What Type of Home Are You Looking For? It May Not Be What You Think!

When women over 60 start looking for a home, they usually have a pretty good idea of what they want. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a garage, maybe a pool and a certain amount of square footage. Sometimes they tell me they want a condo.

But do they really know what type of home they want?

Over my 22 years as a Realtor, I’ve worked with many buyers who started out looking for one type of home and ended up buying something completely different.

In fact, I once worked with buyers who came to South Florida looking for a multimillion-dollar condominium. They ended up buying a single-family waterfront home!

Quite a difference, don’t you think?

That’s why I always encourage buyers to keep an open mind. Sometimes what you think you want isn’t necessarily what you will ultimately decide is right for you.

Single-Family Homes Offer Privacy and Independence

If you want your own backyard, a swimming pool, fenced yard with room for your pets and a little more privacy, a single-family home may be the right choice.

Some homes are located in communities with homeowners’ associations, while others have no HOA at all.

But remember, with a single-family home, you’re generally responsible for the roof, exterior structure and maintenance, landscaping, pool and repairs. And, of course, there’s homeowners’ insurance to consider.

Some buyers love it and the privacy that comes along with it. Others would rather not deal with all the maintenance, come and go and just lock the door.

It really depends on the buyer.

Villas Are a Popular Choice for Downsizing

Villas are very popular in south Florida, especially with buyers who want to downsize or prefer single-story living. Living on one level is user friendly!

Many have two or three bedrooms, a garage or carport, and a patio. Some are attached on one side, while others may be attached on both sides. There are single-story villas and sometimes two-story villas.

Depending on the community, the monthly maintenance fee may include landscaping, exterior maintenance and other services.

But here’s something buyers need to understand: Not all villas are the same.

Some are governed by condominium associations and others by homeowners’ associations. That can make a difference in what you’re responsible for, what insurance you will need and what your monthly fees cover.

I always recommend understanding those differences before making a decision.

Condominiums Can Be a Convenience with a Price

Condominiums can be a wonderful choice for buyers who want less exterior maintenance, security, amenities and perhaps a beautiful water view.

But condo ownership isn’t for everyone.

Monthly maintenance fees are high, particularly in buildings and communities with extensive amenities, elevators, security and other services.

And in Florida, there are additional concerns.

Since the Surfside tragedy, condominium inspections, reserves, building repairs and special assessments have become increasingly important.

I’ve had buyers ask me why the maintenance fees in one condominium are so much higher than in another.

There isn’t always a simple answer.

You need to look at what the fees include, the age and condition of the building, the financial health of the association and whether major repairs or assessments have been completed or are anticipated.

A condominium with a lower purchase price isn’t necessarily the less expensive choice in the long run.

Gated Communities

What are you paying for in a gated community? It varies by community.

South Florida has hundreds of gated communities. Some offer beautiful clubhouses, swimming pools, fitness centers, tennis, pickleball, clubs, card rooms and organized activities.

Others have a virtual or numbered gate and very few amenities.

And there’s a big difference in the monthly fees.

Some buyers want an active community with plenty to do. Others prefer a quieter neighborhood and don’t want to pay for amenities they’ll never use.

Before buying in a gated community, find out exactly what the association maintains, what the fees cover and what restrictions apply.

Remember, you’re not just buying a house. You’re also buying into a community with its own rules.

55+ Communities

South Florida has many 55+ communities in all price ranges.

Some offer a very active lifestyle with clubs, entertainment, fitness centers, tennis, pickleball and social activities.

Others are quieter.

You’ll find single-family homes, villas and condominiums in different price ranges.

Many buyers love the idea of living in an active adult community where they can meet people and participate in activities. Others decide they’d rather live in an all-ages neighborhood.

There is no right or wrong choice. It’s whatever makes you happy.

Two questions to consider: Is the lifestyle right for you? Is this what you’re looking for? 

And What About Your Pets?

You knew I was going to bring this up!

If you have dogs or cats, don’t assume that a community described as pet-friendly will welcome your particular pets.

Some communities limit the number of pets. Others have weight restrictions, breed restrictions or rules about fencing.

I’ve spent countless hours researching pet restrictions for buyers because the rules aren’t always clear. And sometimes, even the people managing the communities don’t have the correct answers!

You don’t want to fall in love with a home only to discover that your pets aren’t welcome. At least not me!

Before You Start Looking, Ask Yourself a Few Questions

Are you looking for a home that fits the way you live today or the way you want to live?

Do you want to maintain a large home and yard?

Would a single-story home make life easier?

Do you want privacy or would you enjoy an active community?

Are you comfortable with monthly HOA or condominium fees?

Do you want/need a fenced backyard for your dogs?

Would you prefer to be near the beach, shopping, restaurants, work, medical facilities or family?

And perhaps most importantly, have you considered the total cost of owning the home, not just the purchase price?

These are things to consider.

Sometimes the Home You Buy Isn’t the Home You Came Looking For

Remember those buyers I mentioned earlier who came looking for a multimillion-dollar condominium? They bought a single-family home instead.

I’ve seen this happen over the years. Buyers start with one idea, explore different possibilities and discover that something else makes more sense for them.

And that’s perfectly fine.

Buying a home is a major decision. It’s not just about the number of bedrooms or bathrooms, the square footage or even the price.

It’s about finding a home that fits your lifestyle, your needs and your budget.

After 22 years as a Realtor and 32 years of knowing the Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach and Highland Beach areas, I’ve learned that listening to what buyers want is just as important as knowing the homes and communities.

Sometimes that means showing buyers something they hadn’t originally considered.

And sometimes that’s where they find the home that’s right for them.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you a baby boomer with pets thinking about a move? Or without pets! I get it! Do you have any questions on different types of housing that might help make your home purchase easier? Let’s talk about it!