BUYING A PARK MODEL IN ARIZONA – WILL IT ‘BREAK THE BANK’?

You can buy a park model for as low as $3,999 USD and can range up to $250,000 for both new and pre-owned homes in Privately-Owned parks. Many buy into Arizona Active Resort living for less than $30,000. Today’s prices are extremely affordable.

In 2020, you can find an Economy park model for under $20,000; a Mid-Range model from $20,000 – $50,000, a Deluxe model from $50,000 – $80,000 and a Luxury model for $80,000 and up depending on the age, size and location in the park. For instance, if it has an Arizona room or it backs the golf course you may be paying on the higher end.

With all the different price ranges available, your options of affordability are endless. Whether you’re looking for a fixer-upper or new, you can find either one in your price range.

WHAT YOU GET FOR YOUR MONEY?

Different price points offer different options and features. Knowing what some of these features are can be helpful when determining what you can, or hope to, afford. You may be pleasantly surprised when you realize just what you can get for your dollar!

ECONOMY PARK MODEL – UNDER $20,000

You may be asking what can you get for under $20,000?

The answer is this! There are many older pre-owned park models that just need a little TLC, and maybe some renovations or upgrades are in store…. but this also means your initial investment doesn’t have to be expensive. Shop around and you’ll find just the right one that won’t hurt your pocket book.

Keep in mind Park models in this lower price range aren’t all bad. They can be very well-kept and have had several upgrades along the way, but the owner is just Pricing To Sell! So you will find advantages to these older homes as they may already have some of these great features:

an Arizona room
a second bedroom
a developed yard with mature landscaping and fruit trees
covered patios and decks
are closer to community facilities and amenities than the newer areas

And if you’re looking for a newer Park Model under $20,000, well, you can find that too!

1 bedroom 1 bathroom units are available for as low as $14,000. It won’t come with all the bells and whistles and probably won’t have landscaping and an AZ room but you’ll get that new look and feel.

MID-RANGE PARK MODEL – $20,000 – $50,000

The Mid-Range Park Model sales are by far the most common and you’ll be sure to get the best Bang for your Buck! But you’ll also see quite a variation in prices in this range for what appear to be very similar, so it may be harder to determine why one is more than the other.

Features of Mid-Range models are:

They may be more than 10 years old on average but have many upgrades both inside and out
They are move in ready with all the furnishings
Like the Economy models the outside lot is developed with mature landscaping and trees
They are closer to community facilities and amenities than the newer areas
The newer models in this price range have 1-2 bedrooms and bathrooms but minimal outside development other than covered driveway

Deluxe PARK model – $50,000 – $80,000

A Deluxe Park Model is still an affordable choice and boarding on the edge of Luxury!

These park models are usually 10 years or newer
Many are larger with up 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms alleviating the need for an AZ room
Open concept kitchen and living room
Are generally found in the larger parks
Some have a double wide lot
More commonly they back a golf course or green space
Large back patio area view of the golf course
Covered deck and carport

LUXURY PARK model – $80,000 AND OVER

Luxury Park Models are exactly what they say…. Pure Luxury!

These park models are usually 10 years or newer
Superior construction and craftsmanship
They have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms
Open concept kitchen and living room
Are generally found in the larger parks
They are often in a newly developed subdivision of the park backing a golf course or they sit on a corner lot
They have a large back patio area view of the golf course
Covered deck and carport

DON’T MISS OUT ON UPGRADES AND SPECIAL FEATURES!

With many Park Models being over 15 years old, chances are previous owners have made upgrades to the home and have added many special features that you won’t find in other Park Models.

…..And how do we know this? Our 1988 Cavco trailer has the most wonderful 6 year old IKEA kitchen that is one of a kind and we just love it. It’s what sold us on our own place!

Here are some things to look for when considering what to buy:

Upgrades – Having upgrades to the home you choose can mean savings in your pocket. If the park model is pre-owned be sure to look for essential costly upgrades that you don’t have to worry about for some years such as:

New electrical and plumbing
Upgraded kitchen cabinet
New bathroom vanities, sinks and toilets
New appliances (fridge, stove, washer/dryer)
Waterproof flooring
Tape and Textured walls
New water heater
Updated Central A/C and Furnace
New Roof
Exterior paint
Dual paned windows and sunscreens

Special Features – If you want your purchase to be more enticing and feel like you got your monies worth? Look for these special features that can be a nice added bonus to your investment:

Arizona Room
Extra storage and walk-in closets
Separate laundry with full sized washer and dryer
Cathedral Ceilings
Walk-in shower
Workshop
Covered patio
Mature fruit bearing trees (Oranges, Grapefruit, Lemons)

6 ADDITIONAL COSTS TO KEEP IN MIND

There are several other factors that can determine the cost of your investment.

Although special features and upgrades to the home are important considerations, remember you are buying into a Community.

Your cost can also depend on the size of the park, whether it be large or small, and what community, facilities and amenities they have to offer.

#1 – DOES IT HAVE THE COMMUNITY FEEL YOU WANT?

Not only are you buying a park model on a lot but you are buying a Lifestyle! And this means you want people around you that are like-minded and share common interests.

AZ ACTIVE RESORTS “so many nice people on this street” at 5:00min mark

It’s difficult to put a dollar amount on Community, and you may wonder how this will cost you money? However, the cost of buying in the right community can make all the difference in the world and save you money later if you find yourselves wanting to change locations.

All the costs that you incurred when buying that first place will now cost you double if you decide to move. For example:

Realtor Fees (if you use one); or advertising fees
Change of utilities
Change of Insurance
Taking a loss if you don’t sell for what you paid

You don’t want to be enduring these costs again, so be sure you choose the right location the first time!

#2 – DO FACILITIES AND AMENITIES COST EXTRA?

Amenities can make or break your experience so be sure to do your research when considering your purchase. Determine what is important to you as far as things to do and then weigh the amenities vs annual park fees across the parks.

Of course, the more amenities there are in a park can also mean higher prices on an annual basis, so they do come with a price tag.

For instance, the park we chose came with higher annual fees than most parks but we find the cost to be well worth it for what we get. See the section below on Park Sizes.

Any additional costs will depend on what activity or sport you get involved with. If you plan to ride in the Motorcycle club your expenses might be more for gas, travel and maintenance of your bike vs someone that plays Pickleball at the local Pickleball courts that are free and all you have to do is buy a racket.

Point being, like any sport or activity you can get involved for as little cost as you want or as much.

If you are new to Resort Living then you’ll be surprised at the endless lists of amenities these parks provide. Below is a list of a few but definitely not all:

Arts & Crafts	Horseshoe Pits
Ballroom/Banquet Room	Laundry Facilities
Basketball	Library
Baseball	Live Concerts
Billiards	On-site Restaurant
Bocce Ball Fields	Pickleball Court
Clubhouse	Picnic/BBQ Area
Crafts Classes	Pottery/Ceramics
Dancing	Private Mailbox/Mail Centre
Dinner Theatres	Putting Green
Dog Park	Quilting & Sewing Room
Fitness Facility	RV Storage
Games Room	Shuffleboard Courts
Golf Courses (both 9 & 18 holes)	Stage Shows
Glass-making	Scrapbooking
Hair Salons	Tennis Course
Heated Pools	Woodworking
Hiking Trails	Whirlpool/Spa

#3 – SIZE OF THE PARK MATTERS! – FOR THOSE ANNUAL FEES

There are many different sizes of parks ranging from small to very large and these differences may help to make your decision, but they will also determine your cost! Yes different sizes have different price tags.

Have a look below at the advantages and disadvantages and their costs:

Large Park

Advantages – more people, more amenities, and generally more security……This also means more activity, socializing and livelihood
Disadvantages – means higher annual pad fees [Range from $6,000 – $7,500 U.S. per year]

Small Park

Advantages – the upside to a small park is they have a more quiet, cozy, small town feel you may be looking for, AND lower annual fees [Range from $2,500 – $5,900 U.S. per year]

Disadvantages – having less people means less amenities and sometimes less security as they don’t have the finances to support having 24 hour security.

#4 – THOSE PESKY UTILITIES

No matter where you go you just can’t get away from utility costs. Be sure to know these are extra and not part of your Pad Fees. Some parks bill differently but generally use the same rule of thumb:

Water, Sewer, Cable, Garbage, and some have a Local phone are usually billed all in one fee by the park on a monthly basis for about $80 per month
Electricity is usually the owners responsibility to call the Power company (some parks do direct bill for Power) and costs for this can run you approximately $150 per month. The good thing to know is cancelling and hooking up power from season to season is an easy process and takes only mins on the phone.
Internet is an extra cost but you can get it for just $39.95 per month at Jabbas Communications and can be easily cancelled.

