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What Are The Problems With Over 55 Communities, Or Is Buying A 55+ Home A Good Investment For You?

There truly are very few, if any, problems with investing in over 55 communities as long as you find the house you love at the price you can afford.

 

Any time that you can get your hands on a piece of real estate at a reasonable price, that’s generally going to be a good investment. Aside from the tax benefits, the banking benefits, and the pride of owning your own property, the idea that really supports owning your own real estate is that it is an appreciable asset. Unlike a car, or a boat, or the latest fad hobby, your real estate will increase in value with time. This is especially true of 55+ homes.

Over 55 Communities Are A Small Portion Of The Marketplace With An Ever-Increasing Demand

Yes, the 55+ community is a pretty niche market. This does not mean, however, that it isn’t in high demand. As we start to reach the tail end of the baby boomer generation, and the very early beginnings of the Gen X’ers needing this kind of living space, the demand has only increased.  These groups of people are used to the free lifestyle, independence, and busy lifestyles they have created.  As such, they are seeking out the Active Adult Lifestyle communities which can help them transition into latter years of their lives in retirement. That in mind, with a small supply, and a big spike in demand, you can rest assured that your investment is going to only increase in value.

Prices And Values In 55+ Communities Are Always Going To Remain Steady And Stable

Speaking of increased values, it is usually fair to say that the over 55 communities are far less volatile than normal residential real estate. This is because the buyer is usually relegated to a fixed income which dictates their spending. In many cases there is also the addition of an investment portfolio which can help funds, but those investments are usually subject to the volatility of the current market. Counting on steady streams of income – such as social security, pensions, and or savings – is usually the safest option for a 55+ buyer. In the end, this fixed income helps keep the market stable and viable even in the harder times in the real estate market writ large.

 

Allowing Your Home To Be Rented In A 55+ Community

If you are a person who owns multiple properties, you already know the fiscal benefits to owning your properties. The good news you can add to the benefits is that if you purchase a home in a 55+ community, and have another home elsewhere, many 55+ buyers want to try the experience first without buying. In turn, even the rental market in the over 55 communities are very hot because people want the joys of living in that style community but the extended commitment. If you rent your home to a prospective buyer, they will eventually build their own home in the community and thereby help supplement the overall value of the community. It works out for everyone!

 

5 Reasons Why Long Island Is The Best Island To Retire On When You’re Looking To Rest, Relax, And Live Your Best Life

Want to retire on an island? It’s a great idea! Here’s why you need to consider Long Island as the best island to retire

 

The Weather

We have all of the seasons! Warm summer days with beautiful nights on a beach? You got it. Cool fall mornings with a nice cup of coffee on the porch while you watch the grandkids play in the leaves? We’ve got that too. Love the snow and all the romanticism of the holidays? You can still enjoy the benefits of the cold from the comfort of your brand new, beautiful, and warm home. Lastly, do you have a green thumb for gardening in the spring, or the stunning landscape of colorful flowers to the horizon? We’ve got all that and more. There’s a season for everyone in Long Island and all you have to do is sit back and relax.

 

The Food And Drink

Long Island has some of the best eateries in the country, not to mention the world famous vineyards in the Northfork and Southfork. If you’re a foodie who loves to try different styles, drink different wines, beers, or spirits, or share a meal with your inner circle, your are never more than 10 minutes away from food like you’ve never had before.  The night life in Long Island is spurred on by some of the best and trendiest areas in the northeast – especially at places like the waterfront in Huntington.

 

The Rich History

Are you enamored by our country’s rich history? Long Island has some incredible places to visit and learn about during your time here. You can visit the birthplace of America’s most famous poet, Walt Whitman. Perhaps you want to see mansions and castles from the Gilded Age? Take a quick drive to Oheka Castle – which is a fully restored Gatsby-era castle which is sight to behold. Did you know that the Battle Of Long Island is the larget battle in the Revolutionary War? You can see all the historic sites, and visit many of the places to this day! There is lots to learn here, and it’s all at your fingertips.

 

For The Love Of The Game

Long Island is home to New York Islanders hockey team, the New York Cosmos professional soccer team, The Long Island Ducks professional baseball team.  Long island is also just a quick ride away from some of the most storied franchises in all professional sports like the New York Yankees, New York Mets, the Brooklyn Nets, the New York Giants AND Jets, The New York Rangers and more! You may not have grown up with these teams, but you’ll end up loving them just as much as we do.

