Choosing an active adult community is about more than just finding a new home– it’s about matching your unique needs and desires with the right environment. You can count on an SRES® to guide you through the process of choosing the active adult community that is right for you.
LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
- Do you want to be close to your loved ones or are you moving for health/weather reasons?
- Would you prefer a vibrant urban setting or a self-contained community?
- Do you plan to keep a car, or would you rely on community transport or public transit? How close are essential places located?
COST AND AFFORDABILITY
- What is your budget based on your savings and the sales price of your current home? How much can you invest upfront and what are your monthly living expenses?
- What fees, like homeowner’s fees or move-in fees, do you need to account for?
LIFESTYLE AND AMENITIES
- Does the community offer events or groups you would like to join?
- What amenities are important to you? Are healthcare facilities on-site or nearby?
RESTRICTIONS AND FLEXIBILITY
- Are pets allowed? Can family stay for extended periods? What are visitor policies?
- Will you be able to rent out your unit? What are the community’s policies regarding rentals?
FINANCIAL PLANNING AND IMPACT
- How will relocating affect your taxes, especially regarding capital gains?
- How financially stable is the community? Will you get upfront fees back if you leave?
SECURITY AND GOVERNANCE
- What security protocols are in place?
- How is the community managed? Do residents have a say in decisions?
COMMUNITY CULTURE AND TRIAL PERIODS
- Are you comfortable with the community’s culture? Can you speak with residents about their experiences?
- Is a trial stay or short-term lease available?
The Center for REALTOR® Development (CRD) confers the Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation, which is an official credential of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).
