Downsizing in Knoxville TN - Knoxville retirement real estate, downsizing tips, right-sizing your home, low-maintenance homes in Knoxville

Signs you might be ready—and how to make the move with clarity and confidence.

If your home feels bigger than your needs, harder to maintain, or simply doesn’t match your lifestyle anymore, you’re not alone. Across Knoxville and East Tennessee, many homeowners are asking the same question:
“Is it time to downsize?”

Downsizing doesn’t mean settling—it can mean freedom. It can mean choosing ease over upkeep, experiences over square footage, and comfort over excess. Whether you're preparing for retirement, simplifying after the kids move out, or just craving a fresh chapter, here are some signs it might be time to explore something smaller—and smarter.

1. You Have Unused Space (And You Know It)

If entire bedrooms, bonus rooms, or even formal dining areas sit empty most of the time, your home may be out of sync with your lifestyle. You’re paying to heat, cool, clean, and insure square footage you rarely use.

2. Maintenance Is Starting to Feel Like a Chore

Lawn work. Gutter cleaning. Endless small repairs. If your weekends are starting to revolve around home upkeep—or if those tasks are starting to physically wear you out—it may be time to look for something lower maintenance. Think newer builds, smaller yards, or single-level living.

3. You Want to Unlock the Equity in Your Home

In many Knoxville neighborhoods, home values have risen steadily over the past few years. Downsizing could mean cashing in on your current home’s equity and purchasing a smaller property outright—or at a much lower monthly cost. That extra equity could help fund retirement, travel, or other lifestyle upgrades.

4. You're Ready for a Lifestyle Shift

Maybe you want to travel more. Live closer to family. Move into a walkable community. Enjoy a one-level home that works better long-term. Downsizing isn’t just about getting “less.” It’s about choosing what supports your ideal lifestyle now—and in the future.

5. You’re Considering a Simplified Financial Picture

Smaller homes often mean lower utility bills, taxes, and insurance costs. For some, that can be the difference between working a few more years or stepping into semi-retirement with peace of mind. It can also mean freeing up time and money for things that matter more than square footage.

Where Should You Start?

If you’re thinking about downsizing, consider these steps:

Get a free market valuation of your current home to understand its potential
Explore neighborhoods that offer right-sized options (condos, one-level homes, townhomes, etc.)
Prioritize location, layout, and maintenance needs over square footage
Plan for future lifestyle needs, including accessibility and proximity to loved ones

We often help clients explore downsizing options in Farragut, Downtown Knoxville, Hardin Valley, Powell, West Knoxville, and several low-maintenance communities throughout the greater Knoxville area.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

You don’t have to make a big decision overnight—but if your current home no longer fits the life you want to live, let’s talk about what comes next.

Schedule a no-pressure downsizing consultation or start browsing homes for sale in Knoxville that fit your future vision.

SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

Primary phone
(865) 588-3232
License Number
#320159
Email
[email protected]
Address
124 N Winston Rd,
Knoxville, TN 37919

About The Author

ABOUT SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions people make — and it deserves thoughtful, strategic guidance, not pressure.

I’m Shannon Foster-Boline, a Realtor serving the Greater Knoxville area, including West Knoxville and surrounding communities. I work with buyers, sellers, and relocation clients who value clear communication, strong preparation, and a calm, informed approach — especially in higher-value and more complex transactions where details truly matter.

My role goes far beyond opening doors or managing contracts. I help clients evaluate options, anticipate challenges, and make confident decisions aligned with their long-term goals. Many of my clients are busy professionals, move-up buyers, and established homeowners who want an experienced advisor they can trust to manage the process efficiently and thoughtfully.

With more than 1,100 homes sold and over $270 million in lifetime sales, I bring deep local market knowledge and real-world experience to every transaction. I’ve represented a wide range of clients — from first-time buyers to luxury sellers — and I tailor my approach to fit each client’s priorities, timeline, and decision-making style.

MY APPROACH

Clients often describe working with me as steady, strategic, and reassuring.

I believe:

Strategy matters more than urgency
Local market insight matters more than national headlines
Clear communication reduces stress and leads to better outcomes
Preparation creates leverage — whether you’re buying or selling

My approach is best suited for clients who are prepared to engage thoughtfully in the process — with clear financial readiness, defined priorities, and an appreciation for strategic guidance.

I’m especially well-suited for clients navigating:

Move-up purchases and higher-value sales
Coordinated buy-sell timelines
New construction and well-designed modern homes
Established and architecturally distinctive neighborhoods
Complex negotiations requiring experience and composure

EXPERIENCE & LEADERSHIP

In addition to client work, I’ve been deeply involved in real estate leadership and education throughout East Tennessee. I’ve served in multiple leadership roles within East Tennessee Realtors® and Tennessee Realtors®, including President of East Tennessee Realtors®.

I hold several advanced professional designations, including:

Certified Residential Specialist (CRS®)
Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI®)
Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®)
Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE®)
Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)

These credentials reflect my commitment to education, ethics, and professional excellence — but my focus always remains on delivering thoughtful guidance and strong results for my clients.

BEYOND REAL ESTATE

Outside of work, I’m a mom, partner, and avid gardener who values community, connection, and a well-lived life.

I love travel, historic architecture, and exploring neighborhoods — both locally and abroad. Those experiences shape how I connect with clients who are navigating meaningful transitions and making big, often emotional, decisions.

CONSIDERING A MOVE?

Whether you’re actively planning a move or simply thinking ahead, I believe good decisions start with good information.

If you’re looking for an experienced, steady, and strategic real estate advisor — someone who values quality over volume — I’d be honored to help. If you’d like to better understand my approach and who I work best with, you can learn more about how I work with clients here.

Is It Time to Downsize in Knoxville?

Signs you might be ready—and how to make the move with clarity and confidence.

1. You Have Unused Space (And You Know It)

2. Maintenance Is Starting to Feel Like a Chore