Beth Haight, a Howard Hanna real estate agent, has a good reason for knowing the ins and outs of empty nester homebuying. She’s one herself. In 2014, after her two daughters went to college, she and her husband moved to a single-family cluster home in Westlake. Here’s her advice for homeowners looking to start a kids-free phase of their lives.
Plan for play time: “Empty nesters are more active than ever,” says Haight. You want to be close to fitness facilities and recreation centers. Many cluster homes, condominiums and townhouses even have built-in golf courses, tennis courts, pools and other fun-filled amenities. “Not only is it for personal leisure, it’s a great way to socialize.”
Consider culture: Whether it’s bustling foodie districts or sporting events, empty nesters have more time to experience everything Cleveland has to offer. There’s never been a better time to get out and see a show at Playhouse Square, visit the museums in University Circle or dine in Gordon Square Arts District. “Access to highways is a big deal,” says Haight. “You want to have the ability to get to all the hip city hot spots.”
Have fun with food: With kids out of the house, family dinners take on a new meaning. Empty nesters love to cook for fun, and they’re trading nights sitting around traditional dining tables for upscale granite countertops. “Not everyone requires a dining room anymore,” says Haight. “They want a big eat-in kitchen area where everyone can gather.”
