• Garage, for small houses and if you have a vehicle • Stairs/levels: Many seniors prefer one-level homes as they age so they don’t have to worry about stairs in case there are any mobility or health issues; also, trips or falls down the stairs (and potential injuries as a result) become more of a risk for seniors • Yard (size, fenced-in, etc.), patio, deck, garage — these are some features that are needs from some buyers who are downsizing; for others, they are just wants; and for still others, they’re on neither list, because they’re not going to be a priority in the next stage of their lives So, it’s your job to really consider what you need in your next home, and then write those non-negotiable items down on your list.
FIGURE OUT WHAT YOU WANT
After you’ve established what your needs are in terms of your new home, regardless of which type of dwelling you choose to live out this next season of your life, and put them down on paper, it’s time to think about what you want. You might have a hard time thinking of what you might want — rather than what you need — when picturing your next home. How do you know what’s a want, not a need? One way is to think of wants or desires as features that make the home more attractive or enjoyable. Features like countertops, cabinet styles, even kitchen appliances can be considered wants rather than needs. For example, you might need a smaller home without stairs and with an extra bedroom to host overnight guests and other family members, but you could hire someone to update the countertops or cabinets. And while kitchen appliances are certainly nice to have in a new 109
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