By Lindsay Levin
Most homeowners don't wake up one morning and decide they need to think about aging in place.
More often, the conversation starts after a fall, a medical diagnosis, a spouse's changing mobility, or the realization that stairs are becoming more challenging than they once were.
As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®), I work with homeowners and families throughout Sandy Springs, Buckhead, Dunwoody, Roswell, and the greater Atlanta area who are trying to answer an important question:
Should we modify our current home or would another home better support our long-term needs?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Sometimes a few thoughtful modifications allow someone to remain comfortably in a home they love for many years. Other times, moving to a more suitable property is the better financial and lifestyle decision.
What Is an SRES®?
An SRES® (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) is a Realtor who has received specialized training to help adults age 50+ navigate housing decisions associated with retirement, downsizing, aging in place, caregiving, and major life transitions.
An SRES® understands that these decisions often involve much more than buying or selling a home. They may include:
- Evaluating whether a current home can safely support long-term living
- Coordinating with adult children and caregivers
- Understanding the financial implications of staying versus moving
- Identifying homes better suited for aging in place
- Connecting homeowners with trusted professionals who specialize in accessibility and home modifications
What Is Aging in Place?
Aging in place means remaining in your home safely, independently, and comfortably as your needs change over time.
For many Atlanta homeowners, that may involve modifications such as:
- Main-level living arrangements
- Walk-in or curbless showers
- Grab bars and improved bathroom safety features
- Wider doorways
- Better lighting throughout the home
- Reduced thresholds and trip hazards
- Stair lifts or elevators when appropriate
The goal is not simply to make a home safer today. The goal is to create a home that continues to work well for years to come.
Where a CAPS Professional Fits In
A Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS®) is a contractor, remodeler, designer, or other professional trained in home modifications that improve accessibility and safety.
When clients are considering significant home modifications, I often recommend consulting with a CAPS professional who can evaluate the home and identify practical improvements.
A CAPS professional can assess:
- Entryways and exterior access
- Bathrooms and kitchens
- Stairways and hallways
- Lighting and visibility
- Mobility and accessibility challenges throughout the home
Their expertise complements the work of an SRES Realtor.
While a CAPS professional focuses on how to modify the home, an SRES helps evaluate whether modifying the home makes sense compared to other housing options.
Common Aging in Place Challenges in Atlanta Homes
Many Atlanta homes were designed for growing families rather than long-term accessibility.
Some of the most common challenges I see include:
Two-Story Homes
Many homes in Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, and Buckhead have primary bedrooms located upstairs. While that works well for many years, it can become more challenging over time.
Split-Level Homes
Common throughout many established Atlanta neighborhoods, split-level homes often contain multiple short flights of stairs that can create mobility concerns.
Older Bathrooms
Many homes lack walk-in showers, grab bars, adequate lighting, and other safety features that become increasingly important with age.
Large Lots and Exterior Maintenance
Some homeowners love their large yards until maintaining them becomes physically demanding. At that point, a lower-maintenance property may become worth considering.
When Modifying Your Home Makes Sense
In many situations, aging in place modifications are a great solution.
Homeowners often choose to stay when:
- They love their neighborhood and community
- The home already has a primary suite on the main level
- Modifications are relatively straightforward
- Family and support systems are nearby
- The cost of modifications is reasonable compared to moving
When Moving May Be the Better Solution
Sometimes the most practical answer is not to modify the home but to find one that already meets future needs.
I often encourage clients to explore all options when:
- Significant structural changes would be required
- The home has multiple levels that are difficult to navigate
- Maintenance has become overwhelming
- The property is larger than needed
- A different location would provide better access to family, healthcare, or daily services
Questions to Ask Before Making a Decision
Before investing in major home modifications, consider:
- Will this home realistically meet your needs for the next 10 to 15 years?
- What modifications are needed now versus later?
- What is the estimated cost of those improvements?
- How do those costs compare to purchasing a home that already meets your needs?
- Have you consulted both a CAPS professional and an SRES Realtor before deciding?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a CAPS and an SRES?
A CAPS professional specializes in evaluating and modifying homes for accessibility and aging in place. An SRES Realtor specializes in helping older adults make housing decisions, including whether to stay, modify, downsize, or move.
Does aging in place increase home value?
Some improvements, such as main-level living, updated bathrooms, improved accessibility, and thoughtful design features, can appeal to a broader group of buyers. The impact depends on the quality and design of the improvements.
Should I renovate or move?
The answer depends on your home's layout, your budget, your future needs, and your long-term goals. Every situation is different, which is why evaluating both options is important before making a major investment.
Helping Atlanta Homeowners Navigate Their Next Chapter
As an SRES® and Atlanta real estate advisor, I help homeowners and their families evaluate all of their options, whether that means aging in place, downsizing, relocating closer to family, or finding a home that better supports their future needs.
Reach to Lindsay Levin Today
If you are thinking about aging in place in your Atlanta home and want guidance on whether modifications make sense or whether a different property would serve you better, I am here to help. Reach out to me at the
Lindsay Levin Team for a conversation about your options.
