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Essential Conversations When Moving Near Family
Considering a relocation to be closer to family?
The prospect of moving near loved ones can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to navigating shifts in family dynamics. Research indicates that for older adults, this transition can be particularly challenging due to three key stressors:
- Loss of established social networks: Moving to a new location often means leaving behind cherished friendships and community ties built over the years. This loss can leave individuals feeling disconnected and isolated.
- Managing expectations within the family: Proximity to family members can sometimes come with heightened expectations and obligations. Balancing these expectations while maintaining personal autonomy can be a source of tension and stress.
- Coping with increased caregiving responsibilities: Moving closer to family may also mean assuming a greater role in caregiving for aging relatives. This added responsibility can lead to feelings of dependency and overwhelm.
If you find yourself grappling with any of these challenges, initiating conversations about boundaries with your family members can be immensely beneficial in easing the transition. But what exactly are boundaries?
Boundaries are the guidelines you establish within your relationships, delineating how you allocate your time, energy, and resources. Contrary to shutting others out, boundaries empower you to determine the terms under which you engage with others, ensuring a healthy balance between connection and personal space within your life and home.
Setting and discussing boundaries is crucial for building and maintaining strong family relationships, especially when considering a move closer to family. By establishing clear guidelines and fostering mutual understanding and cooperation, you can address different expectations and facilitate a smoother transition for everyone involved.
Remember, you have the autonomy to decide how you use your time and resources, while your family members have the freedom to determine what they can offer in return. By respecting each other’s boundaries and needs, you can create a harmonious environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Topics to address to respect family boundaries:
Here are topics you may want to think through by yourself or address with your family members when moving closer together: 1. Do you want your family to help you make new social connections?
2. Do you need someone to help with an infirm spouse to give you breaks?
3. How often would you like to see each other?
4. What kind of support do you want or need?
5. How do you feel about family members staying the night?
6. Are you open to family members dropping by unannounced?
7. Do you plan on sharing keys or garage codes?
8. How long is the ideal visit?
9. Do you want to help with household tasks, including cooking, cleaning, or babysitting?
10. Are you okay with young children visiting your home, or are you worried about noise or breakables?
11. Do you have any house rules you need to communicate to family members? (no shoes, no smoking, no pets etc).
12. What are your concerns about moving closer?
Let a SRES Real Estate Sales Associate, like Jennifer, handle the real estate details, so you can focus on what matters most—your new adventure in life. Jennifer Martire Baukol for all your real estate needs.
“I am committed to providing the most personable, elite and professional customer service.
My promise to you is to
(1) put your interests first,
(2) help you reach your goals quickly,
(3) treat you as she would like to be treated,
(4) focus on the solution not problems, and
(5) provide you with the highest level of attention and feedback.
Whether you need extra room for a home office or nursery, or a smaller home that requires less upkeep and cost, I’ll bring you to the place that’s tailor-made just for you. Servicing Westchester County, New York & Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Contact me today to get started. (914) 584-2211.”
Embracing Swedish Death Cleaning: A Guide to Moving and Downsizing in Senior Real Estate
In the realm of real estate in Westchester County, New York, particularly in senior housing and downsizing, a concept has emerged that transcends mere tidying up or decluttering. It’s called Swedish Death Cleaning, a term coined by Margareta Magnusson in her book “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter.” While the name might sound morbid, the essence of Swedish Death Cleaning revolves around a thoughtful and mindful approach to organizing one’s belongings to ease the burden on loved ones after one’s passing. Let’s delve into the core principles of Swedish Death Cleaning and explore how they can be applied to moving and downsizing in the context of senior real estate.
Understanding Swedish Death Cleaning: Swedish Death Cleaning isn’t about preparing for death but rather about embracing life by simplifying and organizing one’s possessions. It involves systematically decluttering and downsizing belongings to ensure that what remains is meaningful and manageable. The key principles of Swedish Death Cleaning include:
- Start Early: Swedish Death Cleaning encourages individuals to begin the process sooner rather than later. By starting early, seniors can take their time to go through their possessions thoughtfully, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
- Reflect on What Matters: Central to Swedish Death Cleaning is the idea of reflecting on what items hold significance and bring joy. Seniors are encouraged to keep only those belongings that hold sentimental value or serve a practical purpose, letting go of things that no longer resonate with them.
