Financing Your Retirement Community Move
Planning a move to a retirement community is an exciting step, and for many adults it represents a thoughtful transition toward long-term stability, connection, and wellbeing. Understanding how Life Plan Communities structure their costs and how those costs support your lifestyle can help you prepare with confidence. Beechwood Life Plan Community in Camden, South Carolina, planning to open in late 2027, is being developed as an initiative of the Health Services District of Kershaw County and will offer a progressive, wellness-focused model connected with Karesh Long Term Care & Rehab, creating a strong foundation for both independent living and future care needs.
Understanding Life Plan Community Costs
Life Plan Communities, also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities, typically include two main financial components: an entrance fee and an ongoing monthly service fee. The entrance fee secures your residence and ensures access to services, amenities, and future care options. The monthly service fee is an inclusive fee, different than “rent”. It often includes dining options, utilities, wellness and, educational offerings, maintenance and landscaping, housekeeping, transportation, and access to community life.
For those new to the model, organizations such as the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care offer helpful explanations of how these fee structures support long-term predictability. Many older adults appreciate that Life Plan Communities provide clearer expectations than the fluctuating costs of maintaining a private home.
Planning for Predictable Monthly Expenses
A major financial advantage of Life Plan Communities is cost consolidation. Instead of paying separately for utilities, home repairs, yard maintenance, property taxes, fitness memberships, and safety features, residents can rely on a single predictable monthly fee. This simplifies budgeting and reduces the stress of surprise expenses.
It may be helpful to compare your current household spend to projected monthly service fees. The team at the Beechwood offers a comprehensive cost comparison tool, which can clarify the value of living in a community that bundles essential services.
Considering Long-Term Healthcare Costs
Healthcare remains a major retirement planning consideration. Beechwood’s connection to the Health Services District of Kershaw County and its integration with Karesh Long Term Care & Rehab creates a continuum of care that supports residents over time. This allows individuals to enter as independent adults and receive priority access to supportive services should their needs change.
Planning ahead for health costs is important even for active older adults. Resources from the National Institute on Aging highlight the value of preparing for future care while you are still independent. Life Plan Communities help stabilize this part of retirement planning by ensuring access to care within a familiar environment.
Deciding When to Make the Move
Timing the transition into a Life Plan Community matters. Many people assume they should wait until their needs increase, yet moving earlier often offers more financial and lifestyle benefits. An early move allows residents to take advantage of wellness programs, clubs, events, and social life while fully enjoying the amenities.
It also means locking in residency and planning decisions at a time when the process feels more manageable. Older adults who move early often report stronger social connections, lower stress, and a greater sense of control over future planning.
Using Financial Tools to Support Your Move
There are several ways to structure the financial side of a move. Many older adults rely on a mix of home-sale proceeds, retirement funds, investment income, or long-term care insurance. Financial advisors can help compare the costs of remaining in a private home with the costs and advantages of a Life Plan Community. The AARP Financial Planning Resource Center is an excellent place to begin organizing questions for an advisor.
It is also helpful to review sample fee schedules and financial disclosures from the communities you are considering. Understanding contract types, refund options, and healthcare access will help you find the best match for your goals and budget.
Building a Secure and Fulfilling Future at Beechwood
Beechwood Life Plan Community is designed for older adults who want stability, wellness, and a supportive environment for the years ahead. With the backing of the Health Services District of Kershaw County and the connection to Karesh Long Term Care & Rehab, the community offers a continuum of services that support independent living and reliable care options. Those planning ahead will find that Beechwood provides financial clarity, predictable costs, and a thoughtfully designed path for long-term wellbeing.
To learn more about planning your move to Beechwood in Camden, SC, contact our team today.
