Senior Spotlight: The Feature That Boomers CAN Live Without

What you need is just as important as what you don't - especially when it comes to home.

If you follow our Senior Spotlight, then you know that we often talk about what older adults want in a home as their lifestyle changes. Many desire smaller spaces with greater customization, others are seeking upgraded kitchens and baths in homes closer to family and friends. But have you ever wondered what retirees may NOT want?

According to the National Association of Home Builders, nearly 50% of home buyers want a home gym, except for 2/3 of Baby Boomers who do not consider this feature essential or desirable! On the contrary, 61% of Generations Xers and 62% of Millennials consider a home gym a ‘want’.

One possible reason is that older adults may see exercise as a more social activity, choosing to go to the gym with friends, take walks in their neighborhood or participate in activity classes with fellow retirees. Another possible difference is the trend in younger generations towards live stream fitness classes and virtually connected workouts (i.e. Peloton) which may not appeal to even the more tech savvy retirees.

So if a home gym is not on top of the Baby Boomer home wish list... what is? According to New Home Source, older home buyers are more likely to buy new construction rather than a previously owned home compared to other generations. In addition, desired features include: an indoor laundry room, hardwood floors, an open floor plan, an outdoor space, single-level living and plenty of storage (downsizing is not easy after all!).

If you have an idea of what you would like in a home & community as you age (and what you don’t!), please reach out at any time, with any questions. The Bobbi Decker Team has helped countless individuals and couples make lifestyle transitions that improve physical, social and/or financial well-being. We would love to do the same for you!

Resources Used:

Gen X And Millennials Want Home Gyms. Boomers? Not So Much.

What Baby Boomers Want Most in their Next Home

Bobbi Decker
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