Home Transition Analyzer
The "Stay or Go" Analyzer
Compare the true cost of your current home vs. a new transition.
Current Home
New Transition
Current Monthly
$0
New Monthly
$0
Monthly Difference
$0
How This “Stay or Go” Analyzer Calculates Your Result
This tool is designed to reveal the true monthly cost of staying in your current home versus transitioning to a downsized home or senior living community. It surfaces hidden expenses, consolidates real-world costs, and frames the result with practical financial insight.
1. The Mathematical Formula
The tool uses a simple subtraction model to calculate your monthly cash-flow impact:
- Step A (Current House): Mortgage + Property Taxes/Insurance + Utilities + Maintenance/Yard Care = Total Current Cost
- Step B (New Transition): Base Rent/Community Fee + Remaining Utilities + Personal Costs = Total New Cost
- The Result: Total Current Cost − Total New Cost = ">Monthly Savings (or Cost)
2. The “Hidden Cost” Logic (Maintenance)
The most important variable in this tool is the Maintenance & Yard Care field.
- The Problem: Seniors who have paid off their mortgage often feel like they “live for free.”
- The Logic: The tool surfaces overlooked costs like lawn care, snow removal, gutter cleaning, and long-term repair funds (HVAC, roof).
- The Outcome: When these hidden costs are visible, senior living communities often appear far more competitive because they bundle these expenses into one predictable fee.
3. Consolidation Strategy
In the “New Transition” column, the tool assumes cost consolidation.
- In senior communities or downsized condos, many utilities (trash, water, sometimes basic cable/internet) and exterior maintenance are often included.
- The tool encourages users to enter $0 or a very low number for utilities in the second column to reflect this shift.
4. Psychological Verdicts (The “Why”)
The tool doesn’t just show numbers — it provides a qualitative verdict based on your results:
- If the move saves money: The tool frames the decision as Financial Preservation, helping stop retirement funds from leaking into inefficient housing.
- If the move costs more: The tool reframes the expense as Peace of Mind — investing in safety, community, and freedom from physical labor.
5. Lead Generation Logic (The “Home Equity” Hook)
The footer introduces the concept of asset reallocation.
- The tool calculates monthly cash flow but ends by highlighting home equity.
- If a senior sells a $500,000 home, the interest earned (or downsizing cash purchase) can completely change the financial picture — opening the door to a professional consultation.
Note: This calculator provides directional guidance only. Real-world decisions should consider personal preferences, emotional well-being, and professional financial advice.
