How to Plan a Worry-free Retirement Lifestyle

It was bound to happen. With the boomer market swelling to over 80 million people by 2020, it’s no wonder that homebuilders are now paying close attention to the needs and desires of mature adults. In fact, according to research from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), almost 150,000 of all new homes in America this year will be built in communities that cater to people 55 years and older. However, the biggest boost to builders of homes for mature adults is that their clients already own homes. NAHB research indicates that half of the buyers in age-restricted communities did not have to take out a mortgage because they made so much money on the sale of their previous homes. Whether you have a lot of equity built up in your home, or are starting from scratch, here are some ideas on how you should go about finding a place to live that satisfies your needs as you grow older.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Look for a maintenance free or minimal maintenance home. You've probably cut the lawn hundreds of times, and have been worried about the next expensive thing that will go wrong with your house. Now is the time to find a place where those are problems for someone else to manage. Your home should be the last thing to stand in your way to a care-free life.
2. Look for amenities that will let you "age in place", because you want to avoid a later move. Think about having the master bedroom on the first floor, higher sitting commodes, showers with built-in benches for sitting, and easier handling faucets. Also, if you can afford it, you should consider having an extra bedroom for family visits. All of these features are intended to make living easier as you deal with the inevitable.
3. Think about moving to a master-planned community where you can easily socialize with others your age and take advantage of is many amenities. In many of these communities, the standard gym has mushroomed into a 5,000-square-foot fitness center, and clubhouses have become the norm, each aimed at encouraging social interaction. Also, many have health care facilities on-site when you need them.

Tips & Warnings

• You're about to make a decision that could affect the rest of your life. Take your time, and look at all your options even if you have limited resources. With some planning, you will soon begin enjoying life in ways you never considered possible.