by Jacqueline Jadidian,
UniteNews Contributing Writer
Springfield, MO— The birds are chirping, the sun is out, trees are blooming, the temperature is getting warmer, and senior living communities are wanting to increase their census. If you have been debating whether to begin looking at senior living options, springtime is one of the best seasons to begin. Senior living communities are transitioning from the “senior winter blues” into spring incentives. Senior winter blues for the senior communities translates to lower census and less move-in’s due to the weather and holidays. Communities are ready to create move-in incentives to make up for the census they lost during the winter. What does this mean for you? It’s a “buyer’s market” if you will.
Here is a list for you or your family to utilize when searching for springtime incentives at senior living communities:
1. When inquiring and/or touring communities, be sure to inquire about move-in incentives BEFORE putting a deposit down and signing a contract. Get the incentive in writing.
2. If the community you desire to move in to is not allowing incentives, be sure to let them know that other communities are, and it is part of the deciding factor for you. If they still will not budge, I honestly do not recommend moving into their community. Why? Because you’re a prospect and they should be rolling out the red carpet to have you, even if they have a high census/capacity. If they won’t bend in the beginning for you, then I question their overall customer service, especially once you become a resident of theirs.
a. There are many communities to choose from so do not lower your standards.
3. Some examples of incentives would be the community fee (non-refundable) is waived, the first so and so months of base rent are waived, the community pays for your moving expense, a carport/garage (if applicable) is waived for 6 months to a year, etc.
4. The incentive programs should not expire the same day you tour and decide to wait on your decision. An incentive program should be running for at least 30 days from the time it is marketed.
a. Don’t ever feel pressured to make a hasty decision. Moving into a community takes a lot of moving parts, so take some time to think about the pros/cons before signing a contract. Most importantly, try to enjoy the experience, and trust your gut.
