A woman and a man standing in a modern kitchen. The woman is wearing a silver blouse and black pants, while the man is wearing a blue plaid jacket and black pants. They are both smiling and leaning against a kitchen island. In the background, there are decorative items like a plant, a vase, and a spherical wooden ornament on the counter.

Downsizing Experts

With a combined almost 50 years of downsizing and senior living experience, our attention to detail and emphasis on stellar communication has earned us the respect of many loyal clients and multiple referrals to family and friends - which is the ultimate compliment.

You are sure to feel represented, cared for and heard when partnering with Jim and Jackie. We maintain a “whatever-it-takes” approach and go above and beyond when selling your home.

Introducing

Jackie Claessens

A woman with blonde hair smiling, wearing a gray satin blouse and black pants, standing in a modern living room.

Senior Living Expert

I am excited to introduce Jackie Claessens to the Badgley Homes team. I have partnered with Jackie for the past five years in her role at Emerald Heights as the Director of Marketing and Sales. She is now jumping into real estate and I am beyond excited to have her expertise and skill to assist our clients.

For over 20 years, as a marketing and sales professional, Jackie has assisted thousands of seniors through the many complexities of moving and downsizing into senior living communities. It brings Jackie the greatest joy and satisfaction knowing that she made a positive impact in their next chapter of life.

As a regional expert in Senior Downsizing who holds a SRES® (Senior Real Estate Specialist) designation, I am often called upon to speak at community events, I’m quoted in The Seattle Times, and I offer guidance to other agents. I am trusted by the area’s best senior communities, including being the preferred Realtor at Redmond’s Emerald Heights Retirement Community.

As a specialist in senior downsizing and moving, I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and considerations that come with this process. Whether it's helping seniors transition from a larger home to a smaller living space, or navigating the emotional and logistical aspects of a move, I am here to support and guide them every step of the way. With compassion, expertise, and a focus on their specific needs and goals, I strive to make the transition as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Services Include

  • Personalized Schedule

    A comprehensive and personalized schedule that outlines each step of the process in detail, ensuring clarity and guidance from start to finish.

  • Organize Expert Movers

    Many people are overwhelmed with their accumulated possessions. Arranging of expert organizers, movers, packers, and other needs before and after moving day.

  • Home Preparation

    Preparing your home to sell (including cleaning and repairs) for its highest potential.

  • Coordinating Contractors

    Coordinating and working with licensed, bonded, and insured contractors whom I trust for everything from a simple cleaning to a full remodel.

  • Professional Marketing

    Marketing your home with professional photos and Windermere’s exclusive online marketing tools.

  • Post-Closing Support

    Follow up after closing to ensure you’re getting settled into your new home.

Diagram showing resources and services related to downsizing, including estate attorneys, estate sales, tax professionals, financial planners, sale of property, family members, housing referrals, packing, and movers, all linked to Jim.

“Jim was a godsend recommended by one of my dear friends when I had to sell my home in Woodinville with very short notice because I had to move out of state to help take care of my new granddaughter. He gave me advice on everything and went above and beyond expectations to get my home ready. He took care of the mess I left behind and had all the pros working hard to transform my home into a gorgeous sought-after home.

My home got an offer for $350K above listing in 36 hrs and closed in 25 days. I never thought it would be this quick and stress-free even in this hot seller’s market and Jim made this possible with his expertise and hard work.

He is a kind and caring person who truly enjoys helping his clients during a stressful time. He even gave me a ride to the airport and met the driver for my auto transport and PODS movers after I left.

He sold my friend's home and several of her friends' homes as well, and Jim deserves the rave recommendations given to him.”

— Winnie E. in Woodinville

  • The best time to sell your home depends on several factors, including the local real estate market, your personal goals, and broader economic conditions. However, there are some general trends to consider:

    1. Spring and Early Summer: Traditionally, the spring months (March to June) are considered the best time to sell a home. The weather is pleasant, and families often prefer to move before the new school year begins. This leads to more buyers, higher demand, and potentially better offers.

    2. Fall: While the spring market is strong, early fall (September to October) can also be a good time to sell. Buyers who didn’t find a home over the summer are often motivated to close a deal before the holiday season.

