For many people, their first custom-built home will end up being their retirement home. As such, there are some things that must be taken into consideration that may not even be on your radar right now. Even something as small as a large step into a tub-shower enclosure could present a challenge in future years, so it might as well be addressed now rather than adding to costs down the road.
Accessibility
To that point we made in the introduction, accessibility will be a major concern during your retirement years. For that reason, we see a lot of people move to single-floor floor plans when they are designing a home that will be their retirement home. Also consider wide doorways for each wheelchair access, non-slip flooring, and walk-in showers.
Future Proofing
Think of the things you may need as you get older for balance and stability. For instance, a support bar near the toilet, grab bars on the back and sides of the shower or tub enclosure, and shower head that is removable rather than fixed. Also consider the height and placement of storage spaces, things of that nature, that could present a challenge as you get older.
Low Maintenance
We have often talked about using higher-quality materials to ensure the home lasts, but this also comes into play regarding the future maintenance of the home. As you get older, you don’t want to be bogged down with an endless stream of home maintenance tasks, nor do you want to use your retirement income to pay off bills from handymen.
Leisure Time
Obviously, when you retire, you are going to have a lot more time for leisure, so keep this in mind with the design. Maybe this means a pool, a cornhole pit, a horseshoe pit, or a small putting or chipping green in the yard. Perhaps you want to design a woodworking shop in the garage, or set up one of the extra bedrooms as a crafting room… I am sure you get the idea of where we are going here.
Community
Picking the right community to build your home is also essential. If you enjoy quiet, you surely do not want to pick a community that is bustling with children. You should also choose an area where healthcare is nearby because we all know those trips to doctors and hospitals get far more frequent with every passing birthday.
Outdoor Spaces
Just because you are home does not mean you want to be inside all the time. Consider a garden area, perhaps a Gazebo that you can use for reading in the spring and fall, things of that nature. Get out there and enjoy that fresh morning air with a cup of coffee! That sunshine will do you good, so create an inviting space where you can enjoy it.
Need Help?
If you are looking to design a custom-built home that will work for your retirement years, consider using Better Build Now for construction consultant services or as your residential construction project manager. For more information or to find out how we can help, give us a call at 888-402-4180.