Your Trusted

Real Estate Expert Karen Rivard

First-Time Buyer Specialist | Strategic Negotiation

With 14 years on The Damon Home Team and 20 years in real estate, I specialize in helping first-time home buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with confidence. Licensed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts, my goal is to make your experience stress-free by providing expert guidance, market insights, and strong negotiation strategies.

My Mission: To exceed your expectations by making real estate transactions smooth, stress-free, and successful.

What Sets Karen Apart?

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First Time Buyer Guidance

Simplifying your first home purchase with patient support and clear, confident guidance.

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Educator at Heart

Ensuring clients understand every step so they can make confident decisions

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Local Market Knowledge

Using deep local expertise to find your ideal home and ensure smart buying or selling decisions.

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Care and Compassion

Providing empathetic guidance and genuine care through the emotional aspects of real estate.

Why Work With Me?

"Karen made the home buying and selling process so easy! She truly cared about our goals and guided us every step of the way." - Alexis | Homeowner

  • Client-Centered Approach: I listen, strategize, and act with your best interests in mind.

  • Expert Market Knowledge: I research the market and position your home or offer for success.

  • Comprehensive Support: From staging to closing, I manage every detail to make the process seamless.

  • Strong Negotiation Skills: I work tirelessly to get you the best deal possible.

Client Success Stories

"Karen was incredible in helping us buy our first home. She explained everything, negotiated on our behalf, and made the process stress-free!"

"Her knowledge and experience were invaluable! Karen helped us stage and sell our home quickly for a fantastic price."

Market Insights & Resources

Stay ahead with expert tips and market updates tailored for first-time buyers and sellers.

Homeowners rethinking in 2025

2025 Real Estate Trends for Homeowners 55+ in Southern NH

July 15, 20253 min read

Why More Homeowners 55+ Are Rethinking Where They Live in 2025

If you’re 55 or older and have lived in your home for a while, you’ve probably had that quiet moment where you wonder: Is this still the right fit?

Not because you don’t love your home—you do. It holds memories, traditions, and maybe even your best years. But over time, things change. The stairs feel a bit steeper. The guest bedrooms stay empty more often than not. The grandkids are a few towns—or a few states—away. Or maybe you're just ready for less upkeep and more freedom.

You're not alone. In 2025, more and more homeowners in their late 50s, 60s, and 70s are starting to explore what’s next—not because they have to, but because they want to live more intentionally. And Southern New Hampshire has a lot to offer.


retired-couple-relaxing-living-room-southern-nh-home

Why Now?

The real estate market may not be in the frenzy we saw in 2021 or 2022, but it’s still a good time to sell. Buyers are out there. Inventory is still relatively low. And for homeowners who’ve been in their property for 10, 20, or even 30 years, that often means significant equity—and options.

At the same time, home prices remain strong in Southern NH. If you’re sitting on a house that’s larger than you need or becoming a hassle to maintain, selling in this market could unlock a more comfortable, flexible lifestyle.

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It's Not About Downsizing. It's About Right Sizing

We hear this all the time: “I don’t want to downsize. I want to live better.”
Exactly.

This isn’t about giving things up. It’s about gaining something—peace of mind, convenience, walkability, proximity to loved ones, or even just a home that feels easier to care for.

Many clients in this stage of life are looking for:

  • Single-level homes or townhomes with a first-floor primary suite

  • Smaller yards or HOA-maintained exteriors

  • Open layouts with fewer stairs and more natural light

  • Community feel—near friends, trails, healthcare, and daily amenities

And the good news is, Southern New Hampshire offers all of that—often at a much better value than neighboring Massachusetts or the coast.

What's Popular in Southern NH Right Now?

The most sought-after homes among 55+ buyers right now include:

  • Ranch-style homes with updated kitchens and baths

  • Condos and townhomes in active adult communities (with lower maintenance and easy access)

  • New-construction options that combine efficiency with comfort

Towns like Bedford, Londonderry, Hooksett, and Amherst are top picks, especially those with access to shopping, hospitals, and interstate travel.

If you're curious about what's on the market now, you can start browsing homes here.

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Planning Ahead Makes All The Difference

Even if you’re not ready to move this year, there’s real value in planning early. We recommend:

  • Talking to a local expert (like our team) about what your home is worth right now

  • Touring a few communities that might be a fit for your next chapter

  • Understanding your net proceeds and how they support your lifestyle goals

  • Decluttering gradually—one room at a time

We’ve helped hundreds of Southern NH homeowners make this transition smoothly. Whether it takes two months or two years, we’re here to be a resource.

Staying put is always an option—but so is choosing something that fits your life now. If you’re feeling curious about what else is out there, you’re not alone. 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for thoughtful moves, not rushed decisions.

If you’d like a friendly, no-pressure conversation about what that might look like for you, let’s connect. We’ll talk through your options and help you move forward with clarity—whether you’re ready now or just getting started.

Thinking About Selling?

Want to know what your home could sell for in today’s market?
Click here to request a free, local home value estimate

Thinking about moving in the next 1–2 years?
Let’s schedule a time to talk about your goals

Curious what other clients are saying?
Read our latest reviews and success stories

Manchester NH real estateJuly home sellingSouthern NH market trendsHome staging tipsSeller's market 2025Summer real estate NHDamon Home TeamManchester home valuesPricing strategy NHListing your home NH
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The Damon Home Team

The Damon Home Team is a top-performing real estate group specializing in buying, selling, and relocation services throughout New Hampshire. With a commitment to expert guidance, market-driven strategies, and a client-first approach, we help homeowners maximize their home’s value and buyers find their perfect property. Whether you’re looking for a fast cash sale, a seamless move, or expert investment advice, our team delivers results with integrity and professionalism.

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