Home Builders & Considerations for Retirees

Individuals who are getting ready to retire have questions for their home builders. Many people plan to move to another house after they stop working full time. Perhaps they want a smaller place now that the kids have grown up and flown the coop. Perhaps they want to get out of the city away from the rat race. Or maybe they want a dwelling more in line with environmental friendliness. Whatever their reasons for wanting a new place to hang their hats, these individuals have certain designs, amenities and budgets in mind for their dream retirement homes. Here are some things to think about:

- Baby Boomer generation: This group of individuals that is set to retire is called the Baby Boomer generation. They were born in the 1950’s and 60’s and have always been a vibrant and vocal group. They were the ones who protested the Vietnam War, brought us free love, feminism, miniskirts and rock and roll. They are strong, bright, educated, and powerful and have high standards in what they want from their builder and retirement dwelling.

- Top quality materials: Retirees-to-be know quality and will ask for it. They want real tile, stone work and rooftops that last. They want appliances that are attractive and energy efficient. HVAC systems should be energy star and only sip electricity or fuel. Bathrooms are often spa-like with separate shower and tub so there’s plenty of room for both Mister and Missus to move around. Cooking is popular so kitchens must be designed with culinary delight in mind. Ample cupboard space, high quality cook-tops and plenty of space to chop and sauté are all a must.

- Floorplans with space to entertain: Since these homeowners will have time to entertain, they want ample space to do just that. Square footage doesn’t have to be immense but there should be ample room to host dinners and social events. There should be a guest bathroom in addition to the more private one in the master suite. Guest rooms for visiting kids and grandkids are also important for the soon-to-be retired person’s or couple’s home, and home builders can provide this.

- Universal design for eventually aging needs: While individuals who are in their fifties and sixties are usually still fit as a fiddle, they are aware that Father Time is waiting to slow them down somewhat. Having a house that will age as they do will be wise for future needs. Some examples of this would be wider doorways, showers that don’t have barriers, countertops a bit lower than usual and dishwashers that can be loaded or unloaded without leaning over. Discussing universal design with one’s contractor is smart.

- Wired for technology: This Baby Boomer generation may be aging but they still have their pulse on modern times. This means easy computer access and technologically advanced entertainment options wired into the structure. Asking a builder for this will be wise during the planning and design stages.

Homeowners set to retire soon are ready to build their dream retirement houses. Home builders that listen to their questions and address their concerns will be the ones to hire for the jobs.