More and more retirees—and those approaching retirement—are driving home buying activity. According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors®, the median age of repeat buyers is now 61, a significant jump from just a few decades ago.
As buyers get older, their priorities shift.
“People tend to approach homeownership differently as they age,” says Paul Dashevsky, co-founder of GreatBuildz. “You start to value long-term practicality over trends.”
Instead of chasing the latest design fads, retirees are focused on smart investments: low-maintenance homes, strong communities, and features that support aging comfortably in place.
What Retirees Want in a Seattle Home
A good deal
Baby boomers own $84 trillion worth of real estate wealth, and they want to make the most of it in retirement. One of the chief ways they can do so is to downsize their home, says Karen Holt, global real estate advisor at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.
“Many retirees are downsizing from larger family homes to single-story or low-maintenance properties,” she adds.
These homes aren’t just easier to navigate as people age—they also tend to cost less to buy and maintain.
That affordability gives retirees more flexibility. It helps stretch the profit from a home sale and frees up funds for travel, healthcare, hobbies, or just everyday peace of mind.
Aging-in-Place Features Are on the Rise
For many retirees, staying in their home long-term means making smart design choices early on. These upgrades—often called aging-in-place features—focus on safety, accessibility, and comfort without sacrificing style.
Think: walk-in showers without steps, motion-sensor lighting, and modern grab bars that actually look good.
These aren’t just practical—they’re also trending. Forbes notes that homeowners of all ages are now opting for subtle, built-in features that make daily life easier while still matching modern interiors.
With more people choosing to age in place, these thoughtful touches are quickly becoming part of the standard home design playbook.
Why Low-Maintenance Homes Matter in Retirement
By the time retirement rolls around, most homeowners are ready for a break from constant upkeep. The goal is to enjoy their time—not spend it fixing, cleaning, or replacing things.
Many retirees also start watching their expenses more closely, which makes low-maintenance, cost-efficient homes even more appealing.
That means looking for:
Durable materials that don’t wear out quickly
Energy-efficient appliances that help lower monthly bills
Easy-to-clean surfaces and finishes
But low-maintenance doesn’t have to mean high-tech. As Brandon Blakeley of Mirador Living puts it, retirees care more about practical peace of mind than trendy upgrades.
Instead of luxury features, they prioritize smart basics—like stain-resistant flooring to prevent slips, or non-porous countertops that clean easily and stay hygienic.
Community and Convenience Matter More Than Ever
Retirees aren’t looking to fill their days with chores and long commutes. They want to spend time doing things they enjoy—and being close to the people and services that matter.
That’s why walkable, connected neighborhoods are at the top of the list. Community centers with things like pickleball courts, art classes, or a pool give retirees fun, easy ways to stay active. Nearby sidewalks, parks, and places of worship also help build a sense of belonging.
But these features go beyond entertainment. They support physical and mental health by making it easier to stay social and independent—two key ingredients for a happy, healthy retirement.
Retiring? Here’s How to Find the Right Home for Your Next Chapter
Finding the perfect retirement home starts with knowing what truly matters to you—your lifestyle, your budget, and how you want to spend your time.
Start by getting clear on your must-haves. Do you need a walkable neighborhood? A one-level home? A nearby community center or access to healthcare? Not everything will make the list, so ranking your priorities can help guide your decisions.
Work with a real estate agent who understands the retirement market. The right agent can help you find homes that match your needs—and help you create a smart plan to use your home equity without giving up what’s important.
When your goals and budget line up, the process becomes a lot smoother—and a lot more exciting. This is your time to enjoy life on your terms.
Selling? Here’s How to Market Your Home to Retirees in Seattle
As more retirees make moves to downsize, simplify, or relocate closer to family, they’ve become a powerful force in Seattle’s housing market. If you're planning to sell, it’s smart to consider what this group is really looking for—and how to market your home in a way that speaks to them.
At Househack Seattle, we help sellers highlight what truly matters to older buyers:
Ease of living: Single-level layouts, minimal stairs, wide doorways
Low-maintenance features: Durable materials, updated systems, simple landscaping
Smart location: Proximity to grocery stores, healthcare, parks, and walkable streets
Community feel: Access to nearby social activities, quiet neighborhoods, or family-friendly areas
Retirees aren’t chasing flashy finishes—they’re investing in peace of mind, quality, and comfort. The key is to lead with real value: emphasize function, accessibility, and long-term livability in your listing description, photos, and open house experience.
Need help positioning your home for this growing market?
Let Househack Seattle guide you with targeted strategies that connect with the right buyers—and close with confidence.
Connect with Michael Haas for a free consultation: Book Here
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