As We Age, There is No Place Like Home by Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) Janet Oppenheimer

Staying in the home you love and maintaining a sense of independence is incredibly important. A special thank you to Janet Oppenheimer, a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) and a trusted mountain community advisor in Asheville, NC, for sharing some ideas!

I hate to say it, but unfortunately we are all aging! And with aging, comes constrictions that will start to occur within the home- steps, high kitchen cabinets, lips on shower stalls, tubs, toilet height, just to name a few.

When I decided to get my real estate license after my official retirement in my late 60’s, one thing was very clear to me. I wanted to be able to help those that are on life journeys such as I am on, and having thoughts of living in homes that meet current and future lifestyle needs.

For seniors and many in our boomer population, homes are significant both financially and emotionally. “… home is more than just a place they live. It represents their journey, their accomplishments, their family, and the life they have created,” says the American Advisors Group’s “Importance of Home Survey.”

In addition, older Americans feel safe at home and value their independence. This may be a good thought to keep in mind when considering downsizing or moving to an assisted or independent living environment reluctantly.

There are certainly other avenues available. After all, 92% of seniors said they’d prefer to live in their current home instead of moving to an assisted living facility. The Covid-19 pandemic only solidified seniors’ desire to stay home.

On the financial front, more than half (55%) of seniors in the survey are on good footing and have paid off their homes and live mortgage-free. Seventy-three percent of seniors say their home is now their most valuable asset, with 74% saying that buying a home was their best financial decision.

These surveys and statistics back up the ever-growing popularity of ‘Aging in Place.’ The majority of my current clients are seeking one level living with little or no steps. The ability to have or transition to ‘age friendly’ conveniences in a home is a paramount selling point for many buyers.

As a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) living in the Asheville, NC area, Janet is dedicated to assisting you in your journey, no matter what age or place you are in life. And, as a trusted mountain community advisor, Janet brings strong connections, skills and resources to support the client every step of the way, helping to navigate the challenges of the buying or selling process.