How to Buy the Perfect Home in Your Senior Years
In the market for a new home? Buying a home in your senior years will look a little different than it did when you were younger. You have several important things to consider, including your budget for a down payment, how long you plan to stay in the new home, and what type of home makes the most sense now and in the future. As you think about your options and prepare to navigate the home-buying process, keep the following tips in mind -- brought to you by the compassionate real estate experts at the Karen Boos Real Estate.
Do Your Research
Whether you’re buying a home yourself or helping senior loved ones find a new place to spend their golden years, it’s important to think about the future. Downsizing into a smaller home is a great way to ensure your new home can accommodate any challenges that come with aging. Not only are smaller homes more accessible to people with mobility limitations and other disabilities, but they’re also much easier to maintain! Plus, as Money Talks News points out, downsizing is a great opportunity to eliminate clutter and organize your life.
But small homes aren’t always more affordable than their larger counterparts. Make sure to research home prices in your area to ensure your downsizing plans will fit your home-buying budget.
You should also have a plan for what to do if circumstances change in your life. It is not possible to imagine every single contingency in life, of course, but there are some things you can do to prepare for significant changes to your health or financial circumstances. There are more options than ever for how seniors can “age in community,” so don’t neglect these choices that may lead to the perfect living situation for you.
Choose Your Location Carefully
The location of your new home matters just as much as the features that make it comfortable and accessible. There are several different factors to consider when you think about location. First of all, what kind of geographic location would you prefer? Do you want to live somewhere where the weather is warm and sunny year-round? Remember to consider the kind of lifestyle you want in this new location. Do you enjoy biking, kayaking, skiing, or hiking? Wherever you choose to move, make sure you will be able to participate in all the activities you love.
Another thing to consider is the type of neighborhood where you would like to live. For example, it’s common for seniors to move from rural areas to urban centers where they can enjoy walking distance to shops, services, and socialization opportunities. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more quiet and serene retirement, you may choose to move out of the city and closer to nature.
Declutter, Declutter, Declutter
Moving can be expensive. If you’re living on a fixed income, finding ways to save money on your move should be a top priority! Real Simple recommends decluttering and downsizing your possessions so you have less stuff to move—you could even sell your old stuff to make some quick cash! Some other ways to keep your moving costs under control include booking movers during the weekday and seeking out second-hand moving supplies.
Additionally, declutter your home office, as well. For instance, rather than hauling around stacks and stacks of old papers, simply scan them, then merge the files by using this free tool to combine PDFs. You’ll be amazed by how much space -- and headaches -- you end up saving!
Make a Moving Day Plan
Moving day will always be stressful, but making a good moving plan can help you reel in the stress and feel a little more in control of the process. Start by hiring your movers a couple of months in advance, especially if you’re moving during the busy summer months. Create a moving checklist with all the other tasks you need to complete before your move, like updating your address with various organizations and switching over your utilities.
To prepare for the big day, pack an overnight box of items you will need during the first day in your new home. This will save you from digging through boxes to find essential items like plates, cutlery, pajamas, fresh clothing, hand soap, and toothbrushes. If you have pets, keep them away from the action by making arrangements with a friend or family member. Moving is stressful for our furry friends too!
Save on Moving Costs
People are always looking to get rid of their old moving materials, so check around for moving boxes on classifieds sites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace before buying them brand-new. If you do need to purchase boxes, you can find medium-size boxes from Home Depot for $1.58 each. And once you’re settled, don’t be shy about seeing free advice on everything from decor to home improvement.
Whether you’re downsizing into a small space or moving to your ideal retirement location, buying a new home is bound to be exciting. Take the time to budget for your new home, and plan your move carefully to ensure everything goes smoothly. The work will be over before you know it!
Karen Boos Real Estate is an experienced real estate agent working in Ada County helping people find their perfect homes here and throughout the Treasure Valley. Call 208.870.7770.