#6 – DO I OWN MY LOT?

Some may not realize but there are two types of parks when it comes to owning or leasing the land your park model sits on! So be sure you know the difference between the two:

Buying your Park Model in a Privately-Owned Park

Most parks in the State of Arizona are Privately-Owned parks meaning on a rent pad basis. This means you buy your Park Model so you own this outright but you do not own the lot, it is leased or rented. You pay an Annual park fee to the Park called ‘pad fees’ to keep your Park Model on the lot. The pad fees also cover maintenance, amenities and security.

Pad fees can run anywhere from $3,500 in the smaller parks to $7,500 per year in the larger parks as mentioned above.

Although the initial investment can be very economical, the disadvantage to the privately-owned parks is the trailer themselves may depreciate in value rather than appreciate. Keeping them upgraded and well maintained will lessen your chances of that happening so that you get a fair return on your investment.

Buying your Park Model and Lot in a Resident-Owned Park

Buying your lot in a Resident-Owned park means you buy the Lot and Park Model within the Park so you own everything; but you still need to paid HOA fees for maintenance, amenities and security. Much like buying a Condo.

HOA fees can run an estimated cost of $600 quarterly or $2,400 per year. In addition you pay taxes, phone and utilities.

Another thing to know is Resident-Owned Park Model prices start higher at $50,000 ranging to $100,000 when you are paying that additional lot price. However, your investment is more likely to appreciate and provide you with a better return when time to sell.

All of this said, we can tell you that we are a little split on this… one of us would much prefer to own the lot and the other considers the HOA fees and restrictions of an owned lot to be of equal value as a rented (leased) lot. In short, it really comes down to a preference on decision making.

RENTING VS. BUYING

You may decide you just want to rent at first and not jump into making a big purchase. Renting is a great way to take your time and find out what it is you’re looking for and where you want to be before buying.

We have friends and family that rent in Arizona each year. They love the variety of staying somewhere different each time and simply don’t want the responsibility or hassle of owning their own place. If this sounds like you then Renting might be for you.

Keep in mind, if you plan on this being an every-year thing, renting on a seasonal basis can run you anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 US per month. You may be able to find rent for around $1,000 in the small parks, or you know someone or you’re renting longer term. But this could cost you up to $9,000 per year on the high end if you stay for 3 months. That $9,000 you just spent on renting will pay for an entire year expenses if you choose to buy!

However, if you love the idea of that Home away from Home feeling and you like the idea of ownership and investment then Buying is definitely for you!

And should you choose to buy, consider renting your home out for a month or two when you’re not there to help pay for some of those annual costs. Taking $4-5,000 off of your annual costs is a great way to add to the affordability. There will always be months where you can’t be there so why not let someone else enjoy it!

If you want to learn more about renting your home, have a look at my page on Renting.

IN CONCLUSION

There are several costs to keep in mind when buying a Park Model in Arizona and it may feel a little overwhelming, and frankly just a bit scary at first! But I guarantee there is something for everyone in every price range.

So… determine your budget, weigh your options for park locations and amenities, shop around for that perfect Park Model that suits your needs and…. go for it!

There’s no time like the present and you can’t put a price on happiness. 🙂

Arizona / Florida to Mexico – take a short mini-vacation this winter

Snowbirds deserve a mini-vacation too!

All the holiday festivities are done, you’ve put the final decorations away in the spare bedroom and miraculously all the kids and grandkids got along. Whew!

Now winter starts settling into Arizona and Florida and you may be wondering “what should we do now”? Plan a winter holiday during your winter down south.

One of the incredible advantages to living in Arizona and Florida, especially for Snowbirds spending their winters there, is it’s accessibility to so many great adventures a short flight away! 3 favorite Phoenix (PHX) and Orlando (MCO) airport departures are to Cancun, Cabo and Puerto Vallarta.

Although Arizona and Florida have incredibly mild winters compared to where most snowbirds come from (you know you Minnesotan’s and Canadian’s out there are ready to ditch that -40 degrees and 5 feet of snow), you may still want to spend some time enjoying other destinations during your time there.

We want to be able to hop in a rideshare to the airport, fly non-stop to our destination, and spend two weeks at a place that offers a few other things to do. All of this at low cost. We’ve found that the key to this is choosing commonly available spots in 3.5-4 star hotels and watch online for sales daily as prices fluctuate. If you’re looking for your next winter getaway, here are some proven and inexpensive suggestions for a couple weeks in Mexico favorites departing either Phoenix and Orlando airports direct to:

1. Cancun / Cozumel / Maya Riviera, Mexico

Year-round sunshine makes it the perfect sunbathing spot and the temperatures stay pretty mild in the winter getting between 70 and 80 degrees.
Cancun offers a plethora of shopping opportunities from local artisans to more mainstream shopping.
If you like to snorkel, Cancun has some great spots to see reefs and fish and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Enjoy a mix of history and exploration on the Yucatan peninsula and the ancient ruins of past civilizations.

2. Cabo, Mexico

It’s sunny but mild and averages 250 days of sunshine.
Daytime temps stay in the mid-70^◦s in the winter and the evenings cool down a touch in the 60^◦s – perfect for a light jacket but not oppressively hot.
Located on the southern end of the Baja peninsula means wonderful scenery – the incredible rock formation known as Poseidon’s arch and breathtaking views are yours to enjoy.
Great fishing – if you’re a big game fisherman, the coast off of Cabo has some of the best fishing spots for sailfish, mahi mahi, tuna and marlin.

3. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

If you’re looking for some nightlife, dancing, live music and great late night bites then Puerto Vallarta is your spot.
Mild weather all year long makes it a great destination even in winter although New Year’s Eve is very lively so if you’re looking for a quieter getaway then avoid this time of year.
Local villages offer authentic food and shopping but you can also find very accessible public beaches as well as beaches situated at resorts.

TIP: Leave your AZ or FL Snowbird home for two weeks in Mexico then leave Mexico for a visit with family for the next two weeks. Fly one-way segments each way and save. While away from your Snowbird home rent it out for the month – it will pay for your vacation and trip up north and back. See Renting Out Your Park Model Snowbird Home here for all the details of how to do it.

CONCLUSION

A midwinter Mexican holiday can be inexpensive from the major Snowbird centers in Arizona and Florida. Clearly Mexico has many great options for your winter getaway, each offering a mix of fun and play and tranquility. Whatever your style, add Mexico to your next winter holiday list!

3 Best Snowbird Car Rental Options – How to HACK price

It’s common for Snowbirds that travel south for a month or so to fly rather than drive. Convenient, quick and the thought of being in the sun and warmth within a few short hours is highly desirable. Sure, if you’re going to stay for 2 months or more you may be better off to drive down but few rarely do the first few years.

The 3 best low-cost vehicle rental options for Snowbirds are: 1) traditional car rental company; 2) peer-to-peer carshare; or 3) rideshare services. Use HACKS to get the very best deal…

Having traveled to many places in our lifetime we’ve had to make ground transportation decisions each time. While public transit works well in major centers in the world we can say with certainty that it gets a big FAIL almost everywhere Snowbirds live. So, if you aren’t bringing your own vehicle then you’ll certainly want to be prepared and be certain to find an affordable solution. We’ve done this many times.

THE TRANSIT PROBLEM

We love to spend lots of time at our park but we know there is life beyond. We’ve got friends in other communities and we often take the opportunity to explore the region too.

TIP: Use your Snowbird time to check out other areas in and around your region. A short day or weekend trip feels like a vacation within a vacation!

At least once a week we head to the grocery store a few miles away. We like our produce fresh and there’s always something we need to pick up for a pot-luck dinner or happy hour get together in our resort. About every two weeks or so we restock the shelves with staple grocery items and whatever household consumables we need. A flea market trip is usually a trip we make every couple of weeks too. Perhaps most of our trips are to visit friends in nearby 55+ community resort parks, to attend a dinner show or a performance in another park, and a drive into the countryside from time to time although often we go with friends four to one car.

We really don’t need to drive a bunch so every time we’ve considered renting we were facing a question… is renting a car while on a month long snowbird vacation worth it?

We found three options that work for us depending on our plans for the month and a few great tricks and hacks to get a great price.

