Real Estate and Retrofitting Senior Homes

Approximately 90% of seniors are now retiring in our area. There is a dire need to provide better housing for our aging population. Unmet demands for this segment of the population are crucial, although senior housing has come quite a ways in the past few years. Seniors, as we know, are used to and are attached to the dwelling they’ve been occupying for many years and, for most, their desire is to remain in their homes and the comfort of their surroundings. Having to give up furniture, space, and family gatherings is emotionally draining on many. Their concerns on how furniture will fit in a new dwelling are common for many who have had their belongings for years as well. Retrofitting their current homes is a very viable way to satisfy their desire to continue to enjoy their homes where there lifestyle needs little change and they can continue to accommodate the gathering of family and friends. Retrofitting also means making changes both in the interior and the exterior of their home to accommodate the aging process and any challenges that may arise during their “golden years’ journey. One of the advantages to the home modification process is allowing baby boomers who are coming up on their “golden years” to have homes available to them for sale that currently fit their lifestyle, that of a spouse or will be prepared for them for the future and any issues that may arise. This is an untouched market that will flourish in the coming years. Having been the listing brokerage for a Senior Development, I was made aware first hand of the wants, desires, concerns and burdens of seniors having to give up their homes & downscale to a new location. Considering changes of furniture, space and family gatherings is often overwhelming for many of them. The concerns of how furniture will fit in a new dwelling is a common concern for many who have had their belongings for years, as well, and who are attached to things from the past. Retrofitting homes to accommodate the aging solves a myriad of problems for both current seniors and baby boomers soon to see this lifestyle a reality. As a REALTOR I would much rather see contented home-owners who can, at some point, pass on their home through sale to those with similar needs in the future. There is an abundance in the market for retrofitting and new senior housing to co-exist and satisfy the wants and desires of the senior population both current and future.
For more information on real estate and the market for senior housing, contact: Robin S. Carbone Broker/Owner, Director Dutchess County Board of REALTORS®
Genesis Heritage Real Estate
447 Route 376 Hopewell Jct.
New York 12533
845-226-6610 Bus 845-226-7910 Fax 2009