55+ Communities offer many amenities!
The options for retirement these days are truly endless. Each year more and more retirees are choosing to make the move from the homes they raised their families in to communities of other retirees. These communities, often referred to as 55+ communities or over 55 communities, are popping up all the over the country to satisfy the demand for a generation of baby boomers who are looking to settle into a community of like-minded neighbors with similar interests and recreational desires.
Study after study continues to show that there are great advantages to staying physically and mentally active as people age. In fact, after the age of about 55 or so, recreational, social, physical and mental activities become even more crucial in maintaining physical and emotional health. 55+ communities are uniquely positioned to meet the needs of retirees in these respects, and consequently, within these communities retirees are enjoying long, fulfilling retirements.
Making the Move to an Over 55 Community
In the past, many retirees opted to stay in their homes during retirement years. This made sense for many, since their mortgages were paid off and family was often close, allowing time to be spent with children and grandchildren.
However, these days with so many new options for 55+ communities in almost every geographic location in the country, retirees are finding the lure to relocate harder to resist. Additionally, with an increasingly mobile society as well as technological advances which allow family to stay connected through video chat and social media, it has become easier for retirees to locate to other areas of the country.
A recent survey administered by the Metropolitan Life Mature Marketing Institute found that, “The main reasons for moving to a 55+ owner-occupied community were family or personal reasons, financial or employment reasons, and the desire to have a higher quality home. In multifamily communities, family was the number one reason, but reducing costs and increasing quality were also top priorities.”
The study also highlighted the increase of relocation in those over 55 who have chosen 55+ communities as well as their considerations when doing so. One finding was that being close to recreational opportunities was of high priority to today’s retirees.
The Needs of Today’s Retirees and Active Adults
55+ communities are doing a good job of meeting the needs of modern retirees. With more and more sources studying the wants and needs of the older generations, these active adult communities have been able to better pinpoint the amenities that retirees are looking for. At the top of that list is independence. Additionally, most seniors today demand access to state of the art technology.
Life in a 55+ Community
Many seniors who relocated to 55 plus communities continue to work in either their former career fields, or take part time jobs in a new area. Because of this, proximity to urban areas, or cities with thriving workforces are ideal locations for these communities. Access to transportation is also important, with most retirees placing proximity to major airports etc, a must have when choosing a retirement destination.
55+ communities often offer multiple recreational opportunities including club houses with work out facilities, golf or beach access and jogging and walking trails. Additionally, social aspects are well thought out, with many 55+ communities offering ample opportunities for neighbors to meet each other, and spend time in leagues, card clubs or social groups.
What Kind of Restrictions Are there?
Most 55+ communities require at least one spouse to be 55 years of age or older. However, many 55+ communities, while considered retirement communities, are filled with non-retired residents who enjoy the amenities and atmosphere.
Most these communities are governed by home owner or condo associations which create and enforce covenants by which all owners must abide by. These covenants typically aim to keep home values consistent and create a safe and friendly community. There are also usually rules which prevent children as well as individuals under the age of 55 from becoming permanent residents.
How Expensive are 55+ Communities?
Most 55+ communities require residents to purchase their homes rather than renting. However, there are certainly communities where renting is an option as well. In addition to the costs associated with purchasing a home, many communities have monthly or yearly fees which residents are responsible for. These include home owner association fees, or other fees that cover services such as trash removal or maintenance of common areas.
Interested in viewing properties for sale int 55+ communities in Myrtle Beach? Check out these links!
Lakeside Crossing Homes for Sale
Myrtle Trace Grand Homes for Sale
Myrtle Trace South Homes for Sale
Woodlake Village Homes for Sale
Seasons at Prince Creek Homes for Sale
Carrillon at Tuscany Homes for Sale
Meadows of St. Patrick Homes for Sale
Parmelee Townhomes for Sale in Murrells Inlet
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