Lancaster · Downsizing
Downsizing in Lancaster, Ohio
Thinking about downsizing? I help you explore your options, understand your home's value, and create a plan that feels right for you.
Downsizing in Lancaster
Moving to a smaller home is not about giving something up. It is about finding a home that fits the life you want to live now. In Lancaster that can mean a smaller ranch-style home, a condominium or a patio home, in a spot close to what you enjoy.
I start by asking why you want to downsize, then we work from your answer.
Talk to Jill About Downsizing
Count the full cost before you choose
A smaller home does not always cost less each month. Lancaster has older neighborhoods without an HOA and newer subdivisions that have one, so we add up property taxes, insurance, HOA or condo fees, utilities and maintenance for each home you are considering.
We also look at your equity: your home's market value, your mortgage balance and the estimated selling expenses. That tells us what may be available for your next purchase.
Location and timing
Downtown Lancaster has restaurants, shops and museums, which may matter if you want things closer. Then comes the big question: sell first or buy first? We decide that together from your finances, your equity and your timeline. There is no need to rush. Read more on my downsizing page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a smaller Lancaster home always cheaper to own?
Not always. Property taxes, insurance, HOA or condo fees, utilities and maintenance all count, so we look at the complete picture for each home.
Should I sell my Lancaster home first or buy my next one first?
We decide that together after looking at your finances, your available equity, market conditions and your timeline.
Lancaster
What downsizing looks like in Lancaster
Older neighborhoods, a couple of newer subdivisions and lots of homes outside the city, about 40 minutes from Columbus.
- The homes
- Older neighborhoods without HOAs, a couple of newer subdivisions with HOAs, and plenty of homes outside the city limits.
- Why people choose it
- People choose Lancaster for its historic small city feel. It isn't as crowded as Columbus or Pickerington, the commute to Columbus isn't bad, homes are generally more affordable, and there is more opportunity for acreage nearby. It attracts buyers who want more house for their budget.
- Schools people ask about
- Lancaster City Schools has two junior high schools and one high school, in a new building that opened this fall.
- Getting around
- Columbus is about 40 minutes from Lancaster, and Hocking Hills, a big attraction area, is about 30 minutes away.
- Nearby
- Downtown Lancaster has several restaurants and shops, including O'Huids Gaelic Pub, Provisions Deli and Bakery, Maria's Mexican restaurant, Bob's Backyard BBQ and the Ale House, plus the Sherman House Museum (where General Sherman was born), the Ohio Glass Museum, the Georgian Museum, the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio in the historic Reese-Peters House, Gay Fad Studio, and Art & Clay on Main Street.
- The trade-off
- Compared with Pickerington, Lancaster has a historic small city feel, homes that are generally more affordable, and more opportunity for acreage nearby.
The method
How I do it in Lancaster
Downsizing: keep exploring
Ready to make your move with Jill Howell?