This helpful article provided by Bob Shannon at http://SeniorsMeet.org :
Retirement is the long-awaited reward after a lengthy career. Dreams don’t end at retirement though, as this is merely the beginning of a rich, rewarding chapter of life. Retirement dreams often come with ideas in mind such as more time with family, traveling and diving into hobbies like homesteading. An important factor to consider along the way is whether your current home has adequate space for your family to visit as well as areas for your hobbies and daily living needs. If the logistics of buying a new home to meet your retirement needs feels daunting, there are some strategies you can employ to ensure success.
What to Consider for the Home
It can be challenging to find a home that matches your dreams and fits the budget. Finding an affordable home doesn’t mean you need to compromise your ideals, it may just require you to use your ingenuity to make it work. If you find a home with good bones and the basic idea of what you are seeking, don’t be shy about renovating. Often the difference between decent and ideal is simply a matter of knocking down a wall, adding an addition or building on a sunroom. Let your imagination guide you.
Home shopping is an emotional experience, and as a result, it is easy to fall in love with a place that isn’t suited for your practical needs in daily life. Before you begin shopping for homes, consider your square footage needs, the number of bedrooms, bathrooms and space for starting seedlings and hatching chicks if you plan to homestead. Designated space for a workshop can be ideal to avoid having to drag out equipment and put it away after each use. And the grandchildren might also enjoy having their own playroom for the same reason.
What to Consider About Lending
If you’ll need to take out a mortgage, there’s a lot to think about. As you consider loan options, shop around for the best lender. Your specific mortgage needs may differ from others, and a reputable lender will walk you through all the options to ensure that you get the best mortgage possible. You may be able to access lower closing costs through certain lenders or obtain a loan that is geared toward seniors. Beware of predatory lending and other scams on seniors, however, and if a plan seems too good to be true, it probably is. Consumer protections exist, and if you wish to check on the reputation of a lender, consider doing a background check on the organization before giving them any information.
Real estate can move quickly. It may feel as though you are being rushed through the process, but often realtors watch their clients lose a dream home because they were hesitant to take action.
The Silver Lining for Acting Fast
Acting fast on a real estate transaction can feel like a major gamble, particularly if your current home has not yet sold. The risk can offer rewards if you can withstand the pressure of buying before selling. Some of the rewards for buying first include the option to rent your existing home to pay for your new home’s mortgage and the ability to focus on one transaction at a time. Talk to your real estate agent as soon as possible if you realize you’ll need an extended closing.
Your retirement dream home may be more accessible than you think. Make a plan in advance, considering your housing and hobby needs, as well as space for your loved ones to visit. Make sure you invest time in learning about loan options prior to starting the process, and as you begin house shopping, keep your eye on renovation potential as a means of finding an affordable home. Honor your retirement dreams and enjoy your golden years in a home that makes you smile.
Again - our thanks to Bob Shannon at http://SeniorsMeet.org
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