If you’re approaching retirement age, you’ve probably started looking at your housing options. You can always stay put in your current home, but it may not offer you either the physical features to support you as your age or the environment you’ll enjoy now that you have more leisure time. You should know, however, that wanting to move out doesn’t necessarily mean moving straight into assisted living — which, especially if you’re retiring young, may not suit your needs either. One of the best options you may know little about is 55+ community living. An over 55 community is, as its name implies, a community designed for people 55 and older. But a 55 and up community is more than that, too. Here are three reasons you might want to consider living in a 55+ community:
- If You Enjoy Independent Living
You’ll find that 55+ community living places a high priority on independence. Although most communities will take care of outdoor maintenance if you’d like, you’ll be able to maintain your living space exactly as you like, and no one will be dictating your schedule. That makes it a much better option for younger retirees fully capable of caring for themselves on a day-to-day basis.
- If You Still Want to Own Property
One major financial advantage of a 55+ community is that you’ll purchase a home there just as you would in any other master-planned community. That means you’ll have a solid investment to either finance your later retirement years or leave to your family, instead of spending all your savings on monthly housing with no return. When you’re calculating the mortgage you can afford, be sure to take into account monthly community fees (which are comparable to condo or homeowners’ association fees).
- If You Like to Stay Active
Over 55 community activities are the main draw for these communities, which are also called “active adult communities.” If you imagine spending your retirement on the green or courts, in the pool, or at the gym, then you’re exactly the kind of person who can most benefit from the so-called leisure activities offered in a 55+ community.
Do you think you’re a good candidate for 55+ community living? Discuss your plans in the comments.