Downsizing in Naperville: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know Before Selling

If you’ve owned your home in Naperville or the surrounding area for more than a few years, you might be sitting on a surprising amount of equity—and wondering if now’s the right time to downsize.

Realtor.com recently shared that baby boomers—folks born between 1946 and 1964—own around $18 to $19 trillion worth of real estate. That’s nearly half of all the housing wealth in the country.

So if the kids are grown, you're getting ready for retirement, or just want less upkeep, selling your home could open the door to some serious lifestyle and financial freedom. But it's not as simple as just putting a sign in the yard. You’ll want a smart plan in place.

Let’s walk through how to do this right, protect your equity, and make the move smooth from start to finish.

Step 1: Know What Your Home’s Worth

Your home's value has likely jumped in the last few years, but do you know exactly how much equity you’ve built?

Equity is what your home is worth today minus what you still owe on it. A quick market analysis or home valuation can give you a solid number. Subtract your mortgage balance, and you’ll see how much you’ve got to work with.

For most longtime owners in Naperville, it’s a big number. And that’s a big opportunity.

Sometimes having a firm Cash Offer on your home is the perfect starting point.   

Step 2: Talk to a Tax or Financial Advisor

Here’s something many people don’t realize: If you’ve lived in your home for at least two of the last five years, you might not owe taxes on a big chunk of your profit—up to $500,000 for married couples or $250,000 if you're single.

Still, it’s smart to talk to a tax pro or financial advisor before you make any moves. They’ll help you:

• Plan for taxes

• Reinvest wisely

• Set up your next step with less stress

This step can protect you from making costly mistakes later.

Step 3: Be Ready for the Emotional Side

This isn’t just a house. It’s where life happened. Birthdays, holidays, family memories—it’s all tied to your home.

Take time to talk it through with your family. Think about what you’re leaving—but also what you’re gaining. Less maintenance. More freedom. And maybe a new adventure waiting.

Now Let’s Talk About Getting the Best Sale Price

Once you decide to sell, you want to put your home’s best foot forward. You don’t have to spend a fortune to do it, either.

Step 4: Declutter Everything

Buyers want to picture themselves living in your home. That’s hard to do if it’s full of your stuff. So start by clearing out anything you don’t plan to take with you.

Go room by room. Donate it, sell it, or toss it—but don’t stash it in closets or the garage. Buyers look there too.

Bonus: this makes your move a whole lot easier.

Step 5: Clean and Refresh

You don’t need a major remodel, but you do need clean and updated.

• Scrub everything—especially kitchens and bathrooms

• Wash windows, clean baseboards, and freshen up grout

• Swap out old hardware or dated light fixtures

• Add a fresh coat of neutral paint if needed

• Clean or replace flooring if it’s worn

These small updates go a long way in how buyers see your home.

Step 6: Stage It to Sell

Staging isn’t about decorating—it’s about helping buyers see the space and feel at home.

• Use simple, modern furniture to open up the space

• Add lighting, mirrors, and keep curtains open

• Focus on key areas like the living room, kitchen, and main bedroom

Even partial staging or advice from a professional can make a big difference.  Note: Professional Staging is a service I include with each of my listings. 

Step 7: Nail the Online Listing Photos

In 2025, your first showing is online. If your photos don’t grab attention in seconds, buyers will keep scrolling.

Before your photo shoot:

• Hide personal items, cords, and trash cans

• Open the blinds and clear off countertops

• Remove rugs to show off floors

High-quality, professional photos are a must. You only get one chance to make a strong first impression.

Step 8: Get Clear on Your Next Move

Where you’re going next matters just as much as where you’re coming from. Whether you're buying a smaller home in Naperville, moving closer to family, or even renting while you figure things out—get that plan in place before listing.   

If the walkability of being closer to a downtown area is what you're after, See All Homes For Sale In Downtown Naperville.

If there's another community you prefer, just let me know and I'll send you a list of homes just for you.  

Also, if you're looking for single story (ranch) homes in Naperville - See All Ranch Homes For Sale in Naperville

Final Thought

Selling your long-time home is a big step, but it can also be the start of a simpler, more flexible lifestyle. You've built equity. You’ve cared for your home. Now it’s time to put that value to work for you.

If you’re thinking about downsizing or have questions about where to start, let’s talk. I help families in Naperville and nearby communities make smooth, successful moves every day.