For many longtime Washingtonians, the shift from owner to renter isn’t about giving up—it’s about getting back: time, flexibility, and cash flow. A growing number of older Americans are choosing leases over lawns, drawn by lower maintenance, predictable costs, and the freedom to try new neighborhoods without a 30-year commitment. The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that renters 65+ have surged in the past decade, with many opting for 55+ apartments that feel more like boutique hotels than stopgaps. The Wall Street Journal

In DC, that can look like a one-bedroom at The Fairfax at Belvoir Woods for a “lock-and-go” lifestyle near parks and trails, or a move to an independent-living community with on-site dining and wellness amenities. Sunrise Senior Living

Renting also reduces the emotional friction of “the last move.” If you’re torn between Capitol Hill’s Eastern Market vibe and walkable Old Town Alexandria, a one-year lease lets you test both. Start a ritual at Peregrine Espresso by the market, then compare it to weekends in Del Ray’s cafés and galleries. Peregrine Espresso

The bottom line: selling to rent isn’t retreat—it’s strategy. It converts illiquid equity into choices, trims surprise repairs, and buys time to breathe after a lifetime of upkeep. If home still calls after a year, you’ll be buying with clarity—not nostalgia

Contact Sell My Parents house today to discuss your real estate needs!