Downsizing in Australia - Mark O'Shea | Page 57

Dean Lupson Buy first, then sell The other option for downsizers is to search and secure the right property to downsize into, then sell the family property afterwards. Like the option of selling first, you can purchase a property now with an extended settlement period to allow you to get all your affairs in place before selling your property. Purchasing a property with an extended period of settling is just as common as selling with an extended settlement period. The period can vary from 120 days to 180 days or even 365 days in some cases. Right now we are witnessing a large number of downsizers purchasing property ‘off the plan’ where the developer and builder are yet to start the project, giving the downsizer plenty of time to reduce the size and amount of personal belongings prior to moving into the smaller home. 057