We know that the Baby Boomers account for a large part of the real estate owning population in America. But did you know that they may be the latest trend-setters in Austin real estate also?

Sounds unlikely, but it is very true! As this article in the Wall Street Journal explains, designers and architects are catering more and more toward this fast-growing segment of the population. According to the latest data, most boomers plan to remain in their own homes as opposed to moving into retirement or “assisted living” communities as they age.

Innovating Better Living

Recently, this "aging in place" phenomenon has triggered home renovations and new construction including halls and doorways wide enough for walkers and wheelchairs, and master suites and laundries on the ground floor so residents can avoid stairs. Now, the technology behind home appliances and fixtures is catching up – making all kinds of appliances and home design elements more senior-friendly. 

Some of the innovations in home design and appliance re-design include:

• Stoves that monitor pots to prevent boiling over
• Adjustable typeface on appliance control panels
• Faucets that turn on and off with just a touch anywhere on the spout
• Dishwashers designed to be mounted at a more comfortable height
• Refrigerators with doors and storage designed to reduce bending over
• Adjustable volume/pitch of oven alarms

Last but not least – yes, there is even a toilet on the market with an electric-blue nightlight built in and a motorized heated seat cover that rises with the touch of a button. I don’t think you’d have to be a senior citizen to enjoy that kind of amenity during a late-night bathroom visit!

The impact these trends will have on the real estate market as a whole is uncertain; manufacturers, meanwhile, are certain of one thing – marketing to baby boomers now is sure to pay off in the long run. With the Austin TX real estate market gaining more and more of a reputation as haven for retirees, we might even be seeing heated/lightup/electronic toilets at our home improvement stores sooner than you think!

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Tags: Austin Real Estate News, baby boomers, design trends, modern

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 21st, 2008 at 10:35 am and is filed under Austin Real Estate News. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.