Category: Moving In

A Guide to Finding the Perfect 55+ Community in NJ

Considering a move to a retirement community? Not sure where to start looking, or what questions to ask? In this article, we’ll explore eight things to look for when searching for a 55+ community in NJ.

1. Location

Location is often the first thing to evaluate when choosing a retirement community. Ask yourself if you want to be near a downtown or prefer a location that offers a serene outdoor atmosphere. Cottages at Compass Point is located a few minutes off the NJ Parkway, making it easily accessible from major cities like Philadelphia and New York, and within a few hours’ drive to any town in New Jersey. Being in Barnegat, NJ, residents can enjoy nearby beaches, town parks, and bustling downtowns.

2. Nearby Medical Care

Healthcare accessibility is paramount during your golden years. Look for retirement communities that are close to reputable medical facilities. Having easy access to healthcare services can ensure prompt medical attention if needed.

Just around the corner from Cottages at Compass Point are multiple healthcare facilities so you can easily and quickly get to your doctor, dentist, or specialist. Our nearby hospital, Southern Ocean Medical Center, is associated with the excellent Hackensack Meridian Health and AtlantiCare Health Park is nearby.

3. Accessibility in Your Home and Around the Community

No matter your age, mobility and accessibility are key to a happy life. Prioritize communities that offer accessibility features within your home, such as single-story homes, wider doorways, and open interiors. Evaluate the community’s infrastructure for accessibility, including sidewalks, recreational areas, and common spaces.

All of our models at Cottages at Compass Point offer an attached garage for easy access to the back of your home, a large front porch for outdoor living, wide doorways, and floor plans that flow from one room to another. All units are a single-story, single-family with optional second story lofts for storage. New walkways and spacious roads connect each courtyard together with access to the community clubhouse and walking trails.

4. Housing Options and Flexible Ownership

Retirement communities should provide diverse housing options to cater to your preferences. Our community accommodates your financial situation with flexible ownership options. Choose to rent your home with no long-term commitments so you can test out the community or stay for a few years at a time. Consider a lease-to-own model with lower up-front costs and the long-term plan to own your home down the road. Ready for a permanent retirement residence? All homesites are available to purchase with monthly community fees that offer exclusive access to all amenities, outdoor landscaping and maintenance, and ongoing security.

5. Security and Maintenance-Free Living

Speaking of security, safety and peace of mind are vital in your golden years. Seek communities that prioritize security with features like surveillance, a dedicated staff onsite, and monitoring your residence while you’re away. Maintenance-free living is another perk, as it allows you to enjoy your retirement without the hassle of home upkeep.

Cottages at Compass Point was designed for maintenance-free living. Our team manages all exterior seasonal maintenance like snow removal, leaf blowing, and landscaping to keep the grounds immaculate and accessible. With staff onsite at the sales office and clubhouse, residents can feel secure anywhere in the community and while on vacation. We’ll even collect your mail while you travel.

6. Recreation Onsite and Nearby

A vibrant retirement community should offer a wide range of recreational activities. Onsite amenities like fitness centers, swimming pools, and social clubs, and nearby recreation such as golf courses, parks, and cultural events, are key to look for.

7. Lifestyle and Culture of the Town and Community

Every retirement community has its unique lifestyle, shops, and culture. Spend time exploring the community’s atmosphere, attend open house events, and explore the town’s culture.

8. Nearby Food, Dining, and Socialization Opportunities

Retirement is about enjoying life, and that includes savoring good food and socializing with friends. Look for a community within a short drive to coffee shops, popular local restaurants, and community centers.

When searching for the perfect 55+ community in NJ, remember to consider these eight factors: location, medical care accessibility, home and community accessibility, housing options, security, recreational opportunities, the community’s lifestyle, and nearby dining opportunities. By carefully evaluating these elements, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your retirement goals and ensures a fulfilling retirement experience.

