Tag: house

Categories
Remodel

Spending Your Golden Years In Your Home

You may be ready to spend your golden years in your current home, but is your current home ready for you?

We gain lots of things as we age – experience, family members, free time, and senior discounts – but with age also comes health issues and common aging concerns. Aging-In-Place refers to a person in their golden years when they choose to live in a residence of their preference and are still independent from assistance. However, staying in your house as you grow older often requires some modifications.

If you or someone you know is in this stage of their life (congratulations!) consider making these suggested (Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist) CAPS updates to your home:

ONE STORY LIVING ► if you have an upstairs, no need to get rid of it, but instead just use the main floor for all of your living needs (bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and bedroom)

LOW OR NO-STEP ENTRY INTO YOUR HOME ► this is also crucial from room to room

BRIGHT LIGHTING ► helps with poor vision and helps everyone else see better too

LEVER-STYLE DOOR HANDLES AND ROCKER LIGHT SWITCHES ► great for those who can’t grip very well or if your hands are full

FLOORS AND BATHTUBS WITH NON-SLIP SURFACES ► this is a great safety measure no matter your age

HANDRAILS ON ALL STEPS AND IN SHOWERS AND BATHTUB AREAS ► in areas where falling is a possibility, it’s better to take the safe route

HANDHELD SHOWERHEADS AND SINGLE-LEVER FAUCETS ► installing these will just make life easier, for anyone

CONTRASTING COLORS TO AID IN DEPTH-PERCEPTION ► same colored walls, floors, and even stairs can cause depth-perception issues such as mistaking the last step for the floor

PULL HANDLES ON CABINETS AND DRAWERS ► these are easier to use than standard knobs and better for arthritic hands

AT LEAST ONE LOWER TOILET IN THE HOUSE ► this is great for kids too!

INSTALL VARIED HEIGHT CABINETS ► having cabinets at all levels is beneficial no matter the age and abilities of the resident(s)

It’s also suggested that doorways and hallways are widened should the need for a wheelchair arise. Along the lines of wheelchair use, installing ramps to the front door is another modification that will make moving around your house easier. (For reference: ADA standards for width of a door opening must be a minimum of 32 inches.)

Contractors can assist with these home modifications without making your home look hospital-like or unattractive. When adhering to a universal design (the design of a home which is usable by all people), you’re able to incorporate accessibility for everyone without sacrificing visual appeal and style.

If this concept is new to you and you’re already in your home, modifications can be made, but it’s best to keep in mind that these modifications are best installed (and more affordable) during a new construction project. In general, these changes may also be far less expensive than moving into an assisted living facility in the future.

If budgeting is your main concern when making universal design modifications, start with what will convenience you the most. Be sure to talk to your contractor about your wants and needs, because after all, you’re the one living there.

Some seniors may qualify for home improvement grants based on their income and where they live. Speaking with a local agency such as Montrose’s Region 10 Area Agency on Aging should steer you in the right direction on those types of grants.

If you are considering a home remodel that fits your aging and health needs, give Stott Custom Homes a call at 970-433-0103. With over 35 years of construction experience, we are ready to help you with your Aging-In-Place needs.

“Let’s Build Your Future Together”

Categories
Custom Homes

Mistakes to Avoid When Building a New Home

Many people make the decision to build a custom home, rather than purchasing a home from someone else, and it can be very exciting, but also expensive if you aren’t smart about it. Building a new home is a big investment, both with time and money, make sure you are spending your money and time wisely. If you’ve made the decision to build a custom home, or are considering it in the future, keep in mind these tips.

Have the Details

Before you even start building, make sure all the details are in place! This includes knowing how the floor plan will look, and the design of different rooms. There are many decisions you will have to make when building a brand new home. So, before you start construction, be prepared. You’ll be picking out floor types, colors of tile, the size, the pattern, the wall colors, what cabinets to use, what faucets to use, etc. You’ll want to have all these details planned before building so that you aren’t holding up your contractors because you are stressing over how you want the bathroom to look.

Think About Resale Value

Even if you think you’ll never sell your home, it’s safer to assume you will someday. As much as we’d like to think we can predict our futures, we aren’t always accurate. Of course, it’s your custom home, so build it to fulfill your dreams, but consider future owners and things that may turn people off, therefore lowing the value of your home. If you do ever sell, you want to get as much for it as possible.

Don’t Build too Big

You might look at big beautiful mansions and think you want the same thing, but that might not be what is right for you. You need to think logically about the size, and layout of your new home. What may fit your needs now, may not be right for you in 10 years, or even next year. Your custom home is a big investment, make sure you plan not only for the present but the future as well.

Think About Your Mortgage

Stick to what you can afford. There is always the option to add to your home later. You should always start with a realistic home, and then add on what your budget allows. This doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice all your amenities, but stay reasonable. In other words, don’t go “crazy” picking out a bunch of expensive add-ons that are going to make your mortgage skyrocket if you can do without them.

Check Progress

Occasionally visit the site during construction to check up on things. By doing this, you can make sure your expectations are being met, and talk to someone if they aren’t. If you are unhappy with something, it’s always best to speak up. Otherwise, you may end up paying to fix something when it could have been done the way you wanted it in the first place.

When you’re ready to build your custom home, make sure you hire carefully and use a licensed contractor. If you’re ready to build the home of your dreams, our team is ready to help!

“Let’s Build Your Future Together”