 

All Different Kinds Of Terrain

Do you love to hike? We have some of the best trails in the country! Maybe your best day is just lounging out on the beach.  We’ve got the beaches and even more vacation spots like Montauck and the Hamptons just waiting for you. Want to go fishing or charter a boat? We’re literally an island! We’re surrounded by water and we have a thriving ocean/fishing community. You can even go cross country skiing right here on the island as well. Between the farms, the wineries, the city life, and everything in between, there is something for everyone here in beautiful Long Island!

Your Home Price: They Key To Knowing Your Budget For The Cost Of Senior Living

Your budget is the most important aspect your new life because it will determine the cost of your senior living. The budget, however, begins and ends with the cost of your new home in a 55+ community.

Everyone has their dream life in mind when they want to retire. Some people want to become yoga experts, maybe they want to finally start collecting enough books for the mini library they’ve always wanted, and some people just want to rest and take measure on what they have accomplished over the years.

Whatever you want to do in your 55+ years is totally up to you! That’s the beauty of senior living, and retirement. On the other hand though, you do have a basic requirement and that is living within your means. Sure, we all budget out costs for medication, medical bills, social life, and utilities, but for some reason very few people think about the cost of their home.

Yes, you want to live your dream life, but how much are you willing to pay to make that happen? Can you afford it? Consider the cost of the retirement home you are looking to purchase and that that – in essence – it’s going to cost you about $500 for every $100,000 you have to borrow.

In other words, if your retirement home is going to cost 200k, that payment is going to be in the ballpark of about $1000 per month. Also consider the fact that this is BEFORE taxes, insurance, and HOA fees. Combine all that together, and your payment could be as high as $1700 – $2000 per month! This isn’t to say that you haven’t saved up enough money to buy your place outright, or that you can’t afford to get the loan you need – but you NEED to consider this BEFORE you write out your wish list.

Do you have to have waterfront? Do you have to be 10 minutes away from your grandkids? How about living next to the city for the nightlife? Perhaps you need a two car garage? Granite countertops with Viking appliances? All of those things are great! Though, the cost extra money and if it’s within your budget, then go to town!

While you want your dream house, it’s important to factor in the rest of your life’s needs. Food, medical bills, insurace, utilities, etc., are ALL need to be paid every month. You need them. Of course, part of living in a retirement community is also HOA fees. So that’s coming every month too. Factor in what all these costs are goin to be FIRST, then you can see what you can afford on a monthly basis for a payment of your new home.

Whatever you have left is what you can afford. Then you can start your search for the home of your dreams.

How You Can Be Living Your Dream Life in 55 Or Older Communities

55 or older communities are currently catering to the needs of the baby-boomer generation, and are providing a vibrant and dream fulfilling lifestyle for older Americans.

Life can be hard, and it can come at you fast. More than likely, though, you’ve triumphed over life’s many challenges and you’re considering retirement.

Perhaps you’re looking to downsize from the big home which you needed all these years, or maybe you’re just tired of taking care of EVERYTHING.  Whatever your reason for looking to move on to the next phase of your life, 55+ communities are a very attractive option to consider..

These style communities are great because, like many condo associations, all of your major needs are catered to, and handled for you. There’s no more lawn mowing, home maintenance, major cleaning, covering the pool, or even structuring your own exercise activities like golf, tennis, or walks.

The Fair Housing Act under the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) specifies that age-restricted housing must include a person 55+ in at least 80% of the occupied units.

What’s great is that these communities nearly all include benefits like:

  • Libraries
  • Tennis Courts
  • Fitness Centers
  • High-tech Media Centers
  • Tennis Courts
  • Club Houses
  • Basketball Courts
  • Restaurants and Game Rooms
  • Continuing Education Classrooms
  • etc

The important issues to know about living in an age-restricted community

The more amenities you have available to you in a 55+ community usually translates into a higher Home Owner Association (HOA) fees.  In the more higher end communities, residents can see fees which are $500 or higher.

Ultimately, no two communities are the same. The amenities and services provided vary from one community to the next. Are you a big sports person? Perhaps you’re more interested in learning? Or, physical health with activities like Yoga are a main priority for your lifestyle. You need to find out what matters to you MOST before you make your decision to find a community which aligns with your lifestyle.

