Senior Living

Angie’s personal experience with helping her own family members transition into retirement living, sparked a passion for helping others make the best decisions for their future. She can support you and your family as a trustworthy advisor when looking for a home for the next stage in your life.

The senior real estate community encompasses a plethora of styles for senior living. Most think of an assisted living home when senior living is mentioned, but this is not the reality. Today, many communities have been built to make the transition into senior living flawless. There are choices from single family homes within a community that has the extra resources for seniors such as community centers with weekly activities, facilities for senior needs, and 50+ age requirement to be a part of the community. The range goes all the way to apartment complexes with nurses and doctors available first-hand.

Things to consider when looking for a retirement home

The home you choose to live in after you retire is far different than the one you chose to raise your family. Besides the change in size (seniors typically downsize), things like a top school district, a yard to play in, and a neighborhood with kids to interact with are no longer important. That doesn’t mean any old house will do. There are still things you need to consider before deciding on a retirement home.

Location, location, location.

Even when you’re searching for a retirement home, location is key. You want to find a home that is close by to doctors you see regularly. Also, many people like to be close by to family if possible. You also want to make sure there are things to do nearby that you can get to easily if you don’t drive. These are all things to think about as you make your decision.

Opt for Single-Level Living.

As we get older, stairs are no longer our friends. While you may be able to make the stairs a few times a day now, that may not be the case down the road. Whichever retirement home you choose, try to get one that is all on one level. This will also be helpful if you have to be in a wheelchair for any reason.

Look for wide hallways and open space.

This goes back to the wheelchair accessibility factor. You need to take into account whether you’ll need a wheelchair down the road. Having a home with plenty of open space and wide hallways to navigate will help you in the end.

Look for a step-in shower.

Bathtubs are great to soak in and relax, but they can become an obstacle if you can no longer climb in. A step-in shower provides accessibility on a floor level so you simply have to walk into the shower to wash up. If the retirement home you’re considering does not have a step-in shower, you may want to consider adding one in down the road.

Be aware of appliance height.

This may not be something you immediately think about, but the height of your appliances can become a problem down the road. If you can no longer bend down to use the dishwasher or washing machine are there modifications that can be made to make it more user-friendly?

Buy less than you can afford.

When you retire, your monthly income is likely not going to change. That’s why it’s important to buy a retirement home that still leaves you with money left over at the end of the month. You never know what’s going to happen down the road. Don’t put yourself in a situation that could put you in financial stress.