Moving into a senior community can open the door to less maintenance, more social connection and peace of mind about the future.  But no two communities are alike.  The brochure and the guided tour only tell part of the story.

As a Richmond Realtor, a certified Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and a Senior myself, I help clients through this transition every year.  Here's what I tell them to look for, and the questions to ask before signing anything.

1.  Living Arrangements

Start with where you'll actually live.  Ask to see every floor plan available, along with the price of each.  Then ask:

• Can I customize my unit with paint, flooring or upgrades?
• What's included:  utilities, internet, housekeeping, maintenance, parking?
• Are pets allowed?  What are the limits on size, breed, and number, and are there pet fees?

Your home should feel like home, not a hotel room!

2.  Amenities and Activities

Think about how you want to spend your days.  Does the community have a fitness center, pool or walking paths?  Ask for the current activity calendar.  Look for events you'd actually attend, whether that's book clubs, exercise classes, card games or outings.

Transportation matters too.  Find out whether the community provides rides to medical appoitnments, shopping and church.

3.  Health Care Options

Ask whether medical care is available on-site and how medical staff are trained and licensed.  Just as important:  whathappens if your needs change?

Some communities, often called continuing care retired communities (CCRCs), offer independent living, assisted living and memory care on one campus.  That can mean an easier transition if your health changes.  Others offer independent living only, which could mean another move later.

4.  Staffing

The staff shapes your daily experience.  Ask:

• What is the staff to resident ratio, during the day and overnight?
• How are staff trained?
• Is someone available 24/7?
• What does staff turnover look like?

Low turnover and long tenured employees are often signs of a well-run community.

5.  Fees and Contracts

This is where careful reading pays off.  Ask:

• Is there an upfront entrance fee, and is any of it refundable?
• What do monthly fees cover, and what costs extra?
• Are there hidden or one time charges?
• How much have fees increased over the past few years?
• What happens if I decide to move out?

Before you sign, have an attorney or financial advisor review the contract.

Other Questions Most People Forget To Ask

• Dining:  What are the options, and is a meal plan included?
• Safety:  Are there emergency call systems and secure entry?
• Visitors:  What's the policy for guests and overnight family visits?
• Licensing:  Is the community licensed, and can you see recent inspection reports?
• Ownership:  Who owns and operates the community, and is it financially stable?

My favorite tip:  talk to current residents.  Stay for lunch, join an activity, or ask about a trial stay.  Residents will give you the honest picture.

Don't Forget About Your Current Home

For many people, selling their current home helps fund the move. Timing the sale with your move in date, preparing the house and sorting through years of belongings can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone.

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, I help clients sell their homes, coordinate move timing and connect with trusted local downsizing specialists and movers.

Let's Talk About Your Next Chapter

If you or a loved on is considering a senior community in the Richmond area, call or text me at 804-566-0781, email me at Barbara.Reagan@LongandFoster.com, visit my website for a free, no pressure consultation.

Download my free Senior Community Tour Checklist here!

Watch the video version at  https://youtu.be/I5T24bNa3N4

Note:  this article is for general information only and is not legal or financial advice!