What Retirees Want in a Home—and How We Make It Happen in Santa Barbara and Montecito
By Deborah Samuel, Senior Specialist Realtor, and Co-Founder of SB SOS
Retirees are leading today’s housing market with clarity and intention. According to the National Association of Realtors®, the median age of repeat homebuyers is now 61. With this shift comes a sharper focus on low-maintenance living, long-term value, and accessible communities. In Santa Barbara and Montecito, I work with retirees every day who are ready to downsize and simplify—without compromising lifestyle or beauty.
And with my company SB SOS, co-owned with Kelsey Samuel, we provide compassionate, full-service downsizing and relocation support so our clients never feel overwhelmed by the transition.
1. Retirees Are Prioritizing Practicality Over Prestige
Today’s retirees are no longer chasing square footage or designer trends. They’re focused on peace of mind, smart investments, and ease of living. That often means:
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Downsizing from multi-story family homes to single-level layouts
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Choosing low-maintenance landscaping and energy-efficient appliances
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Investing in homes with aging-in-place features such as curbless showers, grab bars, and wide hallways
At SB SOS we guide our clients in letting go of excess belongings, managing estate sales, and setting up new homes that meet these criteria seamlessly.
2. Aging-in-Place Features Are Now High-Design
Universal design elements aren’t just practical—they’re also elegant. Features like curbless showers, non-slip floors, and under-cabinet lighting are becoming mainstream because they enhance safety and aesthetics.
Through SB SOS, our relocation team works closely with local service providers and design specialists to help clients adapt their new homes to their future needs—beautifully.
3. Low-Maintenance Living Is the New Luxury
Retirees aren’t interested in weekly yard work or endless home maintenance. They’re opting for homes with durable finishes, efficient systems, and floorplans that reduce upkeep. Our real estate strategy focuses on helping clients identify and secure properties that maximize peace of mind, comfort, and cost savings.
4. Community & Connection Matter More Than Ever
In Santa Barbara and Montecito, proximity to recreational options, healthcare, spiritual centers, and social clubs makes all the difference. Whether it’s a pickleball court, nature trail, or senior center, we help buyers and sellers understand how a home supports not just living—but thriving.
How SB SOS + Deborah Samuel Create Seamless Transitions
Selling a longtime home and relocating can be emotional and logistically complex. That’s why we offer a truly turnkey service:
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SB SOS handles: packing, sorting, move-day logistics, estate sales, cleaning, and new home setup
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Deborah handles: pricing strategy, home prep, marketing, and guiding sellers through escrow with confidence
We’ve helped over 300 seniors successfully relocate to communities like Casa Dorinda, Valle Verde, The Samarkand, Vista del Monte, and Maravilla. Click the link to watch a video with Candy and Dave and their move into Vista Del Monte.
Considering a Move? Let’s Talk.
You’ve worked hard for your home. Now, let us help you transition into a space that supports freedom, comfort, and community.
Call Deborah Samuel at 805-570-6680 or email [email protected].
Visit sbsos.com to learn more about how we can support you every step of the way.
Trusted. Local. Compassionate. We are Santa Barbara’s senior transition experts.
