You may be familiar with the term “aging in place”, which refers to the appealing idea of staying in one’s own home as one gets older, as opposed to entering a retirement home. While our futures don’t always unfold the way we'd planned, I do encourage my downsizing clients to consider homes that are the most likely to gracefully accommodate them in their elder years.
For
instance, a flight of stairs may not present a problem to an able-bodied couple
in their sixties. A decade later, they may be wishing they’d chosen
differently. High-rise and low-rise condominiums with elevator service are by
far the most popular housing choice among my clients who move to the city after
retirement. Freedom from upkeep is a huge selling feature, while safety and
recreational amenities also play key roles.
But
there are certainly other options out there. Many of my baby boomer clients
love to garden, play outside with grandchildren and entertain friends outdoors.
They’re simply not prepared to sacrifice a private lot. Some communities offer
condo ownership of semi- or fully detached bungalows, taking the burden of yard
maintenance and snow removal from your shoulders.
Alternately, freehold owners
may hire yard help when it’s needed.
In
addition to their lack of stairs and bright main floor laundry rooms, today’s
bungalows can easily be built with features that make them more accessible to
people with mobility issues. Most builders are happy to widen doors and
hallways, substitute lever door handles and add sleek-looking handrails in
bathtubs and showers.
You’ll
also want to weigh the benefits of living in an adult lifestyle community
versus a more diverse neighbourhood. Some baby boomers thrive in a community of
peers who share similar interests, finding their social lives completely
reinvigorated. Others prefer to be surrounded by families of all ages, in
neighbourhoods where Halloween brings dozens of miniature princesses and superheroes
to the door.
For
a small percentage of downsizers, an in-law suite is the answer. When grown
children have a larger home, and are able to provide parents with the type of
surroundings – and relationships – they desire, both parties can benefit financially
and emotionally.
Whatever
path you choose, take it from me: once you have a plan for the future, it’s
easier to live in the moment.
To receive a
FREE copy of a new special report titled "Homebuyers: How to Save
Thousands of Dollars When You Buy" email sales@bennettpros.com
Visit www.bennettpros.com for all your real estate needs.
No comments:
Post a Comment