Step 7 – Estimate the Cost of Modifications and Maintenance

Now that you’ve identified what needs to be done to make your home safer, more accessible, and livable for the long term, it’s time to understand the financial investment involved. Step 7 in our 12-step planning process is about turning insight into action—and numbers.

Work with Your Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)

Your CAPS professional can help you develop a detailed scope of work based on:

• Accessibility modifications recommended during your CAPS home assessment (Step 5)
• General repairs and maintenance needs identified in your home inspection (Step 6)

They can also help you obtain written estimates from licensed contractors, ensuring the quotes are realistic, itemized, and aligned with your goals.

Add These Costs to Your Financial Plan

Once you have a clear picture of the total investment required to stay in your current home, compare it to the cost of other options—such as purchasing a more accessible home or moving to a senior living community. Be sure to factor in:

• Upfront costs of modifications and repairs
• Ongoing costs of maintaining the home
• The emotional and lifestyle value of staying in a familiar place

Why This Step Matters

Many people underestimate the true cost of staying in their current home. By getting accurate estimates now, you can make a well-informed decision—one that balances your financial resources with your vision for aging in place.

📌 Next up: Step 8 – Explore Age-in-Place-Ready Housing Options

If staying in your current home isn’t the best fit, we’ll help you explore homes that are already designed with accessibility and aging in mind.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Step 6 – Schedule a Professional Home Inspection

While accessibility is essential for aging in place, the overall condition of your home plays an equally important role in your long-term comfort, safety, and financial planning. That’s why Step 6 in our 12-step planning process is to schedule a professional home inspection.

Think of it as a check-up for your house—just like you’d schedule a physical for your health.

Why a Home Inspection Matters

A licensed home inspector evaluates the structural integrity and systems of your home, helping you:

• Understand the true cost of staying in your home long-term
• Prioritize repairs or upgrades that affect safety and livability
• Avoid unexpected expenses down the road
• Prepare your home for resale or rental, if that becomes part of your plan

What the Inspection Covers

A general home inspection includes a review of:

• Foundation and structure
• Roof and attic
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Heating and cooling systems
• Safety hazards and signs of wear

After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed written report that includes:

• The current condition of all major systems and components
• Recommended repairs or replacements
• Estimated urgency and potential costs
• Photos and notes to help you visualize problem areas

How to Use the Report

• Plan necessary repairs or upgrades if you intend to stay
• Budget for future maintenance
• Inform your decision about whether staying or moving is the better long-term option
• Prepare your home for sale if you decide to transition to a new living environment

📌 Next up: Step 7 – Estimate the Cost of Modifications and Maintenance

Now that you know what needs attention, we’ll help you understand the potential costs and how to prioritize them.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Step 5 – Schedule a CAPS Assessment

If you’re considering staying in your current home as you age, one of the most important steps you can take is to ensure that your environment supports your safety, independence, and comfort. That’s where a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) comes in.

Certified by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), CAPS professionals are trained to assess homes for aging in place and recommend practical, personalized modifications that enhance safety and accessibility—without sacrificing comfort or style.

What to Expect from a CAPS Assessment

Your CAPS professional will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your home, including:

The 6 Key Features of an Age-Friendly Home:

1. One-Level Living – Are essential spaces accessible without stairs?
2. Low-Threshold, Covered Entry – Is there a safe, weather-protected entrance?
3. Wide Doorways and Hallways – Can mobility aids move freely?
4. Accessible Bathroom – Are there grab bars, curb-less showers, and non-slip surfaces?
5. Space for a Caregiver – Is there room for a live-in or visiting caregiver?
6. Engaged Location – Is the home in a community that supports connection and access?

A Room-by-Room Safety and Accessibility Audit

The specialist will walk through your home—entryways, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, stairs, and outdoor areas—identifying safety hazards and opportunities for improvement.

After the Assessment, You’ll Receive:

• A prioritized list of recommended modifications
• Product and design suggestions
• Referrals to qualified contractors or remodelers
• Guidance on costs and potential funding options

Why This Step Matters

Many older adults wait until after a fall or health crisis to make home changes. A proactive CAPS assessment helps you stay ahead of those risks—so you can remain in your home longer, more safely, and with greater peace of mind.