RENTAL OPTIONS – Old and New

1) The Traditional Approach is Getting Old – and Expensive

Traditional car rentals companies like Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National and others are common default selections for many travelers. Some companies entice renters with special services and points to draw and keep them as customers. But potential customers are now scouring the internet and doing their homework comparing options that meet their needs.

Internet travel sites like Booking, Expedia, Hotwire, Kayak, Orbitz and Priceline to name a few offer comparison services that work fairly well. We’ve used them with mixed results. A couple of key findings were: 1) some services require payment up front in part or full – we DO NOT recommend anyone pay in advance; 2) additional fees make up a large amount of the total price; and 3) prices change from day to day and you might be missing out on a deal.

Every booking we’ve made using our SnowbirdFAQs car rental price hack has resulted in significant savings.

HACK 1 – How to get the best traditional car rental price?

Sign up for a few of the travel sites about 2 months before departing if possible (but later timing works too). We use booking.com, hotwire.com, kayak.com, orbitz.com, and priceline.com but use others if you wish. They will ask your name and email but not much more.
Sign in to each service and enter in your travel plans including rental car pickup location, pickup time, and return time.
For the next week or so go back to each site, sign in, and every day search the same itinerary again.
You’ll soon start to see emails from the travel sites with offers aligned to your itinerary.
Click on their offers and look to see what prices are available. They will know you are interested and looking at their offers if you click on them.
During the next two to three week period keep clicking on their offer.
The travel site will see you are interested but you must not like the price. They will soon be emailing even better prices (if there are cars and deals to be had).
When the price is fair in your eyes or you don’t wish to run any risk of losing the deal then book the deal.
Unsubscribe from the travel site email notices if you don’t want to be bothered by them until your next trip (click on the unsubscribe link near the bottom of their emails)

TIP: If you’re flying in to an airport consider avoiding picking up your rental at the airport to avoid expensive additional fees. Often only a few miles into the city or suburbs you will find a better all-in price.

2) Peer-to-peer Car Sharing – the newest alternative to a car rental company

This new approach to car rentals is one we are really beginning to appreciate. People that have cars available to rent while they don’t need to use them sign up with an online service that promotes the rental opportunity and arranges all the payment details. The car owner only provides the vehicle to the renter.

Turo.com is North America’s premier peer-to-peer car sharing company and is becoming a favourite of ours. We simply went to their website at turo.com and search dates and a pickup location. We now use their phone and iPad apps too. Signing up is simple and the process to search very easy. They show cars with prices that can fit any budget and have small additional optional fees if you wish to choose a special pickup location, bring the car back uncleaned, pre-purchase fuel, and things like that. Optional insurance is available too. But compared to traditional car rental prices this works great for both short and longer term rentals.

TIP: Be sure to read where the vehicle is picked up and dropped off and the process to do this. Sometimes its as easy as parking the car at an agreed upon spot and locking the keys in the car. Pick up can be just as easy.

Watch for many more peer-to-peer car share options to come. They are certain to become much more popular.

HACK 2 – How to get the BEST PEER-TO-PEER CAR SHARE PRICE:

Search by price sorting lowest to highest
Look outside your planned pickup areas – often a few miles away the price is cheaper
Arrange to pick up and drop off the vehicle at the least expensive location and take an Uber or Lift to or from the airport from there.
Check with your insurance company to see if you can decline insurance
When you’re comfortable that you’ve found a good deal, know what you’ve got to do and where you need to go to pick it up, then book the deal and enjoy

RENTING EACH RIDE – Becoming Popular

3) Rideshare Services free up your driveway and your wallet

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are becoming so easy and inexpensive to use. We use both almost every time we travel now. Taxis are so impersonal and service isn’t what it used to be either. We like that we can be waiting for our luggage to come on the arrivals baggage carousel and we can open our phone app for Uber or Lyft and by only setting the destination address we get a price and estimated time of arrival. We look for the rideshare pickup area and then when the rideshare service arrives we check the license plate of the vehicle to make sure it matches the car the app told us is arriving, we load, and off we go.

“The first time we used Uber was on a drive to LAX. We didn’t have much time so when we got to the airport and stopped we hopped out with our bags and ran for the check-in desk. As we ran we had this awful feeling that we didn’t pay! Just then our phone beeped and Uber had emailed us the receipt for the auto-payment.”

Now that you’ve arrived at your Snowbird paradise you may have to run out and pick up a few things. Prepare your list and call another rideshare. If you consider how often you actually leave your park community, which for many is not very frequent, you might find that rideshare is much less expensive and much less of a hassle than any other form of rental.

HACK 3 – How to get the BEST RIDESHARE PRICE:

Open all your rideshare apps on your smartphone
Input your needs in each of the apps
Look at the time each service can provide a car and for what price
Find the cheapest service that best suits your pick up time
Now, using the app refresh the price every few minutes (prices fluctuate from minute to minute based on demand)
When you find a fair price book the deal and enjoy your chauffeured ride home

If you use rideshare services to meet most of your needs don’t forget you can usually rent an inexpensive weekend rental at many car rental agencies. Or, you can rent for the day or two you need to take a longer drive. You’ll be able rent and insure the rental for only the time you really need it.

We use rideshare services even when we have our own vehicle or a long term rental vehicle. Why take chances with your or others lives if you’re tired or have had a drink. Take an Uber to dinner, enjoy a glass of wine, and find a Lyft home!

CONCLUSION

Gone are the days that car rentals need to be expensive. Technology enables anyone to find deals matched to their needs. Hack the price of traditional car rentals, use peer-to-peer car share service, or call on rideshare services to meet your needs.

Pickleball: The Hottest Sport in 55+ Resort Parks

Pickleball is enjoyed by people of all ages and athletic abilities, thanks to its ease of play and simple rules. The sport is inexpensive, social and healthy, and has been widely accepted in fire stations, local parks, athletic clubs and thousands of backyard sports courts as well. And in recent years, thousands of pickleball courts have been built, especially in senior communities.

The content below is important. But be sure to also check out the videos later in this post. They start right in the page so you don’t lose your place. Watch them to learn more about why pickleball is a perfect senior sport and how to warm up to protect your body and win!

Playing pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., may ward off depression and improve fitness for middle-age and seniors, according to two new studies on the game’s many health benefits.

Pickleball is a popular sport that is played by using racquets and combines some elements and features of a number of other games including tennis, ping pong and badminton. Adult retirement parks and 55+ community resorts are building new pickleball courts and converting available tennis courts to the new pickleball craze in the Snowbird community.

Though easy to learn, pickleball provides endless opportunities for individual improvement and learning subtle techniques. Many players who initially dismiss the sport as amateurish, simplistic or noisy now find it quite addicting. With a perfect mix of competitive challenge, moderate exercise, and social connection it’s the perfect sport for middle-aged and seniors alike.

PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS

Many pickleball players are in middle age or senior years. The sport offers aerobic exercise without a lot of risk of injury. Games usually last 10 to 15 minutes, so players can take frequent breaks, and since the court is small and most people play doubles, there’s no serious running — making it comfortable to the seniors.

A Western State Colorado University study of 153 middle-aged and older adults found that playing pickleball for one hour a few times a week for six weeks resulted in improved blood pressure. But weight loss, bone mass maintenance, cardiovascular health, and increased hand-eye coordination are all also correlated to serious play.

The physical health benefits combined with pickleball’s “fun factor,” makes it an ideal form of physical activity for middle age through senior years.

DID YOU KNOW? Many middle-age and seniors say that they left tennis for pickleball because it requires less mobility and also makes it fun to play.

MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS

One of the best things about it is the social connections people make, especially with seniors. We need this whether we are single or married.

A Japanese study published in the journal Leisure Studies May 2018 issue focused on 153 older adults competing in pickleball tournaments and found that the serious leisure activity was positively connected to lower levels of depression.

TIP: When the grandkids come to visit teach them the game… they’ll never forget the fun they had and will love you for it!

A Quick History of Pickleball

Pickleball was discovered during the summer of 1965 in Washington, US by three friends – Joel Pritchard, William Bell, and Barney McCallum.

Interesting and Completely Useless fact: “Pickle” was the name of the family dog where the three invented the game. (at least so the story goes)

Is Pickleball easy to Learn to Play?

The general rules of the game are simple and easy and that is what makes it easy for the beginners to start playing the game. You can get started right away.

CAUTION: “Picklers”, as they are called, have been known to become addicted to the sport the first time they play.

