How to Build a Retirement Home for Independent Living
Consider Downsizing Your Existing Home’s Square Footage
Some homes are already laid out so rooms can be closed off and not used. If you own a 2 story and a bedroom is on the downstairs floor, think about closing off the upstairs to eliminate heating and cooling costs. Plus, limited cleaning will be required for that upstairs space. If your home is on one floor, simply do not use several bedrooms and maybe one bath. If you definitely want to buy a new retirement home, then the next choices apply to independent living in your new retirement home.
For Independent Living, Build For Two
Some couples make the mistake of overspending on square footage for a retirement home just because they have the money. They should focus on building a 1500 to 1600 square foot retirement home that still provides ample room for visits from children and grandchildren. A couple’s plan for independent living should include downsizing square footage of their new retirement home NOW. They will be glad they won’t need to make this downsizing decision again.
Build A One-Story Home
None of us plan for ill health but if it comes, we don’t think of independent living as climbing stairs huffing and puffing. A one story house is just easier to live in and doesn’t create as many issues for people that will be aging (as we all are).
Create Outdoor Living Space
Attached porches, sunrooms, or a lanai make wonderful extended areas for entertaining and independent living in your retirement home. Since you may have decreased your inside living space, use outside space as an extension of your home.
Build At Least Three Bedrooms
Your retirement home is more saleable with three bedrooms should you decide to move. Independent living requires independent thinking and you may want a change of scenery some day. You will want to maximize your initial investment and three bedrooms are a must.
Build At a Minimum Two Bathrooms
Almost everyone wants an additional bathroom even if it’s just for guests. Your retirement home will be inviting to anyone that enters as you share your independent living with others.
Your Retirement Home Should Be Maintenance Free
Go vinyl all the way including vinyl-clad windows that tilt for cleaning and vinyl siding. Your vision of independent living should be free of future expenses such as painting the house or window trim. Invest in a 30 or 40 year warranty for the roof covering of your choice. Choose gas or propane heating as they burn more efficiently and place the same kind of fireplace in the room most used. Consider some source of backup heating. Go with solar heating if at all possible.
Limit The Amount of Grass Mowed
Landscape the outside of your retirement home by placing stone covered patio areas scattered throughout your yard. Be sure to place 6 mil black plastic under the stone first to eliminate weeds and grass forever. If you do plant grass, buy zoysia plugs that grow out not up, and will save mowing weekly.
Put Vinyl On All The Floors
Vinyl, laminate and tile is now available that is easy to clean and looks wonderful. Independent living means that you live so freely you can just pick up and travel at a moment’s notice. These floors will make your retirement home a joy to clean, you will breathe better and you won’t be wondering what lives under the carpet.
Build Green For Health
People are getting very green conscious these days and building your retirement home should include every green product you can find. Your improved health will encourage others to consider independent living as their goal.
Building a retirement home is an important choice for anyone that desires independent living. When you build or find the perfect retirement home for continued independent living, rejoice for your wise choices.