- Letting Go with Gratitude: Parting with possessions can be emotional, but Swedish Death Cleaning encourages individuals to let go with gratitude rather than guilt. By expressing gratitude for the memories associated with an item, seniors can find closure and peace in passing it on to someone else who may benefit from it.
- Streamline for Loved Ones: A core aspect of Swedish Death Cleaning is considering the impact of one’s possessions on loved ones after one’s passing. By decluttering and organizing belongings, seniors can lighten the burden on their family members and ensure a smoother transition in the event of relocation or downsizing.
Applying Swedish Death Cleaning to Moving and Downsizing in Senior Real Estate: The principles of Swedish Death Cleaning align closely with the challenges seniors face when moving or downsizing in the context of real estate. Here’s how these principles can be applied:
- Tailored Downsizing Plans: Real estate professionals can work with seniors to create personalized downsizing plans that align with the principles of Swedish Death Cleaning. This involves identifying essential belongings, sentimental items, and items to let go of with gratitude.
- Emotional Support: Moving and downsizing can be emotionally taxing for seniors. By incorporating the principles of Swedish Death Cleaning, real estate agents can provide empathy and support throughout the process, helping seniors navigate the emotional challenges of letting go.
- Efficient Organization: Swedish Death Cleaning emphasizes the importance of organized living spaces. Real estate professionals can assist seniors in optimizing their living spaces by decluttering, arranging belongings efficiently, and creating a serene environment conducive to their well-being.
- Legacy Planning: Swedish Death Cleaning encourages individuals to consider their legacy and the impact of their possessions on future generations. Real estate professionals can facilitate discussions around legacy planning, helping seniors make informed decisions about their belongings and their estate.
Swedish Death Cleaning offers a refreshing perspective on decluttering and downsizing, emphasizing mindfulness, gratitude, and simplicity. In the realm of senior real estate, incorporating the principles of Swedish Death Cleaning can transform the moving and downsizing process into a meaningful and empowering experience. By embracing Swedish Death Cleaning, seniors can not only streamline their living spaces but also leave behind a legacy of intentionality and thoughtfulness for their loved ones to cherish.
Let a Real Estate Sales Associate, like Jennifer, handle the real estate details, so you can focus on what matters most—your new adventure in life. Jennifer Martire Baukol for all your real estate needs.
“I am committed to providing the most personable, elite and professional customer service.
My promise to you is to
(1) put your interests first,
(2) help you reach your goals quickly,
(3) treat you as she would like to be treated,
(4) focus on the solution not problems, and
(5) provide you with the highest level of attention and feedback.
Whether you need extra room for a home office or nursery, or a smaller home that requires less upkeep and cost, I’ll bring you to the place that’s tailor-made just for you. Servicing Westchester County, New York & Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Contact me today to get started. (914) 584-2211.”
Becoming Your Parents’ Parent
Sometimes, a parent’s decline comes gradually, giving you time and mental energy to plan. At other times, you’re thrust into a full-on caregiving role after a sudden event: a stroke, a fall, or a significant illness.
No matter how you arrive in your caregiving role, you land in unknown territory trying to figure out your parents’ housing, finances, health decisions, and day-to-day care, all while managing your own life and career.
That’s some of what Kim and Mike Barnes faced when they started caring for their parents. It inspired the couple to launch Parenting Aging Parents, a website and online community designed to help others navigate the difficulties of switching roles and becoming parents’ parents.
Shared Personal Journeys
The Barnes share their personal experiences throughout the site in videos and podcasts. Mike’s mom grappled with Alzheimer’s, and he needed to find memory care for her while also ensuring that his father received the proper care at his independent living facility. Kim’s mom had been independent and caring for herself but moved to an independent living building. She’d also been the victim of a scam, after which her kids started managing her finances.
