There’s a consensus among trusted sources that Portland is one of the best choices a retiree can make when they’re looking for a new home. According to a ranking report from MagnifyMoney, Portland tops the list of best retirement destinations in the US for seniors. The rankings are based on an analysis of four major categories: assisted care availability and quality; medical quality and cost; cost of living and lifestyle. Additionally, a ranking from US News placed Portland, Oregon at number 6 on the list of the top 125 cities in the U.S. This high ranking means the city scored high marks in value, overall desirability, job market and quality of life. As a bonus, Portland has a notably lower crime rate than other similarly sized metropolitan areas, which means you can enjoy city life safely.

Retiring in Portland, Oregon is clearly a great choice. Ready to start your house hunting journey? Here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure the process is as smooth and enjoyable as possible:

 

1. Research the Financial Ramifications of Retiring in Portland

 One of the most important steps you should take while preparing for your retirement is to do a full and thorough review of your finances. You will want to have a good idea about your budget before you have your heart set on any particular house.

 The good news is that retiring in Portland is very affordable. If you’re considering relocating to Portland, your wallet will thank you. Oregon is considered to be tax-friendly for retirees. There is no sales tax in the state, and Oregon also refrains from taxing social security income. Public and private pension incomes are only partially taxed, meaning retirees can keep more money in their pockets to spend on whatever they choose.

 As a homebuyer, you may qualify for a property tax deferral after five years of living in your house. Your real estate agent can help you learn more about your eligibility and whether this program is a good fit for your needs.

 

2. Target Housing with “Aging in Place” Amenities

 Your next home should be one that makes sense for you for both the long and short term, so the concept of aging in place is an important one for seniors. Luckily, your agent will be right there to help ensure the communities you are interested in include homes designed to meet your needs – both present and future. Your real estate agent can help you identify Universal Design homes, which are homes built with amenities to help you live safely in your home for years to come. These amenities can include no step entryways, one story floor plans, wider doorways, open floor plans with extra floor space, and bathrooms that are senior-friendly.

 Although Portland certainly has much to offer in terms of real estate, the city is also home to alternative senior living options. After looking at houses, seniors sometimes realize that their health and mobility needs in the future might prevent them from living comfortably in their own home.

 If you are healthy, active and want to maintain your independence without having to take care of a big house, a retirement community in Portland could be an ideal option for you. A retirement community, also called a “55-plus” community, gives you the opportunity to live on your own without the hassle of property maintenance. There’s also a social benefit to living in a retirement community, which can be an amazing perk for retirees who are new to the area. Arts and crafts classes, happy hours, and holiday celebrations are among the commonly-offered social perks offered in retirement communities.

 If you aren’t sure you can live a fully independent lifestyle, you may want to consider an assisted living facility. There are a wide variety of senior care communities in Portland and over 20 in neighboring cities. The cost of these facilities includes room, board and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, general housekeeping and managing medications. Your real estate agent can help you work through your financing options if needed.

 

3. Recognize How Real Estate Agents Can Optimize Your Search

 Your real estate agent should be a trusted partner throughout your house hunting process. He or she can help you understand all the different senior housing options available to you in Portland.

 Ready to buy your dream retirement home in Portland? The team at Tindell & Co. has you covered. Contact the team today to get started!

This is a guest article from: Seniorhomes.com: an organization dedicated to supporting senior citizens and their families. Our mission is to raise awareness about the available care options and resources that can help seniors stay connected with their community.