Working older adults reshape the downsizing market
More Americans are working past 65, changing what some older buyers want in a home, from office space and strong internet to low-maintenance features.
More Americans are working beyond traditional retirement age, and that's changing what some older buyers want when they move.
About 12 million of the 62 million Americans age 65 and older remain in the workforce, according to data cited by Realtor.com. For these buyers, downsizing may have less to do with finding the smallest home and more to do with finding one that fits both work and life with less upkeep.
Working older adults are increasingly looking for homes that combine low-maintenance living with practical features such as dedicated office space, reliable high-speed internet and proximity to everyday services.
That trend is showing up in Florida, too.
“I’m definitely seeing more seniors working past the traditional retirement age of 65,” Orlando real estate agent Christina Rordam told Realtor.com. “These individuals are looking for homes in thriving communities close to shopping, dining, and parks that offer a low-maintenance experience.”
For real estate professionals, that can mean looking beyond square footage when helping older buyers or marketing a home to them.
Features that may stand out include:
- A quiet room that can function as a home office
- Easy garage and home access
- Walk-in showers, grab bars and nonslip flooring
- Good lighting and easy-to-use door handles
- Simple, intuitive smart-home technology
- Nearby healthcare, restaurants, airports and professional services
Sander Scott, a Michigan broker, said agents and sellers should make the usefulness of those features obvious rather than expecting buyers to connect the dots.
“Show how each room can actually be used,” Scott said.
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