How do you like living in a 55+ Community (fees, property, value)

[staywarm2]

My husband and I are trying to decide if we'd like to retire in an age 55+ community. (We are in our 60's.) Are those of you who are or have lived in such a retirement community happy that you moved there? What are the pros and cons of moving to such a community?

[Bette]

Also, put where you are located if you like it or don't like it....

[marmac]

I will be the 3rd person who is curious to the responses.

I do think this should be moved to the --RETIREMENT--- thread in order to get more responses.

[LaceyEx]

We're discussing it and DH is slightly adverse so I also am interested.

[south.charlotte&union]

I am not 55 or older yet, but my parents live in Sun City Carolina Lakes (in Lancaster County, SC). They love it...and they are extremely busy now, it seems like every day they have something to do. I can ask them to put together a list of pro's and con's if you'd like

[Greenchili]

Im watching this thread too! Hubbs and I are only in our 40s but
still think of doing this in our 60s. Prey tell everyone!
Greenchili

[marmac]

The last time I read the magazine--------"Where to Retire"-------the editor was asked what he will do when he retires.

He said-----"undecided " ?

I don't know if he was honest or just didn't want to offend the many --55+---communities who spend their advertising dollars in his magazine

Yes, an answer from " regular folks" who have nothing to gain or lose by giving their opinion would be nice.

[Exrvi]

OK, I'll give this a shot. Although I live in a community in East Tennessee that is not age restricted the vast majority of people here are retired or near retirement.

Advantages:

1. It's quiet! No loud music, wild parties (well, at least they end early!), etc.

2. Most people are outgoing and friendly - they are here to meet new people and do fun stuff.

3. There are affinity groups galore. No matter what you want/like to do there are others here who will do it with you, and they have the time to do it.

4. The POA/HOA - there are rules that govern most everything, helping ensure property values and that you won't have a junk car in the yard next door.

5. A strong sense of community - people look out for each other and don't hesitate to volunteer to help neighbors in need of help.

Best summarized by a friend who described life here as "being in college without having to go to classes."

Disadvantages:

1. There is not a lot of diversity. Most of us are roughly the same age, socioeconomic status, and from the mid west or east coast. Diversity here is people who moved from California, and Democrats.

2. The POA/HOA - there are rules that govern most everything, and people who think it is their job to make sure people are following the rules.

3. There are people who are willing to spend money and people who aren't. Since our HOA/POA fees fund many of the community amenities and maintenance costs, this can be a real divisive issue at times.

Net. we enjoy very much where we live, but we make sure we travel frequently so we can have some time "outside the bubble."

Jeff

[staywarm2]

Originally Posted by marmac

I will be the 3rd person who is curious to the responses.

I do think this should be moved to the --RETIREMENT--- thread in order to get more responses.

I also placed this thread on the Retirement section.

[staywarm2]

Originally Posted by south.charlotte&union

I am not 55 or older yet, but my parents live in Sun City Carolina Lakes (in Lancaster County, SC). They love it...and they are extremely busy now, it seems like every day they have something to do. I can ask them to put together a list of pro's and con's if you'd like

That would be great if your parents could give us their input! Thanks.