For retirees, empty nesters, and seniors across the country, the decision to downsize comes down to more than just square footage – it’s about building a home for the long haul and aging-in-place with peace of mind.
That’s why a growing number of downsizers are turning to new construction builds.
These days, America’s seniors don’t want to move to nursing homes and assisted living facilities, according to 2024 Fannie Mae research. A staggering 88 percent of those aged 50 to 80 want to keep their autonomy and remain in their homes “for as long as possible,” according to data from the AARP.
So what is the appeal in the new construction home for downsizers? Here’s a closer look at why it makes sense across logistics, safety and accessibility, and comfort and community.
1. They’re homes designed for aging-in-place
New homes are increasingly designed with aging-in-place in mind. According to the AARP, this includes built-in features such as:
Single-story floorplans with a master ensuite for easy bathroom access
Entryway enhancements such as no-step or ramp access into the home
Door frames and hallways wide enough for wheelchair accessibility
Lowered light switches and raised electrical outlets
Step-free showers and accessible toilets in the bathroom
Outdoor space for leisure time, gardening, and fresh air
Elevators that make multi-story homes accessible for all
Downsizers can easily incorporate these features into their new home’s blueprint instead of retrofitting existing homes to cater to their long-term needs.
2. They provide a fresh start with fewer financial headaches
From bidding wars and being caught in a chain to making accessibility renovations that stall move-in dates, resale homes can come with uncertainty. New homes, on the other hand, eliminate many of those unknowns.
New homes have the upper-hand, especially for downsizers, across the board on:
A clear timeline for move-in, free from a chain sale that could fall apart
Agreed upon pricing – often with builder incentives that help seniors with financial limitations
Avoiding bidding wars and risk of losing the property to another buyer
Avoiding costly accessibility renovations or upgrades to major parts of the home, such as outdated plumbing or surprise repairs
For many downsizers at a later stage in life, a straightforward home purchase offers calm instead of stress – for their budgeting and their life planning.
3. They’re Low Maintenance, Inside and Out
Another key benefit of new construction for downsizers? Minimal upkeep.
Most households downsizing are doing so to limit the stress of home maintenance – it’s labor-intensive, costly to hire help, and takes away from enjoying the home.
A new home fits the low maintenance bill via:
Ideal size – not too big to upkeep and not too small to grow old in
Builder warranties and extended appliance warranties
Low maintenance landscaping that suits your lifestyle so you aren’t mowing lawns or shoveling snow
Modern materials that are easy to clean and keep in great shape. Think luxury vinyl plank flooring that’s waterproof and scratch-resistant paired with quartz countertops inside the home, and composite decking and vinyl siding outside of the home that don’t require repainting
4. They’re far more energy efficient and comfortable . . .
Energy efficiency is another major advantage. Today’s new builds typically include better insulation, high-efficiency HVAC systems, LED lighting, and Energy Star-rated appliances.
Not only is this good for the environment, it can also translate into meaningful savings on monthly utility bills, which becomes even more important for retirees on fixed incomes.
Energy Star washing machines, for example, use 25 percent less energy and 33 percent less water than regular washers while dryers use 20 percent less electricity – leading to hundreds of dollars in savings over the years.
You’re avoiding those cold drafty winters in an aging home, too, and the high heat bills as your heating fights to keep temperatures comfortable.
5. . . . and they’re bolstered by smart technology
New homes are fitted with smart technology that further improves the energy efficiency of the property – and the overall cost to keep it running smoothly.
For the average American home, almost half the annual energy bill goes to heating and cooling, to the tune of more than $900 a year.
Smart thermostats ensure timing heating and cooling for when you need it most. You can even automate or “set it and forget it.”
This applies to lighting around the home, home security, electricity and power strips, and smart sensors for window blinds and curtains. It’s another convenient feature for retirees who want to manage their household with a simple few taps on their smartphone or tablet.
6. They’re Designed Precisely for the Individual Homebuyer
Need a second ensuite for your grandkids visiting during university break? What about a flex room that can convert into a home office? And step-free access with non-slip flooring in all parts of the home?
Builders are listening. This is perhaps the most compelling reason why downsizers are choosing new builds.
From finishes and floorplans to flexible spaces for hobbies, guests, or home offices, today’s new construction homes are designed to reflect the way boomers and Gen Xers actually want to live. Open-concept kitchens, spacious ensuites, and wide, bright windows for natural light are becoming the norm, not the exception.
7. They Include Community Perks and Social Connection
Many new construction developments cater specifically to the downsizing demographic, offering community-focused amenities like walking trails, clubhouses, fitness classes, and even onsite community centers.
This built-in sense of community can be a powerful draw for those looking to stay active and connected without the isolation that can sometimes come with moving to a new area.
Builders are designing these neighborhoods with wide sidewalks and even wider driveways – a part of urban planning that isn’t easily reworked when you’re buying an existing home.
