Q: What are the needs of the Empty Nester?

A: Most in our industry would think building a one level or master on the main home plan would solve the needs of the Empty Nester buyer. We have experienced the needs are much greater. Let me explain.

First and foremost they need a trusted advisor. Much like an attorney for estate planning or an investment advisor for planning on living on a fixed income, the right builder will need to fill that advisory role in how to plan for that last housing transition.

Most often financing and asset management are key components on a successful project. Empty Nesters have more to think about than someone buying their first or second home. We have to understand that and be able to communicate with the client and their advisors. We also have to work with lenders that are comfortable in creating the right financing (sometimes creative) to make the housing transition as smooth as possible. We as the new home builder take a lead role in bringing all this together.

Logistics like where to live while building the new home becomes a real head scratcher. We have to understand their goals and help them reach them. Some have the luxury to live in their current homes while the new home is built. Others have to rent.  Finding a short term rental can be difficult. It is common for us to reach out to our extended network to help.

Helping clients sell their home is another area where we help. We are full service. A trusted handyman or a trusted real estate agent can be very helpful. It is quite common that we provide names to our clients. I hold a real estate license just for this purpose.

More on this next week.

I hope this helps and thank you for reading Ask The Builder and making The Columbian of Vancouver, WA a part of your day.

Please submit questions to jon@quailhomes.com. Jon can be reached direct at 360.907.5800