As people get closer to retirement age, many would like to
transition to one-level living or a home with at least a master bedroom and bath on the first floor. People often think first of buying a ranch
house but find that those tend to be old, have outdated floor plans, and don’t offer
many of the features they’re looking for. Though housing that appeals to this
group of buyers can be hard to find, it’s available in 55+ communities.
Popular Features of 55+ Housing
High on the list of features people are looking for in 55+ housing are:
- Large master bedroom with a walk-in closet
- Spacious master bath with a walk-in shower and bench
- Second bedroom and an additional full bath
- Updated kitchen
- Conveniently located laundry area
- Easy access to shopping and medical offices.
Most 55+ housing in Chester, Montgomery and Bucks Counties was built during the last twenty years so is relatively new. Housing types vary, from one-bedroom condos to three-bedroom single homes.
Some condos are flats in three- or four-story buildings with balconies and access to garages on the lower level. Townhouses tend to have a master bedroom on the first level and two bedrooms on the second level and may also have a garage and basement. Single homes typically have two bedrooms plus a den on the main level, plus a garage and often a basement. Some also have a loft or bedroom and third bath on the second floor.
The High Cost of 55+ Housing
Homeowners looking to sell their home and move to a 55+ community are often surprised at how expensive they are, given their size. Though small 55+ condos are available in some locations for the low $200,000s, many 55+ homes are priced between $300,000 and $550,000. In some locations, prices can exceed $600,000, such as Fort Washington in Montgomery County, West Chester in Chester County, and Yardley/Newtown in Bucks County.
The relatively high cost of 55+ housing results from several factors:
- A majority are less than twenty years old, and many are new.
- 55+ floor plans are in high demand.
- Locations tend to be convenient to shopping.
- Many 55+ communities include popular amenities, such as a
fitness center, pool, walking trail, and community center.
- Community associations typically handle lawn care,
landscaping, and snow shoveling.
If you’re interested in moving to a 55+ community, contact me at (610) 247-7892 or annette@preferredhomes.com.
What features of 55+ communities are most appealing to you? Let me know at annette@preferredhomes.com
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