When researching retirement apartments for yourself, you will probably start with the budget you have for buying or renting and then narrow down your options to just the complexes you can afford. This is obviously an important first step, but your budget is not the only thing to consider when choosing a retirement complex! Note a few small but very important details that you don't want to overlook when choosing an apartment, condo, or other such retirement living space.
Parking
Consider if you will have a garage, carport, or just open parking at your new home. Do you need to store sporting goods and other such items? Then a garage may be a necessity unless you can find a nearby self-storage unit to keep those items secure. If there is open parking, do you have assigned spaces? If not, how crowded is the parking lot; will you be able to park close to your own unit? Is there ample parking for guests? Is the parking lot sufficiently lit so you can park easily and see your way to your unit?
Rules and restrictions
You may think that owning a unit in a retirement facility means that you can do anything you want in your new home, but this isn't always the case. Some retirement facilities will have rules against all pets, even those kept in cages or terrariums. You may not be able to cook outside, decorate the outdoor area, or work on your car in the parking lot, and there may even be "curfews" for how late you can have company out on your deck or balcony! Some facilities also don't allow smoking in any of the units, so that the smoke doesn't drift to other areas. Whatever the case, be sure you know all the restrictions of any facility, and choose one with rules you can abide by.
Activities
Check on the activity calendar of a facility, as you might enjoy some daily activities to keep you busy during your retirement years. However, if you'd rather not participate in structured activities, consider if a facility that doesn't offer these might be cheaper. Note, too, the location of area attractions you enjoy; for example, if you're a movie buff, you'll want to ensure there are movie theatres nearby, or you might check on restaurants, golf courses, the local library, or any other such attraction you'll want to visit once you're settled into the retirement facility.
Share6 March 2018
Are you thinking about quitting your corporate job and moving to the country to keep chickens and enjoy the view? Are you tired of small towns and ready to trade your land for a charming house in the city? Are you happy where you are but just need a small change? Then, you are in the right place. Although all of those situations are vastly different, this blog aims to cover them all. Hi. My name is Melissa. Over the years, I've lived all over the country, and I've closely followed the real estate market every place I've been. This blog is the culmination of my experiences. I hope you like it.