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If you’re a senior or are helping a senior loved one shop for their forever home, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Everything from location and price to the home’s interior and exterior features should be considered before you make a down payment. But never fear, if you’re searching for a home to live out your golden years, all it takes is a little preparation, a bit of forward thinking, and help from a reputable real estate agent. Ready to learn more? Spring Creek Homeowners Association invites you to read on!

Is aging in place right for me?

There’s truly only one person that can answer that question, and that is yourself. Unfortunately, it’s often difficult to be completely honest about how we feel about living alone in our senior years. But there are some things that shouldn’t be overlooked, such as if you need hands-on daily care, can no longer handle cleaning and food preparation, or if your mental health is beginning to take a toll because of isolation and depression. 

In this case, your time and energy might be best directed at looking for an assisted living arrangement that can meet your needs. Fortunately, there are many options for seniors today who choose to “age in community,” including finding a roommate or moving into an in-law apartment in your children’s home. Throughout Texas, you can expect to pay an average of $3,545 per month for assisted living. Take your time, do your research online and in person, and narrow down your selection only to places where you feel comfortable.

When you want to live alone

If you’ve had a heart-to-heart with yourself and decided that, yes, you do prefer to age in the comfort of your own home, great. As they say, there’s no place like home. But before you start your house hunt, make a list of features and amenities that you simply can’t live without. You can then cross-reference these to practical elements of your future living arrangements to ensure you get the best of both worlds: safety and personal satisfaction.

To start, decide whether you want to live in a condo so that you can be close to all the action, or if you prefer a house outside of the city. 

When you begin viewing properties look for:

• Single-level living. As we get older, stairs can get challenging, even if we remain in great health. Look for a property that offers all you need on the first floor. This should include a living space, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry area.
• Senior-friendly flooring. Linoleum, cork, and rubber are all great choices for seniors. These types of flooring are a bit softer than hardwood and tile, but they don’t pose quite the same tripping hazard as carpet. Sites like Home Life Daily can help you check out reviews to determine the best choice for your circumstances and budget. 
• A safe bathroom. The bathroom is known as one of the most hazardous rooms in the home. Caring for yourself in your senior years means that you’ll need to prioritize the bathroom. If possible, look for a property with a shower or bath that you do not have to step over to enter. Once you are moved in, you can install grab bars and non-slip mats for added security.
• A location that’s convenient. When you want to enjoy your senior years, convenience is key. No matter what type of property you choose, make sure it puts you in close proximity to the things you love. You also want to make sure that you have access to public transportation. 

One of the most important considerations for your new home will be affordability. Consider your annual income, monthly expenses, and property taxes in your target area. To get a rough estimate, use a mortgage loan calculator to help you crunch the numbers. You can research local home prices online, but it’s a good idea to connect with an experienced real estate specialist to go over your options. 

Your future is waiting. Whether you choose the safety of assisted living or the ultimate freedom of aging in place, take the time to research your options. Remember, no two seniors are alike, and your living arrangement should be as unique as you.