Their story resonates with many who are navigating the complications of caring for aging parents and facing a slew of decisions. If you’re in such a position, Parenting Aging Parents can help you face the incredible physical, financial, and emotional challenges that accompany such a role. The website features information and interviews with experts about everything from dementia, caregiving, and insurance to Medicare, legal topics, and end-of-life considerations.
For example, two attorneys offer insight into the confusing and complicated legal aspects of medical decisions and what you need to know about a medical power of attorney, medical directives, HIPAA releases, and “DNRs” (Do Not Resuscitate) orders.
In addition, housing issues get considerable attention, including discussions about home safety, planning vacations while leaving parents at home, and understanding senior living options.
For instance, during a podcast, Mike discusses his and his sister’s challenges in choosing a memory care facility for his mom. He reflects on how little he comprehended at the beginning of the process and how he’d expected the experience to be like choosing an apartment in his twenties.
Other topics include scam awareness, managing sibling disagreements about parental care, and how to approach the sensitive topic of taking away parents’ car keys.
Strangers Unite for Support
Another component of Parenting Aging Parents is a Facebook group. It’s a robust community of more than 12,000 people who come together to vent, ask questions, share recommendations, learn from one another, and find support and comfort from other people experiencing similar challenges.
Recent conversations have included dealing with narcissistic parents, skilled nursing questions, cell phone recommendations, and convincing a parent that it’s time to consider assisted living.
Further solace for Facebook group members comes from Zoom support groups every other week. Dementia, grief, making tough decisions, family dynamics, caregiver stress, and narcissistic parents are some upcoming topics.
SRES Consumer Newsletter – February 2024 • US Edition – By Elyse Umlauf-Garneau
Let a Real Estate Sales Associate, like Jennifer, handle the real estate details, so you can focus on what matters most—your new adventure in life. Jennifer Martire Baukol for all your real estate needs.
“I am committed to providing the most personable, elite and professional customer service.
My promise to you is to
(1) put your interests first,
(2) help you reach your goals quickly,
(3) treat you as she would like to be treated,
(4) focus on the solution not problems, and
(5) provide you with the highest level of attention and feedback.
Whether you need extra room for a home office or nursery, or a smaller home that requires less upkeep and cost, I’ll bring you to the place that’s tailor-made just for you. Servicing Westchester County, New York & Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Contact me today to get started. (914) 584-2211.”
A GUIDE FOR SENIORS LOOKING TO DOWNSIZE AND RELOCATE
As we gracefully journey through life, there comes a time when our living spaces may need to evolve to better suit our needs. For seniors and their families, the prospect of downsizing, right-sizing, and relocating can be both exciting and challenging. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist with over 15 years of experience I understand the unique set of circumstances that come with such transitions, and we’re here to guide you through a seamless process tailored to your specific needs.
- Embracing Change with Empathy:
I recognize that your home holds a lifetime of memories. My team and network understands the emotional attachment associated with downsizing, and we approach every step with empathy. Together, we’ll navigate the emotional aspects of letting go, ensuring a smooth transition to a new chapter in your life.
- Navigating Legal and Financial Complexities:
Downsizing often involves intricate legal and financial considerations. From property sales to estate planning, our experts are well-versed in the complexities that arise. I will work closely with you and your family to address these aspects, providing clarity and peace of mind throughout the entire process.
- Customized Solutions for Right-Sizing:
Finding the perfect, smaller home that meets your needs is crucial. I specialize in identifying residences that align with your lifestyle preferences and requirements. My goal is to help you right-size – ensuring your new space not only accommodates your current needs but enhances your overall quality of life.
- Creating a Seamless Relocation Experience:
Relocating can be overwhelming, but with a dedicated real estate salesperson, like myself, you won’t have to worry about a thing. Our dedicated team will handle the logistics, coordinating every detail to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. From packing to settling into your new home, I’ve got it covered.
- Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate:
I pride myself on being more than just real estate professionals; I would like to be your partners in this journey. With a commitment to excellence, personalized service, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of seniors, I am here to turn your downsizing dreams into a reality.
Embark on this new chapter confidently, knowing that your real estate agent is by your side, offering a seamless and supportive experience tailored to your specific needs. Let’s simplify your move together – because your next adventure begins with the perfect home.
The decision to assist families in finding safe living situations for their loved ones—whether in assisted living or community living—felt like a calling. It became a mission to provide compassionate support during a critical phase of life.
Whether you are downsizing, “right”-sizing, relocating, selling, or buying a home, I hope to have the opportunity to work with you, your family, and/or friends.
Exceptional real estate service and expertise are at the very heart of my business.
Let a Real Estate Sales Associate, like Jennifer, handle the real estate details, so you can focus on what matters most—your new adventure in life. Jennifer Martire Baukol for all your real estate needs.
“I am committed to providing the most personable, elite and professional customer service.
My promise to you is to
(1) put your interests first,
(2) help you reach your goals quickly,
(3) treat you as she would like to be treated,
(4) focus on the solution not problems, and
(5) provide you with the highest level of attention and feedback.
Whether you need extra room for a home office or nursery, or a smaller home that requires less upkeep and cost, I’ll bring you to the place that’s tailor-made just for you. Servicing Westchester County, New York & Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Contact me today to get started. (914) 584-2211.”
The Tax Advantages of Buying Your Home
Unlocking Financial Benefits:
Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating milestone that goes beyond just having a place to call your own. Beyond the joy of customizing your living space to reflect your personality, lifestyle, and aspirations, buying a home opens the door to a myriad of financial advantages, including the potential for building home equity, leveraging borrowing power, and perhaps most notably, reaping various tax benefits. In fact, the government actively supports and encourages homeownership by offering a range of tax deductions and credits that homeowners can claim each year.
Building Home Equity
One of the primary advantages of homeownership is the ability to build home equity. Unlike renting, where your monthly payments contribute solely to your landlord’s investment, homeownership allows you to gradually accumulate equity as you pay down your mortgage. This equity represents your ownership stake in the property and can be a valuable asset over time.
Leveraging Borrowing Power
Owning a home can also enhance your financial profile and borrowing power. As you make timely mortgage payments and build a positive credit history, you become a more attractive borrower to lenders. This can result in favorable interest rates and loan terms when you seek additional financing, such as for home improvements, education, or other significant investments.
Tax Benefits of Homeownership
One of the most compelling reasons to buy a home is the array of tax benefits that come with it. The government provides incentives for homeownership through various deductions and credits, making it a financially savvy move for many. Here are some key tax advantages to consider:
- Mortgage Interest Deduction: One of the most significant tax benefits for homeowners is the deduction of mortgage interest. The interest paid on your mortgage loan is generally tax-deductible, allowing you to reduce your taxable income.
- Property Tax Deduction: Homeowners can also deduct property taxes paid on their primary residence. This deduction can be especially beneficial in areas with higher property tax rates.
- First-Time Homebuyer Credits: Some governments offer special tax credits for first-time homebuyers. These credits may provide a direct reduction in your tax liability or a refund, offering a financial boost to those entering the housing market for the first time.
- Home Office Deduction: If you use part of your home exclusively for business purposes, you may qualify for a home office deduction. This can include a percentage of your mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, and home maintenance costs.
- Capital Gains Exclusion: When you sell your primary residence, you may be eligible for a capital gains exclusion. This allows you to exclude a certain amount of the profit from the sale (up to a limit) from your taxable income, provided certain criteria are met.
Encouraging Homeownership
These tax benefits are not only designed to lighten the financial burden of homeownership but also to encourage individuals and families to invest in real estate. By providing these incentives, governments aim to stimulate economic growth, promote stable communities, and foster a sense of financial security among citizens.
