Here is a summary of what I have noticed about buyers of this type of home in senior parks:
1. Age of buyers: Over 55 obviously. The younger sector, say 55 to mid to late 60’s, usually prefer a newer to brand new unit, often with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, big tub in one bath, usually wanting a guest room and office. Often will want a big deck across the front, a yard, big kitchen, and lots of storage. My buyers often pay cash if they are downsizing, but many prefer to finance a portion, due to not wanting to pay penalties on some accounts they have. (I have excellent resources for finance customers!) Community West Bank ask for Clay Dickens, 805-681-3366 or CRM Funding, ask for Pat or Laura, 805-657-2721. Both are very proficient in mfg. homes.
The buyers who are in the older sector, say 70’s to 80’s and up, want entirely different features and it depends upon who is purchasing the home — either the family or the person who will actually be living there. The resident often wants a much smaller home, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, very low maintenance, no yard, or maybe just a little rose garden, a small porch or covered patio (no more sun!), usually want convenience in a kitchen but don’t really care about granite, stainless steel, technology, etc. They almost always pay cash, so they want something in the lower price ranges, due to shock-value of today’s prices, and the nostalgia of the way things used to be. Convenience is extremely important – ease of transportation to get to and from doctors, stores, friends and family. Personal safety is extremely important and vital, so neighbors and neighborhood is a big consideration.
The children of the older buyers want the home to convenient, safe neighborhood close to them so they can easily check up on mom or dad, not a lot of money, but they would like it to require little or no renovation or upgrades, (thinking about their future and resale value), price point is a huge consideration, (either the money is coming out of their pocket, or they will be needing the extra cash for future assisted living or home care for parents, or they are the recipients of whatever is left when parents pass, so they really watch the $$). They always think mom/dad want yards and decks and big rooms, but mom/dad rarely do. They have downsized and want to live with the necessities. Too much to clean and too much to get rid of!
These are generalities, not carved in stone; however, after all these years, and specializing in manufactured homes, I am pretty “right-on”! I understand the needs of seniors and their families.
By the way, I do sell all types of residences, condos, single family, all ages, but I live in Ventura Marina Community and do the majority of my business here. Call me: 818-268-2200.
Sally Fisher, REALTOR®
818-268-2200
CalDRE#01444989