Low-Maintenance Living: Is Generation X Ready?

When it comes to low-maintenance living, it’s a natural fit for retired baby boomers and older adults. But even members of Generation X in their 40s and 50s don’t want to feel obligated to take off their shoes in the foyer because of messy yard work. Living in luxurious patio homes, condos and townhomes appeals to Gen-Xers, many of whom are still a decade or two away from retiring. According to an article by Builder, builders in Denver find success with the move-up Generation X buyers. As for what appeals to the generation in between the baby boomers and the millennials, it’s all about upgrades, style, features and comfort. Growing up in the time of “Earth Day,” Gen-Xers also value leaving a low carbon footprint. When house hunting for a Denver-area luxury low-maintenance villa, townhome or condo, whether it’s in one of the many  55+ communities in Metro Denver or not – consider some of the trends to maintain resale value and maximize your own enjoyment. If you are a baby boomer interested in listing your low-maintenance property, play up features that attract buyers who want a little more privacy and an open space feel.

No. 1: The privacy wall trend

Just because a homeowner wants a low-maintenance life does not mean he or she wants to give up privacy. According to Builder, some builders erect privacy walls within communities. With townhomes, builders often construct walls in between patios. If privacy is of paramount importance, talk to us about corner units with views and more privacy.

No. 2: Indoor/outdoor spaces that flow

Another trick that builders employ to satisfy Generation X homebuyers is to create indoor/outdoor spaces that make a living space feel spacious. Some Denver builders use corner stacker doors so people using the covered patio see into the home from an angle. Gen-X buyers want open space floor plans for entertaining.

As far as interior features, Gen-X buyers gave up their “slacker” reputation decades ago. They worked hard, often desiring luxury. When investing in a home, opt for larger showers, freestanding tubs, build-in refrigerators, wine stations and upgrade materials. Is Gen-X ready for a low-maintenance lifestyle? They often embrace low-maintenance as well as sustainability features such as enhanced insulation, high-efficiency windows and more efficient products within the home.

At Metro Denver Luxury Homes, we help move-up buyers find low-maintenance homes so they can spend more time entertaining and less time tending to their yards. For more tips on finding ideal luxury patio homes, townhouses and condos, please contact The Principal Team.