📌 Next up: Step 6 – Schedule a Home Inspection

Before investing in modifications, it’s important to understand the overall condition of your home. A professional inspection can uncover structural or maintenance issues that may affect your plans.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

 Step 4 – Determine the Equity in Your Current Home

Your home is more than just a place to live—it’s also one of your most valuable financial assets. Understanding how much equity you have is a critical step in planning for the future, whether you’re considering home modifications, downsizing, or transitioning to a senior living community.

What Is Home Equity?

Home equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and any outstanding mortgage or loan balances. It represents the portion of your home that you truly own—and it can be a powerful financial resource.

How to Calculate It:

1. Request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
   Contact a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) to get a CMA. This report estimates your home’s current value based on recent sales in your area. An SRES understands the unique needs of older adults and can offer insights beyond pricing—like timing, market trends, and buyer interest.
2. Subtract Any Outstanding Mortgage Balance
   Once you know your home’s estimated value, subtract your remaining mortgage or home equity loan balance. The result is your available equity.

How Home Equity Can Support Aging in Place:

• Fund home modifications (e.g., stair lifts, bathroom renovations)
• Purchase a more accessible home or condo
• Offset the cost of moving to a senior living community
• Create a financial cushion for future care or emergencies

Additional Considerations:

• Timing Matters: Real estate markets fluctuate. Knowing when to sell—or whether to sell at all—can impact your financial outcome.
• Tax Implications: Consult a financial advisor or tax professional to understand how accessing equity may affect your taxes or benefits.

Knowing your home’s value gives you clarity and confidence as you plan your next chapter.

📌 Next up: Step 5 – Schedule a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) Assessment

This assessment will help you understand whether your current home can be safely and affordably modified to meet your future needs.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Step 3 – Gather a Trusted Team of Advisors

Making a housing decision later in life is about more than just where you live—it’s about how you live. That’s why Step 3 in our 12-step planning process is all about assembling a team of trusted professionals who can guide you through the financial, legal, emotional, and logistical aspects of this transition.

Why This Step Matters

No single professional can provide all the answers. Housing decisions in later life are complex and interconnected. For example:

• A home modification may seem like a great solution—and your financial advisor can help you understand how it fits into your long-term financial plan.
• A move to a senior community might feel like the right next step—and your estate planning attorney can ensure it aligns with your trust, benefits, and future care goals.

By building a collaborative team, you gain a holistic view of your options and avoid costly missteps.

Who Should Be on Your Team?

These professionals should work together—not in silos—to ensure your plan is aligned, sustainable, and centered on your goals.

Next up: Step 4 – Determine the Equity in Your Home

Understanding your home’s value is a key part of making informed decisions about your future.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Step 2 – Identify Your Obstacles and Concerns

Before you can plan effectively for the future, it’s important to understand what’s not working in the present. Step 2 in our 12-step planning process invites you to take an honest look at your current living situation and identify the obstacles that may be affecting your safety, comfort, or quality of life.

This step is not about focusing on limitations—it’s about gaining clarity. By writing down your concerns, you begin to see what needs to change and why. This process helps you prioritize next steps and gives your family and advisors a clear picture of your needs.

Why This Step Matters

Everyone faces challenges as they age. What matters most is how you respond. Identifying your obstacles now—before a crisis—puts you in control and allows you to plan proactively.

Understanding your current barriers can help you:

• Clarify what’s preventing you from living the life you want
• Prioritize changes that will improve your safety and independence
• Communicate your needs clearly to family members and professionals
• Lay the groundwork for future decisions about staying or moving

Use the Obstacles Worksheet to Get Started

We’ve created a simple, guided tool to help you reflect:
📄 [Download the Aging in Place Obstacles Worksheet]

For each obstacle, describe:

1. What the issue is
2. Why it concerns you
3. How it impacts your daily life
4. What you’ve tried (if anything) to address it

To help stimulate your thinking, consider these common categories:

• Physical Environment (e.g., stairs, lighting, layout)
• Health and Mobility (e.g., fatigue, chronic conditions)
• Daily Living Activities (e.g., cooking, bathing, errands)
• Safety Concerns (e.g., fall risks, emergency access)
• Social and Emotional Well-Being (e.g., isolation, anxiety)
• Transportation and Access (e.g., driving, public transit)
• Financial Stress (e.g., home repair costs, care expenses)

Example Entry

What’s Next?

