I’m always on the lookout for properties that do (or don’t) support the interest of home buyers in Fresno so I can help buyers make an educated choice on their next property. But I also know that homeowner preferences vary, and seniors looking to settle down for their golden years definitely have some unique needs. Here are some things to consider if you’re a senior house hunting for an ideal retirement location in Fresno.
First, know that not all Fresno neighborhoods are created equally. While you’ll find great benefits throughout the city, seniors may want to make a home in neighborhoods that support outdoor excursions or offer easy access to hospitals. For active retirees, Central Fresno may be the right location. It’s highly walkable and provides access to downtown amenities, including dining and shopping. Plus, it has a fairly low cost of living — even lower than the surrounding city, which has a cost of living index lower than the state average — so you can reign in your retirement budget here.
If health care and entertainment are more important than walkability, the Northern Fresno area might be a better option for you. It’s home to Fresno Surgical Hospital and Woodward Park, Riverpark shopping area and the Lewis S. Eaton trail system. And if you want to access these types of amenities but live elsewhere in the city, that’s okay. Seniors can hop on Fresno public buses to get to most major entertainment and shopping districts, and those age 65 and up pay a discounted fare of only 60 cents per ride for the convenience.
I can help you nail down the right location in Fresno to meet your needs, and then it’s time to consider the money matter of buying a new home. The average price of homes in Fresno is just above the national average and much below the average for the state, which is great news for seniors looking to stretch their retirement income. Add in California’s Propositions 60 and 90, which let qualified seniors age 55 and older transfer property tax benefits from existing homes to new purchases, and you might be surprised at what type of home you can afford during retirement.
Finally, you’ll need to consider what type of property you want to invest in. I caution seniors shopping for a new home in early retirement to think about possible future needs. It’s better to shop for a home with potential challenges in mind than to address issues such as mobility or future assistance needs in a property that simply doesn’t support aging in place.
The first thing seniors may want to opt out of is steps. That means looking for ranch-style, single-level homes (there are plenty in neighborhoods throughout Fresno). I can also show seniors single-level condo units on the first floor or in buildings where elevators support access for everyone. And if you’re truly worried about future mobility concerns, visit senior homes dot com and enter Fresno CA. in the search area. Assisted living facilities are always an option for the elderly. I’ve helped seniors sell their existing homes so they can move into these active communities and take advantage of 24-hour medical staff and robust social schedules that provide security and keep residents active throughout retirement.
Other home preferences seniors might want to consider include wide doors and hallways (which support walker or wheelchair use) and safety additions like walk-in showers or bath rails.
If you’re eyeing Fresno as a retirement location, give me a call at 559-246-8991. Take a look and see what dwellings are available in real time in Fresno’s northern 93720 zip code by clicking here. I always keep buyer needs in mind and can show you the best Fresno has to offer for seniors who want a beautiful retirement property that supports aging in place.
This post is a guest blog by Barbara Thompson, Senior Care Advocate at seniorhomes dot com.