How to Play – A 2 minute Primer

Pickleball terms You need to Know:

Volley: Hitting the ball in the air without letting the ball bounce on your side

Kitchen: This is the box in the middle that is on both sides which is the no volley zone. Players are not allowed to step on the Kitchen if they’re trying to hit a volley

Ace: A serve that isn’t returned by the opposing player

Approach Shot: When you hit the ball as you approach the net

Baseline: The line which is at the very back of the court

Backcourt: The court area that’s a few feet from the baseline

Bounce It: When the team player lets the ball bounce because it is landing out of the boundary

Champion Shot: When the ball hits the floor twice outside the Volley Zone

Like tennis, badminton, ping pong, or other similar sports, there are always two sides and a net in between. Pickleball is played in either doubles or singles. The ball is considered in if it contacts the line, outside the line it is considered a fault. Just remember the serve, double bounce, and fault. Then go on your own or join a club… just go have some fun!

The Serve

The start of the game begins with a serve which is usually done by the player on the right. When serving the opponent, the player must be behind the line and must hit the ball over the net underhanded.

The serve is only considered valid if it crosses the net without hitting it and it should also not land in the kitchen. If the ball hits the net but still it manages to land on the opponents square then it is called a “let” and the person gets to serve again. And if the ball hits the net without crossing it or it lands in the Kitchen area then the serve counts and the opponents get a fault.

Double Bounce

When the ball has been served the opponent must let the ball bounce once on their side and then the team who served it must let it bounce once on their side too. Once this is done then both the teams are allowed to hit the ball in the air without letting it bounce on their side. This no-bounce shot is known as volley.

Serving and Double Bounce rules favor the player with less mobility and even allow the senior players to compete successfully with the younger competitors.

Faults

Whenever a player makes a mistake and/or breaks the rules which gives the opposing team a point. The point can only be scored by the serving team.

Here are the reasons why a fault might occur in Pickleball:

a. The ball hits your side more than once

b. If the player hits the ball twice

c. If the player while hitting the volley steps into the kitchen

d. If both the teammates hit the ball

e. If the ball hits the net

f. If the ball has been hit out of the boundary

Equipment

Starting pickleball is easy and inexpensive. You’ll just need a racket and they can be picked up for anywhere between $20-$80. But borrow one to start if you’re unsure. Your 55+ community snowbird park pickleball club will have a few to use as you try the sport out. Some sell a few models of rackets also. Check them out and check out our resources page too for our favourites.

Conclusion

Pickleball is an inclusive, accessible, non-elitist sport that eliminates any social and economic barriers. It strengthens the body and mind. Middle-age and seniors are flocking to the sport.

There are nearly 3.3 million users and many of the top players have no prior racquet or paddle short experience. You can expect that number to keep increasing as a greater number of people are curious to learn about pickleball.

Best Flooring for Your Desert Arizona Room – BEWARE!

After two days of running around trying to find the perfect flooring at big box stores and home centers it was time to make our choice. It was Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m. so we decided to make one last stop at a flooring store we hadn’t been to yet. Within minutes we were asked a simple question and pointed to the only product that should be used.

The best flooring choice for desert Arizona rooms is a vinyl tile with a stone-based core. It can be installed immediately and eliminates expansion and contraction buckling due to summer – winter temperature swings. If you’re installing direct onto concrete on grade or non-air conditioned homes this is a must.

I’m sure we’ve installed 8 or 10 different floors in the many properties we’ve owned in our lifetime. We thought our Snowbird property will be a similar as some of ones we’ve done in the past. But it wasn’t until we were asked “do you leave your air conditioner on all summer or not?” that we realized that we had something to learn. What we learned was surprisingly simple and made our decision easy.

THE IMPACT OF HEAT ON FLOORS

note: This isn’t an advertisement for a product and we don’t make any money recommending it. It did work so well for us and we just hope we make a friend or two because of what we share.. Enjoy.

The desert summer heat can have such a devastating impact on our homes. Heat outside of 100 degrees Fahrenheit can result in temperatures of 120 degrees Fahrenheit or more inside of a locked up, unventilated, non air-conditioned house, park model trailer, or manufactured home. In addition to the heat, the hot dry air sucks so much humidity and humidity from its surroundings. Hot, dry conditions of the winter cycling down to just above freezing winter nightime temperatures can play havoc on your flooring.

I think we’ve all seen it before. A flooring system that was installed a few years ago is now buckling. It’s separating at the seams and at the end joints. What before was a beautiful floor now has ridges and valleys. This can all be avoided with the correct choice of flooring.

BENEFITS OF STONE CORE

With only 30 minutes left before closing time that Sunday evening we needed some answers and we needed them quickly. We knew that typically you have to acclimatize vinyl floor planks at your home for 48 hours. This meant it would be two more days after we purchase before we could even begin installing. We had family arriving in one week and we wanted the floor in the second bedroom and Arizona room 100% complete.

Why was asking a question like “if our air conditioner would be on all summer or not” important? And why didn’t any other stores in the last 2 days ask the same question? Well, it became clear that we were dealing with a professional and that he knew that we might be snowbirds. The other stores must have simply seen us as a buyer rather than someone with a specific need and not much knowledge on the subject. Heck, we didn’t even know we had a specific need until we arrived at our final store that evening.

We were planning to install our flooring in an on-grade Arizona room and second bedroom floor and directly on concrete.

The store expert explained that all other vinyl tiles will expand and contract but stone-core planks won’t. Floor and Decor pointed us to a Duralux Luxury Vinyl with Stone Core as an effective and affordable solution. But we’re sure there are other stone-core solutions out there too. We just didn’t find them. That evening we loaded up our purchased vinyl planks and returned home. Early the next morning installation began. I’m happy to say that installation was a breeze.

Tools you will need to install vinyl flooring:

a utility knife with extra blades (it cuts the stone core with ease)
a vinyl flooring installation kit (rubber or plastic hammer, spacing shims, and a metal bar to help connect the pieces in tight conditions)
a oscillating multi-tool with a couple of standard saw ends (to undercut in doorways to allow the planks to be installed under the door trim)
eye protection and leather gloves

TIP: Set up a small work table outside to cut while to avoid accidental cuts on newly installed flooring. It also provides others with a good view of you working while they’re on the deck having a cool one!

BONUS:

Check out this installation video to see how easy it is to install.

Stone-core vinyl siding will last a lifetime, is waterproof, and looks great. It’s very affordable too! You can always try other flooring but… is it worth the risk? Well, we have no desire to do this job twice and with stone-core vinyl now we won’t have too!

Start Your Own Business in Your Retirement Park > Make Easy Money

Each of us has something great to share with others. Most of our gifts are nicely aligned to provide a service that others would gladly pay for. Let us show you a few great ideas you can consider doing in case you decide to start a small business at your Snowbird park this winter.

BEST 12 Home Based Business for Seniors to Start in Retirement Parks and Communities:

Shuttle service
Offer a trade service
Hauling / Delivery service
Handyman
Bicycle Repair
Caretaker
Seamstress / Tailor
Computer Consulting
Online Business
Music Teacher
Transcription / Video service
Sell your Crafts or Creations

Aging boomers make up a large cohort entering retirement. They have a strong desire to keep busy. One of the best ways to keep busy is to do something you know you can. Retirement communities, like Snowbird parks, are full of retirees that have needs that ideally are met from those within the gates of the community itself.

If you’re thinking you want to contribute to others and make some spending money while doing so you’re going to see that opportunities are available to you. Make a little extra money or a lot. Keep as busy as you want. Set your own hours. We’ve done it many times. You can too. Here’s how…

Starting any business in retirement requires that you take these 6 simple steps:

identifying the problem that others need solved
determine the size of the opportunity
identify what you need to start
ask yourself if it’s worth doing
tell others
launch the business

The 12 best retirement businesses to start in your 55+ community – and how to do it well.

1. AIRPORT SHUTTLE SERVICE

The Problem: The stress of airport travel is significant for many. Parking is costly. Airport, taxi and ride-share to and from is so impersonal and often much more expensive especially for a long trip. Shuttle services often go from airport to town center and only travel a few times of day. Park residents want to be able to call on a local and get a ride to or from the airport.

What is Required to Start: A 4 to 7 passenger vehicle with room for luggage for all. Your vehicle must be clean, reliable, and your driving habits and record superb. Your insurance must provide the necessary coverage.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Drives in the AZ and FL typical snowbird retirement park regions are typically $25-$50 per trip (not per person). If you fly into Phoenix and need to get to/from Tucson the going rate ranges between $50 – $99. Port Orange to Orlando airport often results in a $50-$60 charge.

why this might be for you? You love to drive and have a flexible schedule to meet the needs of travelers. You want free time but don’t mind being at the call of others from time to time and always welcome a good visit.

