4 things you didn’t know about downsizers
By Lucas on Oct 12, 2016
When you think of downsizers, what comes to mind? You’re probably picturing an elderly couple in a very large home with multiple empty bedrooms. That’s most likely accurate, but what you don’t realize is that when it comes to the actual act of downsizing, there is a wide variety of wants and desires.
Here are four things you didn’t know about downsizers:
1) Retirement isn’t always a goal
Matchedash Lofts in Orillia by OakleighJust because someone turns 65 years old, does not mean they are done working. Sure, they may retire from whatever their career was at the time, but that doesn’t mean a new dream won't be pursued.For example, there are Live/Work units at Oakleigh’s Matchedash Lofts in Orillia, and according to the developer, many downsizers have expressed interest in them because they plan on starting a business, like an art gallery or studio space, and “working into retirement.” 2) Not all downsizers want to live in a bungalow
Bungalows are widely recognized as an ideal housing type for downsizers because they have single-floor plans. As we age, stairs can become a hassle, so many downsizers find the bungalow lifestyle convenient and easier on the legs, back, and hips. That said, the majority of condo units in mid-rise and high-rise buildings have single-floor plans. If you live on the 10th floor, the elevator does all the work for you. In the case of an emergency, it may be safer for a senior to live on one of the lower floors in case stairs do need to be used. Another bonus of living in a condo is that there is no exterior maintenance to worry about.3) A country setting isn’t always ideal
Picture a little bungalow set among rolling hills, maybe a babbling brook is wrapping around one side of the home. This is what a lot of people picture when they think of what a downsizer wants in a forever home. The point of convenient and safe single-floor living is kind of defeated if they’re living hours from the closest amenity. The walkability of a downtown location means a lot to a downsizer for many reasons. One, they don’t have to worry about spending their retirement savings on a car. Two, they can accomplish all errands on foot. Three, walking is sometimes the best exercise a senior can get. 4) Not all downsizers hate the idea of living in a retirement residence
The Sumach by ChartwellRetirement residences have bad reputations because of movies and TV shows. Some of them must be bad, but there are also good ones - just like any other community. There are many perks of living in a retirement residence, mostly due to the onsite services catered to an aging demographic. Just look at The Sumach by Chartwell, a new retirement residence that’s part of the Daniels Regent Park revitalization. The residence will feature ground floor retail, a cafe, a restaurant, meal plans, and a variety of services that promote an independent lifestyle. So, there are clearly many kinds of downsizers out there in search of a new home. There’s the “I’ll never stop working” downsizer. The “I want the high-rise lifestyle” downsizer. The “forever downtowner.” And the downsizer looking for the most laid back lifestyle imaginable. Next time your parents are talking to you about downsizing, make sure you hear them out and if they’re not already, make them aware that there are many options!