It’s best to start searching for your ideal 55+ community early, that way you can have a clear understanding of what works for you and what does not suit your needs.

Don’t just account for the services available to you now, but also make sure the community has the services you think you will need as you age. What kind of fitness facilities are there? Is there easy access to medical professionals?  Are you near a vibrant community of restaurants,  grocery stores with delivery options, or are you in a quiet suburban area?

Whatever your needs, you have to make sure your community provides the resources for you now, and as you age. Those resources – whether in house, or in the surrounding area –  ought to IMPROVE your retirement as the years’ progress.

There are many different types of 55 or older communities from which you can choose

Resort and Golf Retirement Communities

These communities offer a resort-like feel and experience to the residents. Typically, membership is restricted to only the 55 plus generation in terms of renting and staying on vacations.

Luxury Communities

The homes here are typically larger with more amenities and features. The homes are also priced significantly higher. This ensures that mostly affluent individuals live within the community.

Active Retirement Communities

They cater to those of the boomer generation who prefer an active lifestyle. They typically feature hiking facilities, biking, swimming etc. The goal of active retirement communities is to encourage a recreational and sporty lifestyle for the 55+ generation.

55+ Gated Communities

These offer more security to the residents but still cater to the needs of the boomer generation. The homes here are great for those who want more privacy as these communities restrict the people that can visit.

Faith-Based Retirement Communities

The people living in these types of communities normally share the same beliefs. They could be religious or otherwise.

University Retirement Community

These communities tend to have direct or close ties with local universities and colleges. This makes it easier for individuals to work and participate in learning activities from the campuses while still enjoying your dream retirement.

Important factors and tips to consider when you want to purchase a home in a 55 or older neighborhood

  • Know the costs of living in the community. Choose a community that works for and within your budget.
  • Understand what is required of residents. Every community has its rules and regulations. House decorating, parking, lawn maintenance, the age of those living in the homes etc. Read the regulations carefully before you settle on a community.
  • What is the cost of living your dream retirement? Different 55+ communities cater to people with different budgets and financial capabilities.
  • Understand your local surroundings. You must understand what the local neighborhood is like and the kinds of advantages they offer as you ages.
  • Talk to your future neighbors. These will be your potential future friends and acquaintances. They will tell you FAR MORE about the community than any pamphlet could ever wish to say.

 

Aging Gracefully

5 of the Best Funny Poems about Aging Gracefully

Aging is a funny thing. Some people love getting older and others don’t want to admit that they are aging at all, but it’s happening either way. For those of us who enjoy life and get joy from the little things, we may find ourselves chuckling about some funny poems about aging gracefully. This blog post will list 5 funny poems about age-appropriate humor that you’ll be sure to enjoy!

Warning by Jenny Joseph

 

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple

With a red hat which doesn’t go, and doesn’t suit me.

And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves

And satin sandals, and say we’ve no money for butter.

I shall sit down on the pavement when I’m tired

And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells

And run my stick along the public railings

And make up for the sobriety of my youth.

I shall go out in my slippers in the rain

And pick flowers in other people’s gardens

And learn to spit.

You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat

And eat three pounds of sausages at a go

Or only bread and pickle for a week

And hoard pens and pencils and beermats and things in boxes.

But now we must have clothes that keep us dry

And pay our rent and not swear in the street

And set a good example for the children.

We must have friends to dinner and read the papers.

But maybe I ought to practice a little now?

So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised

When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple.

 

Not My Age by Unknown Author

 

That’s not my age; it’s just not true.

 My heart is young; the time just flew.

 I’m staring at this strange old face,

 And someone else is in my place!

 

 My body’s not in disrepair.

 I’ve not much grey in my brown hair.

 I sometimes feel a little tired

 But go for jogs when I’m inspired.

 

 This old age thing is not for me.

 Concessions given, prescriptions free.

 I’ll just pretend I’m in my prime.

 To age too fast would be a crime.

 

 I’m just not 60 in my head.

 It’s still so long till I am dead,

 So please don’t see me in that way.

 I’m staying young, if that’s OK!

 

I Am Not Old by Nandita Shailesh Shanbag

 

My eyes are fine; they are just printing words small.

