Where will you live happily ever after?

Where will you live happily ever after?

There are many variables to consider when choosing your retirement home, and often we don't have the knowledge to identify what is most important. Recently, a friend of mine asked me why I chose to live in my neighborhood and I rattled off my standard response: lower taxes, proximity to the ocean, the charm of a quaint historic Lewes contrasted with the folly of Rehoboth.

But this friend knew that I had lived in another home in Lewes in 2010 - only to move again in 2014 - to a different home 10 miles down the road that was the same size as the one I already owned.

Why wasn't I content in the other house? Because few people socialized and other neighbors complained a lot of the time.
 
The most important decision to make in choosing your retirement destination is not the town itself, it's the specific neighborhood. My advice is choose a new development where everyone is experiencing a new beginning and it can be life changing.
 
When everyone moves in at about the same time, that commonality of shared interests draws you into conversations. Where to worship, find an orthopedist, an electrician, a hairdresser. Where to find the best happy hour, the best burger, the best fish tacos. Who to cut your grass or who to groom your "Gracie" puppy.

More importantly, we talk about where to volunteer and give back to the surrounding community. Thrift shop, Beebe Healthcare, Overfalls, historical society, Lewes In Bloom, soup kitchen or Emmanuel homeless shelter - the list is endless!
 
Perhaps the most critical variable to consider in choosing your home is something builders like the Townsends and the Lingos know for a fact: look for a large welcoming clubhouse where you can get to know your neighbors.
 
Our clubhouse, complete with fitness room and pool, has quite literally united 214 households from seven or more surrounding states. We unite families who are not all retired or of the age to retire because we have a place to host daily, weekly and monthly events, including book club, poker, charity events, game night, Superbowl parties, biking and walking clubs, happy hours and a host of special events.
 
Years ago when I first retired, friends and family could tell I wasn't really happy. What's wrong with you Lisa? Quit whining! You don't have to go to work every day and you have a beautiful home and a great husband!
 
When I walked around my circle, no one said hello. Now I greet someone on every street, and I feel connected to people who are as grateful as I am to live here!

If you haven't chosen your own neighborhood yet or if you live in a place where you aren't feeling at home, make the change even if it means taking a financial loss on your old home. Even if it means borrowing money to buy a new one. Even if it means endless arguments - I mean - negotiations with your spouse. We aren't getting any younger and your spouse may thank you once your Social Security benefits help pay the bills.

I would invite you to move into my neighborhood, the Senators, but we are sold out! Explore your options. Take your time choosing the most important decision of your retirement life.