Conclusion
Purchasing your first home is an exciting journey that extends far beyond the aesthetic joy of personalizing your space. The financial advantages, including the potential to build equity, leverage borrowing power, and capitalize on tax benefits, make homeownership a wise and rewarding investment. As you embark on this journey, be sure to explore and take advantage of the various tax incentives available, turning your dream of homeownership into a financially savvy reality.
Let a Real Estate Sales Associate, like Jennifer, handle the real estate details, so you can focus on what matters most—your new adventure in life. Jennifer Martire Baukol for all your real estate needs.
“I am committed to providing the most personable, elite and professional customer service.
My promise to you is to
(1) put your interests first,
(2) help you reach your goals quickly,
(3) treat you as she would like to be treated,
(4) focus on the solution not problems, and
(5) provide you with the highest level of attention and feedback.
Whether you need extra room for a home office or nursery, or a smaller home that requires less upkeep and cost, I’ll bring you to the place that’s tailor-made just for you. Servicing Westchester County, New York & Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Contact me today to get started. (914) 584-2211.”
9 New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home
Traditional New Year’s resolutions usually entail diet, exercise, and weight loss. Why not take a different approach in 2024 by channeling your energy into home upgrades that can enhance your comfort, safety, and enjoyment now and possibly increase the resale value of your home down the road?
Here are nine ideas:
- Remove home hazards. Identify and eliminate tripping hazards that could cause injuries as you age. They include rugs, wires, clutter, and furniture that doesn’t give you clear pathways in, out, or through a room.
- Plan aging-in-place upgrades. Start saving and planning for significant aging-in-place upgrades. They may include replacing flooring and carpet, replacing a tub with a walk-in shower, installing ramps or chair lifts, lowering kitchen countertops to accommodate a wheelchair, or installing pull-out shelving. It also could include adding an ADU in the backyard to house a caretaker or redesigning your house to make it conducive to multi-generational living.
- Install smart technology. Look into technologies like Amazon Echo and Google Home that allow you to use voice commands to take care of tasks like monitoring home security, controlling the thermostat, and unlocking doors. Such technology also improves a home’s energy efficiency. For more tech ideas, see here.
- Conduct a home energy audit. A professional home energy auditor (find one here) can zero in on where you’re losing energy—insulation, HVAC system, windows, and so forth—and recommend fixes that will cut utility costs and increase comfort. Another less expensive option is doing a DIY energy audit. Learn how here.
- Explore new technologies. Many don’t plan for the end of life for critical systems like HVAC and water heaters or appliances. But when they fail, you’re left scrambling with little time to comparison shop or consider more efficient options like heat pumps. Research and shop now to pick something that delivers energy efficiency, long-term cost savings, and environmental benefits. Learn more about heat pumps for heating and cooling options here, heat pump water heater options here, and heat pump dryer options here.
- Reduce energy costs. Upgrade your appliances to Energy Star models when it’s time for replacements. They reduce energy consumption and utility costs and are more environmentally friendly than older models. Switching to an Energy Star fridge, for example, can save you about $230 over its 12-year lifetime compared to older models.
- Find incentives. An array of financial incentives for energy-efficient home upgrades can reduce your upfront costs. Some are Federal, while others are state or local incentives. Also, check with your local utility company. Some companies offer free lightbulbs, energy audits, and rebates. Find incentives at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency®.
- Plan routine maintenance. Establish a maintenance schedule and add the tasks to your calendar. Planning prevents small problems from becoming expensive fixes. Here are some to-dos:
- Change furnace filters monthly
- Inspect the roof for damage
- Clean gutters
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Trim trees and bushes
- Clean and inspect the chimney
- Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps and cracks
- Schedule a check-up for your HVAC system
- Flush the water heater
- Replace Batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Do appliance maintenance
- Get organized. Decluttering and home organization has become a booming industry with professional organizers, books and TV shows, and an array of home storage systems. Plus, there are multiple methods, from Marie Kondo’s spark joy approach to Swedish death cleaning. What’s key is finding a strategy that works for you and that you can sustain. One option is Apartment Therapy’s annual January Cure, a free, 18-day program that sends daily tasks to help you achieve a cleaner, organized home.
