Facebook
According to statistics from the National Association of Realtors, the median age for first-time
homebuyers is 32. And, while their golden years are decades away, it still makes sense for
those real estate newbies to think about their wants and needs as they age. Indeed, another set
of statistics from an AARP survey shows 71 percent of people between 50 and 64 want to age
in place and 87 percent of people 65 and older want to stay in their current homes and
communities as they age.
For those who plan to stay put once they buy a home, it makes sense not to take on too much
square footage. And, if you opt for a more modest home, you’ll probably have plenty to choose
from given the average square footage of new single-family homes built in 2016 actually
declined slightly after years of increases. So this might be the perfect time to shed some stuff
and settle into your family’s forever home.
Letting Go
But deciding what to get rid of isn’t always easy. Some items have sentimental value.
Homebuyers might also hesitate when it comes to getting rid of items including children’s
clothing or financial documents they may or may not need some day. Following the rule of “one
in, one out” is a great place to start in regard to downsizing.
When downsizing documents, it’s important to remember many are available online these days.
It’s also pretty simple to digitize documents and store them electronically, which will not only cut
clutter, but makes them easier to access. Likewise, it might be time to let go of most of those
CDs, DVDs and books, considering many are probably available through your local library or a
streaming service you already subscribe to.
When it comes to clothes, a widely accepted rule of thumb recommends getting rid of anything
you haven’t worn in a year. With kids’ clothes, you might think you’ll be able to use them as
hand-me-downs. But what are the odds they’ll be the right size in the right season for younger
siblings? If you aren’t sure, it might make more sense to let them go and shop second-hand or
hit up friends and family for gently used kids’ clothes in the future.
For doubtful downsizers, it could be worthwhile to bring in professional help. Getting rid of
unused items will make your move smoother, cut costs, and save sweat on moving day. Plus,
you can always cover the cost of hiring a professional organizer by selling unneeded items
through sites like eBay, Decluttr, ThreadUp and BookFinder.
Planning Ahead
While you might not want to install grab bars in your new home’s bathroom, there are plenty of
seamless modifications you can make right now if you’re renovating or remodeling that will
make aging in place easier. Many modifications also come with some immediate advantages for
younger homeowners.
For instance, you might want put in slip-resistant flooring, particularly in the kitchen and
bathrooms, and opt for low-pile carpeting. An added bonus for those with kids and pets: low-pile
carpets are often easier to clean and maintain. Similarly, widening the gap between counters
and your kitchen island will make it more maneuverable for wheelchair users in the future. For
now, it’s creating a space that’s more conducive to multiple cooks in the kitchen. And walk-in
showers increase accessibility for older or disabled homeowners. Plus, they can create an
expansive, spa-like atmosphere for people of any age.
If you approach it with the right attitude and the end goal in mind, downsizing doesn’t have to be
a dirty word. And it could help you settle into a space that will be your happy home for decades
to come.
*Article Courtesy of Jane Rogers, Book Launch PR*
502-883-6070
