If you’ve been living in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, or Newbury Park, the idea of downsizing may be starting to sound appealing. Maybe the kids have moved out, the pool feels more like a chore than a retreat, or you’re simply craving a home that’s easier to maintain.

For many long-time homeowners across the Conejo Valley, downsizing isn’t just a real estate decision — it’s a lifestyle shift. At Lydia Gable Realty Group, we’ve helped countless clients make this transition smoothly, turning the question “Is it time to downsize?” into “Why didn’t we do this sooner?”

1. Why More Conejo Valley Homeowners Are Downsizing

The local real estate market has evolved. Homeowners who’ve built decades of equity in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, and Agoura Hills are realizing they can sell high, simplify their lives, and still stay close to family, friends, and everything they love about the area.

Here’s why it’s happening now:

• 🏠 Equity power: Homes across Conejo Valley continue to hold strong value — meaning more freedom to choose your next lifestyle move.

• 💰 Lower maintenance costs: Smaller homes and single-story properties in Newbury Park and Oak Park help reduce utility, tax, and upkeep expenses.

• 🌳 Lifestyle freedom: With less square footage to manage, many locals are traveling more, spending weekends at The Lakes, or enjoying local parks and golf courses instead of cleaning rooms they no longer use.

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Family proximity: A growing trend among our clients is relocating within the Valley to be closer to adult children and grandkids — without leaving the community they love.

2. Signs It Might Be Time to Downsize

Not sure if it’s time? Consider these questions:

• Are you maintaining more house than you need?

• Are property taxes and utilities eating into your lifestyle budget?

• Are there rooms you haven’t used in months?

• Do you want to stay in Westlake Village but in a more walkable neighborhood or a single-level home?

• Do you find yourself dreaming of less clutter and more freedom?

If you answered yes to most of these, you’re not alone — thousands of Conejo Valley homeowners are making the same move right now.

3. What to Look For in Your Next Home

When downsizing, it’s not just about square footage — it’s about fit. The right home makes your next chapter even better.
Here’s what’s trending with today’s downsizers in the Thousand Oaks and Agoura Hills areas:

• Single-story or minimal stairs: Comfort and accessibility matter more than ever.

• Low-maintenance yards: Think drought-friendly gardens and patios instead of lawns to mow.

• Turn-key or updated: Many downsizers prefer move-in-ready homes so they can start living — not remodeling.

• Close to conveniences: Restaurants, parks, and shopping like The Promenade or Janss Marketplace.

• Community connection: Neighborhoods that offer walking trails, HOA amenities, and social opportunities.

If you’re not sure which areas fit your lifestyle, Lydia Gable Realty Group can help you compare neighborhoods from Morrison Ranch to Dos Vientos and beyond.

4. Local Neighborhoods Perfect for “Right-Sizing”

Here are some favorite Conejo Valley neighborhoods ideal for downsizing:

• Oaknoll Villas (Thousand Oaks): 55+ community close to restaurants, parks, and senior centers.

• Trilogy at Moorpark: Luxury active-adult living with golf, social clubs, and beautiful mountain views.

• Village Glen (Thousand Oaks): Single-level condos in a walkable setting.

• Westlake Hills & Foxmoor: Single-story gems tucked near greenbelts and top schools.

• Shadow Oaks & Lynn Ranch: Mature neighborhoods with easy freeway and park access.

Each offers something unique — whether you want social interaction, serene surroundings, or low-maintenance comfort.

5. How to Downsize With Less Stress

Moving from a long-term home is emotional — and logistics can get tricky. But with the right plan and guidance, it can be surprisingly smooth:

1. Start early. Begin with simple decluttering — one room at a time.

2. Define your next home’s “must-haves.” Proximity to kids? Fewer stairs? Community feel?

3. Prep your current home. Through Compass Concierge, our team can front renovation costs to help your home sell faster and for more — you pay nothing upfront.

4. Plan your move strategically. We’ll help coordinate timing so you sell and buy with confidence.

5. Lean on local experts. From movers to estate planners, we connect you with trusted professionals who specialize in Conejo Valley transitions.

6. Partner With Conejo Valley’s Trusted Real Estate Team

At Lydia Gable Realty Group, our mission is to help you move forward — not just move out.
We’re consistently ranked among the top Realtors in Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, and Newbury Park, recognized for blending local expertise with genuine care.

Whether you’re exploring 55+ communities, single-story homes, or simply curious about your home’s current market value, our team can guide you every step of the way.

Ready to Talk About Downsizing?

Let’s create a customized plan that fits your timeline, lifestyle, and financial goals.

📍 Serving Westlake Village | Agoura Hills | Thousand Oaks | Newbury Park | Simi Valley
📞 (818) 651-3909
🌐 www.LydiaGable.com
DRE #01704493 | Compass Real Estate