Buyers · Move Up or Down

Room to Grow or Space to Simplify

Growing family, empty nest, or bringing parents under one roof? I'll help you sell the home you have and land in the one that fits this chapter, in the right order.

Your next chapter

Which Journey Are You On?

Moving Up

More bedrooms, a bigger yard, a pool or lakefront living. We'll use the equity in your current home to step into the space your family needs.

  • More space and the right layout
  • Schools and commute that work
  • Room for guests or multigenerational living

Moving Down

Less to clean, lower bills and more time for what you love. We'll right-size your home and free up equity for the next chapter.

  • Single-story and low-maintenance homes
  • 55+ and active adult communities
  • Keep your Florida tax benefits

The plan

A Simple Plan for Your Transition

01

Plan

Your goals, your timeline and what your home is worth today.

02

Prepare

Declutter, small fixes and staging so your home shows its best.

03

List and shop

We market your home and shop for the next one at the same time.

04

Negotiate

Rent-backs, contingencies and closing dates that protect you.

05

Close and move

Coordinated closings so you move once, not twice.

Moving up

Room for Everyone

More space, right fit

Split floor plans, bonus rooms and bigger lots are easier to find in Polk than in Tampa or Orlando, often for less.

Multigenerational living

In-law suites, guest houses and two primary bedrooms let parents, grown kids and grandkids live together with privacy.

Schools and commute

I'll help you check zoned schools and drive times before you make an offer. See my School & Family Guide.

Moving down

Downsizing Without the Stress

Right-size the home

Single-story living, a smaller yard and less upkeep. Polk has 55+ communities like Solivita, Highland Fairways and Lake Ashton.

Compare the real costs

We'll compare taxes, insurance, HOA and CDD fees side by side so you know your true monthly savings.

Put your equity to work

Florida's portability rule can let you move up to $500,000 of your Save Our Homes benefit to your next Florida homestead.

Sort, sell and settle

I can connect you with movers, estate sale pros and organizers who make letting go easier.

Timing the two closings

Sell first, buy first, or close both the same day. We'll pick the plan that fits your finances and your nerves.

Senior exemption

Polk County offers an extra homestead exemption for some homeowners 65 and older with limited income. Check with the Property Appraiser to see if you qualify.

Timing

Sell First, Buy First, or Both?

  • Sell first: you know your budget and avoid two payments, then rent back or rent short-term
  • Buy first: move once, using a bridge loan or HELOC to cover the gap
  • Both at once: a contingent offer or back-to-back closings on the same day
Desiree Pelletier

Questions

Moving Up or Downsizing in Central Florida

How do I know if it's time to move up?

If you're out of bedrooms, out of storage or out of patience with your commute, it may be time. Let's look at your equity and what it can buy today.

Should I buy first or sell first in Florida?

It depends on your equity, your loan options and how much risk you're comfortable with. Many of my clients sell first with a rent-back so they only move once.

Will I lose my homestead savings if I move?

Not necessarily. Florida's portability lets you transfer up to $500,000 of your Save Our Homes benefit to a new Florida homestead if you apply in time.

Can my parents live with us?

Yes. Many Polk homes have in-law suites or space to add one. I'll filter your search for multigenerational layouts.

Ready when you are

Ready for Your Next Chapter?

Let's map out a plan to sell, buy and move once.

Desiree Pelletier, REALTOR® · Epique Realty · Serving Central Florida: Polk, Hillsborough & Lake Counties