you may feel differently.
Evaluate familial bonds
Retirees may picture fun family visits. However, if parents work or grandchildren have activities, that may limit trips south. “We have a lot of people move to Florida or the Carolinas only to find it’s too far from their family in the Northeast,” Davis says. “They end up moving to Delaware.”
Analyze the health care system
Southern Delaware has several health care systems, plus access to urban hospitals. But just because an area has medical offices doesn’t mean physicians are taking new patients. When the new home is under contract, book the first appointments. In Sussex County, for example, you may have a six-month wait.
After all, the goal of moving is to be happy and healthy.
Related: These Small Towns in Delaware Are Incredibly Charming
