Retirement home differences and how it affects lifestyle

Kind of homes

There are many different modes and configurations of retirement age homes to choose from, some like the open concept and others like the older “ranch” style home in more rural areas. Newer homes are usually found near urban and suburban centers, while other homes that some folks like with a bit more space are found further out in the more rural areas.  They usually have more acreage and are located a bit farther from shopping and other services. 

The Charlotte area has grown so much and so fast that a large portion 70%+ of the homes are less than 20-25 years old. There are many new home builders and you only have to wait about 4 months for your new home to welcome you. Many builders send weekly updates on “Spec” homes, with homes that will be available within a month or less. They try to build homes ahead of the need so that there are some that may be ready with no buyer.

Older homes tend to be less open and usually need to be updated. They are usually smaller and need some updating and some maintenance work. The new homes are a bit more expensive, but they don’t need as much maintenance and have a limited warranty for a much longer time with many of the appliances in addition to the structure, roof and HVAC. There are many new and innovative floor plans that each builder has at various prices and in different communities.  Most newer homes have a crawl space or slab, versus a basement because of the soil conditions, topography and cost. There are many other differences in home floor plans in the south that are different than in other parts of the country. 

A buyers agent should still represent YOU in a New home builder transaction at no cost to you and they negotiate in your behalf even with the builder. Check out the homes here