Down-size in style

The decision to down-size around the age of 55 is never an easy one.

There are several reasons for this, the first that it can be a highly emotional time.

After living in a single-family home for 30-plus years, it can be difficult to leave a familiar residence that’s served as the anchor point where you raised kids and hosted countless family gatherings.

Second, there are the financial implications associated with making the move. The reality is, not all 55-plus couples have unlimited budgets after selling their home. In many instances, it may have been a modest but functional residence that sold for a good, but not massive price.

Financial constraints may dictate that a new dwelling should cost $350,000 or less. Consequently, a desirable bungalow condo — most list for between $450,000 and $600,000 depending on location — may be out of range.

Lastly, there’s the consideration of location. Many empty-nesters want to purchase their retirement home in or near the same area in which they’ve lived for decades.

Val Miller of Royal LePage Dynamic Real Estate says she just listed an apartment-style condominium in a Charleswood 55-plus complex that offers down-sizers a deft balance of style, functionality and overall livability for under $350,000.

“I think the first thing to mention is that this is a steel-and-concrete building. It’s very solid, making for very quiet living,” she says.

“And when you walk in, the building has a very welcoming atmosphere.”

Miller says that atmosphere is down to the building’s rather unique design.

“This isn’t a high-rise building — it’s just two storeys, so there aren’t people coming and going all the time in, which is usually the case in high-rise condominium complexes. There’s a greater sense of calm here, something that’s amplified by the fact the suite is on the top floor.”

An easy elevator ride takes you to the contemporary-style condo, which immediately impresses with its pleasing, house-like feel.

“That comes from two things — its square footage, which comes in at 1,319 sq. ft., and the exceptional layout,” Miller says. “It’s a split plan, which uses all the available space very efficiently.”

Essentially, there are two wings — one to the right of the foyer that contains two bedrooms, and a second on the far left-hand side of the suite that houses a large bedroom and full bath.

A large living room/dining room and kitchen occupy the centre of the unit, making for a very livable main space that starts off with a highly functional galley-style kitchen.

“It comes with an abundance of cabinetry, which provides plenty of storage space, tile backsplash and smart grey-laminate countertops,” Miller says.

“A newer sliding patio door on its rear wall leads out to a large, covered balcony that looks out onto a beautiful collection of mature trees. It’s a perfect spot to relax, barbecue or entertain.”

Then, there’s the adjacent living room/dining room.

“Both spaces are a great size — the living room is 12-by-17-feet, and the dining room is nearly nine-by-12-feet,” Miller says. “There’s plenty of room for furniture in the living room, which currently has two armchairs, a sofa and love-seat in it, along with a TV. The dining room can accommodate a table for six to eight. The area is perfect for relaxing or entertaining.”

Not to be overlooked is the space to the left of the dining room.

“It’s such a well-designed area,” Miller says. “The bedroom is huge at nearly 10-by-13-feet, and it’s next to a well-appointed four-piece bath. It could serve as a guest bedroom, or as an office. It’s up to you as to how you’d want to use it.”

The bedroom wing to the right of the generous foyer is equally impressive.

A large laundry/storage closet starts it off in functional style. From there, it flows seamlessly toward two more spaces: a den/bedroom and the primary bedroom.

“The primary bedroom is huge and comes with a beautiful four-piece ensuite with soaker tub; it also looks out onto the forest behind the home. The adjacent bedroom could be used as a den or hobby room,” Miller says.

She says the well-ordered, well-kept suite is filled with light, functionality and style.

“Spacious and well-appointed, this turnkey condo is in one of Charleswood’s most desirable areas. The forest views are gorgeous, and the inviting layout is so livable.

“It also comes with a storage locker on the same floor, party room and great community feel. It’s a great and rare find.”

lewys@mymts.net