9 Things They Wish They Knew Before Moving to a 55 Plus Community

I talk with many people who tell me all the things they wish they knew before moving to a 55 plus community. This video goes into what I think are the top 9 things that potential residents should be thinking about.
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[@Tootsie806]

I had friends who lived in 55+ communities, so I already knew it wasn’t for me. Instead, I moved to a small town just a few miles from a large college town. I’m so happy with my decision. Medical facilities and lots of activity diversity close by, and small town ambiance at churches and community center.

[@Southwest55Plus]

College areas can be great places to retire! Thanks for watching.

[@shanebracewell98]

That’s what my husband and I are looking for. We’re generational Floridians and we’re getting out of this godforsaken place. It’s gone hell.

[@chrisservidio8965]

What has made Florida go to Hell ? Are you in Swfl or North Fl panhandle ? I am going to start looking for rural property in a small town .

[@eboaqa]

I moved into a 55 and older community when I was 50. Best decision I could have ever made. You could experience any of the last 5 things listed living in a normal community. My adult children live less than 12 to 4 miles away and no, they don’t visit much. I am now 56 and I Love my beautiful home and my neighborhood!! I hope this helps

[@Southwest55Plus]

So glad you love it. Most people do! Thanks for you comment and thanks for watching!

[@glendacastillo6504]

50? Not 55? I was thinking I have to wait until I'm 55 to live in 55 community. I retired at 47 years old.

[@Cheezclown]

It wasn’t a 55 and over community, but my brother lived in the same development as our father. The HOA president was a very combative person, and my brother was carefully putting word out in his community that maybe she should be replaced. She called our father to “let him know” what my brother was doing. My brother is an educated, successful grown man who lived in that neighborhood for 10 plus years without problems until this board president. She literally told on grown ass man to his parent, what a nut. My brother moved shortly after, it was enough.

[@suziemyers9855]

You're right, people in Arizona, pretty much no matter where they're from, are very insulated from their neighbors and don't tend to welcome newcomers. Huge houses (like in your drone flyover shots), on large lots and block walls all add to the isolation. We moved from Phoenix 18 months ago to a small town in northern Califronia in a "regular" neighborhood. Now only did everyone pitch in and help us unload there was a block party within a month for us. We love where we live and would never turn back. So, yeah, what you leave behind, you leave behind.

[@luvnalaska44]

This is a great video. I live in a 55+ community in Tucson. Ours is quiet and neighbors respectful. You can be active if you like, or less social if you choose. We have a reliable HOA and they do an amazing job. You hit on points everyone should consider. I especially agree that you have to choose to be happy, social and involved.

[@Southwest55Plus]

So glad you like your community! Getting involved is a key factor in integrating into the community and being happy. Thanks for watching!

[@TheFessup]

Had to move’ changed management’ hostile to residents. Money-gouging. Happier in regular apartment complex. Cheaper and more amenities plus courtesy.

[@allanfifield8256]

". . . you used to be somebody . . ." Boy, does that hit home. I suppose that's true of most everyone in 55+ communities.

[@childtimematters513]

A lot of younger seniors never drink coffee or alcohol. 😊 Good video! 😊

[@GoGreen1977]

Many of the commenters seem to live in or are only focused on Arizona or Florida. Every state has 55+/60+ communities and they aren't all sprawled out single family, detached homes. Some are patio homes, townhouses, or apartments, and many are rental or may be coops. And I'm never living in Florida!

[@user-hi8kg1nc6y]

I can’t wait to live in Florida!!!!

[@shawnmarie459]

I just turned 55 last month, and I forgot that I'm now eligible for these communities. I've always wanted to live in one when i got old enough. Seems like a great place to live amongst like-minded people of my own age! but thank you for bringing up things to consider. Especially the HOA! I used to work for an HOA, and sent letters, went to all the meetings, etc. I would be VERY careful about buying in an HOA community. If I did, I would attend the meetings.

[@Southwest55Plus]

I’ve not had any issues with the Arizona HOA’s. In a 55 Plus area they’re usually great. My clients haven’t reported any issues to me yet.

[@Essays4College]

Most retirees are hiring though.

[@JM-ig4ed]

Good advice. One thing I would add is this: If something happens to your kids and you need your grandkids to move in with you - it will not be permitted in these communities. In particular is Sun City, which is a township / city on its own more than just a 55+ community. Sun City does not collect property tax that supports schools; therefore, having young kids will not be tolerated to be living long-term at your residence.

[@maxxomega6599]

The LAST thing I want is someones kids moving in here. It was one of the main reasons we bought in here...

[@kararodriguez7940]

My husband and I know for sure that we want to have a lot of land to work on and have animals like our grandparents did before us that made them strong well into they passed way

[@3stinkos]

Yep! Struggling with downsizing. Hard to let go of stuff.