By Elyse Umlauf-Garneau
Let a Real Estate Sales Associate, like myself, handle the real estate details, so you can focus on what matters most—your new adventure in life. Jennifer Martire Baukol for all your real estate needs.
“I am committed to providing the most personable, elite and professional customer service.
My promise to you is to
(1) put your interests first,
(2) help you reach your goals quickly,
(3) treat you as I would like to be treated,
(4) focus on the solution not problems, and
(5) provide you with the highest level of attention and feedback.
Whether you need extra room for a home office or nursery, or a smaller home that requires less upkeep and cost, I’ll bring you to the place that’s tailor-made just for you. Servicing Westchester County, New York & Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Contact me today to get started. (914) 584-2211.”
MASTERING THE ART OF PRICING
Balancing Desirability and Fair Value in High-End Real Estate
In the realm of real estate, the art of pricing a property is an intricate dance between attracting discerning buyers and ensuring the property’s value is accurately represented. For older adults looking to sell their cherished homes, this balance becomes even more crucial, often intertwining sentimental value with market realities.
The Fine Line:
Setting the right price for a high-end property is a delicate endeavor. A price too high can deter potential buyers, while undervaluing the property could lead to substantial financial loss. Achieving that sweet spot involves a nuanced understanding of the property, the current market trends, and the psychology of your potential buyers.
Understanding Market Trends:
In the realm of high-end real estate, market fluctuations can significantly impact property values. Factors such as the economy, local market trends, and even global events can influence the perceived value of a property. For older adults, who might have seen their neighborhoods evolve over decades, understanding these current trends becomes imperative to accurately price their homes.
Leveraging the Unique Selling Points:
High-end properties often possess unique features or historical significance that set them apart. From breathtaking views to historical architecture, these selling points can elevate the property’s value. Identifying and showcasing these unique attributes can be a key element in justifying the asking price.
Emotional Value vs. Market Realities:
For older adults selling a home where they’ve built memories and lived for years, emotional attachment can impact the perceived value. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist realtor catering to this demographic, acknowledging these sentiments while aligning them with the current market realities can be a pivotal aspect of your service.
The Role of Expertise:
In this complex landscape, the role of an experienced realtor cannot be overstated. Expertise in the local market, understanding the pulse of the high-end buyers, and the ability to navigate the emotional nuances involved in selling a long-cherished home are invaluable assets. As a specialized realtor for high-end homes, our company brings a wealth of experience and a keen understanding of the distinct needs of older adults in the selling process.
Striking the Perfect Balance:
Listing with myself, Jennifer Martire Baukol, my approach to pricing high-end properties involves a meticulous analysis of the market, a keen eye for the unique selling points, and a deep appreciation for the emotional value older adults associate with their homes. My goal is to strike that delicate balance between attracting buyers and ensuring a fair value for the property.
Selling a home is not merely a transaction; it’s a significant life event. I recognize the significance of this process and aim to guide our clients through it with transparency, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to securing the best possible outcome.
In the world of high-end real estate, pricing a property is an art form. It requires a blend of market knowledge, emotional intelligence, and a tailored approach. As a realtor specializing in high-end properties and catering to older adults, Jennifer Martire Baukol, is dedicated to mastering this art, ensuring that every property is not just priced, but valued accurately.
Let a Real Estate Sales Associate, like Jennifer, handle the real estate details, so you can focus on what matters most—your new adventure in life. Jennifer Martire Baukol for all your real estate needs.
“I am committed to providing the most personable, elite and professional customer service.
My promise to you is to
(1) put your interests first,
(2) help you reach your goals quickly,
(3) treat you as I would like to be treated,
(4) focus on the solution not problems, and
(5) provide you with the highest level of attention and feedback.
Whether you need extra room for a home office or nursery, or a smaller home that requires less upkeep and cost, I’ll bring you to the place that’s tailor-made just for you. Servicing Westchester County, New York & Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Contact me today to get started. (914) 584-2211.”
