Can I really afford to live in an independent retirement community?
Maybe it’s the thought of mowing the grass, shoveling the snow, or the kitchen faucet that needs to be repaired. The multitude of responsibilities and maintenance involved in keeping up your current home may make the move to an Independent Living Community look very attractive. But is it affordable? This is a question we hear a lot. In most communities utilities, maintenance, some laundry, and some meals are included in the fee. Use the monthly fee to compare to costs of staying in your current living situation. Remember to include utilities, taxes, insurance, fees paid for the yard work, and maintenance of your home. There should be a staff member available, at the facility you are considering, who can go over financial information with you. If you are considering moving into a Continuum of Care Retirement Community as opposed to a stand alone Independent Retirement Community, there may be entrance fees or life care contracts to consider. According to the Continuing Care Accreditation
