Ask a boomer what they want in home now, and you are likely to hear things like single-story construction, good lighting, an outdoor space, home office and low-maintenance, as well as wide doorways and a layout that accommodates an aging lifestyle. A discerning, active and savvy group of buyers, developers are scrambling to design and construct homes to meet these needs.

An active group, Boomers are major contributors to our economy. Born in the two-decade period from 1946 to 1964, the leading edge of the boomers are approaching 70; the youngest are just beyond 50. This group has made, and continues to make, a huge impact on the U.S. economy, with housing being just one of the areas they contribute.

The fact that boomers work past the age of 65 often means that they are working from home and so expect their homes to have an office and need it to have more technical characteristics such as wireless home networks, remote lights etc.  In anticipation of future needs where they might be in a wheelchair they expect wider doors and hallways and single- story buildings with bigger bedrooms. They prefer low maintenance homes and flexible living spaces. This group also is working longer in life, and they like to be close to home if a second-career or part-time position is something they are considering.

My friends and I visit often about our plan for housing in the years to come. I make an extra effort to know the trends, what’s available locally in our Chicagoland suburbs to accommodate the housing needs of Boomers, and where new developments are popping up.  I pass this info along so I can be the best real estate advisor possible for my clients.

Speaking of new developments, there is a townhome development slated to break ground soon right here in nearby Palatine. It’s called Newberry Lane and will offer 16 spacious units. Ask me for details.

Are you a boomer ready to transition, or know one thinking about it? I would love to answer any questions you may have about down-sizing or making a housing change.

It’s my job to help you make the very best choices for this important life change. Let’s talk soon.