Mum and dad moving out of the family home? What to look for in a downsizer

It’s an emotional time for everyone when mum and dad decide they’re selling the long-term family home and moving on.

But there’s also joy in helping your parents choose their next home; much smaller but where the grandkids can still come over and stay, and mum can still cook that tuna potato bake everybody loves. Christmas might be a bit more cramped, but a new home is an opportunity to make new memories.

We spoke to LJ Hooker Kippax’s Jeremy Julian about what to help your parents look for in a property when downsizing.

Opt for a single-storey home.

“The biggest concern for people as they grow older is accessibility and mobility,” Jeremy says.

“Look for single-storey properties or those that have the essentials like a kitchen, bathroom and even a bedroom on the ground floor.

“Features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms and hallways can reduce the risk of accidents.”

Safety features to look for.

According to Jeremy, homes with non-slip flooring, well-lit pathways, easily reachable light switches should go to the top of the list.

“Emergency alert systems or smart home technology that can provide assistance in case of emergency can be installed as well.”

But safety also includes emotional wellbeing, so choose a home that fosters a sense of belonging, security, and comfort.

“Consider factors such as proximity to family and friends,” Jeremy says.

Close to a town centre.

In older age, you need easy access to a GP, a chemist and a supermarket.

“Access to recreational activities, parks, and social opportunities can also contribute to a fulfilling lifestyle,” Jeremy says.

“If there’s a park nearby or another recreation facility that’s awesome.”

Low maintenance indoors and out.

Unless they’re obsessed with gardening and want to do a couple of hours of landscaping every day, you should look for a home with a very low maintenance yard or courtyard.

“Features like vinyl siding, composite decking, and drought-resistant plants can reduce the need for regular maintenance but they also look great,” Jeremy says.

Finally: is the home future-proof?

Think about how the home will meet the needs of your parents over time, Jeremy says.

“Are any modifications or renovations necessary to accommodate changing mobility or health conditions?

“Your real estate agent is the first person who should put their hand up to help with this, as they’ll know from experience.”

Flexible floor plans, adjustable countertops, and easily modifiable spaces all get massive ticks from Jeremy.