BOULDER, CO, Apr 25, 2024—Remodeling your home always takes a good amount of forward thinking; will that pool offer ROI? Will you still want that basement rec room when the kids leave for college? But, according to Phil Boren, Broker Associate of RE/MAX of Boulder, Inc., when elderly homeowners prep for a remodel, even more consideration is needed as they prepare to age in place.
According to the AARP, older homeowners prefer to age in place, meaning they want to live in their homes safely, independently and comfortably, despite age or ability level. “To do so,” says Boren, “many require a few modifications in the home to enhance maneuverability, including the installation of a private elevator and the addition of a bathroom and bedroom to the main level.”
Other common aging in place remodels include the removal of front stairs (in favor of ramp access), the widening of doorways, one-floor designs, walk-in tubs and shower seats.
“A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) may prove helpful,” suggests Boren. CAPS professionals are remodelers, general contractors, designers, architects, and healthcare consultants who are trained in the unique needs of the elderly, aging in place home modifications, common remodeling projects, and solutions to common barriers. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), together with the NAHB Research Center, NAHB Seniors Housing Council, and AARP, developed the CAPS program to address the growing number of consumers who will soon require modifications to their homes.
“When remodeling a home you plan to spend the rest of your life in, it's important to examine your space from every possible angle,” concludes Boren. Do you have room for a caretaker? For future grandchildren? How accessible is your bathroom, really? What will your home look like if you can no longer use the stairs? Considering all of these factors can help you age in place with grace and ease.
For more information on aging in place in your home, please contact RE/MAX of Boulder, Inc. at philboren@gmail.com, 303-441-5647, or RE/MAX of Boulder, Inc..
Phil Boren is a 26-year veteran real estate Broker and Realtor, specializing in consulting with buyers and sellers in Boulder, CO and along the Front Range of Northern Colorado. Held Real Estate Broker's license in Texas, California and Colorado; Managing Broker for over 200 agents and Brokers for Century 21 and RE/MAX franchises. Award-winning Realtor with experience in management, sales, marketing, relocation, appraisal, REO, BPO's, foreclosures, short sales; previously held the MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute. Experienced in both residential and commercial real estate and achieved the No. 14 individual ranking in the 5-state, Mt. States Region for RE/MAX International in 2001, based on sales volume. Received my BSBA in Finance and Real Estate from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, where he was a 4-year starter and 4-year football letterman for Hall-of-Fame coach, Lou Holtz.