Moving to a new home is never a simple process, but when you're downsizing for retirement finding the perfect home can feel impossible. After a lifetime of accumulating possessions, furniture, and memories, it can be a challenge to find a home that will accommodate everything you want to keep without feeling cramped or crowded.
To help you downsize to the perfect home, we’ve put together our top four tips below:
1. Think About Location
Location is always important when moving house, and is particularly important when looking for a home to retire in. Once you retire you’ll have more free time than ever before, allowing you to spend time in your neighbourhood and local community. It's always a good idea to look in areas that you're happiest spending your time - if you prefer a busier, more happening environment make sure you purchase a property close to town so it is easy to walk down to the local shops and cafes. On the other hand, if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, make sure you choose an area where you will be able to enjoy the serenity.
It’s also ideal to move closer to other family members as this will make it more convenient to spend time with them (and easy to call on them for a favour when needed)!
2. Plan Ahead
As we age, our mobility often suffers. Rather than looking at homes with flights of stairs on the property, opt for a single-level floor plan. Open floor plans with wide hallways are also ideal in case wheelchair access is required at some point down the track.
Some builders such as Swanbuild have designed an extensive range of homes to cater specifically for the needs of retirees. For example, the Estate Living Series features multiple single-level floor plans to help take the stress out of designing a retiree friendly home from scratch. Spending time to plan ahead at this stage will allow you to stay in your home as long as possible without having to worry about changes in your mobility.
3. Know What You're Keeping
Before you can select the right house for your needs, you'll want to know exactly which pieces of furniture you plan to keep. Measure these items and make notes of their dimensions. This will help you figure out which plan can accommodate your furnishings without making the home feel crowded.
It can be hard to keep only the items you really LOVE but try to be strict – it will make your new home all the more comfortable in the long term.
4. Opt for Low Maintenance
If you’re ready to downsize your home, chances are you’re hoping to start spending more time with family and friends and less time doing chores or maintenance around the house. This is an important factor when selecting the home you will transition in to. Generally, it’s best to avoid older or run down houses as these are going to require ongoing maintenance.
Don’t fall in to the trap of immediately ruling out a new home – the benefits, both lifestyle and financial, might surprise you. In particular, modular homes can be a great option as they offer an affordable, stress free way to build a brand new home in as little as 15 weeks. Builders such as Swanbuild have numerous plans to select from, all of which can be completely customised to suit your specific needs. And as all homes are inspected and approved by an independent architect, PLUS come with a 7 year builders warranty, you can sleep easy knowing you are covered for years to come.
It's never too early to start the search for your new home as it is a decision that takes time and due consideration. If you would like further advice or to talk in more detail about your specific needs, please contact us for an obligation free consultation with one of our friendly team.