Senior home buyers are one of the fastest-growing demographics in the United States. As more Americans continue to move into their old age, a new trend is taking shape—those over the age of 65 are buying homes at an increasing rate.
These seniors now want to experience even more of life than when they were younger and that includes many of the features currently exclusive to modern developments in housing such as energy-efficient appliances, a broader array of appliances, cooling and heating systems, security features, and home automation systems. Senior home buyers also want to avoid a nightmare when they make those first trips to their new homes.
6 Features Senior Home Buyers Love In a Home
Senior home buyers want their new homes to make them feel happy, safe, and protected. When choosing a home, seniors spanned across the United States listed the following as essential features:
1. Classic Compact Design
When buying a new home, seniors don’t want to feel like they are giving up something, especially when it comes to design. These first-time home buyers want their homes to still have a look and feel that represents their lifestyle and not the style of the era from which they are trying to distance themselves. A home with the best French interior doors, windows, sturdy flooring, and architectural design that has stood the test of time can give seniors the sense of security they will need.
Seniors want homes that they can feel proud of while also providing ample space for them to enjoy family gatherings and entertaining friends. They want a home that is easy to clean and maintain, especially for those who might not have the energy to keep up with the chores.
2. Energy Efficiency
This is not about the government’s guilt of selling all of its “E” equipment to the older generation, but instead, a feature that has become increasingly important as more seniors go from being active members of the workforce to being more at home.
Many households have older appliances and heating and cooling systems. In many cases, these are built-in units that serve decades on end with little or no attention. These systems require regular maintenance and are becoming more expensive to repair and replace in older homes. Energy-efficient, energy-conserving home designs can help senior home buyers feel safer knowing that the new systems will be upgraded to the latest technology that helps them save a great deal of money.
3. Security
Seniors want the sense of security that many younger families take for granted. They want home access control systems and home protection features that they can use to check on who is at their doors or if an intruder breaks in while they are away. A modern security system like a home video surveillance system gives seniors a way to protect their homes and loved ones, especially when they travel or are out of town.
4. Making Life Easier
The latest in home technology has made it easy for younger generations to control heating, cooling, and security systems with a simple app or the touch of a button. That same ease of use is important to seniors who are shopping for their first homes. They want appliances and technology that can help them remain independent for as long as possible without sacrificing modern features.
5. Mobility
When exploring a new home, seniors want options in mobility settings so they can easily adjust their environment to suit their needs. Aging in place is important to seniors and many want their homes to have elevators, secure staircases, and modern bathroom designs. They don’t want to think about how much furniture they will need to move on their own when the time comes for upgrades or a change in lifestyle.
6. Comfortable Living Spaces
Many senior home buyers are opting for smaller homes that offer simplified layouts with open concept living spaces. There are a number of reasons why they are making this choice, but many see their smaller homes as a way to simplify their lifestyles. Modern flooring choices, wall colors, and furniture that can be repurposed when they no longer fit the needs of an aging body are all important considerations.
Seniors have different needs than other home buyers. For the first time in decades, more seniors are choosing to buy homes rather than stay in traditional retirement communities or assisted living facilities. Most of these retirees want their homes to reflect the times in which they want to live and many are opting for the latest in technology, energy-saving equipment, and home automation systems.
