Empty nesters move out of suburbs - soon-to-be seniors find living in town more stimulating

 

Part 1 of 2 series

 

HONOLULU ADVERTISER , July 17 2005

BY LISA SCONTRAS

Custom Publishing Group

 

They invented tie-dye shirts, in vitro, SUVs and fitness. So it should be no surprise aging members of the twentysomething generation of a quarter of a century ago — those who grew their hair long and burned their bras — are now about to re-invent retirement living. Unlike the retirement homes of their grandparents, today’s concept of retirement communities — as defined by these about-to-be seniors — is broadening to include amenities typically found at top resorts and spas. And some retirees are simply opting for a move from the suburbs back into town.

 

Jim and Helen Mao match the empty-nester profile, and after 24 years in the suburbs have decided to move into a condo in Waikiki.

 

“We wanted to be in the thick of things,” Jim Mao said. “I’ve lived in a quiet house for many years. I’m not looking for ‘quiet’ anymore ... I’m looking for action.”

 

With all their children away at college, the Mao’s are looking for a change. Jim, a Realtor at Prudential Locations with 22 years in the business, had helped a number of clients move back into town, and finally decided to take some of his own advice.

 

“We’re looking forward to walking places — to activities or just to dinner,” he says.

So while the Mao’s are in effect shrinking the size of their home, they are expanding their quality of life — hoping to feel more connected by a move to Waikiki.

 

Fellow Prudential Locations agent John Hayama agrees, crediting places like Kahala Nui and some of the new high rises currently under construction in town for filling a growing need.

 

“I think it is a trend,” says Hayama, who recently helped some clients sell their home of 40 years to move into Kahala Nui. “People are living longer. And the number of people in Hawaii who are living longer is creating a marketplace and giving folks a lot more options.”

 

 

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