Over the years, I’ve watched plenty of folks move to the mountains with grand plans of a forever home – only to realize a decade or two later that their knees didn’t sign up for the staircase marathon, or that their charming woodsy retreat has become a little too “off the grid” when it comes to medical care and daily conveniences.
Aging in place is a hot topic in real estate and, in our mountain communities, it’s shaping the way people buy and sell homes.
According to the latest U.S. Census data, Crestline has a median age of 44.6, Lake Arrowhead skews a bit older at 47.2 and Running Springs is the “youngster” of the bunch at 37.9. That tells us a lot about who is driving the real estate market. Younger professionals and families tend to favor Running Springs, where prices are often a little lower and the commute to the valley is easier. Meanwhile, Lake Arrowhead and Crestline see more buyers in their 40s, 50s, and beyond – many of whom are eyeing their retirement years and wondering if their current home will still suit them when getting out of the bathtub starts to feel like a competitive sport.
For sellers, this trend means demand is shifting. The generation that once eagerly climbed up three flights of stairs to get to their perfect treehouse-style cabin is now looking for something with fewer trip hazards and more comfort. One-level homes, main-floor primary bedrooms and walk-in showers are hot commodities. If your home has a treacherous driveway or a front door that requires a rope and harness to access in winter, you might need to price accordingly.
For buyers, it’s all about thinking ahead. Sure, that cozy chalet with the steep staircase might work today, but what about in 10 years? Buyers in their 40s and 50s are starting to ask smarter questions: Can this house accommodate me as I get older? Is there space for a future caregiver? Can I replace these narrow doorways with something wheelchair-friendly down the road? More and more, people are planning for long-term livability instead of just falling for a house based on the view.
If you’re selling a home in this market, a few small updates can make a big difference. Swapping out traditional doorknobs for lever handles, adding better lighting and installing grab bars in the bathroom can make your home more attractive to buyers who want to age in place. And if you’re buying, keep an eye out for homes with wider hallways, minimal steps and a layout that won’t require mountaineering skills in your golden years.
Aging in place isn’t about giving up on adventure – it’s about making sure your home keeps up with you as life moves forward. And in our mountain towns, where so many people come to put down roots for the long haul, it’s a trend that’s shaping real estate in a big way.
If you’d like to learn more about the current local market conditions, reach out to Theresa Grant, Real Estate Broker (DRE #01202881), at Theresa@HomesInLakeArrowhead.com. You can also follow on social: Instagram, @theresagrantrealtor | YouTube: @theresagrantrealtor. Theresa is a Broker Associate with REAL Broker Technologies.
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