When you are buying a multifamily property and considering having it undergo renovation to make it safe for senior citizens, there are some things to consider. Seniors have different needs than younger non-senior tenants. Remodeling with those differences in mind will help you to rent out the property you are purchasing then.
When having property undergo multifamily construction and renovating for senior citizens, safety concerns are the primary need. Like keeping everything on a one floor level if possible so there aren’t steps involved. Any carpeting should be firmly tacked or glued down too; or the dwelling having no carpet at all to avoid tripping. The lighting should be installed so there aren’t any dark corners also.
If there are stairs, they should be well constructed with wide tread and handrails; the handrails preferably on both sides. If the stairs are wide enough too; if a stair-lift needs to be installed at a later date by the tenant, then there won’t be a problem with it not fitting.
In the bathroom, handrails need to be installed in the shower section or even a roll-in shower for seniors in wheelchairs could be installed. Cupboards for towels could be built-in with easy access shelves. The tiles should be nonskid so there is less danger of falling for your senior tenant too.
For safety in the kitchen, again a non-skid tile or linoleum can be used. Lever type door handles should be installed on kitchen cabinets and doors for easy use for arthritic hands. Shelving too should be easy to access overhead without overstretching which can cause injury to backs or cause a fall. Plus, locks on doors should be easy to lock and unlock without difficulty.
If a balcony is part of the design of your multifamily construction for seniors, make sure the banisters are at a safe height. Also, a sliding door which slides back and forth and locks without effort is a good selling point.
Senior citizens make excellent tenants and a multifamily dwelling can be a perfect place for them to live. So when you are renovating, keep senior citizens in mind, and your property could always be full.