Ready to Live Closer to Your Kids?

Time for a Change?

It’s a valuable skill to know how to ride the waves of change.  Maybe you have entered a new phase of life.  Retirement, launching a second career, loss of a spouse or partner, are just a few of life’s zigs and zags.  Some are thrust upon us, but other changes are intentional course corrections made in an effort to adjust to a new circumstance.  Knowing you have the option to make positive changes in your lifestyle is empowering.  That said, it’s important to prepare and do your homework, especially if you’re considering moving a little closer to your adult children and their families.  If it’s right for you (and them) it’s a move that can prove richly rewarding.

What’s the Upside?

Living in close proximity to the extended family can be a bonus for all.  Unfortunately, it has the potential to create problems.  It’s best to use all your best communication skills before you get caught up in visions of family bliss.  What are you hoping for as a result of this move?  Would you like to be more involved with your grandkids?  Can you see yourself pitching in with school pick up or cheering them on at their games or performances?  Share your ideas with your children.  Be prepared to listen to what their needs and expectations are.  Explore the boundaries, budgets, and deal-breakers.  Remember, it’s a two-way street.  What are your expectations of them?  Having help around the house, or support with medical issues are examples of how having extended family close by can be a lifesaver.  Perhaps, the simple richness of extended family on holidays and special occasions is rewarding enough.

Be a Detective!

Find out as much as you can about the community.  One expert suggests subscribing to local media sources, including Facebook groups to discover what it might be like to live there.  How is the climate?  Check the cost of living and other pertinent statistics on any one of the many databases available on the internet.  Other steps you can take include renting rather than purchasing a home so you give yourself time to adjust before making the move permanent.  Renting is an excellent way to preserve your assets, and thereby keep your options open. In the Ask Encore section of The Wall Street Journal, Glenn Ruffenach writes:

“If you’re age 50 or older, chances are good you think about housing in terms of owning and not renting. But renting can have several advantages, particularly if you’re on the fence about moving near children.” Glenn Ruffenach,WSJ.com 

Plan Early

Even if it’s something that’s not on the immediate horizon, it’s never, never, never too early to start planning.  A thoughtful plan is the difference between a wish and a goal.  You can wish you lived closer to your kids, but a plan turns that into a step-by-step path to make it a reality.  Many poor decisions are the result of reacting to a crisis or being forced to make a move due to finances or health.  And, as with any good plan, it needs to be written down, be flexible, and be shared.  Involve your children in the planning, but remember that you will make the best decision for yourself and your family.  If it’s successful, it can be the best decision you’ve ever made!

Interested in Learning More About Highland 55 at Spring Creek?

Highland 55 at Spring Creek is an active adult 55+ rental community located in the Spring Creek area of Edmond, Oklahoma.  The 72 unit cottage community represents the very best in design, security, and lifestyle.  The one and two-bedroom floor plans feature soaring 9-foot ceilings, quartz and honed granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a full-size washer and dryer.  Each cottage has a garage, private entry, and front and back porches and patios.  A security system, cable TV, and internet are complimentary.  Highland 55 is pet-friendly, with its own dog park.  The clubhouse is the perfect place to gather and enjoy planned activities or meet friends to socialize.  A full-time staff keeps things lively.  Multiple fireplaces, a full kitchen, indoor and outdoor seating,  grilling area, and large TV viewing area provide the perfect spot for a game day or other celebration.  Need to host a meeting?  The co-working space/conference room is available with full connectivity.  The fitness center features an indoor pickleball court, exercise equipment, even a Pilates/yoga studio for group classes.  This also provides a storm shelter for residents.

Ready to learn even more?  Come tour the community at 1117 S. Bryant Ave, Edmond, OK   Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:30pm or on Saturday by appointment.  Our super friendly staff of professional managers are available by phone or email.  Call 405-216-5559 or email us info@highland55.com to request printed materials. We are happy to provide you with information and share our expertise so you can be confident in your decision.  We are bringing decades of experience to making your move to Highland 55 a positive lifestyle change! Check out our website and view the gallery here.

 

2 Comments

  1. DEBORAH L STOVEKEN on July 19, 2021 at 11:41 am

    Interested in one or one bd and study. move in date would be within the next year. Thank you

    • KathyMatthews on July 22, 2021 at 7:40 pm

      Hi Deborah,
      Would love for you to tour the community and see it in person. Right now is a great time so you can be added to our wait list. When you’re ready call our office at 405-216-5559.

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