Retirement Life on the Waterfront: Navigating the Transition

Thinking about a retirement move to the waterfront?

Making the transition to retirement life can be difficult for some. If you're thinking of retirement, you may see yourself enjoying a beautiful waterfront home in the Kawarthas.

There are a few key things to consider when moving towards a waterfront retirement:

Familiarity with the Area

Since this is most likely going to be one of your last moves, you'll want to be as comfortable as possible in the area you choose. Familiarizing yourself with the local community can help ensure a smooth transition. Consider the availability of healthcare facilities, social clubs, and other amenities that cater to retirees. Additionally, evaluating the accessibility of the waterfront property, such as docks, boat launches, and walking trails, can help you choose a residence that aligns with your desired lifestyle. Taking the time to thoroughly research and plan for your waterfront retirement can lead to a fulfilling and enjoyable experience in your golden years.

Type of Home

What type of home will best suit your new lifestyle? Will you need lots of room for extra visitors or do you just want something small with very low maintenance? Consider whether you want a single-story home or a multi-level property. Think about the amount of yard work and exterior maintenance required. If mobility is a concern, a ground-level home may be preferable. Additionally, evaluate the accessibility of the dock and proximity to the water.

Location

Decide on the ideal waterfront location. Do you want to be close to town amenities or in a more secluded area? Consider factors like proximity to healthcare services, shopping, and recreational activities.

Activities

What types of activities do you plan to do on the water? Some smaller lakes may not allow for motorized boats, so the activities you want to do will affect which lake you choose. 

Costs

Consider the additional costs associated with owning a waterfront property, such as dock maintenance, boat storage, and potential flooding risks. Ensure your budget can accommodate these expenses.  A more affordable option for waterfront retirement could be deeded access to the waterfront or a nearby waterfront location. Another important factor is the maintenance and upkeep required for a waterfront property. Landscaping, dock repairs, and dealing with water can add significant costs. Consider hiring a property management company to handle these responsibilities. Additionally, research the local community and amenities to ensure they align with your retirement lifestyle preferences, such as access to healthcare, shopping, and social activities. Carefully weigh the pros and cons to find the waterfront retirement that best fits your needs and budget.

Healthcare

What is your health like? Will the location you choose have easy access to medical care if you need it? Another key consideration is access to amenities and services. Ensure the waterfront community provides conveniences like grocery stores, pharmacies, and entertainment options within reasonable proximity. Additionally, evaluate the quality and availability of local transportation, as this will impact your ability to get around independently as you age. Lastly, research the local community to understand the social opportunities and resources available for retirees, as maintaining an active social life is crucial for well-being in retirement.

Population Density

How close will you be to the other people sharing the lake? Consider the size of the lake and the number of properties around it. A smaller, more private lake may suit your needs better than a bustling, crowded waterfront. Additionally, research local laws and regulations regarding waterfront properties, such as zoning, building codes, and Shoreline Allowances. Ensure the property aligns with your desired lifestyle and future plans. Lastly, factor in accessibility, including proximity to amenities, healthcare facilities, and transportation options, to ensure a smooth transition into your waterfront retirement.

Services

Do you want to have cell phone and internet services? Most lakes have these, but there are still areas with no services.

We Can Help You Answer These Questions

Wherever your retirement plan takes you, if it includes a waterfront home, give us a call at 705-927-6236 and we'll look after your real estate needs from beginning to end!Brought to you by: Your local Realtor®

If you are looking to either Buy or Sell, contact me at 705-927-6236

Brad Sinclair, Sales Representative

Team Lead at The Brad Sinclair Team

Royal Heritage Realty

Your inside source to cottage country

Not intended to solicit clients under contract