ConstructionDeal.com Update

You're probably sick to death of hearing the term Baby Boomers. Believe it or not, the influence of most all Boomers is still strong... especially when it comes to home renovation. I'm not talking about the money they may have to remodel their kitchens and bath with the latest technology, trendiest appliances, exotic fixtures or granite counters.

This time, their renovation dollars are going toward updating their homes so they can live there long after they retire. It's a trend called "Aging in Place." Meaning, the homeowner wants to stay in their house as they move from their sixties, into their seventies, and on into their eighties.

However, their homes - no matter how big or small - may actually become an obstacle to them. Bedrooms on the second floor, toilets that are too low, bathtubs that are too high, and countertops and light switches that are out of reach. Many Boomers don't want to give up their dream homes to move to an assisted living facility as they get older. So, they're staying put.

Whether you're a Boomer or a younger homeowner, this desire to renovate a home to make it more "senior friendly" is a great way to improve the value of your property.

What you're looking to do is to update the house so that it has what's called universal design.

What is Universal Design?

It's the process of making a home easily to use. Making it more accessible. Making it safer for young and old to use all the options inside. And making it an easier and more convenient place to live.

What are Some Examples of Universal Design?

In the Bathroom:

• Adding a taller toilet or toilet accessories to allow someone with disabilities or limited mobility to easily go up and down
• Opening up or expanding a bathroom to allow space for a wheelchair or walker
• Removing the bathtub and replacing it with a shower that doesn't require a step up or down to enter. Adding seats inside the shower helps, too
• Adding grab bars around a toilet, tub, and shower area to give added stability
• Lowering counters and light switches to allow easier access

Throughout the Home:

• Widening of hallways to give greater wheelchair access
• Appliances, such as dishwashers, clothes washers, and dryers can be raised up to prevent the homeowner from having to bend over too far
• For two story houses, dining rooms or family rooms can be converted to a bedroom to prevent the constant climbing of dangerous staircases
• Adjusting the height of all the home controls, like lighting and thermostats and alarm systems, can really help
• Adding wheelchair ramps can provide greater access

There are many ways to update a home to allow seniors to stay in their homes or if a family member is having a parent or aging relative move in. And it's not about turning a house into a nursing home. It's about making the features more convenient and safe.

How Does This Improve Home Values?

Because there are Baby Boomers across the spectrum when it comes to aging in place, there will be a need for houses with these types of accommodations for a long time. Not only do these modifications help seniors, they can help children. Families with pre-schoolers like houses that are kid-friendly and a lot of the same features that help older people can help children.

How Can I Update My Home?

The good news is that many remodeling companies and handymen can help you with just about any of these projects. The products and ideas that allow Boomers to age in place require changes to counters, electrical outlets, counters, flooring, fixtures and appliances. The same removal and installation procedures that these services professionals do on a daily basis.

However, there are home remodeling companies that specialize in helping to modify the house. They are being called CAPS, for short, which stands for Certified Aging in Place Specialists. It's a designation created by the AARP and the National Association of Home Builders.

These remodeling pros have been taught the things to look for in a home to make it easier for those 50 and older to stay in their homes.

What Should I Look for in a CAPS Remodeling Company?

• Look for the CAPS designation, if possible. You may pay more for their services, but you'll be able to get recommendations based on their expertise
• Look for proper license, insurance, and bonding requirements for your state and make sure you check all their documentation physically. Don't just take someone's word for it
• Look for prior work experience with aging-in-place renovations. A contractor or company with experience may charge more, but will do the job right with the right products
• Look for references. Talk to people who have had the company in to do the work in the last year or so
• If possible, get several bids on the work. You want to make sure you're paying what you should be paying. Don't always consider the lowest bid, however. Sometimes, a lower quality product will be used and/or corners will be cut in the process

If you need to find a CAPS remodeling service or even a regular renovation contractor to update your home, consider ConstructionDeal.com. Our service is free to all homeowners. There is no obligation to hire anyone. Simply tell us about your project and we'll send your request out to local companies.

Make sure to put down, in the project details, that you'd like to hire a CAPS company - if you so desire. It's a great way to make your home ready for kids or seniors. And a great way to improve home value!

Labels: Aging In Place, Baby Boomers, Bathroom Remodeling, Kitchen Renovation