Real estate expert Cam McLellan, from OpenCorp, explains what property features boomers and downsizers are looking for – and also what they don’t like.
Full Article, Originally published by Daily Mail, December 7 2024.
Smaller kitchens and the perfect ‘kitchen triangle’ Unlike first-home buyers who prefer large kitchens suitable for families and entertaining guests, retired empty-nesters generally prefer smaller kitchens when downsizing.
‘One thing older people are very picky on is the design of the kitchen. They prefer functionality over design – and you can forget about trends,’ Cam says. He also says the concept of the ‘kitchen triangle’ – referring to the distance between the sink, fridge and bin – is crucial.
It’s essential for the distance between these three kitchen features to ‘flow’ and to make sure they’re not too far apart, he explains. ‘Boomers are really aware of the “kitchen triangle” rule, while first-home buyers don’t really have a clue what it is,’ he adds.
‘How a kitchen functions makes your everyday life more seamless. You wouldn’t want the distances of the kitchen triangle to be too big or too cramped.’
Storage and Wider Hallways or Doors
One thing first-home buyers tend to forget about when house-hunting is storage – but storage is top of mind for seniors who are downsizing from their family home.
Boomers tend to accumulate more belongings compared to young couples just starting out, so they look for things like spacious built-in cupboards, attic space and even spare rooms. Wider hallways are also an aspect younger buyers tend to overlook. They are a non-negotiable for retirees, however, because extra width can
accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
A Timeless Design
Rather than wanting a trendy, modern home, baby boomers generally prefer a timeless design. They are also less fussed about buying something newly renovated. ‘They certainly prefer plain-looking kitchens; it simply needs to do the job. They prefer functionality over new technology or smart homes. Nothing too fancy,’ adds Cam.
Skylights are another feature rarely considered a priority by millennials and Gen Z buyers, but they are appreciated by boomers who are concerned with saving electricity and might prefer natural light due to fading eyesight.
What Older Buyers Don’t Want
Stairs can be a nightmare Stairs leading up to the front door, two-storey homes or even a tiny step on the back porch can easily put off older buyers. The reason is obvious: as we age, mobility becomes more of a concern and so stairs are a huge issue. ‘Boomers prioritise single-level homes with minimal vertical movement. This ensures that as they get older they have ease of access to move throughout the home,’ Cam says. Having no stairs or steps also means the property is wheelchair-accessible to both the owners and guests.
Giant Gardens and Trees
Whether you’re a first-home buyer or downsizing, Cam says you should always look up during an inspection to see the bigger picture. ‘The second you arrive at a property, stand out the front, look directly at it then look up,’ he says. ‘See what trees are around.’ Older generations don’t want the hassle of tending to gardens and pruning or chopping down overhanging branches. ‘It can also become a safety risk climbing on ladders to clean out gutters – and we all know boomers tend to do jobs around the house themselves rather than hiring someone to do it for them.’
On average, more than 30 Australians die each year from falling off ladders. And 66 people die in ladder-related accidents.
Forget Large Backyards And Pools
Lawns can also be a problem because they are high maintenance and become ‘another job to do’. Similarly to stairs, large backyards that require maintenance become an issue with age – and forget the idea of a swimming pool. ‘Boomers look for low-maintenance properties – it’s a key factor. They avoid large gardens and intricate landscaping,’ Cam tells me. ‘While there’s some boomers who love to garden, the majority don’t want to spend their time tinkering in the garden. It takes a lot of time and energy. ‘Enjoying your golden years of retirement becomes a primary focus, often involving travel and a more laid-back lifestyle. So, more often than not, the last thing people want to be doing is mow the lawn.’
