Downsizing to an apartment is so often associated with retirement-home or retirement-village living. However, not all apartments come under these headings, and in fact, some are privately owned homes in the very heart of bustling cities. What’s more, it is this kind of location that makes them so appealing as a retirement living option. Below, we check out why, and also take a peek at potential downsides.
Location, location, location!
As many urban dwellers will attest, if you want to live in a city, live in its centre! A city centre is a city’s heart, and when your home is there, no travelling is required in order to attend shows, eat out, catch up with friends for coffee, take a walk or a bike ride in some of the most pedestrian- and cycle-friendly parts of town, or find public transport. When you do go out in the evening, you’re back home in a trice when the event is over, and there’s no parking to find or pay for. You simply walk out of your apartment, and you’re there! While you may feel you’re missing out on a garden, most apartments come with inviting balconies suited to growing high-rise friendly plants, while close at hand are city parks and gardens to enjoy.
Room with a view
Let’s face it, as the years go by, most retirees are likely to spend more time indoors than they did in the past, and with the right high-rise apartment, you won’t face looking out on the neighbour’s fence. While an inner-city apartment might be in the middle of a concrete jungle, your view could be a park, a river, a harbour, or the ocean. These are dynamic, ever-changing environments where there is always some new activity to watch. Even observing inner-city building in progress can provide significant interest!
Safety first
Living in a big city, in a private stand-alone home, it’s easy to become a little nervous around security issues. When you live in an apartment, you’re likely to be armed with a digital security entrance via a passcode or swipe card, and once in the lobby, it’s into the elevator and you’re delivered to your door. Some apartments even come with their own concierge and security staff.
Pet paradise!
Moving into an inner-city apartment doesn’t necessarily mean you have to leave your animal companion behind. Many apartment blocks are pet-friendly, and inner cities are well set up for dog walkers. While a cat may take time to adjust to indoor living, there are many tips on how to help them live a contented life indoors. Check apartment rules and regulations before you buy.
Amenities on your doorstep
How far do you currently travel to reach your pool, tennis court, or gym? If the answer is ‘too far,’ consider what it would be like to walk out your door and ride the lift to any one of these amenities. Apartments may come with their own gym and pool, and some even have roof-top gardens. If your apartment is without these amenities, you can almost guarantee they’re just a stone’s throw from your apartment block or from the public transport that will whisk you there in a few minutes.
Going down
Apartment life suits many retirees, but if you’re considering making the move, bear in mind there are a few downsides to consider: Not all apartments provide car parks, and when they do, there may be restrictions on whether you can charge an EV on-site, should you have one. If you need to lease a car park, there’s an extra expense to consider. Then again, if you’re living inner-city, you may simply choose to hire a vehicle when the occasion arises, or make do with an e-bike. Apartment living can mean you’re sharing outdoor space with others who may have a balcony right next door to your own. Cooking smells and living noise (music and conversation) from next door may sometimes intrude. While many inner-city environments may offer small grocery outlets, you will probably need to travel to do a regular shop (public transport can help), and you may, at times, feel a little cut off from your neighbourhood in a way you wouldn’t if you had pedestrians passing by your front gate. On the other hand, an increased sense of security may be adequate compensation, and there’s every reason in the world to get to know your apartment neighbours!
Inner-city apartment living is a relatively recent concept in New Zealand, but it’s one many, including retirees, are embracing. Perhaps an inner-city apartment could be your next move!