If Not Now… When?

his question runs through our minds quite often over our lifetime. But the critical question is, what are we waiting for? The right time, the right job, or the right people to come into our lives. Is it family or peer approval we’re seeking? Ask anyone who’s run out of time in their life, and they will loudly exclaim there is no time like the present to act.

Joan and I have lived in Northern California for 13 years with a successful real estate business working with transitioning seniors. Our family lived nearby, so that was a bonus. However, often we had conversations discussing the possibility of moving to Carlsbad, where close friends lived, and we would be close to the ocean, a move we’d dreamed about for years.

Then the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Like many our age, we found ourselves struggling to cope with the stress of the pandemic and everything that went with it, especially being seniors ourselves. But then it hit us, “If Not Now, When?”

It was the beginning of summer, and in one month, we packed up, hired a moving company, selected a lovely condo, sight unseen, and jumped two feet into our new adventure. We were all in! Our new home was five minutes from the beach and near our friends. Lottery win!

At last, we were close to the ocean, beautiful sunsets, friends we felt comfortable with, wearing our masks, and feeling blessed despite being amid a pandemic. Yet, we had pangs of sadness for the many who had different experiences in those challenging times. We knew not everyone had the opportunity to start one more fantastic chapter of life, which made us extra grateful.

LIFE 2.0 WHAT NEXT?

Our business always brought such immense purpose in our lives, so we never hesitated to hang out a new shingle when we landed in San Diego. In the spirit of becoming real San Diegans, we acquired beach chairs, an umbrella, a portable propane fire pit, BBQ, and a beach cart to haul our new beach toys across the sand. Check, check, and check! The highlight was getting to gather with friends after a long-secluded time away. We also picked up a new sport, Pickleball, that we not only learned and came to love but now teach to adults of any age.

Sometimes I look back, and I can’t believe we took the plunge, but we did, and it was one of the best summers we’ve ever had. So, we hope you check something big off your summer bucket list this year that you’ve always meant to do. We’d love to hear about it.

*Interested in learning Pickleball? Don’t hesitate to contact Joan and Bob at (760) 429-4548 or bob.heck@pacificsir.com. “We would love to hear from you!”

Joan Chintz, DRE# 01064786, has been practicing real estate since 1991 and has a Senior’s Real Estate Specialist (SRES) certification. Excellent service, honesty, and expertise is her promise to each client.

Bob Heck, DRE# 02023420, is passionate about working with transitioning seniors and their families. As a previous Director of Sales and Marketing in assisted living and memory care, Bob has guided many seniors through the transitioning process. He continues working with his wife, Joan, and supporting senior communities.