That housing needs change as people get older goes without
saying. For Metairie Baby Boomers, the “getting older” concept has gradually
morphed from the distant abstraction it seemed in the 60’s and 70’s to a more
immediate concern. And of all the decisions that will have the most impact on
those nearing their golden years, buying the right Metairie home—one that makes
the most sense for the future—tops the list.
Boomers have heard and read much advice about buying a
home; advice having to do with downsizing, mobility issues and the like. Most
of it is cautionary…and not very cheerful. But suddenly weighing into seniors’ “buying
a home” deliberations is a contrary point of view: one that many of them have apparently
begun to suspect on their own. It’s news that could be of considerable
importance, not only for their own age group, but for younger adults as well:
Growing older doesn’t seem to be nearly as dire as everyone
has been led to believe.
Last
Monday, “Why Everything You Know about Aging is Probably Wrong” led The Wall Street Journal’s special insert
on planning and living “in the new retirement.” Its lead article dissected the
most common preconceptions Americans have about aging, including the expected
declines in mind, body, productivity, and stereotypes of growing loneliness and
depression. “Everyone knows that as we age…life becomes less satisfying and
enjoyable,” the Journal reported…followed
by what a wide range of research shows: “Everyone, it seems, is wrong.”
Among the scientists quoted was the former director of a
Baltimore study that has been underway for three decades. Of the widespread notion
of the aged as being depressed, cranky, and irritable, etc., he says they
constitute no more than 10% of the older population. The remaining 90% are “not
like that at all.” Another Stanford study showed that as participants aged,
their moods improved!
This may or may not change how we approach buying a home for
our latter years, but to the extent that it’s a 180-degree reversal from what
most of us have always believed about what to expect next, it should warrant at
least a thoughtful examination of how we choose.
Common wisdom: Downsizing. Baby boomers who stay in large houses are
probably spending more money than necessary; cleaning unused rooms may be too
physically taxing, etc.
Second thought:
“Extra” rooms may be needed to accommodate new hobbies, visiting children and
grandkids.
Common wisdom: Mobility. Must be a single-level home;
mobility issues are paramount.
Second thought:
Stairs provide regular mild exercise; greatest threats to physical well-being
are inactivity (and over-exercise).
Common wisdom: Budgeting. A budget showing exactly how much
can be afforded when renting or buying a home is critical. It should include
taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other expenses.
Second
thought: No research changes this one: buying a house in retirement should always
be based on solid budget realities.
Whether you’re retirement-bound, buying your next
Metairie home sets the table for the coming years in so many ways it’s vital to
base your selection on reality rather than myth. Once you’ve set your course, I’m
standing by to help find your dream house in all the many ways that I can put
at your disposal.
Questions about buying or selling a home?
Call Terez B. Harris
504.297.2619
View Homes For Sale in Metairie
View Homes For Sale in New Orleans
Terez B. Harris
Terez Harris NOLA Realtor Group
Terez Harris NOLA Realtor Group
(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
TerezHarris@kw.com
Search the MLS!
(multiple listing service)
Search Terez's Active Listings!
TerezHarris@kw.com
Search the MLS!
(multiple listing service)
Search Terez's Active Listings!
Terez B. Harris Terez Harris NOLA Realtor Group 504-297-2619 www.TerezHarris.com
Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers and agents licensed in the state of Louisiana.
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