Whenever you set about planning for a move to a new home, particularly if you are an experienced homeowner, you usually don’t need to create a whole new priority list of factors you’ll be looking for.
But by the time you have capped off a full career and retirement is around the bend, you’re well advised to give added weight to factors that weren’t key considerations in previous house hunts. One source of advice for Greenwich residents intent on finding the best retirement property is the NAEBA a real estate association for exclusive buyer agents. Admittedly, their list of seven “basic considerations for locating the best retirement property” includes some that are hardly limited to future retirees. Two of them (“affordability” and “security”) are prime considerations for Greenwich house hunters of every stripe. But their list of factors that are especially important in retirement includes these four:
Maintenance Realistically, even the most enthusiastic do-it-yourself putterers will eventually encounter physical limitations. Taking that into account can ultimately “be a literal lifesaver.”
Mobility If Greenwich homes featuring ground floor master bedroom suites are increasingly in demand, this is one good reason.
Convenience Your best retirement property is likely to be one with amenities within easy walking distance. Close proximity to golf or tennis facilities, shopping (Greenwich Ave., Glenville center, Cos Cob and Old Greenwich all fit the bill here), and dining will make keeping active a low-stress daily option.
Pets Not often given a high enough priority, the emotional and physical benefits of life with the right choice of 4-footed or 2-winged friends is a factor worth considering. The best retirement property could well be one that easily accommodates them.
A youthful outlook is worth adopting throughout life but realistic accommodation to advancing age is actually a shrewd way to maintain exactly that. If retirement will factor into the choice for your next Greenwich home, give me a call.
