Thinking of Retiring in Arizona? 8 Hot Tips to Find the Perfect Place!

Thinking of Retiring in Arizona? 8 Hot Tips to Find the Perfect Place!

Author: Bill Salvatore

Arizona is a wildly popular choice for retirees. Indeed our 300+ days of sunshine, mild winters, endless amenities and master planned Active Adult communities provide the ideal environment for taking full advantage ones retirement. Purchasing a home specifically for your retirement might seem indulgent, but for many of us the lifestyle we create in our 40’s and 50’s does not consist of the same interests we enjoy when we’re empty-nesters or no longer working full time. The old Real Estate mantra ‘Location, Location, Location’ holds true especially during our well-earned retirement years.

Among active adults, golf communities seem to top the list of desired neighborhood amenities here in the Greater Phoenix Valley. Pickle Ball and pool complexes run a close 2nd and 3rd. Clubhouse fitness facilities and Card Rooms are also big crowd pleasers.

Off-site requests run the gamut from hiking and nature preserves to cultural venues (Mesa is renowned for their cultural district) to a wide variety of dining establishments (think Gilbert Heritage District). The Valley is also home to an overabundance of highly acclaimed health care resources.

Need help deciding? The following article by John William for RIS Media offers 8 tips on finding the perfect home for your retirement.

— Take a quick look at a few current listings for homes in Sun Lakes —
For information on this or another of the many Active Adult communities here in the East Valley, just call or text: 602-999-0952 or email me at golfarizona@cox.net

By John William

There usually comes a time in a person’s life when the hustle and bustle becomes less appealing, and one looks for a peaceful setting to enjoy their later years. When that time comes, a special place to retire may feel like the ultimate blessing. You deserve a forever home where you can spend time the way you want. Plus, having a retirement property for oneself means you’re the boss. That degree of control over one’s own decisions is important for many of us. Here are some tips for purchasing a retirement property:

1. A Location That Sustains Your Needs
As with all real estate purchases, location plays a critical role in deciding to buy a property for retirement. There are factors to consider like the climate, availability of services and conveniences such as healthcare, shopping and entertainment venues.

2. Go for a Single-Story
Avoiding the stairs and staying away from activities that ask you to shift up and down can prove to be beneficial in the long run. A 2018 NAHB survey revealed that 80 percent of baby boomers prefer one-story homes.

3. Showers vs. Bathtubs
Consider a walk-in shower rather than traditional bathtubs or Jacuzzis. Having a step-in tub/shower combo is much more preferable, as they allow an easy point of entry. Bathtubs can prove to be difficult to get in and out of as one gets older.

Authors Note: Besides being practical, gorgeous walk-in showers are all the rage right now. Opting for a walk-in shower instead of a bathtub will firmly place you right on trend!

4. Bigger Hallways and Entryways
Tight hallways do no one any favors. Look for a space that provides you with hallways and entryways that you can spread your arms in or carry items without butting up against things or knocking items over unintentionally. According to Houzz.com, a generous measurement for hallways should have a height of more than 9 feet and width of 54 – 72 inches.

Authors Note: Newer Arizona floor plans tend to be open, spacious and handicap-friendly so finding doorways, entries and and passageways to accommodate any stage of mobility is not problematic.

5. Space for Others
If you have a significant other, separate spaces for each of you can make your home more enjoyable. Regardless of age, people tend to seek out companionship but value quiet, private time. Customized spaces for each of you should not be overlooked in a retirement property.

6. Remember Your Pets
Pets are emotional sustenance. Many people simply cannot enjoy life without their pets. A home without your pet would surely feel empty. Make sure your new retirement property and the surrounding community provides a pet-friendly atmosphere.

7. Take Mobility Into Consideration
Retirement doesn’t mean isolation from society. You’ll want to attend parties and events- theater, music, fine art and a hiking and biking, sports and relaxation. A wide range of activities awaits you, which is why many folks look into homes for their retirement that offer an easy commute to the a nearby city. Whether it’s private or public transport, mobility should always be a consideration.

8. Home Security
Even if it isn’t currently on your radar, home security can safeguard you against myriad mishaps. There are services available that can send help within a couple of minutes by simply pressing a button. Many home security options offer easy self-install units, indoor and outdoor cameras and affordable monitoring services.

John William currently works as an interior designer at Crowd Writer as well as a trainer at Student Essay, where scholars can acquire a professional research proposal writing service from experts. In his free time, he likes to spend quality time with his family, friends and loved ones.