Best Homes for Seniors vs. Growing Families

As you go from chapter to chapter in your life, your needs change! Growing families’ needs will differ from those who are empty nesters. Continue reading to find out the things to look out for, for both those looking for starter homes and those looking to simplify. Since you’re in the market, be sure to check out brand new homes for sale!

Buying a House for a Growing Family

Kids grow, and, as your kids grow, your space in your home will need to grow also! As you enter this next chapter in your life of buying a starter home, there are a few things to look out for.

• Be sure you choose a home with an open floor plan so you can keep an eye on your child while they play, but, also, be sure to have a “kid zone” so, as they grow, you both can appreciate them having their own space.
• Location, location, location! Being in an area with good schools, parks, and neighbor kids is crucial to your family’s wellbeing.
• Storage space will be a growing factor as your child gets older. Consider a space where you can easily access boxes and other items. Outdoor yards are important as well.

Buying a House for Seniors

As you enter this next chapter in your life, you are probably tempted to simplify. Leaving a large, high maintenance house behind and settling down in smaller options is the way to go.

Condo or Townhome?

Often, condos or townhomes are located in prime locations, catering to the 55 and over community. Buying a condo means never having to push a lawnmower or do any landscape maintenance again! Maintenance crews are usually available to fix things in your home immediately, eliminating tedious tasks that a typical homeowner would have to take on.

On top of not having to fret over typical maintenance, amenities are usually a large draw to a luxury townhome or condo apartment community. Pools, tennis courts, gyms, and other resources all make the condo option an easy choice.

However, it’s important to take into consideration that owning a condo is nothing like owning your own home. You have shared walls with neighbors you can’t choose and risk moving into somewhere with thin walls, and you won’t be able to tinker around in your own garden the way you would if it were your own home.

Single Story Home?

Single story homes are in high demand, especially in new home developments. It is projected that, by 2040, there will be twice as many seniors as there are today. The housing market is going to drastically change.

It’s important that, if choosing a single story home as your retirement option, you are investing in something that will be convenient for you as you continue to age. Be sure that the bathtubs are easy to get in and out of, and, while the stairs may not be a problem, be sure that the flooring will be slip resistant.

No matter what you need, Phoenix Homes can help. Be sure to check out our lovely selection of townhomes, condos, and family homes under New Homes on our website.

Sources

1. http://lifeedited.com/seniors-and-micro-apartments/
2. http://simplyseniors.com/mobility_and_housing/communities/the_ups_and_downs_of_buying_a_condo/
3. https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/6-ideas-elder-friendly-design
4. http://www.aarp.org/home-garden/housing/info-08-2009/ginzler_housing_choices.html
5. http://www.uexpress.com/smart-moves/2014/3/5/tips-for-elderly-buyers-looking-to
6. http://housetohome.kbhome.com/post/128055607331/choosing-a-home-to-fit-a-growing-family-6-things
7. https://www.newhomesource.com/resourcecenter/articles/family-friendly-home-design
8. https://www.sindeo.com/blog/2015/04/29/3-rules-buying-home-growing-family/