Remodeling Expo Center

The Empty Nester’s Guide to Home Improvement

Remodeling Expo • September 9, 2022
Atlanta Design Showroom

So, you’re an empty nester. Congratulations! This is a big milestone in your life, and it comes with a lot of changes. One of those changes is likely to be your home. Suddenly, the space that was once filled with children is now empty. And while it can be bittersweet, it’s also an opportunity to make some changes to your home that you’ve always wanted to make. 


If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with our Empty Nester’s Guide to Home Improvement. These are the most common empty nester remodeling projects in North Atlanta.



Should You Downsize?

Unfortunately, you may have also realized that “downsizing” has become more expensive than keeping your existing house! ”Not simply accounting for the transactional costs of moving, but the terrible reality of the present housing market, is that newer small homes cost more than your larger home,” says John Hogan, president of Remodeling Expo Center. According to John, “an increasingly large number of our customers are empty nesters, and they’re all adapting their 1980’s or 1990’s-built home to become more current and appropriate for their later years. The present interest rate environment is fueling the rapid growth in remodeling in the form of the cash-out refi”.




Upgrading And Remodeling

The three big ticket remodels that typically every empty nester has on their list are kitchen upgrades, entryway remodeling, and a master bathroom overhaul.


Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Upgrades

The most common way to improve circulation in your kitchen is to install an island with eating space for potential grandchildren. Increasing cabinet accessibility and storage solutions are a must-have for your space. Our kitchen remodeling services in Milton, GA and other Atlanta areas offer top-rated kitchen remodeling services tailored to your creative vision!


However, if you’re not ready for a complete kitchen renovation, there are still plenty of smaller changes you can make to update the space. Consider painting the cabinets or adding new hardware. You could also swap out your old appliances for energy-efficient models. These small changes can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen.


Flooring and Stairs

The front entry to the house is a highly desirable upgrade since it is the first thing you notice when entering the home. Empty nesters frequently make minor modifications such as removing old carpet runners from stairs, installing black metal railings on staircases, and restaining hardwood floors from the 1980s honey color to something darker. Flooring layout is an essential part of a home’s flow


Updating Master Bedrooms and Bathrooms 

One of the more common requests we hear from our clients is, “We want a master suite that we can grow old in”. This usually involves increasing the size of the shower, installing a seat in the shower, and moving the location of the bathroom vanity closer to the bedroom so you don’t have to walk across the bathroom to get ready for bed. Empty nesters are primarily concerned with improving the "feel" of their bathrooms as well as safety features. “Thankfully, there are a number of safe, non-slip surfaces available that also look fantastic,” says Brittany Lingerfelt, president, and head designer at Remodeling Expo Center.


Many people seek scalloped bathtubs and wall-mounted shower heads. Many customers also request floating shelves, corner benches, and glass shelving units. Floating shelves are popular among both men and women. Frameless glass is another frequently requested feature. Level access showers, therapeutic tubs, and frameless glass baths are all popular selections.


Remodeling Bath

Value Preservation

Empty nesters are increasingly young at heart, and just because the kids are out of the house, doesn’t mean they’re not focusing on value and return on investment. “This is where we can offer significant consultation”, says John Hogan, “We understand our customers and they rely on us for honest advice. Because we know the trends, what’s popular in other markets, and where the industry is headed, we can guide our clients in the right direction to ensure their project looks fantastic now but also has appeal to future buyers down the road.”


According to the experts here at the Remodeling Expo Center, one of the most important things you can do to preserve the value of your home is to keep up with the maintenance. Regularly cleaning your gutters, changing your air filters, putting caulk around windows and doors, and repainting your home every few years not only maintain the value of your property but will also improve your day-to-day quality of life.


When it comes to home remodeling, there are a number of factors to consider – regardless of your age. With that said, empty nesters have unique concerns and needs that should be taken into account during the planning process. By working with a reputable contractor like Remodeling Expo Center, you can be confident that your project will be designed and executed with your specific needs in mind. 


For more information on how to improve the value of your home or looking for a renovation, contact the Remodeling Expo Center of Atlanta by phone or email, or stop by our Atlanta design center located at 48 King Street, Roswell, GA 30075 and take a look at our remodeling roadmaps. Contact us today to get started on your next home improvement project!




Didn't Find What You Needed Here? Check Our Other Resources!

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