Are you ready to settle into retirement? Your options for housing after 55 are varied, but an increasingly popular choice is to buy or rent a home in a dedicated retirement community. These communities are specifically designed to cater to retirees, and they generally offer a wide range of amenities that make them a perfect place to spend your retirement. If you haven't considered one of these communities before, or if you are on the fence about making the move, then these four advantages might convince you that it's time to take the plunge.
You Can Pick a Community That Suits You
One of the largest advantages offered by purpose-built retirement communities is that they cater to the needs of the people who live there. Are you interested in living in a quiet neighborhood with minimal traffic and no loud parties at night? Are you more focused on a community that emphasizes social engagement with other retirees? Whatever you're looking for, there's like a retirement community that will be a perfect fit. It's essential to understand, however, that many of these communities enforce their particular standards through resident restrictions. When considering a community, be sure that you fully understand the limitations before committing.
Many Have Amazing Amenities
Depending on the size of the community, you can expect a wide range of amenities. Smaller communities made up of condos or apartments often have gyms, pools, or other fitness and social gathering areas directly on site. Larger retirement neighborhoods may have centrally located social centers or gyms that are accessible to members of the community. Amenities such as these can simplify activities that you already take part in by reducing the need to drive across town every day. Many communities are even built on golf courses or beaches, with free access provided to members.
Maintenance Is Often Covered
Most communities charge a homeowner's association fee which covers many maintenance tasks. The actual work that is covered will vary from community to community, so be sure to read the fine print if this is a significant concern. In many cases, lawn care is managed by the HOA to keep up street appearances. If you are purchasing a condo instead of a house, some routine maintenance and inspections may be covered by your HOA fee, as well.
You'll Be Free to Enjoy Your Retirement
Perhaps most importantly, having access to incredible amenities and a community that is custom-tailored to your particular needs will free you to enjoy your retirement fully. Many retirees find that they are bored once they leave work or that it becomes difficult to relate to those still stuck in the daily grind. When you move into a retirement community home, you will be surrounded by individuals in a similar stage of life in a setting that will promote an active, healthy, and socially connected lifestyle.
After thinking long and hard about what to do with my living situation, I finally made the decision that it was time to buy a house. I was tired of living paycheck to paycheck because of rent, so I began working with professionals to guide me in the right financial direction. I was able to find a great company that offered exactly what I wanted to learn, and they walked me through the financial aspects of home ownership. Within a few short months, I was living in a gorgeous new home that I absolutely loved. Check out this blog for great advice on home ownership.