by Robert Borges on October 25, 2024
When people get close to retirement, they start to think about different living arrangements and locations, such as 55+ communities in South Carolina. The option of buying or renting in a community reserved for people fifty-five years or older who are active can be attractive, but it’s not for everyone.
While there are lots of benefits to living in a community that caters to an active senior lifestyle, there can be some disadvantages to consider. There may not be enough young people around, the HOA fees in 55+ living communities can be high, and a lack of solitude are just a few things to think about before making the leap.
Weighing Both Sides
Active adult communities are designed specifically with seniors in mind. They tend to be master developments with many amenities such as pools, clubhouses, single-story living or elevatored buildings, golf courses, tennis clubs, and more. They are also often located close to shopping, restaurants, movie houses, medical facilities, and other services important to seniors.
While many appreciate the convenience of maintenance-free living and enjoying recreational amenities with peers, others may have concerns. Restrictions on the use of community amenities by family members, especially grandchildren, could pose challenges for some residents, particularly if they anticipated frequent visits from younger relatives.
Also, if someone is used to living in a single-family house with more privacy, the smaller homes of a senior community built in close proximity may feel uncomfortable.
Cost Versus the Value
There are also financial considerations. The homeowner association fees used to support a community’s amenities can add up quickly and become unaffordable for someone living on a fixed income. This may be an unnecessary expense if the resident doesn’t use the amenities often.
Fifty-five-plus communities often assume residents are active. If someone becomes ill or less mobile, these communities don’t provide health care assistance like assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
Additionally, if you decide it is time to sell your home, the average age in 55+ communities automatically reduces your pool of potential buyers, making it harder to sell.
How to Decide If It’s Right for You
Some age-restricted communities are better than others. It’s important to start your research on the Private Communities portal. Our intuitive site allows you to search by location and by amenities that are important to you.
It can also be helpful to attend a community event to get a sense of the energy among the homeowners. Alternatively, you can arrange a Private Communities discovery package and stay a few days at a few of your top choices to see how you like them!
Why Trust Private Communities?
Over the last thirty years, the Private Communities team has accumulated extensive, specialized knowledge about master-planned communities and reputable builders and developers throughout the country. We have the experience and knowledge to guide you toward a life filled with new relationships and an exciting lifestyle!
