Finding the Right Home for Your Next Chapter
There comes a point when the family home no longer fits the way you live.
The children have grown, the guest rooms sit empty, and weekends are no longer spent maintaining a large property. Instead, many homeowners begin looking for something different—less maintenance, more convenience, and a lifestyle that allows them to enjoy everything Los Angeles has to offer.
For some, that means a luxury condominium with concierge services. For others, it's a smaller home within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, or the beach. The goal isn't simply to downsize—it's to simplify without sacrificing quality.
After helping buyers and sellers across Los Angeles' Westside for more than two decades, I've found that these neighborhoods are among the most popular for empty nesters.
Beverly Hills
Best For: Luxury, convenience, and timeless elegance
Beverly Hills continues to attract homeowners who want to remain in one of Los Angeles' most prestigious communities while enjoying a more manageable lifestyle.
Many empty nesters choose luxury condominiums or smaller estates close to:
- Rodeo Drive
- Canon Drive restaurants
- Beverly Gardens Park
- Fine dining
- Luxury shopping
- Cultural events
It offers sophistication with the convenience of having so much just minutes away.
1. Santa Monica
Best For: Beach lifestyle and active living
For many homeowners, Santa Monica offers the perfect balance of luxury and recreation.
Residents enjoy walking to:
- The beach
- Palisades Park
- Third Street Promenade
- Montana Avenue
- Farmers Market
- Cafés and restaurants
Many buyers find they drive far less after making the move.
2. Century City
Best For: Lock-and-leave luxury
Century City has become increasingly popular among buyers who want security, convenience, and full-service living.
Luxury condominium buildings often feature:
- Concierge service
- Valet parking
- Fitness centers
- Pools and spas
- Security
- Minimal maintenance
Many residents travel frequently and appreciate knowing their home is professionally managed while they're away.
3. Brentwood
Best For: Quiet elegance
Brentwood offers a relaxed residential atmosphere with excellent shopping and dining nearby.
Many buyers enjoy:
- Brentwood Village
- Local cafés
- Farmers Market
- Beautiful tree-lined streets
- Country clubs
- Easy access to the Westside
It remains one of Los Angeles' most desirable long-term neighborhoods.
4. Marina del Rey
Best For: Waterfront lifestyle
For buyers looking for a more relaxed pace, Marina del Rey offers beautiful marina views and easy coastal living.
Residents enjoy:
- Waterfront walking paths
- Outdoor dining
- Yacht clubs
- Parks
- Marina activities
- Coastal sunsets
It's an excellent option for those who want a vacation-like lifestyle year-round.
5. Pacific Palisades
Best For: Community and outdoor living
As Pacific Palisades continues its recovery and rebuilding efforts, many buyers remain drawn to its strong sense of community, village atmosphere, and coastal setting.
The neighborhood offers:
- Local shops and restaurants
- Scenic hiking trails
- Ocean proximity
- Parks
- A welcoming small-town feel
For those who enjoy an active lifestyle while staying connected to neighbors, it remains one of the Westside's most desirable communities.
What Empty Nesters Tell Me They're Looking For
While every client is different, these are the priorities I hear most often:
- Less home maintenance
- Single-level living
- Security and privacy
- Walkability
- Lock-and-leave convenience
- Space for visiting children and grandchildren
- Luxury without unnecessary upkeep
- Proximity to restaurants, shopping, healthcare, and entertainment
The ideal home isn't always smaller—it's simply a better fit for this stage of life.
Should You Downsize?
Not necessarily.
Some homeowners purchase a luxury condominium with every available amenity. Others move to a smaller estate with less maintenance. Some choose to remain in their current neighborhood but find a home that better supports the way they live today.
The decision is deeply personal and should reflect your lifestyle, travel plans, financial goals, and long-term needs.
Valerie's Perspective
Some of my favorite clients are empty nesters because this move is rarely just about real estate—it's about creating the next chapter of life.
I've helped clients leave homes where they raised their families and transition into residences that offer greater freedom, convenience, and peace of mind. For many, they discover they spend less time maintaining a home and more time traveling, entertaining, pursuing hobbies, and enjoying family when they visit.
The best move isn't about giving something up. It's about gaining the lifestyle you've worked so hard to create.
If you're beginning to think about what comes next, I'd be happy to help you explore the neighborhoods and homes that best fit your goals for the years ahead.