As we roll through life, things change – families grow, careers evolve, retirement looms. And with that, the type of home we need changes, too.
While a large home and sprawling section might suit bustling family life, a cosier, lower-maintenance property might feel better as the golden years approach.
There’s plenty to consider when finding the right home. The key is finding a home that’s thoughtfully designed and tailored-made to suit your chapter of life.
What to consider when choosing a home
Current and future needs
Start by considering your current needs. How much space do I need? Is a home office a priority? Realistically, how much time do I have for upkeep?
Then think about what will change over time. Will a large section become too much in a few years? Will accessibility become an issue as I get older?
Taking both current and future needs into consideration when choosing a home will help you make a wise investment that supports your lifestyle now and later.
Location
This plays an important role in your quality of life. If you’re at a later stage, perhaps proximity to healthcare is important. If you have a young family, maybe it’s schools and parks.
Consider what amenities are most crucial for your current situation and how those needs might evolve in the future.
Home buying tips for each stage of life
First home buyers
Sure, this will depend on your specific needs and budget, but remember, you don’t have to settle for cookie-cutter when buying a first home. There are thoughtfully designed, architectural yet practical homes out there, like our spec homes for first home buyers, at a price that makes sense when entering the property market.
Beyond that, think about what you need in your first home – features like open-plan living areas are perfect for entertaining, while low-maintenance designs may help you focus on building your career or starting a family.
What you might look for
- Energy efficiency features like double glazing and quality insulation
- Efficient use of space
- Open plan living for flexibility
- Low-maintenance materials + landscaping, if simplicity is a priority
- Potential for future growth
Downsizers
Look out for compact, well-organised spaces that simplify life without sacrificing comfort or style.
As you transition to a smaller home, you might want to consider layouts that work for you yet still offer flexibility for entertaining or hosting family.
Remember, downsizing doesn’t have to mean downgrading. If aesthetics are important to you, you can find a more intimate, architecturally designed home with quality finishes, unique features, that’s just a little (or a lot) more manageable.
What you might look for
- Compact, thoughtfully-designed layout
- Smart, accessible storage solutions
- Low-maintenance gardens
- Simplified living space
- Flexible spaces for entertaining or family visits
- Premium materials + finishes
- Unique features like raked ceilings or standout kitchens
- Community connectivity (activities and services that’ll suit you needs for retirement)
Seniors
There’s plenty to consider here – especially if you see it as a long-term living solution. In which case, think about prioritising accessibility with single-level homes, wider doorways, and user-friendly features.
A home designed with this in mind, plus a low-maintenance design, can allow you to enjoy life without obstacles.
Purpose-built senior-friendly homes, like our developments in Te Awamutu, can be a great alternative to a retirement village.
What you might look for
- Single-level living
- Fixtures, finishes and layouts that can be customised to reflect taste + lifestyle
- Wider doorways + no-step entries
- User-friendly kitchens and bathrooms with safety features like walk-in showers and grab rails
- Raised garden beds, low maintenance planting
- Built-in water tanks to avoid water restriction issues
- Senior-friendly location (near the right kinds of amenities)
- Proximity to healthcare
10 quick tips for choosing the right home
- Think long-term. Choose a home that can adapt to your changing needs.
- Location matters. Ensure the community offers the amenities you’ll need now and in the future.
- Plan for accessibility late in life. Consider features like single-level layouts, wider doorways, and low-maintenance gardens to ensure your home remains comfortable as you age.
- Balance affordability with quality. You don’t have to opt for a cookie-cutter home.
- Look for flexibility. Look for homes with adaptable spaces, like rooms that can transition from a nursery to an office as life changes.
- Consider low-maintenance designs. Choose homes with easy-to-care-for gardens and durable materials that reduce upkeep over time.
- Prioritise safety features. For retirees, ensure your home has safety features like walk-in showers, non-slip flooring and good lighting.
- Future-proof your investment. Select a home in a growing area to maximise potential property value appreciation over time.
- Evaluate resale value. Consider the potential resale value of the home, especially if relocating or upgrading in the future is on the cards. Homes in desirable locations with versatile designs tend to hold or increase their value.
- Check for community features. Look for neighbourhoods that offer community amenities like parks, walking tracks which can enhance your quality of life and provide opportunities for social interaction at every stage.
Ready to start your journey?
