Adult Communities "Stay and Play" Visits

Some folks liken these visits to college visits without the kegs. Others call them stay and play visits. It's the strategy baby boomers are using to test-drive active adult communities, and it makes since, this a huge commitment of both time and money. A host of active adult communities, from big national names such as Del Webb , and the Villages as well as smaller ones like Valencia Lakes S. of Tampa are allowing prospective buyers to spend several nights or a weekend at communities to experience them firsthand. Though some consider such programs a marketing strategy for a down economy, it's a smart way for consumers to shop.

Dave Tipton, a Seniors Real Estate Specialist in the Tampa Bay Area says “Boomers get to try a place and see if the lifestyle fits their personality.” “That's huge, you don't want to move in and suddenly find that you don't like the community or the lifestyle.” Taking it a step further, a visit of 30 to 90 days is desirable to some before making a commitment.

Tipton, with Florida's Beautiful Homes, feels that "The first few days you're getting used to the idea and everyone is nice to you,” "What happens after that? What is a normal day like?"

Here are 10 considerations before making a move:

Location- Determining where you want to be is the first hurdle. Do you want a complete change of scene in an out-of-state venue? Do you need to be close to family? Do you want to spend part of the year near your current home and the winter elsewhere?

Beyond the Walls- Assess the environment beyond the walls of the community. What kind of amenities, services, activities and medical care are available? Though you may be the picture of health now, healthcare will play a larger role as you age. You don't want to land in a city with second-rate care.

Budget- Can you afford it? Factor in all housing expenses, along with the community's monthly fees to be certain your assets will cover the move for the long term.

Extra costs- Examine exactly what's included and what costs extra. Are lawn maintenance and snow removal, for example, provided by the association or are you responsible? And is transportation for those day trips or nights out at the symphony free or is there a fee? Are there additional costs involved for club participation? All such expenses need to be factored into your monthly budget.

Social scene- Carefully observe the social dynamics and chat with residents to uncover their likes and dislikes about the community. Some communities can be clique-ish and mirror some of the dynamics of high school.

Be Realistic- What do you really enjoy doing with your time? Though a long roster of activities may look exciting, just how much tennis, swimming, yoga and art you will really do. For instance, if you're moving to an active community and you're not active and won't be, it might be a waste. If you're going to stay in your house and not talk to neighbors, attend activities or play, consider something slower paced.

Rules and by-laws- Read through the community documents. It will give you a sense of how rigid or relaxed a place is and whether it has the right temperament for you. As an example, the rules of a Florida condo or home owners association.

Professional help- Visit professionals, including a financial planner, an elder law attorney, and a real estate attorney. The financial planner can crunch numbers to be certain you have enough funds. The elder law experts can put a plan in place for powers of attorney, and the real estate lawyer can examine all the community and purchase documents. Having your own personal Realtor who specializes in senior real estate needs and considerations is also recommended.

Think ahead- You may not be able to play tennis 10 years from now. How good a fit will the community be if you can't participate fully in activities? Will you still enjoy the environment and are there other options for filling your time? Age- Consider your age today. If you're making a move to an active community at 55, the amenities can be phenomenal. If you're closer to 65, consider how much you'll be able to do.

Remember, it costs the buyer nothing to have an independent real estate professional represent them in a real estate transaction, whether it’s a new home or an existing home. Call Dave Tipton or Rick Frissell today.

813-653-1241

"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”

~ George Bernard Shaw