Once you’ve identified your obstacles, you’ll be better prepared to explore solutions. In our next post, we’ll talk about Step 3: Gathering a Trusted Team of Advisors—the professionals who can help you evaluate your options and create a plan that supports your goals.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

A Step-by-Step Planning Process for Choosing the Right Living Arrangement

Making the right housing decision in retirement is one of the most important—and personal—choices you’ll face. It’s not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about how and where you want to live as you age, and how that choice supports your independence, safety, relationships, and overall well-being.

This decision requires balancing a wide range of factors:

• Emotional ties to your current home and community
• Physical needs that may change over time
• Financial realities and long-term sustainability
• Personal goals for lifestyle, connection, and care

You may be asking:

• Should I stay in my current home and make modifications?
• Should I move to a different home that better suits my needs?
• Should I transition to a senior living community?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a process that can help.

This 12-step guide offers a clear, structured approach to help you explore your options with confidence and clarity. And while this journey is deeply personal, it’s not one you should take alone. We encourage you to involve trusted family members, friends, and advisors early and often. Their insights and support can make the process smoother and more empowering.

Step 1: Start with Your Vision – Defining What Quality of Life Means to You

Before making any decisions about where or how to live as you age, it’s important to pause and reflect on what truly matters to you. Aging in place isn’t just about staying in your home—it’s about living in a way that supports your well-being, independence, and sense of purpose.

A personal vision statement can help clarify your priorities and guide your decisions. It becomes a touchstone you can return to as you evaluate options, make changes, and communicate your wishes to loved ones and care providers.

How to Write Your Vision Statement:

1. Reflect on Your Core Values
   What brings you joy and purpose? What do you value most—independence, connection, creativity, spirituality?
2. Envision Your Ideal Day
   Where are you living? What are you doing? Who are you with? How do you feel?
3. Consider Your Needs and Preferences
   Think about physical comfort, social interaction, access to nature or hobbies, and support with daily tasks.
4. Identify What You Want to Avoid
   Are there situations or routines that would feel isolating or limiting?
5. Write It Down in Your Own Words
   It can be a paragraph, a list, or even a letter to your future self. The key is that it feels authentic to you.

Sample Vision Statement:

“I want to live in a place where I feel safe, connected, and respected. I value my independence, but I also want to be close to people I care about. I enjoy being outdoors, reading, and attending community events. I want to stay active and engaged for as long as possible, with support available when I need it. My home should be easy to navigate, filled with light, and reflect who I am. I want to age with dignity, surrounded by kindness and purpose.”

Use the Vision Worksheet to Get Started

We’ve created a simple, guided tool to help you reflect on your obstacles:
📄 [Download the Aging in Place Vision Worksheet]

Taking the time to write your vision statement is a powerful first step. It helps you stay focused on what matters most and ensures that any changes you make—whether to your home, your routines, or your support system—are aligned with your values and goals.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Comparing the Cost of Living at Home vs. a Senior Living Community

In Post 10, we explored how to choose a senior living community that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and care needs. But before making a final decision, it’s important to understand the financial side of the equation—especially when comparing the cost of staying at home versus moving into a senior living community.

Many people focus solely on the monthly fee of a senior community and assume it’s more expensive than staying in their current home. However, this comparison is often misleading. Why? Because it doesn’t account for all the hidden or overlooked costs of homeownership.

Common Expenses to Include in Your Home Budget:

• Mortgage or rent (if applicable)
• Property taxes and homeowners’ insurance
• Utilities
• Home maintenance and repairs
• Lawn care and snow removal
• Housekeeping services
• Groceries and dining out
• Transportation (gas, car insurance, maintenance)
• Security systems or monitoring
• Fitness memberships or wellness programs
• Social activities and entertainment
• In-home care or companion services (if needed)

And don’t forget to budget for capital improvements like roof replacement, HVAC upgrades, plumbing or electrical repairs, and accessibility modifications. These costs can add up quickly—and they’re often unpredictable.

Use a Monthly Cost Comparison Worksheet

To help you make a clear, side-by-side comparison, we recommend using a Monthly Cost Comparison Worksheet. This tool allows you to:

• List all current expenses associated with living at home
• Compare them to the all-inclusive monthly fee of a senior living community
• Identify potential savings or added value
• Make a more informed financial decision

When evaluating senior living options, it’s essential to look beyond the monthly price tag and consider the full value of what you’re receiving.

