Upon retiring, you might consider moving into an Active Adult Community -- the MECCA of retirement communities -- for the amenities and social activities they offer. If you do, you'll pay a hefty premium of $30,000 to $40,000 more for the same style/square footage home just for the privilege of living in that type of community.
I live in an Active Adult Community and just got home from an exhausting meeting over on-going homeowner issues, so, here's some important issues you should consider before buying:
1. What is the builder's warranty policy?
2. Will be there be an on-site customer service rep to help you resolve problems with your home?
3. How long will it take for the amenities to be put in -- clubhouse, pool, tennis courts and golf course?
4. Has the builder posted a completion bond to ensure the amenities will be completed?
5. How long will the builder subsidize the monthly clubhouse dues?
6. If you pay for a view (golf course, mountain, lake) GET IT IN WRITING that your view is protected and will not be taken away from you by high grass or other homes being built.
6. If you pay for a view (golf course, mountain, lake) GET IT IN WRITING that your view is protected and will not be taken away from you by high grass or other homes being built.
7. Make them give you a copy of the covenants upfront (usually at least a foot high and written in a foreign language - legalese)!
Let's face it, for many of us retirees, that home probably will be our FRP (Final Resting Place), so, those are but a few of the many questions you should get answered by the builder before you sign on the dotted line. For additional info, go to http://www.wheretoretire.com/?source=google where you can request a free copy of the magazine.
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