THE PROS AND CONS OF BUYING A HOME IN A 55-PLUS COMMUNITY
PRO: AMENITIES ARE INCLUDED. Most 55-plus communities include amenities like exercise classes and educational programs for their residents. They also invite community organizations and leaders to speak about local issues or upcoming elections. Some even have a clubhouse or dining hall for social gatherings. Save money by taking advantage of these programs instead of paying for a gym membership or a course at the local community college. CON: IT’S A LIMITED BUYER’S AND RENTER’S MARKET. Most people who buy in a 55-plus community plan to retire there. If this is your original intention but your plans change down the road, you might have a harder time selling your home here than you would in a community that is open to people of all ages. Make sure to budget for those potential holding costs and plan accordingly. Regardless of where you decide to buy, be sure to consult an experienced real estate agent and a financial planner. Here’s to living out your golden years in comfort and convenience!
Depending on your wants and needs, buying a home in a 55-plus community might be a financially savvy way to set yourself up for retirement. But is it the right decision for you? Here are a few financial pros and cons associated with moving into one of these neighborhoods. PRO: THE HOMES ARE IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. Oftentimes, 55-plus communities provide maintenance services, including housekeeping and landscaping. Also, it’s likely that only a handful of people have occupied the home since it was built, so buying in a 55-plus community means you’ll get a property in excellent condition with less wear and tear. CON: YOU’LL HAVE TO PAY A MONTHLY FEE. Unfortunately, all the great stuff doesn’t come free. Usually, you’ll have to pay an extra monthly bill, similar to a homeowners association fee, to live in a 55-plus community. Some communities include all maintenance and amenities in the monthly rent or mortgage (some even cover utility bills), but make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered before you sign a contract!
HAPPY TRAILS! GET OUT FOR A HIKE ON THESE LOCAL PATHS
NEUSE RIVER TRAIL WHERE: Anderson Point Park, Raleigh DIFFICULTY: Easy Designed for hikers of all skill levels, the Neuse River Trail rewards those who venture along it with gorgeous views of lakes and Raleigh neighborhoods. This trail is dog-on-leash-friendly and is a popular choice for hikers during any time of the year. The pathway is paved, and light hills help hikers keep their heart rate up without much strain.
With our beautiful spring weather in Raleigh, there’s no better place to be than on some of our local trails! Make sure these three hiking paths are at the top of your list, and check NCParks.gov for any possible closures. WILLIAM B. UMSTEAD STATE PARK WHERE: Raleigh DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate There’s no landscape quite like the lush forests of Raleigh, and no park better exemplifies that than the William B. Umstead State Park. With hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, there’s a hike for every outdoorsy person in your family. Enjoy the winding nearly 6-mile loop on the Company Mill Trail, or opt for a picnic and a short walk at Oak Rock Trail. For those riding bikes and horses, the 13 miles of multiuse trails offer a variety of options.
Creek Greenway Trail through the eastern edge of Lake Johnson to enjoy gorgeous views. If you want to work up a sweat, the park also features the QR Fitness Trail, complete with six stations designed to target your upper and lower body in between spurts of running or walking! A mobile device is required to access the workouts.
LAKE JOHNSON PARK WHERE: Raleigh DIFFICULTY: Easy
Rounding out the list of local hikes are park trails that loop participants around a local lake and offer extra fitness opportunities. For those looking for a leisurely hike, follow the Walnut
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