[@Southwest55Plus]

I think I'll do a video on this subject soon. Seems like we all struggle with our love of "stuff."

[@jennifercrosdale5391]

@@Southwest55Plus Husband and I are 55 and our parents are still alive (late 70s/early 80s). When I visit them I look around their house and see how much stuff they've collected over the years and 3/4 of it isn't even being used. When they pass away, I just think of the stress we will have going thru all this junk not knowing if it's valuable or not. Please do a video about this topic. It's going to be stressful and sad enough to deal with bereavement much less having to sell their house and ALL its mountain of contents/furniture/dishes/clothes/holiday decorations/keepsakes and on and on and on. My MIL is a shopaholic and has been her whole life. If it's on sale, she's buying the whole lot and not just one.

[@sidneybales9062]

My parents died within 6 months of each other (they were mid 90s). They spent 75 years together accumulating stuff. The kids all took 1 th ing home with them because we all had our own stuff. In the end, we got a 40 yard roll off and filled it up, then took the rest of the stuff to Goodwill. So, either you get rid of it, or your kids will throw it away.

[@JoeyRose26]

I know! I just moved from 37 years in a 2700 ft house to 900 ft house. So extremely hard to choose what to keep or donate. Ugh!😢

[@landeeld9596]

We retired about a year and a half ago and live half time in Sun City Oro Valley and half time in Margaritaville Panama City Beach. Love them both!

[@Southwest55Plus]

Wow! Lucky you! We will soon have some Sun City Oro Valley videos up for you to watch. 🙂

[@bloqk16]

I can understand the need of an HOA in a 55+ community, as retirees may have RVs, and for the RV owner to save money from rental space costs, would park their RV in front of their house. Imagine having 10 residents along a street with parked RVs. The HOA serves as a constable that prevents residential streets being cluttered with RVs and trailers.

[@atinyweneebebe4903]

Seems a lost opportunity. I've seen developments that have community docks and homenowners can rent a slip at a very reasonable price as part of the benefit of living there. Why don't we start building RV parking lots in these communities that do the same thing? If RV parking in front if a house is so offensive, why not create a solution instead of a dictatorship?

[@jmm2979]

@@atinyweneebebe4903 Great comment.

[@bloqk16]

@@atinyweneebebe4903 The developments you wrote about for community docks: One has to give credit to the altruistic temperament of the developers with generously providing the land for those RV slips. I've been in the civil engineering field where such unselfishness was lacking, and have listened to real estate developers concerns when it came to utilizing land for residential development, to paraphrase their concerns: _'How can I minimize the amount of empty space on the land to maximize the amount of homes that can be built on that property?'_ I recall in one housing development that called for the street width at 44 feet, the developer wanted the street width reduced to 31 feet. Why? In the limited property space for that development, narrower streets would allow for four additional rows of houses to be built. That would mean more dollars of profit to be made out of that [developer owned] property space. The RV parking lots would take away land that would otherwise be used to build houses on. The fewer houses built on land equates to fewer dollars in the developer's pockets.

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

I need this kind of video for moving into a condo for the first time. I although I researched a lot (I thought) but still I was fairly naive. I never imagined that our condo board would be SO PICKY or that they would use so many chemicals here.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Condos can be tricky but without that HOA board many would slip into disrepair. Sometimes though they can go to far. I've been there too!

[@youngtimer964]

#10 - all the residents are fossils. I’m 68 and I can’t imagine living with all old grumpy folks. Give me a mix with mostly younger people.

[@Southwest55Plus]

You might want to check out a 55+ community where new homes are being built. Typically that is where my younger clients like to explore. Thanks for watching!

[@reebeeable]

My next move will be to a condo in a walkable area. Moving to a house would guarantee the need to move again when my partner dies.

[@user-lt3lz3ez5v]

What a worthwhile speaker! Every point was practical and well thought out. I have lived in these communities and I wish I had known some of these points. Thank you

[@irismartinez5753]

I lived in an over 55 community, and I loved it, I was renting, I work full time, so I didn't participate in the activities nor was I expected to. Neighbors were great, and in the year I lived there I only participated in one block party. No one pushed alcohol since I don't drink. It is up to the person if they want to get involved or not. I am wanting to find another community to go live at.

[@CBLounge2112]

I am 55 and a 55+ community would HATE me! I look 40, I skateboard, I listen to my music loud, I ride a motorcycle and most of all I am free and I still have FUN!

[@Southwest55Plus]

I think you’ll find that the opposite is true. Lots of people just like you in all of the communities that I sell in! This isn’t your grandma’s retirement home!

[@33Jenesis]

My new neighbor across the street in our 55+ mobile home park sounds just like you. He’s a life long surfer and triathlete (original participant of Maui Ironman). He sort of looks down on old folks because he’s very fit and active, rides a Harley and drives a Porsche 911.

