REMODELING YOUR HOME FOR AGING IN PLACE
During the Covid-19 staying at home situation, you might be reviewing current and future home improvement projects, Aging in Place Toolkit can help you in prioritizing the types of projects you might address. Some things you can do yourself. We can advise you no matter the size of the project.
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Large — addition, basement refinishing, garage, septic, etc.
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Outside — painting, roof, windows, trim, lighting, deck, solar, etc.
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Inside — painting, floor finishing, doors, bathrooms, kitchens, lighting, etc.
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Mechanicals and appliances — heating, A/C, water heater, oven, refrigerator, etc.
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Safety and security — alarms (fire, carbon dioxide, security), digital bluetooth devices
To help us further to determine the specific home improvement projects families are looking at, please fill out the survey. There is no obligation, and only contact you if requested.
There have been many challenges during this crisis. Trends from this situation include planning for multiple generations to live together, aging in place, and/or updating your home for sale Identifying what to do and how to proceed is where we can help you.

REMODELING OR ADDITIONS
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EXTERIOR
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Doors, windows, siding, lighting, deck/patio and porches
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BATHROOM
- Fixtures, faucets, handholds, flooring, cabinets/storage, ventilation, lighting, and accessibility design.
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KITCHEN
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Cabinets/storage solutions, hardware, appliances, flooring, lighting, and accessible design
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STAIRS/RAMPS
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Stair design/improvements, safety considerations, lighting, handrails, transitions, weather protection, ramps, thresholds, lifts, elevators and other devices
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MECHANICALS
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Heating, A/C, generators, hot water heaters
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SECURITY
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Lighting, cameras, sensors, and automated monitoring systems.
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FINANCING
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Mortgages
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ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES
Want to continue living in a familiar environment as you grow older?
You may want to age in place, which means living in your home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of your age or ability level. Look to the Remodelers Council Members of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Central Connecticut (HBRA) or for the rest of the country go here.
What can a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) professional offer a homeowner?
CAPS professionals have the answers to your questions. They provide the strategies and techniques for designing and building aesthetically pleasing, barrier-free living environments. The have skills for:
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the unique needs of the older adult population
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aging-in-place home modifications
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common remodeling projects
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solutions to common barriers
Working with a Certified Aging in Place Specialist can give anyone the option of staying where they choose while maintaining their quality of life. It allows those who are aging to do so in an environment that they are comfortable and familiar with, and who have the technical best-practices essential with accessibility issues.
When a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist is retained, a homeowner is purchasing a service rather than a product. Each CAPS professional draws from a different knowledge base and will approach a project in a manor to make the necessary modifications for an aging in place homeowner. To learn more go here.
Checklist for finding and retaining a qualified remodeler
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Create a budget for your home modification project.
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Seek referrals from friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and others who have had similar work done.
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Check with your local or state office of consumer protection and the local Better Business Bureau.
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Verify the remodeler has the appropriate registrations and/or license(s) in your state.
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Look for other professional designations other than CAPS such as a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Graduate Master Remodeler (GMR) or a Certified Green Professional (CGP).
Questions to Ask
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Ask your professional remodeler for a written estimate of the work to be done based on a set of plans and specifications. Be prepared to pay for this service.
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Select a professional remodeler with plenty of experience with your type of project.
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How should I budget for this project? Lower price does not ensure a successful outcome.
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Will I need to get a home equity loan?
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Will other members of my family benefit from modifications?
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Will remodeling increase the energy efficiency of my home?
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Where do I find a professional I can consult with about specific needs beyond remodeling my home?
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For additional information from the National Association of Home Builders and Remodelers go here.