I just use a walking stick to seem stately and tall.

 

Nothing is wrong with my sense of smell.

My ears are fine if you don’t whisper but yell.

 

The wrinkles are just laugh lines; they will go away.

It is fashion that has turned my hair from black to grey.

 

It’s the cold, not age that is stiffening my knees.

I like to hum as I walk; it’s not a wheeze.

 

What extra kilos? My scale is broken down.

If I try, I can still fit into my wedding gown.

 

My bones don’t creak; my shoes are new.

My memory is sharp. Oh, do I know you?

 

Clearing The Way by Alora M. Knight

 

I have waited quite a long time to get old,

So I think I should try to enjoy it.

I can’t turn it in for a refund,

And I surely don’t want to destroy it.

They tell me that life is a one-way street,

As if I am too dumb to know.

I might as well keep moving on forward.

There’s not much choice where to go.

I would like to lighten the luggage

I’ve accumulated over the years.

I’d be smart to release all the memories

That brought about heartache and tears.

That would make living much better,

Free up space that then could be filled

With appreciation for the good things in life,

With the promise that then I could build

A future that lives for the moment,

With little concern for the past.

My time will be filled with contentment,

No matter how long it will last.

So now that I’m ready for the rest of the trip,

I foresee no problems ahead.

I’ll make each day be a worthwhile event,

With no regrets for the life I have led.

 

Growing Old by Pamela J London

 

They said I was an “old fart”

But I hardly think that’s true

My boobs were done in ’75

But my teeth and knees are new.

And since my eyes were lasered

I have 20/20 sight

Though I like to sit on 50 k

And hate to drive at night.

All in all I object to “old”

But “fart” is another matter

For I think the valves that seal the gas

Now leak as I’ve got fatter.

To add to the indignity

And make me feel antique

Sometimes when I sneeze or cough

I spring a little leak.

So if you’re feeling young and smug

With a body like brand new

Just remember in 30 years

This figure may be you!

 

cleaning windows

How to Prepare Your Home To Sell: Tips For Older Americans

You want to sell your home, but you’re not quite ready. You’ve been thinking about it for months now, and the idea of downsizing just seems overwhelming. The last thing that you want is to list your house on the market only to have it languish there without getting any offers! So what do you need to know before preparing your home for sale?

Get Rid Of Personal Items

When potential buyers look at your home, they will want to imagine their things in it- not yours. 

So as lovely as your Avant-Garde paintings are, they won’t be everyone’s cup of tea.

What you are selling is, in part, a blank canvas. Of course, having a great foundation will improve the value, but when it comes to décor, anything could turn off a buyer.

So if you already have your new home be prepared to move all of your belongings in there, or at least in a storage unit for a time.

You could even consider hiring a staging company to bring in furniture for show. It is an excellent choice if you plan to move all of your things out ahead of time or if your couches have seen their better days.

Also, don’t forget to dig up any gold in the backyard. It’s not exactly something you can come back for.

Make Sure It’s Spotless

This one should go without saying, but for those of you messy movers out there, listen up!

You are showing off your home at its absolute best! And that means there can be no finger stains on the windows or scrapes on the walls.

If a buyer sees even a scrap of garbage when they walk in the door, they’ll be walking straight back out.

Bring in all the help you need, but be sure that someone will walk around your home with a white glove. If you are older and don’t have nearby children to help, this is another good area where a small investment will save you dividends.

Do Some Landscaping

Sometimes people forget that the outside of a home is just as important as the inside. You don’t need to have an expansive and beautiful garden, but a well-manicured lawn goes a long way.

I understand that if you’re reading this, you are probably moving somewhere that landscaping is taken care of for you, so think of this as your last hurrah.

Or again, another chance to invest in your home before it hits the market. It’s important to remember that the housing market is highly competitive. There will always be a buyer for your home. The trick is to find the one at the right price, and doing that means making your home look as good as possible.

So if you can, move the lawn and trim up the hedges, and if not, hire someone else to do it. The buyer is really the one footing the bill.

Refresh With A New Paint Job

Sticking with the theme of your full home makeover, re-painting the inside or outside of your house will do wonders for its marketability. Not only does it look better, but it’s one less thing that the buyer has to worry about if they fall in love with the color.