If you’re considering retirement or are in the midst of your retirement years and are looking for a scenic destination that offers year-round activities, beautiful beaches, and charming towns, look no further than Ocean County, NJ.

Ocean County: A Haven for 55+ Communities

Nestled along the Jersey Shore, Ocean County is renowned for its commitment to providing a high quality of life for retirees. It’s a place where you can embrace your golden years with open arms, thanks to a township that supports their 55+ communities and a region that caters to diverse tastes and lifestyles.

One of the reasons why Ocean County stands out among 55+ communities in New Jersey is its abundance of year-round activities. Regardless of the season, you’ll find something to keep you engaged and entertained. From arts and cultural events to outdoor adventures and fitness activities, there’s never a dull moment. Whether you’re passionate about golfing, hiking, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk in a picturesque park, Ocean County has it all.

The Beauty of Nearby Beaches and Marinas

Retiring in Ocean County means you’re just a stone’s throw away from some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. The Jersey Shore is famous for its pristine sandy shores and waterways. Imagine spending your retirement basking in the sun, swimming in the ocean, or fishing in the surf. The beach and local parks are your playground, and you have multiple choices just a short drive from your doorstep.

For those with a love for boating and water activities, Ocean County’s marinas provide easy access to the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a novice kayaker, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the region’s stunning waterways. Bring your own boat or rent a skiff, pontoon, kayak, or SUP board from nearby businesses. Fishing and crabbing also abounds in this area with multiple waterways to choose from.

Don’t forget LBI is home to some of the best surf in the state! Grab your board or rent one on the island for a day in the waves. Long Beach Island offers a wealth of stunning beachfront and bay-side views. Enjoy a sunny day with a walk down the 18-mile island on Long Beach Boulevard and stop at the many eateries, bars, and shops along the way.

Charming Towns and Communities

Ocean County is dotted with charming towns and communities that capture the essence of coastal living. From the historic streets of Long Beach Island to the scenic areas of Barnegat, each town has its own unique character and attractions. You’ll love exploring at local shops, savoring delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants, and participating in community events that make you feel like a part of something special.

Choosing An Active Adult Community in Ocean County

Cottages at Compass Point is the newest active adult community in Ocean County and was designed with your comfort and well-being in mind. We offer a wide range of amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, two swimming pools, and walking trails, ensuring you have the opportunity to stay active and connect with like-minded individuals.

Why leasing or renting a home is the perfect decision for active adults over 55

For active adults 55+ seeking a vibrant and hassle-free lifestyle, the decision to lease or buy a home becomes crucial. While traditional homeownership has its merits, lease-to-own models and renting a home within an active adult community present a variety of benefits tailored to your needs.

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I buy or rent my home as a senior?” read on to discover why renting or leasing in a 55+ community in New Jersey might just be the answer you’ve been looking for.

1. Try Before You Buy: the Lease-to-Own Model

Leasing a home in a 55+ active adult community like Cottages at Compass Point offers a unique opportunity to “test drive” your new community before committing to a purchase. Our lease-to-own model allows you to live in the community and experience its amenities, social activities, and overall ambiance. This trial period ensures that the community aligns with your needs before jumping in with a permanent purchase. By leasing first, you can make an informed decision about whether the community is the perfect fit for your retirement years.

Learn more about our lease-to-own model and rental options.

2. Maintenance-Free Living

One of the most appealing aspects of renting in a 55+ active adult community is the liberation from home maintenance responsibilities. As a renter, you’re not burdened with the upkeep of your home, yard, or exterior spaces. This means no more mowing lawns, fixing roofs, repainting fences, shoveling snow, paving the driveway… you get the gist! Instead, you can devote your time to enjoying the community’s amenities, meeting up with old and new friends, and engaging in nearby attractions.

3. Cost Savings and Financial Flexibility

Leasing or renting your home offers distinct financial advantages over traditional homeownership. The upfront costs associated with purchasing a home, such as down payments and closing costs, are often significantly higher than those fees associated with renting your home. Leasing eliminates property taxes, which can lead to substantial savings in the long run. Put these huge cost savings toward your next vacation, or invest in new hobbies.

