A 71-year-old Californian explains why she's one of many boomers reluctant to sell their large homes and downsize — and it has nothing to do with money
Frieden and her husband are prioritizing accessibility, so they've looked mostly at larger condominium buildings with elevators. But they'd also like a small outdoor space, like a balcony, enough wall space for their art, and a home office and spare bedroom for visitors.
But there are very few bigger units available, Frieden said. Most of the condos are small one- or two-bedrooms without any outdoor space and with modern, open-plan layouts that appeal more to younger people's tastes and lifestyles.
"They feel and seem like they're built for young people," Frieden said of the condo buildings. "They even market, 'the greatest thing about our complex is the gym and the shared courtyard, shared rooftop environment, the bike racks' — all of these things that might not be first on the mind of a senior."
I don’t understand. A two bedroom for a couple is plenty.
The guest bedroom can also be the office in the 2nd bedroom. Many complexes have a few units for hoteling guests in the building which is very nice.
Balconies have been absent for years, maybe liability risk and more value as usable square feet. But there is usually some nice courtyards, rooftop pools, and of course nearby parks in any city. I guess they don’t want to share the space with others from the sound of it? But places like the villages have thriving 3rd places, and during the workday retirees will have the run of the rooftop pool and courtyards.
Elderly should absolutely be using the gym and pool. Many communities have shared gardens where you can get a plot to grown on.
From the article, it seems that needing to drive all over is a big deal, unlike a more close-knit community. I'm 75 and moved from a suburb where I could walk to the corner store and even a nice lake (walking is great for seniors) to the boondocks.
Divorce and home sale.
Now, the downtown (tourist trap) is 12 miles away, and all the stores I really like are 50 miles away. The driving is a bit much. I am very much liking the prospect of less driving, neighbors who aren't preppers, and less than the 3 feet of front stairs. I'm still strong and can lug a table saw up the stairs, but why ... like that 40 pound cooler with my shopping?
Community becomes more important. You want some friends nearby, as well as shopping, and medical facilities. I'm 50 miles from the V.A. medical center and ophthalmologist. Handy is dandy.
There's a small place for sale near my daughter's for a mere $680K, with many miles of walking trails, so I don't really need the gym and pool, which come with a HOA fee of over $500/month. Close-packed condos, so lose the workshop, and worry if I am going to go to war over the small grand piano. (I have a Roland keyboard from my married days with a shift-worker partner, but it ain't the same, even if I upgrade it when I can't keep repairing it. )
Working on the cure ... Everyone's wants and needs are different, except for basics. Out of concern, the family bought me an Apple Watch, mainly for the emergency calling.
Seems to be unpopular but we lived as a family of four in a two bedroom apartment for 7 years. I just think for two people it’s a good amount of space — though so guess it won’t hold a workshop? Our community has a wood working shop available to use anytime for seniors, is this really not tenable.
A 71-year-old Californian explains why she's one of many boomers reluctant to sell their large homes and downsize — and it has nothing to do with money
Eliza Relman Mar 24, 2024
https://www.businessinsider.com/71-year-old-boomer-cant-find...
The gist: