Blog Posts

The True Cost of Homeownership

When you are part of the daily grind, time is money. When you’ve put full-time employment behind you, your free time and your money are equally precious. So, the question: Why would you want to sacrifice your hard-earned money and free time maintaining a house that no longer supports your lifestyle? The Survey Says… A recent real estate study by Clever and published on Realty Times sought to get to the bottom of the true costs of homeownership. The numbers are in and the survey says: Homeowners are spending a lot of money on maintenance and repairs. In fact, according to the results of the study, maintenance, repairs, and home improvements can eat up to $10,000 annually. That number can soar even higher when renovation costs far exceed expectations or major appliances and HVAC systems are beyond repair and must be replaced. The real estate survey of 1000 homeowners concluded that 25% of the participants had less than $500 saved for home maintenance. In addition, 57% noted a significant amount of time spent dealing with home headaches. Whether the problem involved plumbing leaks, water heater repair, HVAC maintenance, painting, appliance breakdowns or outdoor landscaping issues, the consensus was clear. After living in a house for more than 10 years, things start to fall apart and need attention. When you throw the cost of property taxes and homeowner’s insurance into the retirement formula, the numbers may indeed add up to a larger piece of the pie than you bargained for. That lopsided equation is precisely why so many Baby Boomers are getting out from under the money pit they used to call home and rightsizing into active adult communities where the dollars make sense. Maintenance-Free Living After decades of mowing, pruning, raking, snow blowing, painting and planting, the prospect of living in lovely grounds with zero responsibility for keeping them that way is beyond appealing and one of the top-selling points for life in an active adult community. Another highlight is an easily manageable living space designed for efficiency and convenience. When you’re ready to use the chunk of money you saved on home maintenance to check off an item on your bucket list, all you have to do is lock the door and head off worry-free on your great adventure. No More Health Club Dues Active adult living includes easy access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities with sparkling pools where you can exercise and socialize. Take part in the long list of scheduled activities and join with other members of your community to pursue your passions and interests. You’ll have the opportunity to expand your horizons and create new and meaningful relationships without ever leaving the community. Now that the family home no longer has the family in it, shelling out high maintenance costs just doesn’t add up. Sure, that new air conditioning system will keep you cool, but it certainly won’t provide the pleasure of that trip you had to cancel to afford it.

Estate Planning Basics for Seniors

Consider it planning for the ultimate gift that you can leave your loved ones. A little organization and planning on your part will spare them not only stress but also legal and financial hassles. Instead of wasting time untangling your financial disarray, they will be able to easily execute your wishes. Don’t let the word “estate” throw you. You don’t have to be Lord of the Manor to benefit from an estate plan that clearly and specifically addresses the dispersal of your assets, whatever they may be. Keep in mind, when it comes to estate planning, one size does not fit all. Whether you are focused on tax savings or setting up a fund to care for a special-needs family member, your professional estate planner will create a plan that is unique to your finances, possessions and goals. That said there are a few essential basics of estate planning that apply across the board. For example, there are several documents your estate planner will most likely encourage you to include. Will Where there’s a will, there’s a way to specify exactly how your assets will be managed and distributed. This document will indicate your choice of executor, that is, the person who will be legally in charge of the estate. Without a will, your possessions will be dealt with according to the laws of your state. Financial/ Property Power of Attorney A key piece of elderly estate planning is the financial and property power of attorney. This document designates a trusted person to make financial or property decisions in the event you become incapacitated and unable to handle affairs on your own. This person will be responsible for overseeing bank accounts and investments and have access to personal property like safe deposit boxes. Medical Power of Attorney In the event your mental state makes it impossible for you to rationally interact with doctors, the medical power of attorney allows an appointed friend or family member to step in and make medical decisions on your behalf. This may seem unnecessary today. But we never know what tomorrow may bring and it’s important to have a system in place if dementia or Alzheimer’s or any other mentally debilitating disease becomes an issue down the road. Put an estate plan in place today and be secure in the knowledge that you and your family are prepared for the future. Once your documents are signed, sealed and delivered, stick them in a drawer and get on with the business of enjoying your active adulthood to the fullest! At Overture, we know that preparing for future milestones is important. That’s why we offer seminars and speakers on things like estate planning as one of our intellectual experiences for our residents!

