Senior Living Move Timeline
Coordinating a move to senior living while managing a home sale involves many moving parts. This timeline helps families in Los Angeles, Burbank, and surrounding areas plan ahead with less stress.
Your Step-by-Step Transition Timeline
Every family's situation is unique, but this general timeline gives you an idea of what to expect and when to take action.
90 Days Before the Move
Focus: Assessment and Alignment
- Have a family meeting to discuss goals and roles.
- Schedule a consultation with Dana Ehrlich to review home value and selling options.
- Begin sorting belongings: identify what will move to the new community.
- Decide on the home sale timing: Sell first, or move first?
60 Days Before the Move
Focus: Downsizing and Logistics
- Hire a senior move manager or downsizing specialist if needed.
- Finalize the floor plan for the new senior living residence to ensure furniture fits.
- Coordinate estate sales, donations, or storage for items not moving.
- Begin light home repairs if you plan to list the home traditionally.
30 Days Before the Move
Focus: Packing and Preparation
- Finalize moving company arrangements and confirm dates.
- Submit change of address forms and transfer utilities.
- Complete the estate cleanout process.
- Schedule professional cleaning and listing photography if the home is going on the market.
Move Week
Focus: A Calm Transition
- Pack an "essentials bag" with medications, important documents, and immediate needs.
- Supervise the movers and ensure items are placed correctly in the new home.
- Help the senior settle in, unpack essentials, and get comfortable.
After the Move
Focus: The Home Sale
- Launch the home listing (if it wasn't sold prior to the move).
- Manage showings without disrupting the senior's daily life.
- Review offers, negotiate terms, and proceed to a smooth closing.
Home Sale Timing Considerations
Should you sell before or after the move? As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, Dana Ehrlich helps families evaluate their options. Selling first provides the funds for senior living but requires managing a move while the home is on the market. Moving first allows for a vacant, stress-free home sale, but requires covering costs temporarily.
Compare your timing optionsCleanout & Repair Milestones
Don't let the "stuff" delay your plans. We recommend starting the sorting process at least 90 days out. If the home needs repairs, we can help you determine which fixes will actually yield a return on investment, and which ones you can skip to save time and money.
Get the Complete Timeline Guide
Prefer to print this timeline or share it with your family? Download the full 90-Day Timeline Guide PDF.
Download the 90-Day Timeline Guide
Get our comprehensive PDF mapping the move, cleanout, home prep, sale planning, and post-move follow-up.
Common Timeline Questions
Answers to questions families often ask about coordinating a move and home sale.
Let's Build Your Custom Timeline
Every family's situation is different. Schedule a calm, no-pressure planning conversation to discuss your specific needs in Los Angeles, Studio City, or surrounding areas.