[@z-ue4yq]

U have good vibes

[@alphadog3384]

I thought l decluttered before moving, reality is do it all early in the process, every shelf, every drawers, closet. Declutter every surface. Don't get emotional. Keep a distant in thoughts, about putting emotions on items or your boxes will be will you for the next move. Good call.

[@jmm2979]

Every time I walk into our basement, I bring up a box to toss or give away.

[@suzannereeves7768]

I moved three times in 8 years and totally agree with declutterring. If you haven’t touched/looked at that item in a year, donate it or dump it, especially in that garage!

[@Justice4ALL.120]

Completely avoid renting if possible. It will NEVER truly feel like YOUR home. And, all it takes is one busybody neighbor who is 'friends with the office', and you will wish you had a car to live in instead. The bullying tactics start and, because they stop short of doing anything that is technically illegal, they get away with it. The protections for renters you hear and read about seem to be 'just for show.' One example: I had two outdoor five inch crosses on my lawn for over two years (we have separate buildings and units) and had them removed by the 'office' because my new neighbor (who lives in a completely different building) was 'offended' by them. It seems this tenant has more rights than I do. I contacted the local Human Rights Commission who sided with the other tenant/office, and I can find no law that addresses this matter clearly. Since that time, it has been one petty thing after another. Management is aware I am in poor health, but they clearly do not care. What they care about is their so-called friends. There is an affordable housing crisis where I live in the mid-hudson valley in NYS, so moving is not an option at this time. Again, do NOT sell your home when you retire to rent instead (thinking it will be easier), because it will never be 'your' home. It will also be rare if anything that needs to be repaired will be done (e.g., gutters are clogged, flooding is terrible and I feel like I live in a rainforest, complete with bugs, overgrown bushes and weeds, toxic trees and all. I gave away my outdoor furniture because it is impossible to sit outside without being eaten alive. As for inside, I purchased my own products to make sure nothing enters my apt that is not human. I also bought air purifiers and a dehumidifier) P.s. If you ask for anything to be fixed or try to fight back against the blatant favortism, things will likely only get worse for you. I just started buying lottery tickets; I know it is a very longshot, buy it is the only hope I have of getting out of here and living in peace. DO NOT RENT UNLESS YOU HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE! EDIT: Just read other comments here and, even though it is a disgrace how these troublemakers behave, I feel vindicated. I bother no one and mind my own business, but they still keep coming for me. Btw, I live at Brigham Senior Housing in Kingston, NY. I was not going to name them, but every word I put here is true. I WILL NOT live in fear of further retaliation and I WILL NOT protect their wrongdoings from being exposed.

[@constancecondit4349]

A friend living in a 55 community lost her daughter and SIL in an accident. She needed to care for her grandchildren but was not allowed to bring them permanently to her home. She had to sell at a loss and leave. The children were teenagers.

[@vitoreese3987]

Everything you said is so true. Excellent advice.

[@lucken13]

I have lived in a lot of places in my 60 years, 20 with the Army! My wife and I brought a rural house, we both wanted to live away from people! I am an old country boy, so I use to it n prefer! My wife is an old city girl and now loves living in an isolated rural location!!!! Furthermore, rural areas are a lot cheaper to buy than the metro areas!!!!!

[@JonnieShipbaugh-dc9wk]

Great video, very practical, thanks 😅

[@leemareskow]

1st time I watched an objective assessment of 55+ community. Thank you!

[@ewetoob137]

Love your helpful and sensible take on these points, much appreciated!

[@Southwest55Plus]

My pleasure! As always, thanks for watching!

[@gladysclausing8785]

From videos that I’ve seen, this is not for us. I am very ready to downsize but my husband wants no part of retirement communities, condos or cluster homes because of negative experiences of friends. My advice for people who are thinking I’d downsizing is to move into a ranch in a development community.

[@Southwest55Plus]

You might watch some of my other videos. We have so many great Active Adult communities! Development communities have the same issues but just different people. Might be worth a visit to a state that you think you might like. You might be missing out!

[@jmm2979]

Exercise extreme caution. We to have heard very negative experiences from friends too. We downsized into a ranch in our mid 50's ten years ago in a regular neighborhood in our same small town community and did not regret it after some meaningful research and exploration. Although there are advantages with HOA's, there can be a significant downside we learned the hard way owning a beach condo. In addition, it's hard to make friends. It takes years to make lasting deep relationships. Staying put was the right decision for us. The missing out part is too often an illusion, followed by despair and isolation if you're not extremely extroverted.