Top National Parks to Visit this Summer

After decades of daily recycled air and office décor, it’s no wonder you’re ready for the majesty of some wide-open spaces. The good news is that they don’t call it America the Beautiful for nothing! There are 58 national parks all over the country that are perfect retirement travel destinations. The even better news is national park passes for seniors . Purchase a $20 pass and have free access to any and every park for one year. Spend just $80 and the national park system is yours to explore for life. Avoid the Crowds According to the National Park Service, over half a million senior passes are sold annually. That sounds like a lot until you realize the parks receive some 300 million visitors a year. So, chances are you won’t be communing with Mother Nature alone. But retirees have the advantage of flexible schedules, which means you can plan your visits just outside peak seasons and spend your time experiencing the scenery instead of dodging the crowds. This will be especially critical when considering the big three, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. Yellowstone National Park Inspired by unique thermal wonders like Old Faithful Geyser, Yellowstone became the nation’s first national park in 1872. Old Faithful is one of nearly 500 geysers in the park and one of six for which park rangers can currently predict activity. Yellowstone, which is mainly in Wyoming but also spreads into Montana and Idaho, also boasts nearly 300 species of birds and 67 species of mammals which freely roam the park. Grand Canyon National Park To visit Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is to experience the site of millions of years of geologic history. Home to much of the actual Grand Canyon, the park features viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station and architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and Desert View Watchtower. With extensive views of the canyon and the Colorado River, Lipan is a perfect place for sunrise or sunset viewing. Yosemite National Park With its giant, ancient sequoia trees, Bridal Veil Falls and the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome, along with its charming village with shops, restaurants and lodging, Yosemite National Park in California has it all. After your hike, visit the Yosemite Museum and the Ansel Adams Gallery featuring his famous black and white landscapes of the area. Kanai Fjords National Park It may not have the name recognition of Denali, but Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska is impressive in its own right. Situated at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula, it is the site of Harding Icefield, from which nearly 50 glaciers flow. The park is home to tens of thousands of breeding birds and a variety of other wildlife that thrives in the icy waters. Rocky Mountain National Park Covering 415 square miles, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado offers over 300 miles of hiking trails in a spectacular mountain environment. Drive Trail Ridge Road which crests at over 12,000 feet and includes magnificent scenic overlooks. National Mall and Memorial Parks You don’t need camping gear to visit the National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington, DC. Immerse yourself in our nation’s history as you tour classics like the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, the Washington Monument and the newer Martin Luther King Jr. and World War II National Memorials. With your senior national park pass, the breathtaking splendor of America’s national park system is yours for the touring. Retirement travel doesn’t get any better than this!

Top Activities for Older Adults in Las Vegas

It’s a pretty safe bet that most people view Vegas as mainly a mecca for gambling and bachelor/bachelorette parties. In fact, odds are, seniors are unaware of the long list of must-sees in Las Vegas that have nothing to do with rolling the dice or partying. From the entertainment on the strip, to unforgettable day trips, Las Vegas for seniors offers a smorgasbord of both indoor and outdoor adventures. Check out these Las Vegas activities for active adults. No matter which ones you choose, you’ll go home a winner! Hoover Dam Hoover Dam is a National Historic Landmark and recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers as one of America’s Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders. Built in the 1930s, it has played a major role in the development of the southwest. Visiting this imposing structure is enhanced by tours and an informative visitor’s center that highlight its history and the fascinating story of its construction. The ride from the strip will take a little over half an hour and the experience will be memorable. Black Canyon River Rafting Enjoy Las Vegas’ welcoming weather and stunning scenery as you take a leisurely motorized raft tour down the Colorado River. Catch a glimpse of Hoover Dam and majestic Bighorn sheep as you enjoy a relaxing journey. Red Rock Canyon If you’d rather experience the outdoors on dry land, head to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area just outside the city. Opportunities for hiking, biking and nature watching abound in this Mojave Desert playground. Sandstone cliffs, rugged red rock formations, desert vegetation, and ancient rock art sites dazzle the eye. The interactive visitor center will both educate and inspire. The Mob Museum Get to know the likes of Al Capone, Tony Spilotro and Whitey Bulger and get the real story of organized crime in America as you explore the Mob Museum’s three floors of unique artifacts, exhibits, theater presentations and interactive displays. They didn’t call Vegas “Sin City” for nothing! The Neon Museum Vegas is the city of flashing neon lights, but where do those iconic cultural symbols go when new ones take their place? Founded in 1996 the Neon Museum documents Vegas’ colorful history by preserving those classic signs for educational enrichment. The museum features a 2-acre campus with a visitor’s center and a large outdoor exhibition space called the Neon Boneyard. The National Atomic Testing Museum Associated with the Smithsonian, The National Atomic Testing Museum unravels the history of atomic weapons testing during the 1950s. The museum stands as a monument to the testing that was done in Nevada both above and below ground for decades. Bellagio Conservatory and Fine Art Gallery You don’t have to stray far from the casino to find an activity at what is commonly called the best Vegas hotel for older adults. The Bellagio boasts a world-famous conservatory and botanical gardens featuring the work of a global assortment of renowned visual artists. Stroll through the gardens, then visit the art gallery which houses a permanent collection as well as traveling exhibitions like the authentic Samurai armor currently on display. Whether you spend the day at the blackjack table, river-rafting, museum hopping or relaxing by the pool, it’s nobody’s business but yours. So, when the kids ask, just tell them what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas! Just think, if you were living at one of our Las Vegas 55+ active adult living communities , all these amazing activities would be just a stone’s throw away.