You can take care of indoor painting yourself with about a week’s worth of consistent effort. The front door is similarly an easy area to take care of, adding a lot of street-side appeal.

Finding The Right Realtor

As much as we love to be experts on what we own, it’s important to be honest with yourself about your knowledge of the market right now.

If you want a professional opinion, hiring an agent will cost more money upfront, but they will not only get top dollar for your home but do all of the necessary legwork after that. Efficient and effective!

Finding Your New Home

If you haven’t already purchased your next home, there are many options to consider. You are likely too young for a traditional retirement home but don’t want to deal with the hassle of home maintenance.

Luxury Active Adult Communities exist to serve those of you in this unique group. These exclusive neighborhoods only accept homeowners over fifty-five years old with no children.

They generally come with many features, including a clubhouse, an activity planning board, and outdoor home maintenance. So if you are looking for a community of people your own age to enjoy the peace and make new friends consider one of these active adult communities.

Vineyards at Brookfield offers the perfect balance of quality, comfort, and convenience. Our luxury-designed homes nestled in the heart of Center Moriches are just waiting for you to make them your own.

Check Out Our Beautiful Residences!

Home Design

DIY Home Design For Those Looking For A Fresh Start

Many people over 50 are looking to DIY their own home decor but don’t know where to start. This blog post has DIY projects that anyone of any age can do. You will also find some inspiration for the interior design styles that best suit you and your personal taste!

What You’ll Need For Supplies

When it comes to DIY home decor, pretty much anything could be a tool. Got some extra rope lying around? Why not wrap it around the base of a lamp, and boom, you’ve got a nautically themed decoration for your living room.

Still, there are some more common supplies that you will most likely need for whatever project you undertake. Of course, we always recommend deciding on your project before picking your supplies, but if you’re ready to prepare and are unsure of your direction, here’s what you might need.

DIY Supplies

  • Rope
  • Felt Materials
  • Old Magazines
  • Scissors
  • Measuring tape
  • Duct or packing tape
  • Pencils & Markers
  • Glue
  • X-Acto Knife
  • A spirit level
  • Yarn

Also, consider checking out some vintage or thrift stores. You never know what you might find that could be of use.

Hit The Beach

While you can get most of the supplies you need in regular department or art supply stores, there are some things you can only find on your own. It’s not for everyone, but going out and finding your own materials adds a much deeper connection to your home.

The best place to do this is the beach. All it takes is a walk down the shore, keeping an eye out for shells, sea glass, stones, and driftwood. Any of which can be material for your next DIY project.

You could even take home a jar of sand with you and dye it as part of a statement piece. Best of all. It’s all free! So if you want to DIY on a budget, it doesn’t get cheaper than this.

Where To Look For Inspiration

There’s a lot of money in interior decorating, and there are plenty of magazines, shows, and websites that make their money off showing regular people how to spruce up their homes—kind of like what we’re doing here.

Here are some of our favorite sources when looking for home design ideas.

Magnolia

Who doesn’t love Chip and Joanna?

My mom and sister flew to Tennessee from the East Coast just to visit their farm and maybe get a chance to meet the stars themselves. And I can’t deny that I love me some fixer-upper.

Moorhouse

While fixer-upper may be a little more rustic for you, Moorhouse hits the other end of the spectrum. It is a luxury, comfortable, and most importantly, a do-able home decor brand.

Rejuvenation

Similar to the last entry, Rejuvenation is a company that focuses on providing high-quality pieces for home decor. Their most interesting focus is their heritage collection, which sells converted or improved antiques as statement pieces for your home.

There are tons of websites ready to hand feed you some DIY projects, but if you are looking to get a little creative on your own, these resources will be perfect for you. At least one should fit your style and give you all of the ideas you need to get started.

Quick And Easy Ideas To Dip Your Toes In The Water

Maybe you aren’t ready to jump right into a major project, so here’s a quick list of smaller DIYs that you can accomplish in an afternoon or two.

  • Convert cabinets into a Secret Storage Area for your shoes
  • Buy a rustic ladder and drape some blankets over it.
  • Knit some wool coasters
  • Spill-proof placemats
  • Wall art hung on clipboard frames
  • Bandana covered pillows or flower pots

Painting

The top of the list for any DIYer is usually repainting the inside of their home. You either don’t have the money to hire a professional, or you’d rather do it yourself, so you buy a big bucket and some brushes and get to work.

