Where Have All the Ranch Homes Gone? Staten Island’s Senior-Friendly Housing Shortage

In 2023, I was quoted in the Staten Island Advance in a discussion about the growing shortage of senior-friendly housing on Staten Island—a topic that’s becoming more important as our baby boomer population ages. The conversation centered on why it’s getting harder for older adults to find homes that suit their needs, especially single-level ranch homes.

As I shared in the article: “The ranch homes are fewer and fewer as the years pass, because a lot of people who bought ranches over the last 30 years did roof raises and turned them into colonial homes. Roof raises were really popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, because many of those ranch homes came with large properties as opposed to the new construction homes that came with much smaller lot sizes. So building customized homes from a ranch was more appealing for many buyers.”

This trend has left us with a shrinking supply of single-level homes, which are ideal for seniors who want to age in place. As a result, older adults and their families may face more challenges finding accessible housing options that fit their lifestyle and mobility needs.

For anyone navigating this market, my advice is to start your search early and consider working with a local expert who understands both the inventory and the unique needs of senior buyers. Whether you’re thinking about downsizing or helping a loved one find a more accessible home, knowledge and preparation are key in today’s market.

Curious to read more? Check out the full article where I was quoted: As baby boomers age, is there a lack of senior-friendly housing? Staten Island real estate brokers weigh in.