4. Tax Benefits

Leasing a home can also bring new tax benefits for active adults. Since you’re not the property owner, you’re not responsible for property tax payments.

5. Flexibility to Change Homes within the Community

As your needs and preferences evolve, leasing provides the flexibility to change homes within the same 55+ active adult community. Whether you’re seeking a different layout, a better view, or simply a change of scenery, the option to move within the community without the hassle of selling a property offers unparalleled convenience. This adaptability ensures that your living situation remains in sync with your lifestyle at all times.

For active adults over 55, leasing a home within an active adult community is a compelling alternative to traditional homeownership. Our lease-to-own and renting models grant the opportunity to experience the community before making a permanent commitment. Financially, leasing offers cost savings, tax benefits, and the flexibility to adapt your living situation over time. Leasing your home could be the key to unlocking your dream retirement.

Embracing a low-maintenance lifestyle in a 55+ community in New Jersey might just be the key to unlocking this new chapter of relaxation as you approach retirement. If you’re over 55 and seeking a lifestyle that prioritizes convenience, a low maintenance 55+ community might be a smart choice.

1. Freedom from Tedious Chores

Without doubt, the top benefit to joining a maintenance-free 55+ community is liberation from those tedious daily and weekly home chores. Bid farewell to mowing lawns, shoveling snow, and tackling endless home maintenance tasks. Low-maintenance communities in NJ like Cottages at Compass Point offer the ultimate freedom from these responsibilities, so you can focus on your favorite hobbies and past times instead. Our team at Cottages will maintain all landscaping, pay bills on your behalf, keep community amenities clean and safe, and ensure the exterior spaces throughout the community are in great condition.

2. More Social Opportunities

In 55+ active adult communities, you’re not just moving into a new home – you’re investing in a vibrant social life. With like-minded neighbors just a few steps away, you’ll find it easier than ever to connect, socialize, and build lifelong friendships. Cottages at Compass Point will have community clubs, fitness classes, and organized events at the clubhouse throughout the year for residents and their guests to enjoy, and to meet your new neighbors.

3. Embrace Active Living

Retirement is your time to shine, and low-maintenance 55+ communities support an active lifestyle. Spend your days enjoying leisurely walks and challenging hikes in our onsite walking trails or nearby parks. Stay active with onsite pools, sports courts, and fitness center. Don’t let the burden of property upkeep weigh you down – spend your time engaging in new activities and your favorite hobbies instead.

4. Lock-and-Go Convenience

Dreaming of spontaneous vacations? Low-maintenance communities grant you the luxury of a lock-and-go lifestyle, meaning you can leave your home for long periods at a time knowing your home will be safe and secure. At Cottages, we offer peace of mind while you’re on you weekend, or month-long, excursion. We’ll collect your mail, maintain the landscaping, ensure bills are paid, and keep an eye on your home.

5. Simplified Living

Downsizing is a hallmark of retirement, and low-maintenance communities like Cottages at Compass Point are designed to accommodate this transition smoothly. At our 55+ community in New Jersey, you’ll find cozy and well-appointed homes with various floor plans that emphasize efficient use of space. All homes come with a 1-car attached garage and parking space, spacious bedrooms with walk-in closets, and large kitchens with plenty of cabinet and counter space. Most homes feature a second story storage loft, with some boasting a bonus den.

6. Professional Landscaping

Manicured lawns and pristine landscapes is a hallmark of low-maintenance communities. Our team has reputable landscaping services to ensure that the outdoor areas throughout the 55+ active adult community remain beautiful and inviting year-round, without you lifting a finger.

7. Customized Amenities

Our 55+ active adult community features a range of amenities tailored to your needs. From a world-class fitness center and two pools, to hobby rooms and walking trails, you’ll find a host of activities that align with your interests and passions.