SRES® Consumer Newsletter November 2023
Houzz bathroom trends study shows Emphasis on Universal Design, Aging, Safety
Homeowners are increasingly focused on aging and safety when they renovate their bathrooms, and they’re incorporating universal design features that address their future needs and are functional for people of all ages and abilities.
That’s one takeaway from the recent 2023 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study.
It’s good news because bathrooms often are among the most dangerous rooms in the house for seniors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults ages 65 and older.
Houzz found that 66% of homeowners address special needs during a bathroom renovation, up from 54% who did so in 2021. Nearly half (44%) of homeowners anticipate special needs to arise within the next five years.
As such, they’re incorporating an array of safety features, including:
- Grab bars (58%)
- Nonslip flooring (58%)
- Curbless showers (43%)
- Additional lighting (33%)
- ADA-compliant toilets (26%)
- Wheelchair-accessible doorways (21%)
- Lower vanity height (3%)
- Lower fixtures (2%)
Another area that affects safety is flooring. Houzz found that 83% of homeowners upgrade flooring during bathroom renovations, with one-third choosing nonslip floors outside the shower.
Though not necessarily for safety reasons, primary bathrooms are growing, with (22%) of homeowners saying they expanded their primary bathroom during a renovation by taking square footage from closets (44%), bedrooms (24%), and hallways (7%). Nearly 3 in 5 bathrooms (59%) measure 100 square feet or more after renovation.
In addition, 26% of homeowners remove their tubs during renovation, and the majority (77%) enlarge the shower space. For one in five, their new shower is 50% larger than their old one.
Low-curb (43%) entries grew in popularity since last year, increasing by 1%. Curbless entries were the choice for 24%, representing a 3% increase since last year.
Sustainability is another trend gaining traction, with 87% of homeowners incorporating environmental features that include:
- LED lightbulbs (62%)
- Water-efficient fixtures (46%)
- Timeless design (44%)
- Energy-efficient fixtures (34%)
- Light dimmers (34%)
For 69% of homeowners, such features’ long-term cost-effectiveness is one motivation for the choices, and 54% said it was for their environmental friendliness.
Other study highlights:
- The median amount spent on all bathroom remodels has grown by 50%, increasing from $9,000 in 2021 to $13,500 in 2022. The median spend for major and minor remodels has risen by 33% and 60%, respectively.
- White and grey vanities have been edged out by wood, which is now the top choice for most (33%) homeowners.
- Eighty-six percent of homeowners change the style of their bathrooms, with transitional styling (23%) being the most popular for the second year in a row. That’s followed by contemporary (16%), modern (15%), traditional (11%), and farmhouse (5%).
Learn more about fall prevention:
Medicare open enrollment
Heads-up: Medicare open enrollment ends on December 7th. If you haven’t reviewed your options, it’s time to do so.
After all, Medicare is complex, and it takes time to understand all the options, especially if you’re signing up for the first time. Plus, your choices will affect your care and costs for all of 2024. By making rushed, last-minute decisions, you could miss out on plans that could save money and provide the coverage that best fits your needs.
You don’t have to go it alone. Here are resources to help you navigate your choices:
- Medicare – call 1-800-633-4227, TTY users call 1-877-486-2048
- National Council on Aging
- The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) – SHIP provide unbiased advice on Medicare choices. Using the site’s “Find Your Local SHIP,” you can find local, one-on-one help choosing a Medicare plan.
- USA Today 2024 Medicare open enrollment date and how to prepare.
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Seniors Real Estate Specialist – SRES
A Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) is a REALTOR® who is uniquely qualified to assist seniors in housing sales and purchases. The SRES® designation is awarded only to REALTORS® who have successfully completed a series of educational courses on how to help seniors and their families with later-in-life real estate transactions. Between this educational course and my past health care experience. Jennifer Martire Baukol (SRES) is here to guide you through the process of selling your home making the transaction less stressful and more successful.
