How to choose the best retirement home

One of the most important things to consider when you retire is the kind of home you want to move to. More than any other home purchase, choosing the right retirement home comes with some special considerations.

What kind of activities will you pursue when you retire?

There are a number of developments and communities in the Wenatchee area for over-50s and retirees. But what’s the right one for you? Consider the kind of lifestyle you want to lead after your retirement, as this can help you narrow down the ideal community, neighborhood, and property type.

• Aim for an Active Adult Community if you plan to remain physically active. These communities typically offer sports and recreational amenities like tennis courts or pools, as well as easy access to nearby golf courses, trails, and parks.
• Continuing Care Communities are ideal if you want progressive care as you age. You can begin with independent living (no healthcare supervision) and later move on to skilled healthcare facilities (if you begin to need ongoing medical attention) right in the same community.

However, while being part of a condo or community offers convenience , it comes with a price. Look at homeowners’ association (HOA) dues and community rules. If you find the dues too stiff or the regulations regid, look elsewhere.

How much space do you need when you downsize?

When your kids have left the nest, the family home may now be too big for your needs. A smaller dwelling like a condo might fit your evolving needs. If you need to occasionally host weekend guests like family or friends, look for a more compact single-family home in a retirement or age-restricted community. You can still live in the kind of dwelling you’ve been used to, but modified to your needs, in a gated community and with perks and amenities of your choosing.

What special features do you require?

Homes in retirement communities are designed to accommodate the lifestyle of the resident they cater to, so you can expect some if not all of the following features:

• Wide doors, hallways, and open floor plans
• A layout that’s navigable with mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers
• Ramps
• Grab bars in bathrooms
• Lever-type hardware in place of door knobs or as kitchen and bathroom taps
• Slip-resistant floors
• Easy access to pantry items via open shelving
• Fold-down seats or benches in the shower
• Extra lights in entrance ways, halls, bathrooms, and kitchens
• Microwave drawers
• Railings near steps or sloping surfaces

The features above can also be considered should you simply wish to improve the safety and layout of your current home. Think, too, of altering the height and position of your appliances so they’re easier to access.

If you’re looking for the right retirement home in the Wenatchee, Leavenworth or Cashmere areas, get in touch with Coldwell Banker Cascade Real at 509.888.8887 or at info(at)cbcascade(dotted)com Our team of expert real estate agents helps you find the right home or community for your budget and needs.