Find the Perfect Home For Retirement by Mary Morrison
WHETHER YOU’RE STILL WORKING a successful
career, nearing retirement, or somewhere in between, imagining your perfect retirement home can seem like a faraway dream. But it doesn’t have to be; a little preparation can put you on the path to making your dream a reality! Start by determining the best location, size and price that work for you. LOCATION FIXATION Some homebuyers elect to buy homes in their current community while others move across the country or the next state over. Whatever you decide, it’s important to identify the factors you want in a community and research locations before you buy. Several factors may influence your decision. Do you want friends and family nearby? Will you need to take care of aging parents? Do you have hobbies or interests that affect where you would want to live? Will you work through retirement? Addressing these issues openly and honestly will bring you closer to success. Also, check local statistics. According to industry experts, a low crime rate, safe downtown, good hospitals, low tax rate, and
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mild climate round out the top five considerations of retirement homebuyers. After selecting an area, think about the type of neighborhood best suited for you. Urban locations offer walking distance to restaurants, shops, and schools. Suburbs offer more home for the money, albeit a bit further away from city centers. Homes on busy streets often come with lower price tags, if you don’t mind the hustle and bustle. Cul-de-sacs provide quiet space and the opportunity to know your neighbors. Corner lots offer more room, fewer neighbors and more privacy. Many retirees prefer gated 55-plus age-restricted communities. Identifying your preferred neighborhoods will make your search easier.
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