Senior Home Strategies
As we age, our housing needs change dramatically. We no longer need so many bedrooms for our children. A big yard may not get the use it once did. Upkeep on a large home can become tiresome or even difficult. Many senior citizens choose to downsize their home to something a little easier to manage. The recent additions to the tax credit extension have made this choice even more attractive. Buyers who have lived in their home for at least 5 consecutive years out of the past 8 may qualify for a significant break on their taxes if the close before the end of April. When seniors go house hunting, there are a few strategies to keep in mind.
Maintaining long-term independence is the primary goal for most seniors. Most of us want to stay in our own home as long as we can. Even if a home buyer is in robust good health at 65, a few years or a major illness can bring about serious changes in mobility. Certain home features can help an owner remain at home despite these changes. Single-story living is a must for people with limited mobility. Ranches and ramblers are an excellent choice. Harwood floors throughout a home make using a cane or walker much easier, as do wide passageways in baths and halls. A wall over or microwave located around waist or chest height will prevent bending and stooping to retrieve heavy dishes while cooking. Ask your Summit NJ real estate agent to suggest more ways you can plan for a long future in your next home.
The community surrounding your new home should be considered as well. Access to excellent health care close to home is an essential ingredient in maintaining wellness. A clean, safe public transportation system will make getting around easier for seniors who are no longer able or willing to drive. Look for senior centers or community groups with lots of planned activities to keep retirement from becoming boring. Find some worthy non-profit organizations that need volunteers and can benefit from your experience. Some communities offer services to seniors through the local government or faith-based organizations including needed help with meals, snow and leaf removal or handyman assistance. Make good use of any help that is offered, especially if it will maintain the value of your largest investment – your home.
Thinking about the future can be unnerving. Moving out of the family home is a daunting prospect. But it can also be the start of a new adventure. Plan well and you will live well longer.