[@sherrymiller2302]

I DON'T live in a 55+ and my children live only 8-10 mins away, but I had no one to drive me back and forth to Chemo because they HAVE to work. My husband owned a business and gone a lot, so I had to drive myself. Thank goodness I was able to, that's all I can say.... I am a very low keyed person, so I don't think I would like a club house based community, but that's just me... I LOVE my freedom and access to everything in the suburbs and will stay here as long as possible...

[@legalbeagle4187]

Good points

[@jeanpowell981]

We live part time in a small 55 park in south Texas. You mentioned your toilet paper rule. I go by the washing sheets rule. When I’m washing sheets and remaking the bed for the same person/people, and doing their laundry .. their stay has run its course.

[@jhors7777]

Thank you for posting this helpful video

[@Southwest55Plus]

My pleasure! Thanks so much for watching!

[@1969bones69]

HOA is paying so you can experience the penal colony dream life. No thanks.

[@lauralampe1664]

Hi Shawn, Excellent, practical information. Especially about guests staying only long enough to use one roll of TP. I had to chuckle at that.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad it was helpful! Ha! My kids give me a hard time about the TP thing but its a subtle hint for sure.

[@suzanmiller558]

Thank you for sharing this very important information for those of us retired or getting ready to retire. I was thinking of a 55+ community as I am single and was thinking of living in a community where I can meet people BUT I am not a “living by my rule” person. I’m thinking about getting some property and having horses, goats, chickens etc. Having that kind of responsibility will keep me busy and I won’t have time for foolishness and my animals will love me for taking care of them.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Redslotman1]

I found this video very thought provoking and useful. Thank you.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MikeBDaniels-bv8io]

Good points, advice - for any age, living in whatever community. Thank you.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Thanks for watching!

[@chrisbayoumi8521]

Excellent tips - definitely makes me think.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kfetter9046]

Really great info and suggestions!

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching my channel!!

[@djordjec3668]

Great video thanks

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@lesliefriesen2360]

This was one of the most helpful KZbin videos I have ever viewed. Thank you for discussing the tough stuff and giving me food for thought!

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching.

[@Thomas63r2]

Sage advice, I had not thought about all of those things. Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

[@Southwest55Plus]

You are so welcome! Thanks for watching!!

[@stevekambourian5398]

Great Video!! A lot of information that some people do not think about.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad you think so! I wanted to help people before they moved instead of having regrets like some people have mentioned to me. Thanks for watching!

[@anl6744]

Thank you so much! Planning to buy or rent in Sun City West this fall. Trying to figure out how to live in a smaller home. Your advice was timely and great. Thanks again.

[@Southwest55Plus]

It’s a great area! Be sure to reach out to me so we can help you find the perfect place! Thanks for watching!!

[@richardg4817]

Good points!

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad you think so! Happy New Year Richard!

[@richardg4817]

@@Southwest55Plus Happy New Year to you as well!

[@jackfrank303]

The most important thing you can do, if considering moving into any HOA community, is read the HOA documents before you buy. If you get angry just reading about the length of your grass or how many vehicles you can park in your driveway or when you can put up holiday decorations and what date they need to be removed, then an HOA isn't for you. States have different laws, but the State I live in requires the buyers to receive a copy of the HOA documents at the time they sign the purchase agreement. They have 10 days to cancel the agreement and get their down payment back with no penalty. You'd be surprised how many don't take the time to understand the HOA documents before they purchase.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Great comment! The rules are always provided but many people don’t read them. Then they complain and want things their way. Mind boggling!

[@jeanasmith4024]

Also, just because no hoa doesn't mean no rules. City might have ordinances that don't work for you. Just purchased home in city with no hoa but did not investigate this and learned of parking restrictions later.

[@dikhurtz2406]

I agree 100%. We had the opposite problem in our H O A. People would not read the rules and have any number of violations and the board refused to enforce them. A group of us had to get together and hire an attorney to force the board to follow its own declaration. So we got some new board members elected and they had our property manager Sit down and discuss the rules with each and every new owner then they had to sign off that they understood those rules or we would not accept them owning in our H O A.

[@youngtimer964]

@@jeanasmith4024state, city, county, township, village, etc.

[@suziemyers9855]

I'll tell you rght here and now, the CC&Rs 1) are VERY difficult to get prior to making to closing. We had to pay an HOA $300 for an electronic copy, and 2) you have no idea what kind of pearl-clutching old busybody lives around the corner from you. Our HOA in Phoenix had inconsistent enforcement no matter who was on the board. Pay for a "club membership", fine, leave the properties alone.

[@KateWilliam75]

We've been looking into moving to a CCRC (all levels of care from independent to skilled care) community and you've made some excellent points to consider. We've decided that we need to plan for our advanced years and not depend on someone else to care for us.

