Downsizing lifestyle

[Beth_co]

Hey everyone;

I'm at a time in life where living alone brings a few fears up. Being in a low income community where break-ins happen regularly, no-one close to rely on in an emergency, living far from the CBD and resources, not many friends, paying a mortgage along with rates etc and stamp duty on any property I end up buying away from the insecurity of this area.

I've been looking into over 50's lifestyle villages where there's no stamp duty, onsite pool, clubhouse amenities, close to beaches/CBD/medical/activities and a social life I couldn't get anywhere else. This also means there's always people to count on in an emergency or when I'm lonely. And no, this isn't an advertisement! lol

I don't work but I'd like to. Passing on what I've learnt over my life (part-time of course) is an attractive option too, bringing in much needed extra income.

What's the problem you ask? I'm scared. Anxiety keeps me not only procrastinating, but frozen some days with trepidation. Moving or staying is a huge decision to make at retirement age.

How do others feel about my situation and what would you, or have you done?

Thanks

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

Ive moved around heaps in my life, the RAAF along with my hypo life - countless moves, maybe 30?

Im still met with the trepidation you mention. In fact we are selling up now and moving for the last time which might interest you.

I'd be hesitant in choosing a retirement home. They sound great but reality might not match up and then you're stuck.

Two other options.

First, a country town. Ibe lived in a town of 200 with a shop as the only facility. Not good. Relying on a car, 22km from the nearest small town of 4000 which is the perfect size, all facilities including medical, hospital etc. As soon as a town goes over 15,000 population it loses its intimacy.

Or rent in the same size of town.

Better if a railway line is in the town. Also over 170km from the large city or you'll have city commuters and sadly they often dont blend with country life and sometimes return to the city.

Our decision is to buy a block of land, 30 minutes from the beach, inland as its cheaper, 2 hours drive to the city, 4000 population, 24 hour emergency at a hospital, 2 large supermarkets and build a transportable new home on a small low maintenance block (less than 600 square metres at around $60,000.)

So anxiety will rise but settle after a few weeks.

All the best

TonyWK

[Beth_co]

So are you saying I shouldn't leave? Or that I should do what you're doing?

I'm a bit confused. I was seeking advice on coping with the decision and if anyone else is or has been faced with similar. You obviously have a partner so this isn't like me as I'm alone.

You don't know me yet still advised me not to try over 50's village living in case I don't like it? I'm really disappointed. I thought community champions were supposed to help new members instead of telling us what to do.

[white knight]

Hi

Yes it could be confusing

Having a partner or not, imo, you can be just as secure in a unit in a medium size town than a retirement village. That is for you to judge.

I provided you with two other options. Options is not telling you what to do, I'm sorry you saw it that way.

Retirement villages may well suit you but it isn't a town hence the option of other choices.

"You dont know me". Correct, in fact we dont "know" anyone we try to help- not one of the thousands. But we do try to help not hurt nor hinder. That is always my endeavor.

To date, there has been no other replies here. I tried to give my view. I expressed I'd be "hesitant" and provided options...a far cry from telling you what to do.

But I hope you find an answer that is closer to what you seek.

All the best

TonyWK