Tips for Buying a Retirement Home in Phuket
Tips for Buying a Retirement Home in Phuket

For decades, Phuket has been increasingly becoming a top choice for retirees from all over the world. It’s easy to see why with the tropical climate, world class beaches, start of the art healthcare, and overall quality of life. Whether it’s trying to land a big one deep sea fishing or perfecting your putt on the golf course, keeping busy in Phuket is the least of your worries. 

As Phuket grows and more and more housing options become available, it can become a bit overwhelming. New villas and condo projects are popping up around every corner so where does one even start? Everyone’s situation is a little different, but there are several common considerations to keep in mind. 

There are few priorities more important than your health. Do you have any current or foreseeable health problems that need attention? If so, choosing a location in closer proximity to a hospital might be of paramount importance. Likewise, although Phuket hospitals are quite good, certain procedures or treatments may require visits to more capable facilities in Bangkok, in which case being closer to the airport may be of more value to you.

 Phuket hospitals | Credit: UniMed Travels

While location is important in deciding on any home purchase, the formula is a bit adjusted for older folks. There’s no workplace to consider living near nor school districts to parse out. However, it will become increasingly more desirable to live nearer to the golf course or pier that you frequent. Keep an eye out for nearby conveniences like a good selection of restaurants, shopping, and supermarkets that are easy to access, all the better if within easy walking distance.

As we get older, mobility will naturally become more difficult and thinking ahead to choose a home which will accommodate is important. If you are thinking of buying a house or villa, does it have stairs? Of course, a home with direct access by flat ground is preferable, otherwise consider if a ramp can easily be installed at some point if necessary. If you prefer to buy a condo, a ground floor unit will prove to be the most convenient. If you decide on an upper floor, does the building have more than one elevator should one become inoperable? Is there backup power to operate the elevators should there be a power outage?

Wheelchair Elevators From Stiltz Home | Credit: Dorno

There are many specifics about the home to consider including size and design. Having a huge villa might sound nice at first thought, but having that much space might be unnecessary and impractical as you age. You don’t want to have to travel too far to reach the kitchen or a bathroom. That being said, note things like the width of doors and hallways should you need mobility assistance at some point. Will you have family coming to visit often or need a live-in nurse at some point? If so, having a spare bedroom could be useful. Also, think about handrails for ease of access both in the bathroom and shower, as well as the pool should you have one.

Villa with no stairs | Credit: homeinphuket.com

For those preferring to have their own stand alone house, is it in a development with a dedicated maintenance team? If not, you will need to find a reputable company who will reliably help care for your garden as well as interior and exterior maintenance of your home. The additional expense must be planned for and for some, this is what makes a condo a better choice.

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