Top Atlanta Attractions to Visit With Your Grandchildren

Terminus. Thasherville. Deanville. Marthasville. What do those names all have in common? At one time or another, each was the name of the city currently known as Atlanta. But no matter what you call this vibrant southern capital, it is a sophisticated cultural hub that oozes charm, history, culinary adventures, entertainment and chic. The even better news is, Atlanta is as family-friendly as it gets with outstanding opportunities to dazzle the little ones as well. Check out these things to do in Atlanta with kids. Your grandkids will never want to leave! Georgia Aquarium Boasting tens of thousands of sea creatures in over 10 million gallons of water, the Georgia Aquarium is the second largest aquarium in the world. The kids will be thrilled as they get up close and personal with whales, manta ray, sharks, and dolphins to name a few. The world beneath the sea awaits. Avoid crowds and enjoy discounted prices after 4PM. Super Hero Tour The world of heroes and superheroes comes to life in this all-new Atlanta attraction. With highlights like a ride through New York Avengers-style, and getting chummy with the giant Pez in Ant Man and the Wasp, Atlanta’s Hero Movie Tour is quickly becoming a must do for the grandkids. FYI it’s mandatory to check in 30 minutes before your scheduled tour or you may forfeit your tickets. Segway Tour If the grandkids are tweens, a city tour would bore them witless—unless that tour has them riding around Atlanta on a Segway. There are three different tours to choose from and each starts with a Segway tutorial to make sure everybody feels safe and comfortable gliding through the sights. Legoland With 10 build and play zones and 2 rides, Legoland is the ultimate indoor playground. You and your grandkids can have hands-on experience learning and laughing as you create your own personal masterpiece. One ticket covers all the attractions including the 4D cinema. Kids under 2 build for free. Stone Mountain Located just 10 miles northeast of Atlanta is Stone Mountain, a 3,200-acre park featuring six trails, a path up the giant granite monolith, a cable car ride to the summit, and a year-round schedule of festivals. Take the grandkids for a picnic and enjoy the largest outdoor laser show in the world while you dine. Southeastern Railway Museum Railway trainbuffs get ready for several hours of hands-on engineer fun. More than 90 pieces of railway equipment spread out over 35 acres await at the Southeastern Railway Museum. For a few extra bucks you can tour the grounds in a restored caboose. After your visit, head over to nearby Duluth for lunch and the grandkids can play in the railroad-themed playground. With so much to inspire the kids, you are guaranteed never to hear those dreaded words, “I’m bored!” In fact, there are so many things to do with kids in Atlanta, the little ones will surely want to extend their stay.

Trips To Take As Soon As You Retire

Welcome to retirement ! Your time is officially your own to use exactly as you please. Remember all those fabulous travel plans you’ve been saving for the future? Guess what? The future is now! When it comes to things to do when you retire, everybody’s vision is unique and personal, but according to AARP statistics, the common thread with retiring Baby Boomers is travel . Here is a list of some of the best vacations for 55+-year-olds. Maybe one of them will be your next destination. Hit the Road Why not hop in the car, RV or your Harley, and enjoy a cross country drive? The first thing to do is to check out a map and decide which destinations appeal to you. Take Route 66 between Chicago and Los Angeles and hit the Grand Canyon along your way. Or take a more southern route between Georgia and California, passing through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana and Alabama. Another popular path is Route 50 which starts in Maryland and ends up in Northern California and includes various mountain ranges, deserts, plains as well as Washington DC and Lake Tahoe. If you rent a car for the trip, you can treat yourself to a flight home. Southeast Asia River Cruise If southeast Asia is uncharted territory for you, a cruise offers an easy, fun way to explore. Enjoy all the onboard amenities by night, including luxury accommodations and gourmet dining. By day, take organized land excursions and discover the history and culture of this part of the world. Different cruise lines offer varying itineraries that include destinations like Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Costa Rica Costa Rica is the jewel of Central America. With rain forests, jungles, loads of wildlife, hot springs and volcanoes nestled between the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, Costa Rica offers a vacation that blends wilderness and luxury. After a day of hiking, playing golf, or seeing creatures frolicking in their natural habitats, pull up a chaise at your five-star resort and relax with a tropical cocktail. African Safari Buckle up for a long flight that is worth it for the trip of a lifetime. As you get up close and personal with romping rhinos, giraffes, hippos and observe herds of elephants splashing around the water hole with their calves, you will be in a continual state of amazement. Bush accommodations are incredible with 5-star luxury and cuisine in the middle of nowhere. This is the adventure you’ve never had time for—until now. Rocky Mountaineer Explore the Canadian Rockies from the comfort of the Rocky Mountaineer’s glass-domed rail cars. There are several itineraries that combine train and land travel. There is no scenery in North America quite as majestic as western Canada. Lake Louise, Jasper and Banff will knock your socks off. End your trip in Vancouver and hop aboard a cruise to Alaska to finish off the journey. Now that nobody is the boss of you, it’s time to pull out that bucket list and transform those travel fantasies into the experiences of your lifetime.