Property Management

    Landlords and investors are aware of the need to have a safe, healthy environment in which tenants can live with quiet enjoyment.  However, another consideration that many may not have thought of is making housing units easier for our aging population to enjoy.

    According to Tom Kelly, investment columnist, nearly a quarter of Americans aged 45 or older say they, or someone they live with, will have trouble maneuvering around their home in the coming years. Furthermore, fewer than 10% of the nation's 100 million housing units have features to make them universally accessible.

    This consideration of home modifications is especially timely in Texas as we see more sunbirds who seek places in warmer climates such as we have here.

    Home modifications refer to adaptations to homes that can make them easier for someone to carry out daily activiites, such as preparing meals, climbing stairs, bathing, as well as change to the physical structure of a home to improve its overall safety and condition.  Landlords may find that allocating money for modification projects gets pushed back in an economic downturn, but evidence shows that these modifications can enhance the resale value of the home once the present owner sells.  The modifications do not have to scream out "an old person lives here" but should be based on a rather new building movement called Universal Design.

    Seniors and baby boomers are much more active than in generations past, but this activity has put wear and tear on many of them at an earlier age--hence hip and knee replacements in their 60s and knee scopes even in their 40s.  Of course, active people of any age are at risk for various types of joint injuries requiring special considerations in the home.  Therefore, they do not want a house that is fraught with hazards and barriers. 

    Things such as providing at least one no-step entry into the house can reduce the likelihood of falls and injuries.  Having a walk-in shower on the lower floor of the house is helpful as well.  Making sure the walkway to the front of the house is level is important.  For more information on ways to apply Universal Design to your properties, please visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_design.

    And for your property management needs in the Central Texas area, please visit our website and go to the button for property management at www.accent4rent.com or call us at 1.800.323.8481