    3. Winter (Late November to February): Generally, the holiday season and winter months tend to see a slowdown in buyer activity. However, if you need to sell during this time, you might encounter less competition from other sellers, and some buyers may be more serious and ready to close quickly.

    4. Market Conditions: If the market is experiencing low inventory, even the off-season can be a good time to sell, as buyers have fewer options. Alternatively, if interest rates are low or expected to rise, some buyers may be motivated to purchase sooner.

    5. Personal Timing: Your own timeline, financial goals, and life circumstances should also guide your decision. For example, if you’ve already found a new place or need to relocate, it might make sense to list your home regardless of the season.

  • When downsizing, it can feel overwhelming to decide what to do with all your belongings, but having a clear plan can make the process smoother. Here are some practical steps to consider:

    1. Start with Decluttering: Begin by sorting through your belongings and categorizing them into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” or “discard.” Focus on eliminating items you no longer use, need, or have space for in your new home.

    2. Prioritize Sentimental Items: Keep a selection of sentimental items, but consider downsizing these as well. You could take photos of keepsakes, pass heirlooms down to family members, or preserve memories in a digital format.

    3. Sell Unwanted Items: You can organize a garage sale or use online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace to sell items you no longer need. This can be especially helpful for furniture, electronics, or other valuable goods.

    4. Donate: Many charities and non-profits will happily accept items such as clothing, furniture, and household goods. You could also consider donating to local senior centers or community groups.

    5. Offer to Family and Friends: Sometimes family and friends might have a use for items you no longer need. Offering things to loved ones allows you to pass on memories and practical items.

    6. Consider Storage: If there are items you aren’t ready to part with but don’t have space for in your new home, renting a storage unit could be a temporary solution. However, keep in mind that this is a recurring cost, so it’s best for things you truly want to keep long-term.

    7. Hire a Professional Organizer or Senior Move Manager: If you feel overwhelmed, there are professionals who specialize in helping people downsize. They can guide you through the process, offering emotional support and practical help with sorting, selling, and moving.

    8. Create a Floor Plan: Before moving, measure your new space and create a floor plan. This will help you understand what will fit and what won’t, guiding your decisions about which items to keep.

    This approach will help you thoughtfully reduce your belongings and make the transition into a smaller space smoother and more manageable.

  • Getting your house ready for sale when downsizing involves making it as appealing as possible to potential buyers while maximizing its value. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:

    1. Declutter and Depersonalize

    • Declutter: Remove excess furniture, personal belongings, and décor that might make the space feel crowded or overly personal. Buyers need to envision themselves living in the home, so a clean and neutral space helps.

    • Depersonalize: Take down family photos, personal mementos, and anything overly specific to your taste. Aim for a look that appeals to a broad audience.

    2. Deep Clean

    • Clean every part of your home thoroughly, including floors, windows, carpets, and fixtures. If necessary, hire a professional cleaning service for a truly spotless finish.

    • Pay special attention to high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, as buyers often prioritize cleanliness in these spaces.

    3. Make Necessary Repairs

    • Fix any visible issues, such as leaky faucets, broken tiles, chipped paint, or squeaky doors. These small repairs can prevent buyers from perceiving the home as needing lots of work.

    • If there are larger problems (like a damaged roof or plumbing issues), consider repairing them upfront or adjusting the price to reflect the work needed.

    4. Neutralize and Refresh

    • Neutral Paint Colors: A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones like light grays, whites, or beige can refresh your space and make it more inviting. Avoid bold colors, as they can be off-putting to some buyers.

    • Lighting: Ensure all light fixtures are working and add extra lighting if needed. Well-lit spaces feel more open and welcoming.

    5. Enhance Curb Appeal

    • The exterior of your home creates the first impression. Spruce up your landscaping by trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, and adding fresh mulch or flowers if needed.

    • Repaint or clean the front door, and ensure the pathway and driveway are in good condition. A fresh, well-maintained exterior can draw in more buyers.

    6. Stage Your Home

    • If you’re moving out before selling, consider hiring a professional stager to showcase the home with appealing furniture and décor. Staged homes often sell faster and at higher prices.

    • If you’re still living in the home, arrange furniture in a way that maximizes space and flow. Remove excess items that might make rooms feel smaller.

