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Homebuilders are
giving lots of attention to older Americans, and there’s good reason. There
are lots of these "new" buyers, they have lots of money, and there are
more of them every day. Researchers at the
Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, such as Chief Economist Dr. Mark
G. Dotzour, are quick to make note of how homebuilders are scrambling to cater
to this growing home-buying segment. "These
homebuyers seek less ostentation and pretension," says Dotzour. "They
don’t lust for attention like generations past. Sleek homes devoid of clutter
are highly sought after. Older buyers want a home filled with relaxing
attributes, without maintenance hassles, with lots of storage and anything that
makes living easier — fewer rooms, cleaner lines, humbler materials, natural
light and open space." Older Americans
want big kitchens where they can entertain but that don’t require much upkeep.
For example, granite countertops are gaining popularity. Extras such as wine
coolers and warming drawers are requested more frequently. Islands abound in new
kitchens. Formal and informal eating-places are important. "Great rooms
are still great," says Dotzour, "but the formal living room-dining
room is dead. As far as older homeowners are concerned, the more light, the
better, especially in the kitchen." As Americans age,
they often long for the kind of neighborhood they remember growing up in. They
want to know their neighbors; they want the feeling of community. And they want
their house to have individuality — no cookie-cutter tracts for them. "There is a
trend to understate the home’s entrance," says Dotzour. "unlike the
grand foyers of past designs. Homebuilders who market successfully to the
emerging older buyer are stressing creation of lifestyle. Builders use the
entire lot and emphasize to the homeowner how to get the most out of it." Guests houses are a
major home-building trend. Also called "casitas," they are detached
houses or guest quarters some distance from the master suite. Courtyards are
gaining favor, too, as buyers like the idea of being outside but not being in
view of the neighbors. Outdoor fireplaces, pools and fountains make the
courtyards ideal for entertaining and privacy. When it comes to
the master suite, older buyers have a universal request — put it on the ground
floor. Luxurious baths with large whirlpool tub, showers with multiple shower
heads and separate his and her vanities and toilets are all features being
requested more often. More master suites are coming with an area or room
dedicated for exercise equipment. Public gyms have given way to keeping in shape
in the home sanctuary. After all, these older homebuyers can afford it. Here are some of
the other trends Dotzour and other researchers have noted in recent months are
gaining popularity with older homebuyers. At least one home
entrance is covered, has a lighted doorbell and features a shelf where someone
can lay items they are carrying. Keyless entries are advantageous. Lighting for
specific tasks has increased. Pulls
and door handles are easy to use, even for the arthritic. Light switches are lower — within easy reach of visiting
grandchildren and those in wheel chairs. Doors
and hallways are wider — again to accommodate wheel chairs.
The dishwasher and other appliances are self diagnosing and at an easily
accessible height. Kitchens have knee
space in case the cook is in a wheel chair; counter space height varies, and
there’s a sink near the cook top. Shelves roll out and carts roll into the
cabinets for use when needed. Important items are within reach. Kitchens are where
the whole family can gather to visit and cook. Baths and showers
have low or no threshold or tub deck. Remote controls for the bath, wide doors
and lots of room to maneuver are featured. Master suites with
his and her around-the-corner facilities (if not totally separate) are becoming
more prevalent. Mud-rooms, walk-in
closets and pantries and whole-room laundries are appearing on more wish lists. Homes are situated
on premium lots, and owners like having a clubhouse to entertain or visit with
neighbors. Because many older
homeowners continue to work, communities closer to town remain popular. Recreation may be
limited, but the most popular forms are golf, tennis, walking and swimming.
Patio homes on the perimeter of assisted-living communities have appeal,
both as sales and rentals. Technology is no
stranger to older Americans, and homes or community centers with Internet access
are popular with them. "Decompression
rooms" with big windows and ample doors encourage relaxation. Many older American
homebuyers never really retire. They continue to work in second or third
careers, often out of home offices. They are health conscious. Such homebuyers
want to feel in control and have a strong sense of individuality. As far as
commuting, they’ve been there and done that. If living can be
made easier, older homebuyers are interested. And, if you have a home at the
beach or on a mountain for sale, you might mention it to one of them. Second
homes are gaining in popularity, particularly among the older generation. But
that’s another column. |
