Again, I have to refer to where my parents are - they own their unit and are allowed to do what any condo owner would do - paint, decorate or move walls if they want to. However, when they relinquish the unit, either to go into nursing care, move out or die, the unit will be completely gutted and everything new installed like it was. They will get their initial investment back once the unit is re-sold. I don't know how many square feet they have but it is a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom corner unit in Maris Grove (An Erickson Community in Glen Mills, PA - just north of the Delaware border, east of Rt. 202). They bought it in 2007 for around $250,000-new construction. I also think they pay around $2500/month which pretty much includes everything like basic cable, utilities, recycle and trash as well as access to the facilities like pool, theater, meeting rooms, library, etc. I would expect to pay extra for services like the spa & hair salon or equipment rental, or garden plot. We are flying up next weekend so I maybe I can get a sales flyer and list of fees. I have to say - it is like living on a cruise ship and the food is amazing! Too bad we have no interest in living in that area.
We DO plan to position ourselves near a place like this so we can ultimately transition into that when we're ready. I have done a lot of research online. Some are happily forthcoming with any information you need and their costs are readily accessed. Some are very protective of their information and I agree, it makes it hard to make a decision. Lets not waste everyone's time. I realize that markets change and fees change but there should be some range so people can gauge their budget. It should not be hard to make adjustments to the website as things change. Most places will happily send you information via USMail. I have several packets and we pretty much decided that if we have to ask - we cannot afford it. I appreciate that you are sharing your experience here!!