Agents, Builders Target Growing Downsizers Market

According to a recent article in the Chattanooga Times Free Press, real estate agents and developers are turning their attention to the aging population.

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Seniors real estate specialists, or SRES, a designation by the Senior Advantage Real Estate Council, agree that many homeowners over the age of 50 prefer to « downsize » into homes with no stairs, a level yard and community-provided maintenance. Other common requests include homes accessible to people with disabilities, ample bathroom storage spaces for medicine, and secure neighborhoods.

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As a result, builders are increasingly changing home designs to accommodate these requests. One common example is placing the laundry room directly off the kitchen, rather than in its traditional location in the basement.

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SRES-designated agents often work with financial experts such as accountants, attorneys and financial planners to help their clients do comprehensive estate planning that includes finding a smaller home. For additional information, read the complete article, available on HousingZone.com.