Checklist: Recognizing housing needs for old age

What do I need in my property so that I can live in it carefree in old age? After all, the needs of a 70-year-old are very different from those of a 30-year-old. To make sure that your property is fit enough for your needs in old age, you can ask yourself the following questions.

Am I happy with my current living situation?

• • Does my property suit me? Is it too big? Is it too small? Will it still be the same when I am retired or older?

Do I want to stay in my familiar surroundings?

• • • Is the location of my property suitable for the elderly? Is medical care nearby? Are there shopping facilities nearby? Do family and friends live nearby?
    • Would I have to change my living situation in old age because doctors, shopping facilities, family and friends are too far away? What if I can no longer drive? How good is the public transportation system?
    • Would a real estate annuity be something for me?
    • Could my property be divided?

Do I want a change?

• • What could be better about my property now? What could be better for old age?

Will there perhaps be a need to change my living situation later on due to restrictions?

• • Can my property be converted to be barrier-free?
  • How high are the costs?

What alternative forms of housing could I imagine in old age?

• • Could I live in a shared flat with people of the same age in old age? Would I like to live alone in old age? Would a multi-generational house with a mixture of old and young residents be something for me?
  • Do I want a form of housing with more security of supply in old age?
  • Would I like a form of housing with more services in old age?
  • Would I like professional support in my home in old age?
  • Would assisted living be a suitable form of housing for me?
  • Would I like to spend my retirement in the sun abroad?

Do I want more social contact in old age?

• • Would I like to live alone but meet other people regularly?

What form of housing can I afford in old age?

What happens to my property when I move?

• • Inherit? Give away? Rent it out? Sell?

Are you unsure whether your property is age-appropriate? Then contact us! We will be happy to advise you.

Notes

For reasons of better readability, the generic masculine is used in this text. Female and other gender identities are explicitly included where this is necessary for the statement.

Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific individual case.

Photo: © illustratorgold/Depositphotos.com