3 Things to Consider Before Moving into a Retirement Apartment
Retirement can be a mix of excitement and anxiety because you don't know what to expect in the next phase of your life. Many people seek to downsize from bigger homes to benefit from an easier lifestyle with less maintenance. If you've made the decision to move into a retirement apartment after selling your home, then you need to consider several factors to ensure you're making the right choice.
Is the Location Everything You Need?
Location is a key factor when it comes to choosing a retirement apartment, so you must be sure that it meets everything you want and need. For example, people who don't drive may need to find a location that is close to public transport like trains and buses. If you like to enjoy a social life, then you may want to be in a location close to bars, pubs and restaurants. If you like a little exercise, then you'll want to be in a place that is walking friendly. You will need to consider what is important from your lifestyle perspective before making a decision on what location works best for you.
Do You Feel Safe with the Level of Security Provided?
While you may have felt secure in your own home, the retirement apartment is a new place so you will want to feel as secure as possible. Check with the retirement community management what kind of security they provide. You will find a variety of retirement villages on offer – some may be gated communities, while others may have 24-hour security cameras, round-the-clock security staff or telecom answering systems. You can also find out whether you can add your own security measures like cameras around your property and alarm systems. Make sure you are happy with the security provided before buying a particular retirement apartment.
Are You Satisfied with the Facilities Provided?
Before you buy a retirement apartment, it's important to check out the kind of facilities being provided. For example, some villages have entertainment nights, card sessions, game rooms, libraries, on-site restaurants and gardening facilities. If you have a particular hobby or enjoy an activity, find out whether this is something you can do in the retirement apartment. You will want to ensure that you're completely satisfied since this is likely where you will be living for a while.
Choosing a retirement apartment isn't as easy as you think. When you get older, you'll have very specific wants and needs, so finding one that matches your requirements takes some planning and patience.