Tangible and Intangible Benefits

Senior living communities often include:

• Access to healthcare services
• Engaging social activities
• High-quality amenities
• Favorable staff-to-resident ratios
• Maintenance-free living

But just as important are the intangible benefits: peace of mind, improved quality of life, reduced isolation, and a sense of belonging. These elements, while harder to quantify, are often what make a place feel like home.

Ultimately, the right choice balances affordability with the richness of experience and support it provides.

In Post 12, we’ll introduce a step-by-step planning process to help you move forward with clarity and confidence—whether you decide to modify your current home or make a move.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Choosing a Senior Community

In Post 9, we explored the many types of senior living communities—from independent living to assisted living, memory care, and CCRCs. If you’re beginning to think that community living might be a good fit for you, the next step is just as important: finding the right community.

Choosing a senior living community is not just about services and costs—it’s about finding a place that feels like home and supports your lifestyle, values, and well-being. To make the best decision, it’s important to reflect on what truly matters to you.

Start with Self-Reflection

Ask yourself:

• What kind of environment makes me feel most comfortable?
• How important is access to nature, social activities, or spiritual services?
• Do I want a vibrant, active community or a quieter, more private setting?
• What level of healthcare access do I need now—and might need in the future?

These questions help clarify your priorities and guide your search toward communities that align with your personal goals.

Use a Community Comparison Worksheet

To help with this process, we recommend using a Community Comparison Worksheet. This tool allows you to identify and rate features based on your personal preferences. Use High, Medium, and Low to rate how important each feature is to you.

Examples of criteria you might rate include:

• Proximity to family and friends
• On-site healthcare services
• Pet-friendly policies
• Dining options and dietary accommodations
• Fitness and wellness programs
• Transportation services
• Religious or spiritual services
• Cultural or educational activities
• Staff-to-resident ratio
• Community atmosphere and aesthetics

This worksheet helps you stay focused on what truly matters and makes it easier to compare communities side by side. It’s especially helpful when touring multiple locations or involving family members in the decision-making process.

In Post 11, we’ll take a closer look at the cost of living at home versus living in a senior community—a key factor in making an informed and sustainable choice.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Community Living Options for Seniors

In Post 8, we explored private housing options like downsizing, condo living, and multigenerational households. But for many older adults, the desire for more support, safety, or social connection leads them to consider community living.

Community living offers a range of environments designed specifically for older adults, with varying levels of care, services, and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant social scene, peace of mind with onsite care, or a full continuum of support, there’s likely a community that fits your needs.

Independent Living Communities

Ideal for older adults who can manage daily life independently but want added convenience and connection.

• Housing: Typically private apartments or studios
• Costs: Monthly fees cover room, board, and services; some charge a one-time move-in fee
• Services: Meals, housekeeping, transportation, and most utilities
• Care: Personal care (like help with ADLs) is arranged separately through home care agencies
• Lifestyle: Rich calendars of activities and amenities—fitness classes, art workshops, day trips, religious services, and more

Assisted Living Communities

Designed for those who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, or medication management—but don’t require 24/7 medical care.

• Housing: Private apartments or studios
• Costs: Monthly fees plus care costs based on assessed needs
• Services: Meals, housekeeping, transportation, and most utilities
• Care: Onsite caregivers provide personal care; a nurse case manager determines care level
• Lifestyle: Similar to independent living, with added peace of mind from onsite support

Memory Care

A specialized form of assisted living for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive impairments.

• Environment: Secure settings with enhanced safety features and structured routines
• Staff: Specially trained in memory care and behavioral support
• Costs: Typically higher than standard assisted living due to increased care needs

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

CCRCs offer a full continuum of care—independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing—all on one campus.

• Entry Fee: Significant upfront payment (buy-in), varying by contract and unit
• Monthly Fees: Ongoing fees that may increase with care level
• Contracts: Types A, B, and C determine how care is paid for and what’s refundable
• Eligibility: Health assessments determine entry and care level
• Lifestyle: Residents enjoy a vibrant, long-term community with the ability to age in place

Community living can offer the support, safety, and social engagement that many older adults seek—especially as care needs evolve. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one?

In Post 10, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing a senior living community—including how to evaluate your needs, compare communities, and ask the right questions during tours. Understanding your options is the first step; choosing the right fit is the next.

Want the Full Guide Now?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.

Click here to get your complimentary copy now.

About Forevermore Homes

We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.