While painting, you’ll realize that it doesn’t take too long at all with the right tools. With two dedicated people, you could finish an entire bedroom in a day. And

If you’re really feeling up to it, there are plenty of tutorials online that can show you how to create a masterpiece.

String Art

One of the hottest topics in home DIY right now is what you can do with string wall art. It’s easy, relatively cheap, and the possibilities are endless.

The best part about it is that you can make it as big or small as you want, so it’s perfect for any space.

All you need to get started is some string (or yarn), a ruler, and a pencil. From there, just follow the simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a beautiful piece of art.

Wrap Up

There’s something about DIY home decor that just feels special. Maybe it’s the satisfaction of knowing that you made it with your own two hands, or perhaps it’s the unique pieces that you can’t find in stores.

Whatever it is, we hope that these DIY projects have inspired you to DIY your way into a new home.

Vineyards at Brookfield offers the perfect balance of quality, comfort, and convenience. Our luxury-designed homes nestled in the heart of Center Moriches are just waiting for you to make them your own.

Check Out Our Beautiful Residences!

old woman drinking tea

Living Alone For The First Time Over 50

You’re retired. The house is too big for your needs, so you downsize, but a retirement home is too slow for you. You find a nice and quiet community with people your own age and prepare to live alone in a new place for the first time. It’s intimidating, to say the least. And you wouldn’t be remiss for doing some research into making it easier. Here I’ll help you settle your nerves and turn your first big move into the most exciting journey of your life. Within reason, of course- this isn’t Moulin Rouge, after all. 

Keep A List Of Emergency Numbers

This should be a staple piece of advice anytime you are home alone or leave someone in your home alone. You never know what could happen, and should there be a fire or medical emergency, you can’t spend time looking up an emergency contact. Likewise, you should keep the numbers of your landlord, local handyman, and community leads, or whoever holds similar titles in your area. 

Lastly, we’d recommend keeping the number of some neighbors you are friendly with, or at least whom you trust. Sometimes, in an emergency, nothing beats an immediate set of hands that can just pop over from next door. 

Make Your House A Home

A little bit of personalization goes a long way to making us feel at home. And while it may not seem like much, just putting up some books and belongings in your bedroom can really make a new place feel lived in. 

Our homes directly impact our mental health, so why not fill them with things that make you happy? This move is your chance to re-invent yourself or re-imagine what you already own. 

Consider A Pet (Or Plant)

Living alone can feel, well, lonely. Maybe you are used to having someone else around the house and feel strange talking to yourself in an empty house. 

Pets are a great way to be alone without feeling alone. Plus, having another living creature relying on you to survive keeps you accountable and on a routine. If you’re building or community doesn’t allow pets, then consider a plant instead. It may not be as fun to talk to, but at least it’s company!

Keeping It Clean 

When it comes to mental and physical health, nothing helps more than having a clean home. And a little goes a long way. If you haven’t lived on your own before, it can be easy to let small tasks build up, like piles of clothes or dirty dishes. But when you do, they become much more difficult to deal with. 

Taking 10 minutes before bed and in the morning each day to do some cleaning will make your job so much easier. It will also help protect your home from pests and make them easier to identify. 

As for motivating yourself to clean, I recommend inviting neighbors over for small get-togethers. Nothing will light that fire to clean than knowing other people will see your mess. 

Also, consider investing in a good vacuum with a magic wand for reaching difficult areas. This is especially important for people with restricted movement. 

Safety

Staying safe is important for anyone living on their own, but it is only natural for your risk of injury to increase as you age. So, as someone living alone for the first time over 50, you will want to set up your new home in the best way possible. 

The first step will be making sure that your home is accessible to your needs. Do the stairs have handrails? Do you need any additional support or handholds while getting out of the bath? These are things that can be incorporated into your home design in an ergonomic and discrete way so that you don’t have to feel old or incapable. They are simply there as a “just-in-case” and because it’s much more embarrassing to be saved from a fall in the bath than it is to prevent one. 

