Courtesy Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Blake
By Joan E. Taub
There have never been more choices in determining where one wants to live. When my grandparents retired they became snowbirds and traveled to Florida for the winter. Splitting time between two states was simply what people did.
The winters in the Northeast seemed too harsh for these “older” people in their 60s. At the time it seemed old and it seemed their only choice.
Now, in 2016 there are choices for the many who are still working, yet want to downsize now that their children have moved out; have retired and want to change their lifestyle; or those who anticipate health issues and fear they will not be able to navigate stairs in the future.
Each scenario has many possibilities.
For the working downsizer, I have noticed a lot of people moving away from the developments and moving into, or closer to, town. They no longer need to car-pool their children and enjoy living in a walkable, vital community where visits to the library, restaurants, stores and movies are so close. The in-town condos are appealing, as are homes in neighborhoods within a mile from downtown.
Many people set themselves up for downsizing years before they are actually ready. They purchase an in-town property with the intention of renting for a few years and, when ready, they move in themselves.
It has become interesting to note that Saratoga Springs has been a retirement destination. The city offers something for everyone in all seasons and there is easy access to Montreal, Boston, New York City and an airport.
Some retirees follow their families to this area. They want to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Yet, condo living is not for them, as they may still want a yard for gardening and gathering. They often want “new” and buying a piece of land and designing their home is something very appealing.
There are others who may love where they are living, yet no longer wish to maintain their house and property. They don’t want to worry about repairs, lawn maintenance or any sort of upkeep. What one purchases, of course, is determined by what they can comfortably afford.
Some may opt to move into a condo or a community offering maintenance-free living (for the cost of a monthly homeowner’s association fee). Still, others may need to or may elect, to stay in their home, aging in place. There are many people who can be hired to maintain a home (inside and out) and I often recommend the homeowner make arrangements with these people to make up their own personal homeowner’s association.
Many people will stay in their house as long as they are physically able to or until they are emotionally able to separate from the house they have lived in for many years.
When people love where they live, yet cannot drive to socialize and get to doctor’s appointments, they may opt for an independent living development. These apartments can be great as they provide meals, daily activities, transportation and, if necessary, there is usually assisted living also available.
Houses with “in-law” apartments are also coveted. I’ve seen this where parents no longer wish to maintain a home and may be closely involved with their children and grandchildren. It is the perfect scenario for each part of the family to have their own space, yet makes it easy for the grandparents to baby sit or pet sit, while being able to socialize with their extended family, yet remain independent.
It’s nice to have choices for “right-sizing”. Some people planning for retirement decide to “cash out” of their current home and travel and then determine where they ultimately want to settle.
The options are many and varied with so many choices and possibilities. The good news is that if one plan doesn’t work, one can always try something else. It’s never too late to make the change so you settle into the exact home you enjoy.
Taub is an associate broker with Berkshire Halthaway HomeServices, Blake and a senior real estate specialist (SRES).