According to the 2020 U.S. Census, there are around 22.5 million empty nesters in the U.S. With an aging population, experts say this number will likely continue to grow.
Empty nesters are folks whose children are no longer in their direct care, typically between the ages of 40 and 60. This demographic has unique needs and wants for their homes in this next stage of their lives; thus, they require different floor plans than young families.
Empty nesters make up a large share of those looking to purchase a new home. A 2022 report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that those aged 55 to 73 make up more than 70% of homebuyers!
Living in one place for several decades and then starting a search for a new home can feel daunting. But this move is unsurprising, as many empty nesters want to move to warmer climates or more urban areas to pursue a new lifestyle.
Does this describe you? Are you curious about the different house plans for empty nesters? Read on to explore some possibilities!
What Are Empty Nester Floor Plans?
If your children have already moved out of the house, your home needs may have evolved, and an empty nester floor plan might be just what you need. These house designs are perfect for those who want to enjoy their living space to its fullest or more than they could when they had small children running around.
The Need for Unique Solutions for Empty Nesters
Many empty nesters happen to be older and retirees, so they need a layout that accommodates their mobility needs. One-story homes with open concepts are much more popular than two-story house plans. The most popular empty-nester home designs are ranch-style.
Common features of empty-nester floor plans include the following:
- Front porch
- Great room
- Large master bedroom
- Open floor plan
- Outdoor living area
- Walk-in closets and plenty of other storage options
Many empty-nester floor plans also have the master suite on the main level, regardless of whether the design is one- or two-story. This is to avoid the stairs to reach their master bedroom.
Empty Nester Floor Plan Options
Having lived in this area for more than two decades, I can tell you that the Tampa area has excellent empty nester floor plans to consider and an unparalleled Florida lifestyle to match. Here are some of the most popular options below.
Cottage-Style Empty-Nester Floor Plan
As you begin your empty-nester floor plan search, you’ll notice many cottage-style homes. Cottage-style homes are charming, cozy, and soft, with a rustic or farmhouse feel. They often include things like:
- Antique finishes
- Natural materials
- Vintage decorations
Craftsman-style homes are also popular. They have a similar look to cottage-style, using natural materials and colors.
Multigenerational Housing
Some couples are forgoing empty nest living and choosing to live more community-style in multigenerational homes. Features you’ll find in these homes include the following:
- Accessibility
- Dual laundry rooms
- Kitchenettes
- Separate entrances
- Shared kitchen and dining areas
- Split bedrooms
- Two- or three-car garages
To ensure privacy, the mature generation may live on the first floor, while the younger generations occupy the second floor. The floor plans for multigenerational living are inclusive of all different family styles of living.
Aging-In-Place Home Plan
Aging-in-place floor plans allow people to stay in their homes as they age. Features of these home plans include:
- Customizable countertop heights (tailored to the needs of the individual)
- Non-skid flooring
- Touch-free faucets
- Walk-in showers
- Wider doorways
Home builders took the idea to create aging-in-place homes by designing blueprints for people with unique mobility needs.
Budget-Friendly Empty Nester Floor Plan
If you’re on a budget, there are many empty-nester home designs for you to consider, too.
Open floor plans are great for maximizing space. Further, high ceilings can make a room feel bigger than it is.
Downsizing is another popular option for empty nesters. Small house plans are ideal for those who won’t have large groups of people over to entertain often or who want to save money. Downsizing can help reduce homeowner costs and allow retirees to spend more on hobbies and travel.
A condominium or townhome in an over-55 community could also fit the bill, especially because HOAs take care of the yard, and many have relaxation or other amenities you can take advantage of. And it’s always nice to find a community of like-minded individuals who can share interests, being in the same season of life as you.
Keep in mind – it’s also easy to modify many floor plan designs discussed to fit your budget. Or use simple design tips that trick the eye into believing the space is bigger than it actually is!
Upsized Empty Nester Floor Plan
On the other hand, some empty nesters who buy new homes don’t reduce their square footage. Data from the NAR shows that in 2020, 35% of people aged 66 and above bought a home 3,000 square feet (sq. ft.) or larger, a 12% increase from 2017.
Without needing to pay for child expenses like food, clothes, and education, empty nesters have more disposable income to spend on their homes.
If you’re just beginning your journey into this phase of life, there are many ways to free up money – check out some of these helpful financial tips to explore how to maximize your funds to purchase the home you’ve always dreamed of!
Additional Specs to Consider for Retirement Floor Plans
Still have some questions about empty nester home plans and what to look for in the Tampa real estate market? Here are a few more elements of your new home to consider.
Teen Space
Retirees with teenage grandchildren may want to make additional considerations to their floor plans. This may include an extra guest room or two so the grandchildren can spend the night or a larger living room or dining room that accommodates more visitors.
Yoga or Relaxation Room
If you build a custom home, you may consider adding a bonus room to the main floor for meditation and relaxation. Whether you like to read, do yoga, or watch TV, having a separate relaxing space can help relieve stress and anxiety and positively influence your mental health.
Since getting older comes with unique challenges, having this specially designated space can bring empty nesters peace of mind.
Ready to Start Looking at House Plans for Empty Nesters in Person?
There’s a wide variety of house plans for empty nesters, so whatever you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it. Whether you want to downsize, relocate to a warmer climate, or move to a house with more accessibility, I would love to help!
From budget to luxury empty-nester house plans, I can help you find your empty-nester dream home. Read testimonials from my previous clients to see how I could help fulfill all their housing desires!
Browse my listings and see if there is something that piques your interest. If you’re unsure where to start or looking for that unique, needle-in-a-haystack property, call me, at (813) 240-6563 for assistance finding your new house.
Real estate is my life’s passion. I’ll be able to guide you through the entire home-buying process, and my expertise in this market will allow me to match you with the perfect home. So don’t hesitate to reach out to me today!