    7. Update Where It Matters

    • Kitchen and Bathrooms: These are key areas that buyers focus on. If budget allows, consider small updates like replacing outdated hardware, adding a new backsplash, or upgrading appliances. Even minor changes can give these rooms a fresh look.

    • Energy Efficiency: Highlight any energy-efficient features (such as updated windows, insulation, or appliances). Buyers appreciate lower utility costs and environmentally friendly upgrades.

    8. Price It Right

    • Work with a real estate agent to set a competitive price based on recent sales in your area. Pricing your home correctly from the start can generate more interest and lead to faster offers.

    • Being realistic about your home's value is key, especially if it needs updates or repairs that might affect its marketability.

    9. Pre-Inspection

    • Consider having a pre-inspection done before listing the home. This will allow you to address any issues before they become deal-breakers for buyers and make the process smoother.

    10. Market Effectively

    • High-quality photos and videos are essential to attract online buyers. If you’re working with an agent, ensure they are using professional photography and marketing strategies to show off your home’s best features.

    • Make sure your home’s listing highlights key selling points, such as its location, updates, size, and any standout features like a renovated kitchen or large backyard.

    By taking these steps, you can present your home in the best light, attract more potential buyers, and sell your home faster and for a better price.

  • If your home needs repairs when downsizing, you have several options depending on your budget, timeline, and goals for the sale. Here’s how you can approach it:

    1. Make Essential Repairs

    • Prioritize Important Fixes: Focus on key repairs that will improve the buyer’s perception of the home or are likely to be flagged during an inspection. Examples include fixing leaks, addressing electrical issues, repairing damaged roofs, and replacing broken windows. These can prevent buyers from negotiating for a lower price or backing out altogether.

    • Cosmetic Updates: Small, inexpensive repairs like painting, patching holes, replacing worn carpets, and fixing squeaky doors can freshen up the home and make it more appealing without costing too much.

    2. Offer a Repair Credit

    • Instead of handling repairs yourself, you can offer buyers a credit at closing to cover the costs. This allows buyers to address the repairs after the sale while giving you the flexibility to sell quickly without upfront expenses.

    • Benefits: It can be a win-win for both parties, as buyers often appreciate having control over how repairs are handled, and you avoid the hassle of scheduling repairs before the sale.

    3. Sell "As-Is"

    • If the repairs are extensive and you don’t have the time or budget to handle them, you can choose to sell the property "as-is." This means buyers understand upfront that the home will be sold in its current condition and any necessary repairs will be their responsibility.

    • Trade-Off: Homes sold "as-is" typically attract investors, flippers, or buyers willing to take on projects, and the price may reflect the need for repairs. While you might not get top dollar, it can lead to a faster sale if priced right.

    4. Focus on Affordable Fixes

    • If major repairs are beyond your budget, concentrate on inexpensive fixes that have a big impact, such as cleaning, decluttering, painting, and landscaping. This can help boost the home's overall appearance and appeal, even if larger issues remain.

    • First Impressions: Buyers may overlook certain repairs if the home is otherwise clean, well-staged, and appealing at first glance.

    5. Work with a Real Estate Agent

    • A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you determine which repairs are worth making based on your local market. They can advise you on whether to invest in certain updates or adjust the price to reflect the home’s condition.

    • They can also help you price your home competitively if you decide to sell as-is or with a repair credit.

    6. Obtain Multiple Repair Quotes

    • If repairs are needed but you’re not sure of the cost, get quotes from multiple contractors. This will give you a clearer idea of what’s affordable and help you decide whether to fix issues yourself or negotiate with buyers on repair costs.

    • Some buyers may also appreciate having the quotes on hand when deciding whether to buy a home that needs work.

    7. Disclose Known Issues

    • Legally, you’ll need to disclose any known issues with the home, especially major problems such as structural damage, mold, or faulty systems. Transparency helps avoid future legal issues and builds trust with buyers.

    8. Pre-Inspection

    • Consider having a pre-inspection done to understand the full scope of repairs needed. This way, you won’t be caught off guard during the buyer’s inspection, and you can either make repairs or adjust your price accordingly.

    Ultimately, the decision to make repairs or sell as-is depends on your financial situation, time constraints, and the market conditions. If you're aiming for top dollar, handling key repairs can help, but if a quick sale is more important, selling as-is might be the better route.