Second Home, Coastal Living, Retirement Moves, and Real Estate Decisions Explained

What should you consider before relocating from a major city to a quieter coastal community?In this episode of Real Estate Connections, Mary Foerster talks with Washington DC Realtor David Shotwell about second homes, retirement relocation, aging in place, walkable communities, and what urban homeowners should think through before making a major lifestyle move.David shares insights from 14 years in real estate across Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware. Together, Mary and David explore the realities of relocating to coastal communities like Rehoboth Beach, including healthcare access, seasonal lifestyle shifts, affordability, second-home ownership, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), workforce housing, and aging-related housing decisions.This conversation is especially valuable for:Empty nesters considering relocationBuyers thinking about second homesAdults planning retirement movesFamilies helping aging parentsUrban homeowners looking for lifestyle changesIn This Episode You’ll Learn• Why some homeowners are leaving urban areas for coastal communities • What buyers should consider before relocating to a slower-paced area • The realities of second-home ownership and maintenance • Why healthcare access matters in retirement relocation decisions • How walkable communities impact quality of life • Why buyers should visit locations during different seasons before moving • The growing role of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) • Why younger buyers are struggling to enter the housing market • How boomers are helping younger generations buy homes • Why listening is one of the most important skills in real estateGuest: David ShotwellDavid Shotwell is a highly respected Realtor with Compass serving Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware. With more than 14 years of real estate experience, David specializes in helping clients navigate urban living, second-home ownership, retirement relocation, estates, tenant-occupied properties, condominiums, and cooperative housing.Before real estate, David worked for AARP for 13 years leading national initiatives focused on livable communities, walkability, accessible housing, transportation options, and aging-friendly development. He holds multiple professional designations including CAPS, SRES, ABR, AHWD, and GRI.David is known for his consultative approach, strong advocacy, deep market knowledge, and passion for helping clients align housing decisions with long-term lifestyle goals.Connect with David ShotwellWebsite Compass Profile – David ShotwellInstagram @davidrealtordcSend us Fan MailThis episode is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.