[@Southwest55Plus]

So good to do your research! Thanks for watching. 🙂

[@michaelseibel858]

Thank you for such an interesting video - I just retired two years ago at age 59 - I was from a western state, and had done my “homework” on the Arizona 55+ communities for about ten years in preparation of retiring there. I was about ready to pull the plug and move to Arizona until I visited the The Villages in Florida. WOW! There is nothing in Arizona that compares to The Villages for those, like myself, seeking a very busy and active retirement. You literally never need to leave “the bubble”, as all shopping, entertainment, recreation is all here and all golf-cart accessible. for $189 per month, you have access to free golf on over 50 courses, over 3000 social clubs, over 60 rec centers, miles of dedicated golf-cart only paths, world-class entertainment, concerts and shows, and outdoors musical entertainment at four (soon to be five) public squares every night of the year. I made the decision to buy a new home here last year, much cheaper than a resale would have been in Arizona. I’m very happy here. Had I retired to Arizona I would have enjoyed it, but I think it’s important to seriously compare the two locations before making your final decision. Arizona would have been more sedate, and I was looking for an extremely active lifestyle, where I have multiple events, classes, clubs to attend each and every day..

[@Southwest55Plus]

Stay tuned...we are heading to the Villages to shoot videos later this week. It looks like an amazing area. Glad you love it there!

[@claytonspann8032]

Great Advice.. Thanks

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!!

[@willavietinghoff1]

Wow. When I retire to Arizona, I’ll make sure that I’ll tell my realtor that I don’t drink. I didn’t think about that. 😳🙂

[@Southwest55Plus]

I’d say that over half of my clients are not drinkers. Most of the other half are responsible. Like anything there are just a few who never grew up. You can still find community and social interaction without alcohol. I do! Thanks for watching. 🙂

[@robbynnesmith376]

Good work THANXS

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!!

[@joejoejohnson8207]

I hate HOAs ..Iv had it.

[@pattyweiland4882]

I'm so glad I've found you! Your infor. on what all to consider before moving/ choosing 55+ living are great! I wish you also worked in the southen Utah area!!🤞 Ve

[@Southwest55Plus]

We will be adding Southern Utah at some point

[@pattyweiland4882]

Do you know how soon you'll be researching S. Utah (Washington Co./St. George)?

[@veasnalee3596]

Great tips! Thank you!

[@33Jenesis]

I bought a mobile home in a privately owned 55+ park in Southern California 2 years ago before retiring. There are over 300 units. The managers are strict but fair. I don’t mind and follow the rules and regulations. Our little corner everyone is respectful and kind, no one is intrusive. I really enjoy the peace and quiet where I live and take care of my mother. I am single and childless therefore I don’t worry about family and visitors.

[@nata3467]

I will be inheriting my parents condo in Vero Beach. I am grateful for the opportunity to live part of my year there plus the Northwoods of Wisconsin- best of both worlds.

[@Southwest55Plus]

How nice! It will definitely be a good place to spend the winters! Enjoy it!

[@judiruthmeredith6427]

Good video, good advice

[@Southwest55Plus]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@cordeliav3055]

I drove myself to and from chemo for almost six months.

[@p.j.b.9999]

You're right...happiness is a choice. We love our small 55+ HOA and have been lucky enough to become part of a community that enjoys getting together. We may not share political views, life experiences, etc., but we're all mature enough to accept our differences and rise above them. Our biggest peeve is people who feel rules don't apply to them. If you insist on feeling that you're too 'special' for rules, don't buy in an HOA. Those rules might be very important to your neighbors. And we put visitors up in a nearby hotel instead of dedicating a room for guests...that's my arts & crafts room now! And a smaller yard leaves us a lot more time to indulge in fun stuff instead of maintenance.

[@tod3msn]

People often go to places like the Villages and then want to leave. Folks should watch videos like this one and maybe drive around the locations for a "look see." I think though that most of these places like Villages are really an extension of high school. You play sports, eat out and hang with friends and clicks develop. If you are unconventional and not as interested in a tee time at the golf course and getting a brewski with the gang, these places may not be for you. There is an obvious conforming undertone to it all.

[@Southwest55Plus]

We always recommend a visit to preview each area. Just curious as to whether or not you’ve lived in an active adult community. You seem to have had a bad experience. Thanks for watching!

[@jmm2979]

Well said. It's fine for individuals who want to extend the sophomoric party life into their senior years, and I agree, that there is probably pressure to follow the herd once there. I do love these videos, as they do provide additional reasons why I avoid the 55+ communities. It's a very individual decision and ought to be considered carefully.

[@janpeterson6851]

We rented before we bought a unit in our condominium community. Renting gives people the chance to try it out. Im a snowbird, still here in Arizona due to an accident. I love being here. I would choose this type of living arrangement Year round if I could.

[@Southwest55Plus]

So glad you enjoy Arizona! Renting can be a great option while you see if you like a city or neighborhood. Thanks for watching my channel!