Tell Others: This service is always in demand early in the Snowbird season (Fall) and at the end of the season (Spring) for those that leave their vehicles at the park during the summer. Christmas is a busy time too. Tell your friends, post on your local facebook, put up a flier on your park bulletin board. Word of mouth spreads quickly.

How to Begin: Have your vehicle, insurance, know the airport routes to/from, and tell others. Maybe offer a free ride or two to other park residents that will give you a good reference in exchange.

TIP – As you drive take the opportunity to update arriving park guests of what’s up or new at the park. They’ll love catching up before they arrive.

2. TRADE AND TECHNICAL SERVICES (ELECTRICIAN, CARPENTER, PLUMBER, MECHANIC)

The Problem: Things go wrong with park homes and vehicles. Busy working tradespersons are typically difficult to find and a real waste of time and money for what is often a small plumbing or electrical job. Owners often need this work done right away.

What is Required to Start: Experience in the trades. Knowledge of codes and standards. Tools of the trade.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: $10-$20 for a small fixture or receptacle replacement, $50-$75 for a toilet or sink tap replacement. These rates vary greatly and if you’re a tradesperson you’ll know an appropriate in park rate.

why this might be for you: You’re good at your trade – even in retirement. You love a challenge and being the hero each time you save the day for someone. You want to put in a little work from time to time and can be flexible with your time if the need arises.

Tell Others: Word of mouth goes a long way. Do a few jobs at a reasonable price and you’ll be well known. But let park facebook groups know and be sure to put up a note on the park bulletin board.

How to Begin: Have your tools ready and know how far you’ll go with the trades work. Many retirees have no desire to do the big jobs and that’s understandable. But a little fix here or there might be all that’s needed.

TIP – Let your client know if it’s too big of a job for you you’ll recommend a local tradesmen or help the client find one. You’ll be sure to get a call back the next time they need a little job done.

3. HAULING / DELIVERY SERVICE

The Problem: Most retirees have a car in the driveway. They don’t have a truck or van to haul a bunch of stuff to the dump or pick up a sofa. Renting one is a painful process, very expensive and time consuming. They are looking for someone to go pick it up or drop it off. Many times they just need something hauled from one part of the park community to another.

What is Required to Start: A truck, van, or trailer. The vehicle will determine what you can haul but there is a role for each. Be sure your insurance coverage is appropriate for what you’re doing. Be sure to decide if loading, unloading, and/or carrying inside the trailer or elsewhere is included. Be sure of what your body is capable of – we’re often reminded that we’re not 19 anymore. We use a small $60 Harbor Freight flat deck rubber tired trailer towed behind my golf cart. We’ve hauled garbage, bicycles, and sofas inside the park. Every time we do we get someone asking if we could do a job for them sometime. You can do the same.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Hauling a sofa or mattress inside the park is an easy $20. No one will balk at that. A pick up at a home store or furniture store can easily make you $40-$50. A load to the dump or recycling $30-$40 plus dump fees.

why this might be for you: You’ve got a suitable vehicle that is readily available, a strong back, and experience hauling safely. You just want to make a few dollars every once in a while.

Tell Others: A note on the local park bulletin board and online. Leave the cart on behind your cart up front your unit. Write FOR HIRE and your phone number or unit number on it for all to see. Put a WILL HAUL FOR YOU sign in the window of your truck with your phone number.

How to Begin: Keep your vehicle in working shape or buy that cart to tow behind your cart.

TIP – Carry a few $5 Harbor Freight moving blankets and tie downs in your vehicle. Clients will appreciate knowing their purchases were hauled with care. For garbage and recycling keep a tarp in your vehicle to minimize any messes.

4. HANDYMAN FIX-IT PERSON

The Problem: Things go wrong with park homes. Few people are comfortable fixing everything. Even the very experienced draw the line somewhere and reach out to a handyman to help do something they don’t want to do or aren’t confident doing. Hanging blinds, painting, repairing flooring, installing a railing on a deck are far beyond some owners ability due to health or knowledge. Also, if an owner is renting their unit a handyman needs to be called on for any minor fixes.

What is Required to Start: An ability to fix things. Love repairs. Experienced making repairs of many types. Very basic knowledge of codes and standards. Standard list of common tools.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Expect to make $20-40 per hour as a competent handyman with often a minimum of around $20.

why this might be for you: You’re good at fixing things. You love the challenge of various problems around the home. You like to set fixed time aside each week to work under your terms so you can use the other time to enjoy retirement. You want to keep as busy as you want but no more.

Tell Others: Let residents know online that you do this work. It could take you to other parks too if you want.

How to Begin: Have your tools ready. Make or buy a little folding workbench to carry to jobs to work on. Be sure to have a good set of cordless power tools.

TIP – Carry a tiny shop vac and a clean up bucket with all that you need to clean up the work area and project area after each job. Always leave the client’s property cleaner than when you arrived. You’ll be surprised how much that factors into your client’s satisfaction and recommendation.

5. BICYCLE REPAIR

The Problem: Retirement parks are made for active living and that means there are so many bicycles. But few know how to care for and repair their bikes. Even the smallest of repairs like a tire tube or cable replacement is so far beyond many people’s abilities. Still others are riding around on unsafe cycles that are not set up correctly and could lead to an accident.But taking a bike out of the park for repairs is a serious challenge.

What is Required to Start: A few tools that you probably already have and a small selection of inexpensive speciality tools that are made for bicycle repair and maintenance. Set aside a small part of your driveway with a bench, cupboard, and inexpensive bicycle stand. Less than $100 and you are ready to go.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Bicycle repairs range in price and as you tinker away you’ll be sure to make at least $10 for small repairs and $20 for seasonal maintenance or bike set up. Chances are you’ll have more than a few clients every couple of days and clear over $100 a week in addition to materials supplied but you could probably keep as busy as you like and make more.

why this might be for you: You know bikes and know how to, or can learn to, repair and maintain them. You like details and are particular about setting up the bike for safety. To be satisfied with your work you don’t need to have frequent interaction with customers. You’re not afraid of taking on a challenge and learning something new each job. You want to work from your home not someone else’s (that’s why they bring their bike to you) and you enjoy working in spurts of time if you wish because in this kind of business there is rarely a rush. You prefer to have set fees for repairs rather than an hourly rate. You want a backlog of work and return work too.

Tell Others: Let residents know on bulletin boards that you do this work and they should drop by during your work hours to speak with you. Getting word online will spread news to other nearby parks too. If you have a few bikes in the driveway at all times (even if they are your own) and your workspace within sight of the street passersby will surely know what you do and come calling some day.

How to Begin: Set up a workspace and have places to lock bikes in progress. Locks on tool cupboards too. Keep your own bike in tip top shape to show people you know your business. Always keep a backlog of work or make it look like it with one or two repair/maintenance bikes in view.

TIP – Offer a Fall special for those returning for their warm winter in the park resort. Bicycles take a beating with the heat of summer and set up in the Fall is critical for safety. Give returning customers a small discount or a free chain cleaning to keep them coming back.

6. CARETAKER

The Problem: Park residents are not always around and they need someone at the park to handle the issues when they arise.

What is Required to Start: Comfortable entering other people’s property and caring for it. Willing to pick up a broom to clean up sand after a summer sandstorm and communicate well and often with the property owner. Because most snowbirds leave each summer and need summertime caretakers, so being a year round park resident is helpful to make this work. Although some caretakers advertise they are only available from November to April.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Expect to make $10-$30 a month per trailer, RV, park model, or manufactured home you care for. Many caretakers care for 50 to 100 units. That makes for 6 months of $500 to $3000 per month. Not bad at all!

why this might be for you: You like caring for things and keep your own property in good repair. You are available year round, or at minimum 6 months, and have time to visit each property every 2 weeks and after each summer storm. You also enjoy calling on contractors and directing them should repairs, maintenance, or pest control be required. You want to keep as busy as you want but will be available to do what needs to be done without delay.

Tell Others: Let residents know online that you do this work. Most parks keep a list too so get on that also.

How to Begin: Make a checklist that you will use for summerizing or, for park models and manufactured homes, look to the summerizing checklist available HERE (link opens in new window) on SnowbirdFAQs.com. Share the list with your clients and determine any additional needs to address. Set up a paypal account to enable payments to you.

