What happens when the person selling a home is 70, 80, or even older? A new study from Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research suggests age can surprisingly affect the outcome of a home sale. Researchers analyzed roughly 10 million real estate transactions and found that older homeowners tended to sell their homes for less than younger sellers would have received for the same properties.
The finding raises an important question for families: why does this happen? The researchers identified two specific factors that help explain the gap. One is fairly intuitive, while the other challenges assumptions about how older homeowners approach selling their homes.
The issue becomes especially important because a home may represent a significant portion of an older homeowner’s wealth. A difference in the eventual sale price can affect retirement finances, the resources available for future care, and what may ultimately be passed on to children and grandchildren. And when a parent is considering selling, families may not always recognize the factors that can quietly influence the outcome.
There are also broader changes happening around how homes are marketed and sold. Several states have been considering or adopting rules related to private listings and transparency, but those protections don’t necessarily address every situation a family may encounter when an older homeowner is approached about selling.
The good news is that many of the potential problems can be addressed before a home ever reaches the market. Understanding the property’s value, preparing it appropriately, and having a clear selling strategy can help reduce the risk of leaving money on the table.
If your parents own a home in Silicon Valley and may eventually consider selling, you don’t have to wait until they’re ready to put up the “For Sale” sign. Starting the conversation early can give your family time to understand the options and put a thoughtful plan in place.
Sell As-Is. Sell Easy. Sell Smart!
From the Monterey Bay Wayback Machine
Fort Ord Officially Closes After 77 Years (September 30, 1994)
Fort Ord in Marina and Seaside formally closed after 77 years of military service. Established as a training facility during World War I, the base had become an important Army installation and a major part of the Monterey Bay region’s economy. Its closure marked the end of a significant chapter in local history and opened the way for the former military property to be transformed into universities, housing, parks, businesses, and other community uses.
This Week in Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County Prepares for Possible El Niño Impacts
Santa Cruz County is taking steps to prepare for a potentially wetter and more disruptive winter as forecasters monitor El Niño conditions. County officials are focusing on early preparation, including improving emergency alerts, inspecting roads and drainage systems, and identifying areas that could be vulnerable to flooding, landslides and storm damage.
The county is also working to complete road and infrastructure projects before the heaviest winter weather arrives. Crews are reviewing known trouble spots and making repairs intended to reduce the risk of closures and damage during major storms.
Residents are being encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications, prepare household supplies and stay informed about changing weather conditions. Officials note that El Niño does not guarantee unusually wet weather in every part of California, but preparing ahead of time can help reduce risks if stronger storms occur. The preparations are part of a broader effort to strengthen the county’s readiness for winter weather and protect residents, roads and critical infrastructure.
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Date: Friday, September 25
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Scotts Valley Branch Library, 251 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley
Get clear, practical information about Medicare and Long-Term Care in this free educational talk. Local specialists will cover coverage options, enrollment, costs, care choices, and planning considerations to help you prepare for your own future or support a loved one.
Boardwalk Fiesta en la Playa
Date: Saturday, September 26, & Sunday, September 27
Time: Saturday, 11:00 am – 8:00 pm; Sunday, 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Location: Santa Cruz Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Celebrate Latino culture by the beach at this family-friendly fiesta featuring live mariachi, folklórico dancing, a free beach concert, and Salsa by the Sea. Enjoy Boardwalk rides, games, and Latin-inspired food and drinks throughout the weekend.
Duck Island Festival: Bands, Vendors, Food and Fun at San Lorenzo Park
Date: Saturday, September 26
Time: 1:00 pm
Location: 134 Dakota Avenue, Santa Cruz
Celebrate Santa Cruz’s roots at Duck Island Fest, a family-friendly day bringing live music and community fun back to the historic Duck Island in San Lorenzo Park. Enjoy performances from generations of local bands and DJs, along with food trucks and plenty of good times for the whole family.
Native Plant Sale Fundraiser
Date: Saturday, September 26
Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Highlands Park Senior & Community Center, 8500 Highway 9, Ben Lomond
Discover beautiful California native plants at the Valley Women’s Club Native Plant Sale in Ben Lomond. Shop in person, meet fellow plant lovers, and find plants that support local pollinators and wildlife. You can also volunteer before and during the event to help make this community tradition a success.
Time to talk to a REALTOR?
Senior Friendly Homes in Silicon Valley South
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