by Robert Borges on September 25, 2024
Many retirees are attracted to the activities and sense of community that an active 55+ community can offer, but how do they choose the right one?
When selecting a 55+ community to move to, you must start by deciding your budget, choosing a region you want to live in, considering the amenities you want included, evaluating the options for varying levels of care offered as you age, and learning about the culture of the community to see if you’d be a good fit.
Whether you’re looking at 55+ communities in South Carolina, California, or beyond, Private Communities offers expert guidance to help you find your ideal community.
While looking at overviews of active adult retirement communities, they can all seem pretty similar—offering lower maintenance, a more vibrant lifestyle, and consolidating your costs of living—but the truth is that they can vary tremendously.
Here’s how you can select a community that is sure to be right for you:
Decide Your Budget
Aside from factoring in rent or mortgage payments, you will also need to consider the additional costs that can come with each unique community. Many add the cost of homeowners’ association or community fees, entrance fees, and fees for additional services offered.
Map out the top of your budget, and when you research different communities, ask for a transparent cost breakdown. Think about what your priorities are in a community and ask if there are additional fees for those features–such as gourmet meals at the community restaurant, transportation costs for shuttles, or a golf club membership.
Pick a Location
With any move, you need to decide where you want to plant roots. You might choose a community that’s in the same city as your family or loved ones, or migrate for more favorable weather across the country. It might also make sense to search for a retirement community that makes commuting by bike or walking into town for a quick errand easier.
You should also consider accessibility features, safety rankings, tax-friendliness, and access to healthcare or medical centers. Private Communities offers a range of gorgeous locations across more than twenty states in the US–all in ideal locations for active seniors and older adults.
Consider the Amenities
Almost every 55+ community offers services and amenities for community members to enjoy. You might prefer a community that makes life more convenient, allowing you to spend less time on home maintenance and more time on your health and wellness.
Some communities offer walking trails, community classes or events, pickleball and tennis courts, or restaurants and wine bars. From clubhouses for a social game night to swimming pools for water aerobics classes, there’s sure to be a community offering what you want!
Evaluate Levels of Care
It’s important to remember that these communities are typically geared for residents who are independent and largely able to care for themselves. If you’re looking for a community to stay in for the long haul, plan for the future. Make sure the community you’re interested in offers assistance or services if you were to become unexpectedly ill or need nursing assistance.
Many of these communities offer help with chores, general home maintenance, and even meal deliveries. These features may be included in your basic fees for the community, or they may be add-ons that you’ll pay extra for.
Learn the Culture
Always ask to tour the community before signing any checks, and speak with current residents. This can be an excellent way to get a feel for your potential neighbors and see if you are aligned in any interests or values.
For example, some communities may offer book clubs or bible studies, while others might be filled with single-family residences and don’t gather in community spaces as often. Take time to determine if you’ll feel at home in this community.
Final Thoughts
With all of these considerations in mind, you’re now fully-equipped to explore Private Communities’ 55+ community selection guide or our easy-to-use 55+ community search tool.
This search tool is a secure and simple way to search for communities that offer the amenities you desire in the area you love. As you embark on this next adventure, it’s important to find a home that suits your lifestyle. For more information about finding the right community, reach out to us today!
