Life is a journey filled with various stages, each offering unique experiences and opportunities. One such stage that many look forward to with anticipation is the empty nester phase. When the kids have flown the coop, and your home is suddenly quieter and more spacious, it’s time to reevaluate your living situation. For many empty nesters, downsizing becomes an attractive option, and what better place to consider than a serene lake home? In this blog post, we’ll explore the joys of being an empty nester, the benefits of downsizing to lake homes, and how to choose the perfect one to suit your wants and needs.
The Empty Nester Lifestyle
The empty nester stage of life is often met with a mix of emotions—nostalgia for the years spent raising children, but also excitement for the newfound freedom and opportunities it brings. It’s a time when you can rediscover your passions, rekindle your relationship with your partner, and explore new horizons.
Downsizing Without Downgrading
Downsizing doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style; it means embracing a more manageable and intentional way of living. A lake home can offer just that. Smaller, well-designed spaces can be both cozy and luxurious, with the added bonus of reduced maintenance and lower utility bills. Additionally, by downsizing, you can free up your time and resources for the things that truly matter to you.
Room for Family and Friends
One concern for empty nesters considering downsizing is the ability to accommodate family and friends when they visit. A lake home can provide the perfect solution. Many lake houses come with extra guest rooms, bunkhouses, or even detached cabins. This allows you to maintain cherished connections and host gatherings while maintaining your newfound simplicity.
Advantages of a Lake Home in Your Later Years
Choosing a lake home for your empty nester years brings a host of advantages. The serene surroundings and access to nature can promote relaxation and well-being, ideal for your retirement years. Lakeside living often means a slower pace of life, which will provide opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and bird watching, which are great for staying active and connected with nature.
Where to Store All Your Stuff
One of the biggest challenges when downsizing is deciding what to do with all your belongings. However, with careful planning and creative storage solutions, you can comfortably fit your essentials in your new lake home. Consider investing in space-saving furniture, utilizing under-bed storage, and de-cluttering your possessions to ensure a smooth transition to a smaller space.
Choosing the Right Lake Home
Selecting the perfect lake home requires careful consideration of your wants and needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Location: Research different lakes and their communities. Consider proximity to amenities, healthcare facilities, and your social network.
- Size and Layout: Evaluate how much space you need and the layout that suits your lifestyle. A well-designed floor plan can make a smaller space feel more spacious.
- Budget: Determine your budget and stick to it. Be sure to account for ongoing maintenance costs.
- Access and Mobility: If you plan to age in place, consider accessibility features such as ramps, wide doorways, and a single-story layout.
- Amenities: Lake homes often come with various amenities like boat docks, swimming areas, and hiking trails. So, choose a property that aligns with your interests.
Conclusion
The empty nester phase is a time for rediscovery and simplification, and downsizing to a lake home can be a dream come true. By embracing the benefits of downsizing without downgrading, creating space for family and friends, and choosing the right lake home, you can fully enjoy the serenity and opportunities that come with this new chapter in your life. So, take the plunge and start your journey to a more relaxed, nature-infused, and joyful lifestyle in your lakefront nest.
Posted by Scott Freerksen “The Lake Guy”