Retirement. The very word conjures up images of sunshine and golf courses and backyard lanais. But is that what today’s retired population is looking for?

According to a recent article in the news-press.com, a National Association of Home Builders survey revealed that today’s 55-plus crowd has a new set of preferences, and they’re not what you’d think.

WHAT THEY WANT:

• In-unit washer/dryer sets
• Lots of storage space
• An entrance without steps
• Private patios and/or porches
• Main-level master bedrooms
• Bigger bathrooms
• Convenience features: user-friendly thermostats, garage door openers, easily opening windows, wide doorways, nonslip flooring

WHAT’S LESS IMPORTANT

• Fireplaces
• Kitchen islands
• Sunrooms
• Workout rooms

The article also says golf courses are out (in favor of walkways and green areas) and high-tech items, while appealing to younger buyers, usually aren’t important to the recently retired.

To read the rest of this article, “Preferences Changing for Dream Retirement Home,” click here.