A separate segment of condominiums are the 55 plus condominiums.

It’s an often-reported fact that Winnipeg’s population is aging, and as such Condominiums are becoming quite popular. In fact, there are numerous advantages to owning a condo.

Photo by Jonathan Grundy on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/32709437@N02

These are units with bylaws which state that the owner/occupant of the unit must be at least 55 years of age. (Some 55-plus condos have dropped this age requirement down to 50 yrs, in an effort to attract more buyers). By the way, only ONE of the owners of a suite needs to be of the specified age. For example, if the wife is 55, and her husband is 42, they qualify….. and I must add, “Good for Her!!!!”

For the right person, there are a number of advantages to these 55 plus condominiums. Here are a few:

1) Security: Many of these 55 plus condominiums are built with security in mind, sometimes with security cameras but almost always with good secure locks on well-lit entry ways.

2) Handicap accessible: Many buildings feature wider-than-normal hallways, doors and bathrooms, to allow access via wheelchair or walker.

3) “Community Spirit”: Quite often, the residents organize weekly pot-luck dinners, shopping trips, card-games and other outings.

4) “Birds of a Feather”: Since everyone in the building is 55 yrs or older, and most often retired, residents tend to have a lot in common, and friendships are made easily…. if you WANT to do so.

5) Conveniences: Local grocery stores often arrange weekly bus-trip to their shops. Some condos arrange for a local nurse to attend monthly, or bi-monthly for a general visit.

6) Amenities: 55 plus condominiums often feature amenities not found in regular condos. Things such as a library, a meeting room, a lounge with kitchen, a fitness room and more.

Home-owners who are thinking of selling their houses for a variety of reasons (want to travel, no more yardwork, security issues), but don’t feel they are ready for a retirement community, might well consider checking out a 55-plus Condominium. There are a growing number of such communities in Winnipeg. For a sample list of addresses which feature “age-restricted’ condos, click on 55 plus condominiums.

In addition, there is a brand new building, which (at the time of this post) has a couple of suites for sale. To see one of these listings complete with interior photos, click here.