[@jannapeters8506]

My cousin lives in one in Bullhead City. She loves it. It's mostly trailers though,

[@cavilier]

A new lithium golf carts costs around $16,000. Required insurance about $375 per year. Trail fees vary as whether you play golf or have one for just for socializing

[@kathyharmon2093]

Oh my goodness, to each their own but I’m going to be 66 in a few weeks, still working 30 hours per week as a nurse ( only cut back to meet the criteria for drawing my company funded pension) people outside of my work place are constantly asking when I’m going to retire, my health is excellent, my mind is sharp, I have no ache’s or pains anywhere and pretty much still feel like I did in my 30’s, I cannot imagine living in a 55+ community… waiting to go to assisted living, then the nursing home ☹️if I retired I’m concerned that I would start declining, I want to live like my much younger friends, I just take vacations when I want to go somewhere 🤷‍♀️

[@Bob-The-Guy]

I'm like you, I'm 69 and in great shape, mentally healthy and good natured. Its hard to imagine living in a community where most folks are home all the time. Playing golf all day or drinking does not appeal to me.

[@susandevine3907]

I’m 70 and I totally agree.

[@jmm2979]

Great comment, Kathy. I'm 64 and just started working from home virtually and love it. I work part-time as a clinical therapist and see my kids all the time. At least three of the five call me everyday. Too funny. I love being active, in shape, alive with activity and working. My husband loves retirement and enjoys puttering around our house repairing all manner of household problems. He worked hard for many years, and I love the switch of roles to now support him. We're at the center of our church and active in the community. I'm so very happy we decided to sidestep a move into a senior community.

[@ianmace1964]

Mother in law lives in one and loves every minute of it

[@richardwhitehead4684]

I’m a 62 yr old recent retiree from the NE and I’m thinking about doing a reverse snowbird lifestyle, I.e, stay in the SW during the not-too-hot months, and then head back up to the NE for June-Oct. but, I have no idea about living in the SW (I lived in Manhattan for almost 40 yrs and now live on the shore in CT). I’m planning on doing some recon soon, and would like to hire an disinterested consultant to maximize the efficiency of those trips. Not sure if this presenter fits that bill, but I’ll reach and find out.

[@Southwest55Plus]

We are here when you’re ready to visit. Give me a call and we can chat about your wants and needs! Thanks for watching.

[@Europa1749]

I feel safe in my 55 + mobile home park, not worried about getting mugged or robbed when I walk just as the sun is coming up. I like it here. Everyone is friendly and nice. I join what I like which is just a couple of things....no pressure. Contrary to the negative comments, this is a great way to spend your senior years....I also pay lot rent, NOT an HOA.

[@4dogsgaming]

Never would I ever move to one of these ridiculous types of communities. Houses way to close together for me.

[@user-mn5nj1uz8b]

Which development 16 minutes with all the pools and golf course in the background? Great information

[@shelleycharlesworth5177]

I am considering moving from a 4,000 sq ft to a 2,000 sq ft home in a gated 55+ community. I worry about how I will like the smaller living space and living in closer proximity to other people and also nosy neighbors.

[@darwinjina]

I feel it. It's hard to look around you (clothes,furniture,etc) and decide on what to let go. Would I participate in the social activities in the 55+ community, if I don't already regularly go to the city senior center.

[@Southwest55Plus]

You might be pleasantly surprised! Most neighbors aren’t nosy. They’re nice people who want to be in a fun community just like you do. Downsizing is great once you realize that stuff no longer matters like it did when we were young. Call me if you’re coming to AZ and I’ll tell you the story of how I did it myself. Couldn’t be happier!

[@rudeawakening3833]

Wow

[@LynsAlteredArts]

I can’t believe people say they’re downsizing to 2000 ft.² house. My house is 1500 ft.² and it’s the largest house I’ve ever lived in and I’m starting to think it’s too big. Of course, I’m kind of a minimalist and people say it looks like no one lives here or it looks like I’m moving because I really don’t have much stuff but yeah I can’t imagine living in a 2000 or 3000 square-foot house, all my rooms would be empty.

[@rudeawakening3833]

@@LynsAlteredArts Yeah ! Thank you for that comment ! I’m the one who said “ wow “ one comment above ! Lol ! After my divorce I was ready to go into a sailboat or a tiny house !

