How To Choose A Retirement Community

Submitted by: Andrew Hallinan

Generally speaking, retirement communities are classed one of two ways – either ‘age targeted’, or ‘age restricted’. Age restricted retirement communities simply do not allow anyone younger than 55 to purchase a home and may have some extremely strict rules on how long family members of certain ages may visit. An age-targeted retirement community will not restrict the purchase of a home from an interested buyer younger than 55, although the amenities and demographics will be vastly geared to retirees.

Either way you choose, you will undoubtedly have the opportunity to interact with new people with whom you share common ground, interests, and activities, while enjoying a retirement lifestyle you’ve always wanted!

If you are looking into the possibility of choosing a retirement community, here are some tips to follow:

1. Ask around for anyone who might have already chosen a retirement community.

A lot of times, friends or family members know of someone who has already gone before you – there is nothing better than hearing through a friend about his/her experiences when choosing a retirement community.

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2. Make a list of what retirement activities are most important to you.

Do you enjoy recreation such as golf, fishing, boating, swimming, or exercising? Make a list of your favorite pastimes and search for retirement communities that may offer these. Check into the clubs, groups, and activities that the retirement community your are looking into offers. Make sure you choose a retirement community that will satisfy your interests.

3. Investigate online.

Most retirement communities have good websites that offer lots of information – videos, testimonials, descriptions of the area, and other juicy information you would want to know before you decide on a place to retire. This information can really help you in choosing a retirement community.

4. Calculate the costs.

An affordable retirement solution is extremely important. Calculate the cost of living in the retirement community you are looking into. Generally, places like Florida offer a cheaper cost of living, while other areas may be more expensive. Be aware of “hidden costs.” Some retirement communities, such as the Villages in Florida, have a CDD – which means that the community builders will take out loans on your mortgage which will increase your monthly mortgage costs.

5. Find a retirement location that offers great health care.

As you look forward to the future, great health care options are extremely important. Look around for a retirement community in a location that has a reputation for excellent health care!

6. Take a tour!

Most retirement communities offer 2 or 3 night stays in their retirement community so you can receive a great tour, and experience a taste of what you may be looking forward to in the future. While you’re visiting, be sure to spend time to speak to current residents and some of the staff. Residents will give you a great picture of what it will be like to live in the community, and by talking to the staff you’ll get a good idea of how you’ll be treated.

About the Author: For more information on retirement and Terra Vista of Citrus Hills, please visit our website, at

The Villages FL

or call 800-511-0814.

Source:

isnare.com

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