Some other additions to consider 

– No-slip bathmats

– Flashlights in case of power outages

– A Fire Extinguisher

– A stepladder

– A Toolkit 

Lastly, remember that a local support system can go a long way in supporting disaster. We’ll get into staying social in the next section but look for neighbors who you can trust with an extra set of keys. 

Staying Social

Everybody needs friends. That’s why we have communities, and it’s a huge part of the reason so many people move into 55+ communities in the first place. The more you have in common with your neighbors, the easier it is to make new friends, but any social situation will require you to go a bit out of your comfort zone. 

Make an effort to be involved in your community. Look for clubs or weekly get-togethers that you can easily join, and meet your neighbors. Not only will it keep you happier, but being friendly with your neighbors is great for your safety and the safety of your home. 

Lastly, stay in touch with your friends and loved ones from home. Just because you have moved away doesn’t mean you have to be away. We live in the most connected age ever, so why not take advantage? 

Easy Cooking

You know what you’re doing in the kitchen. And it’s hard to make it this far without at least knowing a few things that you can cook to get you through the week. 

But there will come days when you are under the weather or just don’t feel up to cooking. So on those days, it’s helpful to have provisions. Canned non-perishables like soups are a great supplement to any pantry. 

Or, if you are sufficiently foresighted, you can do your cooking in big batches that can then be rationed out through the week. Try creating a menu at the beginning of your week. It will make your grocery list more efficient and give you a better idea of what you’re consuming. Healthy eating has a ton of benefits, including making us happier. 

Wrap Up

Living alone can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be! Nothing that’s listed in this post is especially difficult, and it can go a long way to making you feel at home. If you are interested in finding a community that is best suited for your needs, consider The Vineyards at Brookfield. Our 55+ Communities are designed with the perfect balance of comfort and convenience.

Check Out Our Beautiful Residences!

Community Events: Live At the Vineyards At Brookfield

Welcome neighbor! Are you interested in the exciting collection of community events happening live in the Vineyards at Brookfield? There’s always something going on for our residents, whether it be mahjong or pickleball.

Here’s a collection of what’s happening live at our Vineyards at Brookfield community, straight from our private Facebook Group!

Nothing Beats New Friends!

Life gets so busy at home we can forget the simple pleasures of eating a meal with friends. So the men at our Vineyards at Brookfield location gather for their first Men’s Club luncheon on September 30th.

Vineyards at Brookefield Men's Club First Official Meeting

Enough activities are going on at Vineyards that there are always opportunities to make new friends or catch up with existing ones. We love our inclusive community, and it’s fantastic to see their experiences. (Even if we can only do so on social media). 

New Friends At Vineyards Brookfield Facebook Post

Thank you to our wonderful residents for keeping us updated on all the great fun they’ve been having!

Games And More!

People come to active adult communities for many reasons, but the greatest is within the name! Can you guess what we’re talking about? 

The Vineyards at Brookfield provides endless opportunities for our residents to stay active in whatever capacity they wish. But, of course, everyone has different interests, so here’s a little something from each corner of the community. 

Are our residents better at marketing events than we are? You be the judge. 

Poker Night At Vineyards Brookfield Facebook Post

Not a risk-taker? That’s okay because we have plenty of places to just lounge around. In fact, we caught one of our most exotic residents enjoying a dip in our clubhouse pool!

Inflatable flamingo in pool at vineyards brookfield facebook post

There are so many more events planned that it almost makes our heads spin! Even though winter is quickly approaching, nothing will be slowing down at the Vineyards at Brookfield. 

Residences At the Vineyards

The Vineyards at Brookfield is Long Island South Shores’ newest 55+ community. 

Our luxurious new residences are set in an impressively landscaped community with all the comforts of sophistication and convenience at your fingertips! Whether it be shops or restaurants– Center Moriches has everything right outside its gates for residents looking forward to not only living but thriving as well.

Our Residences

  • Barolo
  • Moscato
  • Napa
  • Savoy
  • Sonoma
  • Tuscany

 

Check Out The Quality And Beauty Of A Vineyards Home!

 

55+ Communities In Long Island

5 Benefits Of Living In 55+ Communities In Long Island

Are you looking for a home in a great location with people your age and plenty to keep you active? It sounds like a lot to ask for, but these are the main selling points of 55+ communities in Long Island.

In this blog post, we’ll explore five reasons why choosing a 55+ community is the best decision for seniors who want to retire early or just need to downsize their lives because they’re starting to feel like it’s time for something new.

