Renovations That Pay Off

RENOVATIONS THAT BOOST APPEAL TO BROAD AUDIENCE

Smart kitchen and bath renovations might boost a home's appeal to Boomers and Seniors. If you're recommending renovations to homeowners or scouting out homes for Boomer and Senior clients, consider the findings of a study Home Depot. It gathered data from more than 30,000 consumers from the baby boom generation and older to uncover housing preferences and their home improvement needs.

The majority of respondents, 73%, said the kitchen is the most important room for them. Some design tweaks that benefit Seniors are unobtrusive and likely to appeal to a broad audience. In the kitchen, they include:

- Under-cabinet task lighting that brightens countertops, lessening eyestrain.
- Pull-down shelving removes effort from pantry access.
- Slide-out drawers eliminate the need to twist or bend to access pots and pans.
- Elevated dishwashers reduce stooping or bending.
- D-shaped cabinet and drawer handles are easier to grasp.
- Anti-scald devices reduce the risk of hot water burns for everyone.
- 36" countertop height reduces back strain and promotes easier access.
- Adjustable countertops offer added flexibility and convenience of access.
- Softer, natural flooring reduces back and foot strain for periods of standing.

In the bathroom, wise changes include:
-Sinks and vanities that are placed at a comfortable height.
-Lever handles on faucets and doors make it easier at any age.
-Smooth counter edges prevent bumps and bruises.
-Strategically-placed grab bars in the shower reduce the risk of falling.

For more information regarding seniors and baby boomers visit:

http://www.seniorsrealestate.com/