There's a persistent myth that most seniors eventually sell and move into a smaller place or a facility. The data tells a different story. According to Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies, the homeownership rate among Americans 65 and older is 78.6%, one of the highest of any age group nationally. In Tennessee, that pattern shows up clearly in communities built specifically for it, Del Webb's Lake Providence and Southern Springs developments are designed around long-term, single-level living.
Brentwood and Franklin's established neighborhoods are full of homeowners who moved there once and have no plans to move again. If you're planning to stay in your Tennessee home, and most homeowners your age are, the real question isn't "should I sell?" It's "what do I need to make staying here work for the next 10, 15, or 20 years?"
Licensed in Tennessee: This is educational content, not financial advice. Consult with a qualified financial advisor about your specific situation. David Rider, Tennessee license #200787 (matches NMLS) · NMLS #200787.
Frequently asked questions
Do most Tennessee seniors actually stay in their homes long-term?
Yes, the national 65+ homeownership rate of 78.6% holds broadly true in Tennessee, and communities like Lake Providence and Southern Springs are specifically built to support long-term, single-level living.
What if my Tennessee home needs modifications to make staying long-term realistic?
That's common and planned-for, not a sign you should move. Home-equity tools can fund modifications like grab bars, walk-in showers, or wider doorways without touching retirement savings.
Does this apply to recent transplants as well as longtime Tennessee residents?
Yes, the underlying planning question (how do I make staying here work?) applies regardless of how long you've owned the home.
Is aging in place realistic in a Del Webb community specifically?
Very much so, these communities are purpose-built for it, which is part of why many owners there use home-equity tools for modifications or income supplementation rather than considering a move.
How do I start planning instead of just hoping it works out?
A short conversation reviewing your finances, your home, and your goals is the starting point.
