A checklist for retiring in Gauteng in 2022

Gauteng is home to a wide variety of retirement villages and with its infrastructure and amenities, it has developed a reputation as a great retirement destination. Before you choose the retirement village that's right for you, it's important to think over a list of considerations. The CSi Property Group provides a checklist to help you choose the right home for your retirement. Proximity to family, continuation of your current lifestyle and suitability of the specific retirement village you are considering are all important considerations.

1. Do I have family nearby?
   
   Retirement villages are dotted throughout Gauteng, and it's important to choose one where you will be as close as possible to your children or other family members. Knowing your loved ones could reach you quickly in an emergency can provide peace of mind - and it's also great to know that they will be able to visit you regularly.
    
2. Will I easily be able to continue to enjoy the activities that mean a lot to me?
   
   The fact that you're moving into a retirement village doesn't equate to giving up your life. While enjoying the security and peace of mind that comes with living in one of Gauteng's retirement villages, you can continue to live the same life that you enjoyed in your previous home. With that in mind, think about your retirement village's proximity to your church and any activities that you may be involved in. While a retirement village is a great place to make new friends, it's important to make sure that it's easy to keep in touch with your old friends.
    
3. Is the retirement village as a whole suited to my needs?
   
   The next item on the retirement suitability checklist is the grounds of the retirement village as a whole. Take a walk around your prospective new home and think about factors such as whether there is a pleasant atmosphere, whether the land is flat and whether there are outdoor areas where, as a resident, you would be able to enjoy a picnic or a pleasant stroll. If noise levels are a factor for you, think about whether there seems to be a lot of traffic in the area. Another important factor to consider is the amenities on offer, and whether these will meet your needs. If you're a keen reader, is there a library in the retirement village you're considering renting or investing in? If you enjoy being sociable, is there a communal lounge? If you're still enjoying an active way of life, is there a swimming pool and walking trails that will inspire you to keep moving?
    
4. Is the unit itself suited to my needs?
   
   The next step is to look carefully at the specific unit you are considering buying or renting. Important points to consider include the security of the unit and how easy it is to move around. It is important to think of your future needs as well as your current needs. While a short flight of stairs may not be too challenging now, will it pose a difficulty in five years? Check whether cupboards and shelves are easy for you to reach - stretching may be easy now, but could potentially be more difficult in years to come.
    
5. General things to think about
   
   If you have a pet, it's important to check whether he or she will be welcome in your retirement village of choice. Another thing to consider is what facilities you have access to, such as parking space and extra storage. It's also important to know whether you are allowed to repaint or redecorate your room according to your tastes.

The CSi Property Group specialises in finding Gauteng's retirees the home that's right for them. Contact us today and let us help you make the most of your retirement years.