What to Ask Before Choosing a 55+ Community

A smart checklist to help you compare, ask the right questions, and feel confident in your decision.

When you're considering 55+ communities, it’s not just about where you’ll live—it’s about how you’ll live. You’re choosing a lifestyle, a routine, and a place to live out the life you always imagined. It should feel like the right fit, and the best way to get there is by asking the right questions.

For many, this chapter also comes with a sense of clarity, downsizing, simplifying, and letting go of the things you no longer need in order to make more room for the things that truly matter. This guide is here to help you understand what matters most and what to look for along the way.

Maintenance, Taxes, and Amenities, Oh My!

Some communities say “maintenance-free,” but that can mean very different things depending on where you are. It’s worth asking whether maintenance includes just the landscaping or if home repairs are also covered. Will you still be responsible for property taxes? What monthly costs are there aside from rent? What about amenities? Are they all included, or do some cost extra?

Getting clear answers up front helps avoid surprises later. At Encore at Tradition, there’s no mortgage, property taxes, and, best of all, no maintenance. That means kicking back with a glass of wine as our maintenance team makes repairs and handles the yard work. Say goodbye to your mower and hello to happy hour! 

Is There Something Here for Me to Enjoy Every Day?

Everyone wants something a little different from their day-to-day life. You may enjoy staying active with morning walks or fitness classes. You may love group outings, book clubs, or casual social events. Whatever your style, it’s important to ask what kind of activities the community offers and how easy it is to get involved.

At Encore, we've created a lifestyle that fits every personality. With both exclusive and public events always happening at Encore, our Lifestyle Director works hard to ensure you have options to choose from each day. Take a peek at our event calendar. 

What Does “Resort-Style Living” Actually Look Like?

It’s a popular phrase, but not every community lives up to it. When you visit, take a good look around. Are the amenities truly high-quality or just wording on a brochure? Do the shared spaces feel welcoming and well-designed? Does the environment feel calm, clean, and cared for?

We don’t just say ‘resort-style living’ at Encore. We mean it, and you’ll feel it. From the sparkling pool and fitness center to the meditation room, walking paths, and lounge areas, every corner of the community is designed to help you relax and fully savor each moment. For many, that sense of comfort starts even before move-in, with simple strategies for clearing out clutter and creating space for the lifestyle you’re stepping into.

Can I Count on Management?

A beautiful community means very little without a great team behind it. When you’re visiting, ask if you can talk to current residents about their experience. Ask how responsive the management is and what happens when something goes wrong or a concern comes up.

Encore at Tradition is known for its warm, resident-focused team. We listen, we respond, and we care deeply about the experience people have here. Our team strives to create a place where everyone feels supported and valued from the moment they arrive.

Encore at Tradition: Easy Living, Every Day

Life at Encore is designed to be simple, comfortable, and full of possibilities. You won’t have to worry about a mortgage or property taxes. There’s no home maintenance to keep up with. Just thoughtfully designed spaces, meaningful connections, and an approach to life that feels truly easy.

Take the first step toward experiencing this lifestyle for yourself. Schedule a tour to discover a home where your to-do list ends and your ideal lifestyle begins.

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Encore at Tradition is a vibrant 55+ active adult rental community located in the heart of Port St. Lucie, Florida. More than a place to call home, Encore is a community built for those who want to live fully and freely. Choose from modern apartments and spacious villas with attached garages, and enjoy resort-style amenities and maintenance-free living. Whether you're looking to relax, connect, thrive, or explore, Encore is where active adults come to live life to the fullest. Your best years are ahead. 

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