TIP – Every two weeks take a short video of the home you are caring for and send it to your client by email. As you walk and video from your phone speak about what you find or see in the home. Show the video of you topping up water buckets or fixing a blind. They will really appreciate this and it will serve as a report without any need for you to write a word.

7. SEAMSTRESS / TAILOR

The Problem: Alterations are often needed and fewer and fewer people have these skills anymore.

What is Required to Start: A sewing machine, maybe a serger, and needle and thread. A worktable (kitchen table perhaps).

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Alterations can easily draw $10+. repairs range in price and as you tinker away you’ll be sure to make at least $10 for small repairs and $20 alterations. Chances are you’ll have more than a few clients every couple of days and clear over $100 a week in addition to materials supplied, but you could probably keep as busy as you like and make more. This cash will either help to pay a few bills or mean a great dinner show almost every week is bought and paid for!

why this might be for you: You know your way around sewing by machine or by hand. Perhaps you’ve been sewing all your life and you’ve rarely been uncomfortable with routine repairs and alterations. Maybe nothing sewing related phases you (that’s our Mom!). But you want to only work now and again. You’ll keep a few regular hours, may take a week or two off here and there, and just look forward to a little extra cash each week or so. You prefer to have set fees for repairs rather than an hourly rate.

Tell Others: Let residents know on bulletin boards that you do this work and they should call you for a quote. On the park facebook site or even online would be easy to do too. Key to posting online is letting customers know when you work and what you do more than anything. They’ll appreciate that. Let them know that you set up on your kitchen table every Monday and Wednesday for the afternoon (or whatever you set) because pulling the sewing machine out every time is just a burden. They will understand and plan accordingly.

How to Begin: Your first order will result in more, so the key to starting is getting that first order. Your friends will surely help you.

TIP – Keep your working days/hours firm BUT offer a rush service on small repairs/alterations for an additional fee of $10 or so to make rush work worthwhile to you.

8. COMPUTER CONSULTANT

The Problem: Whether software or hardware few 55+ have a handle on it. There are so many outdated computers and laptops in the hands of residents it’s no wonder. But technology is what we need to communicate. Understanding the computer, handheld phones and ipads, and knowing what software to run and how to run it is a challenge for so many.

What is Required to Start: Experience and comfort with computers. An ability to communicate with great patience and understanding while not complicating the message to the customer. You will be using other peoples equipment probably in their home so you won’t need to spend a dime to get going. You’ll have to be ready to work harder explaining things to others than fixing technical issues. If you’re confident you can do both then you’ll be great at this.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: If you’re doing a virus scan or PC repair costs could range from $10-$80. But with more and more 55+ using ipads and iphones the business could become all about teaching how to use the software.

why this might be for you: You are very confident around computers and technology. You have the patience to deliver basic skills teaching or repair older computers.

Tell Others: This is a natural business to put online and on the bulletin board at the park. If your community has a computer club be sure to join it and volunteer for the club while offering services to individuals on their specific needs.

How to Begin: Once people know that you “know your stuff” and you’re a good communicator you’ll be off and running. But be sure to have a few business cards to hand out to others in the park. The cards should outline your experience and services offered.

TIP – Once or twice a year offer a cheap $10 virus checking service when you come over, stick in a USB stick with virus checking software on it, and scan their system and provide them the results. Better yet, clean the virus’ at the same time.

9. ONLINE BUSINESS

The Problem: More and more work and business opportunities are opening online for seniors. We’ve written an article HERE about online business opportunities for seniors. One of the most interesting and easiest is writing about what you know and sharing it online.

What is Required to Start: Open an account on Fiverr.com or upWork.com. Alternatively, reach out to a website that you think you can contribute knowledge to and offer to do a guest blog.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Expect to make $8 per 1000 words or more as you gain experience. For many writers this is easy money. If you are well experienced in specific niche topics (pottery, outdoor plants of the desert region, etc) you may command a small premium. Many writers are able to make $50-$200 per week very part time and writing whenever and wherever they like.

why this might be for you: You love to put thoughts into words. You enjoy the freedom to work from wherever you are or want. You love to set your own schedule. We love to write too!

Tell Others: This is all online. Get the message out online wherever you can.

How to Begin: Be sure to get on fiverr.com or upwork.com. We much prefer fiverr.com because it’s so easy to use for the customer. Drop us a note at SnowbirdFAQs.com if you like and we would be happy to have you craft a post on our site to highlight your abilities to others and kickstart your online writing small business. (If you’re interested in contributing you can learn more about Why We Started SnowbirdFAQs HERE – link will open in a new window). Find that special place and preferred time of day you love to write. Write with passion.

TIP – To onlookers, online business owners look like they are always playing on the computer. Don’t expect others to understand that you are working. Just tell them what you do and you’ll impress them and encourage yourself to keep moving forward.

10. MUSIC TEACHER

The Problem: Retirement is a wonderful time to learn new things. Learning to play a musical instrument is high on the list for many as it may be something they’ve always wanted to do. But learning alone isn’t easy and the thought of a bunch of music theory is a turn off. What retirees often want is to learn a few songs.

What is Required to Start: A musical ability in one or more instruments. Ability to shortcut the music theory and get to the teaching while making it simple and fun. Teach at your place with your instrument (for example a piano, keyboard or guitar) might be ideal.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Lessons often cost $15-$20 per hour once a week or more. You can have as many students as you may want from your community or surrounding. With only a few students each week you can top $100 or more with no expenses.

why this might be for you: You are an experienced musician and you know how to share your love of music with others and encourage them to reach their goals. You don’t sweat the theory but instead are intent on showing others they can make music. You enjoy one on one time with people.

Tell Others: Let residents know on bulletin boards and in any music club in your park. Also, drop a hint on your park facebook group and online too.

How to Begin: Know where you will work and arrange distractions outside of lesson time.

TIP – Offer a group lesson or two each Fall and in the free lessons build a offering to enable anyone to play one song on their instrument within 30days. Your lesson spaces will fill up immediately.

11. TRANSCRIPTION / VIDEO SERVICE

The Problem: Seniors have memories of their lives or their experiences that they would like to share with family, friends, and the public before they are forgotten. But it sure isn’t easy for anyone to just sit down and type them out. A much easier approach is to audio or video record but most don’t know how to set this up and how to save and share them. They may not even have the tools to record. The biggest challenge is they often need to share the story with someone else in the room… talk to or with someone. That can be you.

What is Required to Start: Your smart phone, an inexpensive tripod, an inexpensive lapel microphone ideally for two, and an online cloud storage service like iCloud on the iphone/ipad to store the audio or video on. You will also certainly need to have patience, interest in others and what they have to say, and an ability to draw out the best details of the stories from the customer. This should be done in the client’s home or wherever they are most comfortable. Be absolutely sure that all distractions are avoided.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: You should be able to charge $20-$50 for a recorded, unedited story in audio or video that is shareable by the customer. Edited costs can go up by 2-3X. Many have a story or message they’d like to share. Expect at least one or two a week and for it to grow as people age and hear about the service you have to offer..

why this might be for you: You love stories! You genuinely appreciate what people have to share and you are willing to hold these stories in confidence. To you a great conversation is when the other person does most of the talking and you inquire.

Tell Others: If you have a book club, genealogy club, computer club, or history club in your community let them know you’re doing this. Post online and you’ll get requests from many parks.

How to Begin: Set up a youtube video site and record from your phone directly to video then upload it to youtube. Be sure to run a test video each time to picture and sound check before starting the real story. Get a bag ready with your equipment and charger. Begin with a story from a friend that is willing for you to use it to highlight what the result looks like to prospective customers. Show people the example.

TIP – Record audio on a digital audio recorder and video with audio on your iphone at the same time. They will each serve as a backup if one doesn’t turn out. And take a picture of the customer to put in the video if the video portion doesn’t turn out but the audio does. You’re now safe in all cases.

12. SELL YOUR CRAFTS OR CREATIONS IN PERSON AND ONLINE

The Problem: You’re proud of your crafts and creations but you don’t know how to sell them. Others too. Getting seen is key. Displaying your items at the local park craft sale, garage sale and neighbouring flea market can be sure to generate orders. Think about learning online marketing too. Both physical sales and online sales are often needed.

What is Required to Start: In addition to an inventory of your products to sell, find a folding table, grocery bags, and get a Square for your smartphone to take credit card sales at different shows. For online sales, a laptop or computer or perhaps even an ipad would work to set up your online presence. Whatever you are comfortable typing on. Gather pictures and descriptions of what you want to sell and open a store on Etsy.com.

