Wait! Did you read Lita’s post about the First E: Experiences?
What about the Second E: Ease of Living? Or the Third E: Efficiency?
Reprinted with permission from Lita Dirks & Co.
Exceeding expectations will be the focus of this final installment in our blog series, the Four E’s: Design that Attracts the 55+ Buyer. In this blog we’ll talk about the kinds of things builders can do to attract the new Boomer buyer and exceed their expectations.
Exceeding Expectations
As previously discussed, the 55+ home buyer has unique needs and desires. They are not necessarily concerned about the school district as the majority are empty nesters. Further, the need for a short and easy commute to work may not be a top priority as many are retired or at a point in their careers where telecommuting is commonplace. Most 55+ home buyers find themselves with more freedom and less responsibility than ever before and want to use this time in life to have fun. The new Boomer buyer has high expectations and it’s up to builders and designers to provide them with homes that exceed expectations.
Research shows that today’s 55+ buyer is more active than past generations, has a more sophisticated style, and expects more options and choices when buying a home. As fun becomes a top priority to the 55+ buyer, we can not only meet, but exceed that expectation by providing updated selections such as large kitchen islands, beautiful and easy to care for counters, tons of storage, and some specialized choices such as wine bars, luxurious master suites, and trendy, yet comfortable living spaces both indoors and out.
Photo courtesy of Lita Dirks & Co.
In addition to being active, the boomer generation is also tech-savvy and as such expects smart technology to be an integral part of their homes. Providing state-of-the-art amenities can set you apart from your competition. Special attention needs to be given to high-tech (but easy to learn) controls for security and privacy; especially light fixtures, shades and drapery, media viewing options, and temperature regulation. All of which should be remote controlled.
Versatility is another way to exceed expectations for the 55+ home buyer. The way certain areas of the home are meant to be used should also be multipurpose and able to morph to fit the customized needs of the buyer. Create unique touches to personalize the buyers’ home such as: the flex room being merchandised as a wine room, a pet suite, pocket office, or even a man cave. The vast amount of options will excite your buyer and give them a myriad of many ways to see themselves living in your home.
The 2017 IBS Show House, located in Esplanade at Highland Ranch, Clermont, Florida and designed by Housing Design Matters, features a flex room. Photo courtesy of Lita Dirks & Co.
Every buyer is different, and no two buyers, despite being the same age, demographic, or region, are going to want the exact same thing. However, if you keep in mind the lifestyle and over-arching needs of your 55+ buyer and apply it to your designs, you’re sure to attract more and happier homeowners.
For more information on trends, ideas, and news for the 55+ buyer, view more posts on the Lita Dirks & Co. blog and follow Lita Dirks & Co. on instagram.