1) You’re Always Close To The Beach

It’s no secret that the East Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in our country. So on Long Island, you can easily go for a walk or spend time with your family!

Plan a romantic evening on the water. Enjoy a picnic lunch, go for a bike ride or just spend time with your loved ones. There are endless ways to enjoy the beach on Long Island!

If you’re looking for some new scenery and an opportunity to take in some coastal air, head over to one of these beautiful beaches:

-Crab Meadow Beach Park (Hempstead)

-West Meadow Beach (Huntington)

-McAllister County Park (Rocky Point)

-Jones Beach State Park (Wantagh)

Or try a new beach next time you go out with friends or family! There are many to choose from, so try switching it up every week to experience what the island has to offer.

2) Enjoy The Great Outdoors

More of the outdoorsy type?

There are plenty of great hiking trails and parks around 55+ communities in Long Island. You can enjoy a wonderful walk in the fresh air or spend time with friends and family exploring nature together.

There won’t be any reason to worry about making an overnight stay either, as there’s always something nearby.

Here Are Some Outdoor Activities You Can Look Forward To In Long Island!
-There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature in the parks, like hunting for shells on a beautiful sandy beach with your grandchildren. You may even be lucky enough to spot an osprey or bald eagle!
-You’ll also find plenty of golf courses, which are great for those who want a scenic walk with an 18-hole challenge!
-If you’re into bird watching, there’s no better place to explore than Long Island because it is one of the best places in North America to see many different species.
-There are some fantastic fishing spots available right on your doorsteps, such as Robert Moses State Park. You’re just steps away from casting off into adventures around town.

3) Long Island Entertainment

The last thing people will want to do when they retire is sitting around watching TV all day. So here are a few fun activities that you usually wouldn’t find at home.

55+ communities in Long Island are near some of the best vineyards on this side of the country. Try stopping by for a day trip and try out the local vintage. It could be a great place to meet people as well.

There are also a few performing arts centers and galleries. These sites are open all year round to the public and always have something to show off.

Your neighborhoods will also offer access to New York City so that you can enjoy Broadway shows, pay a visit at Carnegie Hall or just take an evening stroll down Fifth Avenue without any worries about commuting time.

On top of all of this, you can swing by a summer concert under the stars. Almost anything you could think of is available on Long Island, and it’s just a drive away.

4) 55+ Communities In Long Island Benefits

In a 55+ community, you get access to all the perks that come with, such as pools, gyms, and spas. Your community fees will support all of these great activities along with your maintenance services.

You get the best of both worlds – you live in an independent environment but have access to all the amenities that come with a condo lifestyle.

Some other benefits that come with living within a 55+ community include:
-Friendly people who are at the same stage of life as you.
-Services that will take care of the exterior of your home for you (including snow shoveling)
-Less traffic and noise because there are no children.
-A community center complete with a bar and card room.
-Daily events and activities such as bingo, bocci ball, and book clubs

If you want to make friends or just stay active, an active adult community has everything you need to make it happen. But, of course, there are plenty more activities where that came from, so look into your community’s offerings before you make a move.

5) It’s A Great Investment

Everything that makes 55+ communities in Long Island a great place to live also makes them an excellent investment. One of the biggest concerns that people have when moving into these communities is that they or their kids won’t find a buyer in the future.

The fact is that the number of retirees is rapidly expanding because of the aging baby boomer population. What you’ll be getting is a beautiful home in a great location, complete with every amenity the community has to offer.

Furthermore, because maintenance is taken care of, there are usually two adults per home with minor wear and tear. So you won’t have to worry about the state of the residence declining as you live there.

Here’s a complete list of the benefits of investing in a 55+ Community home

  • Desirable Areas
  • Aging Population
  • Maintenance Included
  • Easily Targetable Market
  • Numerous Amenities
  • A Quiet Community
  • Less Home Wear And Tear

 

There are plenty of great reasons to move into a 55+ community in Long Island. You’ll have access to all the things you love without dealing with long commutes and traffic.

Plus, it’s always good when your family comes over for dinner- you won’t be worried about how they will get around!

Vineyards at Brookfield
210 Brookfield Ave Center Moriches, NY 11934
Phone: (631) 281-3300