How Much Can I Expect to Make: Expect to make 20-40% margin on most of what you sell online (results widely vary) but keep in mind the various costs you will incur too.

why this might be for you: You want to share what you’ve created with others. You don’t mind checking your business each day and fulfilling orders via mail or courier.

Tell Others: This is all online. Get the message out online wherever you can. Focus on free – don’t pay for Facebook or Google ads or you are likely to get well over your head with costs.

How to Begin: Set up an Etsy store. Get your inventory ready. Make sure your Square credit card system is tested. Find shows you can show your crafts at and get signed up around the region. While there, hand out a card with your etsy store name on it. Also display your Etsy store name on your table.

TIP – Collect emails with your physical sales (Square credit card system will do this automatically for you if you set it up) and contact the buyer after the sale with a follow up on their purchase. Be sure your Etsy store is highlighted in the follow up email and they are likely to buy again no matter where in the world they are from.

STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE RULES

Be sure to understand your retirement community park rules and live within them. Parks need the services you offer but will not want “store fronts” on your home front.

CONCLUSION

Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of work. Instead, it can be the beginning of work on your terms. Work as much or little as you like. When you want. Doing what you love.

And living in a Snowbird retirement community is well within your reach. If you’re interested learn more about How you Can Make Snowbird life a reality without much Money (click HERE – article will open in a new tab).

NOTE: if you’re in a 55+ retirement community and want to share your business with others online we would be happy to highlight your business on SnowbirdFAQs.com. Click “Learn More About” on the menu above and follow the steps to share your business online. We built it for you to freely use. Good luck on your retirement park business.

HOW TO MAKE SNOWBIRD LIFE A REALITY – WITHOUT MUCH MONEY

We hear so many people say, there’s no way we can afford a place down south. They feel it is so far out of reach. Well the truth is, it may not be out of reach at all. They just don’t know how to make it happen.

There are many ways you can make snowbird living affordable and a reality. We often go with the simple rule of not saying…We can’t afford it, but rather by saying ‘How’ can we afford it? (As you read on this thought will become much clearer.) As they say, where there’s a will there’s a way!

Sometimes people get caught in one mindset and don’t realize there are things they can do that they may not have thought of. Or they just don’t put the effort into making the changes necessary to make it happen. This can also be due to fear and not knowing what or how to do it. Well we have a few options that might help you out.

Here are 10 Things You Can Do to help send you on your way to that second home in the Sun whether you rent or buy.

What is your Goal?
Have a Budget
- What will you be spending?
- Transportation – driving vs flying
- Choose an affordable Location
- Length of Time
- Cost of Renting vs Owning
Use the Money You Already Have
Work remotely
Rent out your House
Move to the cottage
Downsize and Move to a condo
Move to an existing rental property or buy a rental property
Rent out your Vacation property

1. MY GOAL?

Ok so we know you want to become a Snowbird. That’s obvious! But we also need to determine the following:

Where would you like to Snowbird?
How long would you like to go?
How much money are you going to be spending, realistically?
HOW are you going to come up with the money?

2. HAVE A BUDGET – WATCH YOUR SPENDING

First and foremost you want to review your budget and determine what your costs might be.

To create your budget, think about how long you’ll be gone and ask yourself what would you be spending if you were at home? Going down south isn’t going to be that different in cost.

What will You Spend your Money On?

Health Insurance – Granted you will need to think about things like making sure you have adequate health insurance and travel insurance before you go. Approximate costs may run you at $1,000 for the two of you per year if going for up to 6 months. However, it’s possible to offset these expenses with what you will be saving on things like heat and power while you’re away. Turn your heat right down to a minimum and virtually no power will be used other than maybe a few timer lights here and there for safety. And if you’re still working you may have medical coverage through your work. Be absolutely sure you understand the coverage and how it works. Make sure it’s adequate for your needs and top-up your insurance as you feel is necessary.

Meals – Find a place to rent in a location with a full kitchen and make your own meals; begin to see it as a way of life not a vacation where you have to eat out everyday. Eating out is ok once in awhile. Keep in mind even with the exchange rate if you are from Canada, groceries in Arizona are relatively inexpensive.
Sites/Attractions – You’ll want to go see the sites but there are many free places you can experience that are well worth it. Keep the pricey attractions to a minimum.
Daily Activity – Find a location with lots of amenities and activities that are included in the price, that way you won’t have to come up with a bunch of extra money for keeping yourself busy and having fun.
Travel Expenses – Determine how you will get there and back and what makes the most sense based on the time you will be there. Driving vs Flying.

Transportation – Driving vs Flying

If you plan to spend a month or more down south you will likely want to drive. Renting a car for that long just wouldn’t be worth it. You can get some good deals on rental cars for around $300 CAD for two weeks (is the cheapest we’ve found so far), so for a month would cost you $600 or more plus your flights. Look on Truo.com for a great car rental alternative without a bunch of extra car rental fees. Sign up for priceline.com, booking.com and others a few weeks in advance and put in your search details. They’ll keep emailing you offers for those dates and sometimes they are great prices.We’ve been able to get flights for as low as $308 return per person, but x 2 and a rental car for a month is $1200 and up, just for one month.

So if you plan to stay for 1-3 months your best bet is driving. Although you’re probably looking at a day or more drive and a hotel stay or two there and back. Fortunately, gas is much cheaper in the US than Canada and you can find reasonably priced hotels for under $100 that include breakfast. Overall it may cost you around $1,100, but then you have your car the entire time. Now if you decide to buy a place in Arizona, you can eventually take a car down and leave it there provided your insurance isn’t compromised by doing so. However, most Snowbirds we know still drive back and forth each year.

Choose an Affordable Location

There are many places to rent in Arizona that are without a doubt 5 stars, and so is the price. However, those are for the people that probably aren’t reading this blog in the first place. I’m sure you’re here because you truly want some tips on how to make it work for you.

If you are looking for the most affordable bang for your buck then you are wanting to head straight to the manufactured park model homes in the RV Resort Parks, or as they say, ‘Trailer Parks’. This may not sound as eloquent as you’d like but believe me you will enjoy every minute of your stay and won’t be disappointed. As these parks cater to Snowbirds, you will find they have top notch amenities, activities and social interactions with like minded people. We absolutely love our park model in our Arizona park. You will feel right at home too and instantly feel like you’re a part of the community vs. renting a house and not meeting anyone your entire stay, it could get very quiet and lonely.

In these 55+ parks you can find rental prices ranging from $1,100 per month to $2,800 per month. At the high end price you are looking at a newer manufactured home in one of the larger parks with 2-3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms possibly backing a golf course, if the park should have one. Not to mention, many rentals include the golf cart as part of the deal, and the golf cart is a means of transportation in and around the parks (next to walking and cycling of course) – it doesn’t get any better than this! See our post on Where to find a Park Model for rent and Why you need a Golf Cart.

Length of Time

Of course affordability depends on how long you want to stay. If starting off a month at a time is all you can swing, then try it out once and then determine if next year you can stay for two or three months. You never really know until you get there. But there are ways to determine an approximate cost. January through March are the peak times when Snowbirds flock and the prices may go up during that time, so if you’d rather head out November, December you can probably get your rental at a discounted rate.

Cost of Renting vs Owning

Keep in mind, if you plan on being down south every year, renting on a seasonal basis could cost you up to $9,000 per year on the high end if you stay for 3 months. That $9,000 you just spent on renting would pay for an entire year expenses if you choose to buy! That way you can go anytime you want throughout the year and as many times as you want.

If you’re thinking about buying, you can buy a park model for as low as $3,999 US and can range up to $250,000 for both new and pre-owned homes in Privately-Owned parks. Many buy into Arizona Active Resort living for less than $30,000. Today’s prices are extremely affordable.

3. USE THE MONEY YOU ALREADY HAVE

We have friends that don’t hesitate to spend $3,000 to $5,000 on a warm 10 to 14 day beach vacation every year. And if you’re like them, what if you took that $3,000 and stretched it out to one full month in Arizona or stretch the $5,000 to two months. Wouldn’t you rather be in warm climate for two months rather than two weeks. By taking what you spent on the 10 day vacation plus what you’d spend for the next 20 days at home, it should work out to about the same.

TIP: Trade a 10 day sun vacation and 20 days cold at home for 30 days in Active Living in warm weather.

Remember, this is a lifestyle you’re creating, not a dream vacation where you go shopping everyday and spend all your money! So you see, you already came up with the money as you do each year, you just have to redirect where it goes. And if you’re not sold on buying just yet, you can definitely rent for that amount.