[@viccifranklin3165]

Very interesting points. We moved to a small development in Suffolk an hour away from Essex. Thought the grandchildren would come up more often so did get bedrooms for all. My parents retired 4 hours away. I wish I’d have realised they would only come up 4/5 a year I would have moved another hour away. However friends have come but what we didn’t give any thought to was that we moved in our middle 70s and those friends, even though they were always outgoing, energetic people don’t want to drive/travel at their age. Here in England all new developments have to have Management companies, which I’m guessing is roughly the same thing as your HOAs. If it’s a small development you can manage it yourself. If it’s big you get someone else to do it. This is a very new thing and not all people know this. I always said I didn’t want to retire to a flat with maintenance charges because of the unknown expenses and I’m cross with myself for having done it with the new house. However, all is wonderful in our new home and we are making new friends all the time, in this village and a few others as well.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Thanks for your comments! Very interesting to hear how things are similar and different from the UK. Thanks for watching my channel!

[@parvathynayer354]

I am living in a retirement complex, and am very happy here. We have a managing company and they aren’t the best, but they could be much, much worse. I am secure. I can lock my home and go away for long holidays. We have a building firm that looks after all the bits that need seeing to. I have a group of friends and we meet in the communal lounge twice a week, go out for meals off and on and have group activities - scrabble, doing jigsaw puzzles, exercise sessions, etc. I think I might have been a recluse eventually if I had lived elsewhere. No danger of that happening where I am. I am humbly grateful.

[@Essays4College]

The typical retiree is home all day bored to death and desperate to get into something or create drama to occupy their time. Now multiply that by 100 and imagine the kind of environment you’ll be living in. No thanks.

[@nanniecath528]

you are misinformed about the average retiree. Spend some time with them and you will see. 😊

[@librarylover6414]

My husband pushed a move to an over 55 in Ga.. I hate the state. And town and miss my friends and family, especially my son in Ct.. so much. The house is huge. I am so unhappy. Also, I have health issues and don’t like the medical here.

[@librarylover6414]

The biggest problems are the size of the house and where it is -too far away from my home.

[@Southwest55Plus]

So sorry you’re in that situation! I will say thT it takes a while to really get into the swing of things in a new place. Moving can be hard. Hope things improve for you soon. 🤗

[@frankrizzo2157]

excellent

[@Southwest55Plus]

Many many thanks!

[@janetgillespie2347]

I’ll take advice for downsizing , next steps

[@rodherscher7155]

Don’t move there, is similar to a kindergarten nightmare…..gossip, busy body, etc

[@Southwest55Plus]

Not necessarily. I hear what you're saying but gossips and busy bodies are in ALL communities!

[@rodherscher7155]

@@Southwest55Plus I am agree with you,

[@z-ue4yq]

Aweeeww. I know exactly what u mean

[@farmerboy8659]

How about renting to see if I like the area . I have never been to Arizona . The only thing I would look forward too is the daily walk . KZbin is one of my hobbies . Enjoyed all of your info , but can I test the water before I jump in . Plus real estate has gone up to ab-normal high the last 2 years . Thanks .

[@Southwest55Plus]

Lots of places to rent. Let us know how we can help!

[@carolepeck3829]

I could never live in one of those geriatric Stepford communities.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Good to have choices! That’s why we love America. Thanks for watching!

[@johnklimes179]

Sorry, in my opinion 55+ communities are are garbage.The houses are too close together and God forbid you run afoul of the militant HOA.You could get lucky and have some great neighbors but its an expensive crap shoot. When i retired my wife and I left a community, not 55+ and no HOA and moves to the south to a beautiful place on 2+ acres, peaceful, beautiful and i'm not paying for a clubhouse or a pickleball court that I have no desire to utilize.

[@deborahcaldwell9775]

Excellent excellent excellent true presentation. Every single thing you said, of course leaving out the fact that you will miss a variety of ages. We’ve been age segregated all our lives from kindergarten right through this retirement process. I have been retired for 20 years and gone through everything you said. … you said it well.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Thanks so much for your kind words! Glad to have feedback from someone who has first hand experience! Appreciate you watching my channel. 🙂

[@wendyw4487]

the golf courses look lovely.......the neighborhoods however, like penitentiaries.......no thank you.......downsizing to us would be having a HUGE yard sale and closing down the 2nd floor of our farmhouse. Can't imagine spending our senior years with strangers when we have such wonderful family and friends nearby......not to mention our dogs, cats and horses. Definitely not for us.

[@jmm2979]

Great comment. There was no mention of the struggle to make friends in a general context. We're with you and so pleased that we decided to stay put near kids, friends, community not to mention pets and the general mess of life. Some seem to love it, but it's just not for everyone.

[@heatherjoslin8291]

The hoa is necessary but too many are mismanaged.

[@sparkleevenmore9638]

Interesting to hear the similarities and differences viz-a-viz AZ/FL. We’ve got nothing but growth here in the Sunshine State right now even with the interest rates. Great presentation - thank you 😊

[@Southwest55Plus]

Thanks for your comment! Interesting that you say that about FL. AZ is great so maybe come for a visit!

