[bovelsky]

I was in a similar situatuion 6 years ago when I retired. I have a frederal pension, will not get Social security, Have some IRA money socked away but had cash available from the sale of my house. I chose a designer home with a 2 and 1/2 car garage and a small mortgage. I can afford the small mortgage on my pension with ease and did not make the mistake of downsizing too much. Biggest issue here is storage because of no basements. Too many folks choose a small garage and the move again to a larger house in 3 years. Area is key here as well. Make sure you know where you want to live first. Try renting for 3 to 6 months. Get the lay of the land and see what your expenses will be in retirement so you can make the right house decision for you