4. WORK REMOTELY OR PART-TIME DOWN SOUTH

If you are still working or working part-time, many companies today will allow you to work from home or on-line. This will allow you to enjoy the warm sun while putting in the hours. Just pickup your laptop, your mobile phone and go.

And, if you are retired already and feel you need a little extra income, there are many odd jobs or small home businesses you can do right in the RV Resort parks. For example, people are always looking for drivers to take them to and from the airport; or someone to repair their bicycle or fix their faucet. Maybe you know how to do small sewing alterations. The list is endless and keeps you busy too! See our post entitled “Start Your Own Business in Your Retirement Park” HERE (link will open a new tab)

5. RENT OUT YOUR HOUSE

Whether you have your house paid off or you are still working on those mortgage payments, there are always monthly expenses like insurance, taxes and utilities. A great way to combat these expenses while you’re away is to rent out your house. Yes we know, we’ve heard it before – to most of you the thought of someone being in your home while you’re not there isn’t that appealing.

Well maybe it’s someone you know, ask around, maybe it’s a friend’s relative that is going to school and needs a place for a few months. Find a couple of quiet University or College students that are just there to study. The benefits of having someone in your home are worth it, not only for insurance purposes but the extra money you will be making is now paying for your stay down south.

6. MOVE TO THE COTTAGE

If you’re already retired and you still own your home in the city and have the cottage at the lake, you may want to consider moving to the lake permanently. The thought of giving up residence in the city can be a bit scary and will depend on a few factors like: the location and how far it is from the city, family and friends? Do you need to winterize your cottage? And if so, what are the costs nechessary to do this?

There are things you need to consider when moving to the lake but selling your home to free up money to have a place down south is well worth it. We are in the process of making this happen. Although we are only 20 mins out of the city which makes for an easier transition. But the freedom of not having your money tied up in your house is a wonderful feeling.

7. DOWNSIZE AND MOVE TO A CONDO

Many people insist on hanging onto their 2500 square foot home. They say they need it for when the grandchildren come over and they need to have the space for everyone at Christmas, or they stay because the mortgage is paid off. When all you’re really doing is tying up your hard earned money that you could be using to enjoy your time down south, while your health is still good and you can enjoy it. If you really want to make the transition to warmer weather, selling your house and using the equity to buy something smaller, can allow you to buy two properties. One at home and one in the southYou’ll have money to spare.

A smaller condo is not the end of the world and you can find very inexpensive condos these days. There are also many advantages to condo living. Condos allow you to just get up and go. No more worrying about having someone look after your place while you’re gone. The shovelling and outside maintenance is all done for you. And I’m sure your family won’t mind when they’re spending Christmas in your new winter home down south!

8. MOVE TO A RENTAL PROPERTY

If you’re not keen on the Condo living because you still want a yard and room for the toys, then you may want to consider buying and moving to a property that you can rent out a portion of. Finding a rental property with a basement suite can be a perfect option. There are many new and old houses these days with up-down suites. Moving to a house with a basement suite allows the tenant to pay for most, if not ALL of your living expenses while you enjoy your home and yard. Plus, now you’ve free’d up money to purchase that place down south.

Having a tenant in a basement suite does not invade your privacy. Just be sure they have their own entrance and you probably won’t see them much at all. You may have to share your patio space at times but rules and restrictions can be set out for that. A tenant also gives you the freedom to lock up and go when heading down south. Your tenant can take over the outside chores and bring in your mail.

TIP: Live in your basement suite and rent out the upstairs to get more money for rent.

9. RENT OUT YOUR VACATION PROPERTY

Not fully retired yet and don’t have the vacation time to go all winter? Buying now will allow you to still enjoy your winter place whenever you can get away but won’t cost you anything and you’ll basically be vacationing for free! For just a small investment, you can find a great park model in one of the amazing 55+ parks that Arizona has to offer for under $30,000. You don’t have to spend $100’s of thousands to have that winter home. Of course there are the Annual pad fees that can run you anywhere from $2,500 to 7,500 U.S per year depending on the size of park you are in.

SInce there are over 300,000 Snowbirds flocking to Arizona each year, there is no shortage of renters. Here’s where you come in. Renting out your park model for a few months will easily absorb the cost of the Annual pad fees and still allow plenty of time for you to enjoy it. That way when you go down it will be like staying for free.

Renting during the months of January to March is the high season allowing you to get the highest rates. However there are many that enjoy the hotter weather and want to rent in April, October and November. Either way you won’t have a problem finding someone to rent as there is usually a long waiting list at the parks. Just ask around and I’m sure you’ll know someone looking for a place, or they will know of someone. Preparing your place for rent isn’t that difficult once you’ve done it a time or two and are familiar with the rules and regulations of the park. Here is more information on preparing your park model for rent that you may find helpful.

CONCLUSION

Living the Snowbird lifestyle doesn’t have to be just something you think about. There are many affordable ways to get there. Look at your options and decide which one is best for you. Taking the first step is the most difficult thing like calling a realtor and getting an appraisal on your home. Realizing what you can get for your home may help you to take the next step to listing your house for sale. Once you’ve got the ball rolling it’s very hard to stop!

Recent Posts

WHAT YOU GET FOR YOUR MONEY?

ECONOMY PARK MODEL – UNDER $20,000

MID-RANGE PARK MODEL – $20,000 – $50,000

Deluxe PARK model – $50,000 – $80,000

LUXURY PARK model – $80,000 AND OVER

DON’T MISS OUT ON UPGRADES AND SPECIAL FEATURES!

6 ADDITIONAL COSTS TO KEEP IN MIND

#1 – DOES IT HAVE THE COMMUNITY FEEL YOU WANT?

#2 – DO FACILITIES AND AMENITIES COST EXTRA?

#3 – SIZE OF THE PARK MATTERS! – FOR THOSE ANNUAL FEES

#4 – THOSE PESKY UTILITIES

#6 – DO I OWN MY LOT?

Buying your Park Model in a Privately-Owned Park

Buying your Park Model and Lot in a Resident-Owned Park

RENTING VS. BUYING

IN CONCLUSION

1. Cancun / Cozumel / Maya Riviera, Mexico

2. Cabo, Mexico

3. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

CONCLUSION

THE TRANSIT PROBLEM

RENTAL OPTIONS – Old and New

1) The Traditional Approach is Getting Old – and Expensive

HACK 1 – How to get the best traditional car rental price?

2) Peer-to-peer Car Sharing – the newest alternative to a car rental company

HACK 2 – How to get the BEST PEER-TO-PEER CAR SHARE PRICE:

RENTING EACH RIDE – Becoming Popular

3) Rideshare Services free up your driveway and your wallet

HACK 3 – How to get the BEST RIDESHARE PRICE:

CONCLUSION

PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS

MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS

A Quick History of Pickleball

Is Pickleball easy to Learn to Play?

How to Play – A 2 minute Primer

Pickleball terms You need to Know:

The Serve

Double Bounce

Faults

Equipment

Conclusion

THE IMPACT OF HEAT ON FLOORS

BENEFITS OF STONE CORE

BONUS:

The 12 best retirement businesses to start in your 55+ community – and how to do it well.

1. AIRPORT SHUTTLE SERVICE

2. TRADE AND TECHNICAL SERVICES (ELECTRICIAN, CARPENTER, PLUMBER, MECHANIC)

3. HAULING / DELIVERY SERVICE

4. HANDYMAN FIX-IT PERSON

5. BICYCLE REPAIR

6. CARETAKER

7. SEAMSTRESS / TAILOR

8. COMPUTER CONSULTANT

9. ONLINE BUSINESS

10. MUSIC TEACHER

11. TRANSCRIPTION / VIDEO SERVICE

12. SELL YOUR CRAFTS OR CREATIONS IN PERSON AND ONLINE

STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE RULES

CONCLUSION

1. MY GOAL?

2. HAVE A BUDGET – WATCH YOUR SPENDING

What will You Spend your Money On?

Transportation – Driving vs Flying

Choose an Affordable Location

Length of Time

Cost of Renting vs Owning

3. USE THE MONEY YOU ALREADY HAVE

4. WORK REMOTELY OR PART-TIME DOWN SOUTH

5. RENT OUT YOUR HOUSE

6. MOVE TO THE COTTAGE

7. DOWNSIZE AND MOVE TO A CONDO

8. MOVE TO A RENTAL PROPERTY

9. RENT OUT YOUR VACATION PROPERTY

CONCLUSION