Finding Happiness in Your New Post Retirement Home

Source: Photo by SHVETS production: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-shot-of-an-elderly-couple-holding-hands-8972261/

Guest Author: Gabriel Patel

If you’ve decided to move after retiring from your job, you may be looking forward to settling down in a new home and discovering a new neighborhood. But you may also be dreading some of the changes and unknowns that come with relocating.

Here, we’ll share some tips that will help you feel safe and comfortable in your new place, so you can focus on enjoying your well-deserved retirement:

Turn Your New House into a Home

Whether you’ve downsized and have only kept the bare minimum from your previous house, or you’ve actually moved into a bigger place to accommodate children and grandchildren who will come visit you, turning your new house into a home you feel comfortable living in doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag. There are some quick and affordable ways that will make you love your new home even more. Paint the walls in your favorite hues, or create an accent wall to showcase your favorite framed photographs or artwork.

You can also add floating shelves to hold your kids’ little league trophies and family vacation souvenirs that bring back happy memories. Bring in more natural light inside and lighten up the mood by replacing heavy, outdated drapes with stylish blinds or shutters you can adjust during the day and at night to protect your privacy as well.

Insure Your New Property

You know that having homeowners insurance is essential in case of unexpected damages to your property, theft, or injuries. However, unlike a home warranty plan, it doesn’t cover repairs or replacement of the major systems and equipment in your house. But how to know if a home warranty is worth it? Start by checking your home inspection report for any red flags: if you just purchased a home, some of the major appliances like washer and dryer, dishwasher, and refrigerator may need to be repaired or replaced sooner than you’d expect, and that could take a big chunk of money out of your savings if their existing warranties have expired.

If the house has been sitting empty for a while, you may need to replace even more expensive items such as the water heater or HVAC system or do some major electrical or plumbing repairs as well as upgrades. Purchasing a home warranty for your new home will give you peace of mind that all those costly expenses will be covered.

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Improve Your Outdoor Space

Now that you’re retired, you’ll have more time to enjoy all that your new backyard has to offer. Whether you’re into gardening or inviting friends over for a delicious barbecue, think about turning your outdoor space into an inviting haven. Growing your own vegetable and herb garden doesn’t require a large amount of land, and it will have multiple health benefits: you’ll get a much-needed boost of vitamin D to prevent bone loss, full-body exercises to keep your heart and weight in check, and you’ll get to enjoy pesticide-free, fresh and delicious produce without leaving your home.

Additionally, transform a corner of your backyard into a cozy oasis where you can relax with a good book, or spend some leisurely time with loved ones, by adding a pergola and investing in some durable and comfy outdoor furniture.

Work with a professional, knowledgeable realtor to find you the perfect house to enjoy your retirement years in. A few home additions and the right insurance coverage will help you feel safe and comfortable in your new place. Now, it’s time to make some new friends and invite them over!

 About the Author: Gabriel Patel enjoys writing about health and wellness. He co-founded HealthWellWise.com with a group of friends who share the desire to help people live happy, healthy lives.