[@carmen47freixas96]

I moved 3 years ago at age then 73, I had lived in one place all of my life, when the so called virus hit, I moved State 4 hours away by plane to the tropics, no mandates, no lockdowns, no face nappies for you diapers. I love it, on my own, the situation in my old state was too toxic, had to run away... life is too short I am a loner, so, I don't need Community or religion.

[@Southwest55Plus]

I think that’s great. Good for you! Glad you’re in a place you can enjoy. Thanks for watching!

[@TheRm65]

Great: a Pre-Death Community in a state running out of water. What could possibly go wrong?

[@robertjohnson4622]

Discovered your video and have friends whom do not not drink. Wondering what 55+ communities would be better for them ?

[@Southwest55Plus]

All communities are fine for non-drinkers. Same thing as a non-55 plus neighborhood. Lots of people who drink and many who do not. I drink very little and do just fine in all of them. Times have changed and being a teetotaler is more and more common. Some people get irritated at the higher alcohol consumption in these communities so it is good to be aware and gravitate towards other activities where there are more sober people. Thanks for watching!

[@user-qd3om9jp5f]

Any advice on an older community , over 55, that has been bought, and future lot rent for new owners have more than doubled. Our concern is how do we protect our home equity when we're being held hostage. Our homes typically sell within 30 days, now future owners are walking away from the over $900 lot rent. Any help would be appreciated.

[@Southwest55Plus]

So sorry this is happening to you! Unfortunately this is common and the high lot rents will reduce your home equity as the monthly cost climbs. If you can sell then find an option where you own the ground. I wish I could be more helpful but the community owner is king and they are there to profit.

[@dianesullivan5338]

Retirees who struggle to meet their basic needs are the ones who could not accumulate enough savings during their active years. Retirement choices determine a lot of things. My parents both spent same years in the civil service, but my mom was investing through a asset manager, and my dad through the 401k. My mom retired with about ‘4.2M’, but my dad retired with roughly '$1.8M’.

[@robbynnesmith376]

300 a month at parkway villas in Las Vegas.....3 HOAs and it's a FN landscape nightmare. A plumbing break ...$15 in parts 20 min. $950

[@Southwest55Plus]

Wow! Sounds like you need to explore other options. Thanks for watching!

[@3stinkos]

Hey Shawn, what is the community at the 16:00 mark with what looks like a waterpark with a lazy river?

[@Southwest55Plus]

Actually that was a mistake. It's the JW Mariott in the Desert Ridge area. Editor out it in there by mistake. But it is gorgeous isn't it?

[@3catscarefreelife]

I am sure Arizona is a wonderful place to retire but I prefer areas that are more green. Texas, Florida or the Carolinas are more my vibe.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Stay tuned! We will be visiting those areas starting next month! Thanks for watching 🙂

[@joytotheworld2100]

How would you know if there are a lot of party people that drink alot in a potential 55+ community?

[@JohnS-um3lm]

Some of your points make you stop and think

[@Southwest55Plus]

Thanks! Appreciate you watching!

[@TheThisisliving]

JUST to clarify. Verrado, Pebble Creak, Sterling Grove, live under the Airforce base. It's an air force base. It's Loud, it's busy, it's not a place I'd want to live. Arizona is a big place. Chose wisely. I've lived here in the Phenix area, west valley, 5 years. I don't like the constant jets flying overhead everyday and night. Another thing to consider, not all of these community's are fun. Some of them are filled with people that have children, and these people are to busy to partake in the community. How do you say BORING. It was just the wrong place for us.

[@Southwest55Plus]

Not everyone likes the jets but for me that’s the sound of freedom! No children can live in a 55+ community so not an issue. I was at a concert at Pebblecreek yesterday and it was anything but boring. Just out of curiosity, what community have you lived in?

[@Rosy_corner]

I have never lived in a 55+ community. What is resale like? I have always had a 3 bd 2 bath, it’s just me so off and on I rent yo a traveling nurse, is this acceptable?

[@Southwest55Plus]

You can find rentals in most communities. Some places have restrictions so be sure to check when choosing a location. Rents in many are much higher in winter but as a travel nurse your housing allowance is adjusted for that. Renting is a great way to check out the active adult lifestyle and see if you enjoy it. Thanks for watching!

[@Veganisbadhunter-wx5nt]

Wait until they move into a 100+ community.

[@user-xs9835]

What are the price ranges for modest houses in these type of communities in Arizona?

[@Southwest55Plus]

Depends on what you're looking for but you can find some nice homes in some areas starting at 250ish. Message me for specifics. Thanks for watching!

[@dlandis8146]

We live part time in a 55 plus community in So Cal desert. We bought the beginning of last year we like it but one complaint - not very diverse nor international. Coming from the diverse SF Bay Area, we are not used to being around so many older white folks (we are mixed couple). Also, the age factor is a thing - I somtimes sub teach to be around younger people (kids).