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Tips for Buying a Home in Retirement

May 29
10:46
AM
Category | General

A lot can change between buying your first home and downsizing to a home you’ll enjoy during retirement. Chances are it will be your last big move and you want to make sure you get it right. Consider the following tips for finding a retirement home that best fits your needs:

Location For Years to Come:

There’s a good chance you want to stay near your family and friends, but you should also consider a location that will allow you easy access to amenities. Finding a home near grocery stores, shopping malls, or public transportation options will serve as a convenience in later years when mobility becomes more of a challenge. You might also have a certain hobby you enjoy, like playing golf or going to the beach; consider the time it will take to get to these places when choosing your home for retirement.

Omit the Stairs:

Even if the idea of struggling to climb a flight of stairs seems years away, you might look for single-story homes to eliminate this inevitable nuisance. If you are thinking of new construction, then take the opportunity to implement features like wide doorways and walk-in showers so you are guaranteed a smooth transition into your later years.

How Much Space Do You Need:

This applies both inside and outside. Do you need or want a large yard that is going to require continued maintenance down the road? Even if you enjoy yard work, make sure you find a home with manageable outdoor space that won’t become a hassle later on. For inside, consider the amount of rooms and square footage you’ll be cleaning and taking care of. Do you still need extra guest rooms and a formal dining room?

Plan for Financing:

At this stage of your life, you might be able to afford a large down payment, or even pay off a mortgage outright and eliminate your expenses. Even though nobody wants to have a mortgage, sometimes it is necessary to give yourself the flexibility to live the life you want and have worked so hard for in retirement. No matter your current circumstance, always be sure to plan for the unexpected.

By considering these helpful tips, hopefully you will have a thorough understanding of just what kind of house you need to enjoy your retirement years and beyond.