im old 72 i live in the desert everything in for 670 a month and thats with cable and net. water every last thing. food included . sure my mobile home is needing fixing. but i can afford it . i have p t s d and wake up screaming and have been told i had to move from apartments. and one mobile park. i have a acre now with a 1000 foot beater home. half the folks next too me dont speak english. but when i was very ill they helped me. took me to the store and kept an eye on me took me to the doctor. a mobile on land is cheap . even on the high % of interest i pay 12% i still have a life. plus i can have a garden.
WOW! People reading this might want to know in what state you're living. Were I live in Illinois, nobody is allowed to put a mobile home on property with less than 5 (could be 10) acres. BTW, 72 isn't old anymore!
Thank you for this very informative video. I'm in my late 60's, living on Social Security (which isn't much), thankfully, I own my house - BUT - property taxes, ever increasing homeowners insurance, rising utility costs, HOA dues and a next door neighbor who takes great pleasure in tormenting me are all reasons I would like to go elsewhere. I've looked into all the options you've mentioned. I have no problem with living in a manufactured home and a smaller one would work best for me so that I can live out this last chapter minimally and not leave a lot for my 2 boys to deal with upon my transition. Having said all that, I'm struggling to find a decent mobile/manufactured home park that I can afford. Due to everything increasing in price, I'm at the point of thinking perhaps I should sell my house and move out of the country. That's a huge undertaking at my age. It's very sad that our country does not take better care of senior citizens, especially with our limited income. Again, thank you for the great video!
I'm so sorry that you are in that position. A lot of us are struggling and looking for answers. I think a lot of the problem is greed on the part of the people upon whom we are dependent for food, gas, housing expenses, and medicine. If I could move out of the country and take my entire family with me, I'd go in a heartbeat. For the opportunity to be with them, though, I stay. I hope things improve for you and all of us senior citizens. Thank you for your comment.
Thanks for this video! Looking for advice for my in laws. On a side note, you are so beautiful! You look so much like Blondie it’s crazy! I’m assuming you’ve heard that your whole life. ❤️😉
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman U are as beautiful as she. Why in the world u have no lovely hubby Indon't know. Slap on a blonde wig and u will have a dozen follow u.home to your humble hovel and whisk u off to a lovely house .
its the purchasing power of the dollar manipulated to go down...thomas jefferson said if we let bankers manipulate our currency our great grand children will wake up homeless on the continent their forefathers founded. another thing is the stupid property tax which you will have to pay. example grandfather buys house in 1965 for $18,000 dollars, ends up paying mortgae for 30 years where he pays over 100,000$ dollars. plus taxes every year on top of all that. after mortage is paid off in 1996, still has to pay between $2000-$5000 a year for property tax for that house. years down the road the 95 year old wife thats on social security barely can make ends meet every month. it gets to a point that the property tax cant be afforded anymore and the gov takes that house. if a house can be in your family for over 60-70 years and it can be taken from you because you cant pay $2300 property taxes for that year its time for a revolution. do you know what the definition of a mortgage is? mort - means death, gage -means pledge. so your mortgage actually means death pledge.
Enjoyed your video🌼 The issue with my house is I can get a decent sales price which makes the idea appealing, because no income now, and x not paying alimony, however, leaving a house that you truly like and moving everything seems daunting to say the least. I struggle with making a decision 🤷🏼♀️ BTW you resemble Debbie Harry (“Blondie”)
I've had issues with exes (2) not paying child support, so I empathize with you. No income, Covid, and the thought of packing up everything and moving is daunting. I've moved so many times due to financial losses, my mother (when she was alive) told me she had to buy a new address book to accommodate all my changes. I wish you luck, and I hope everything works out in your favor. Thank you for the compliment, by the way.
As a senior, an apartment was my only choice! I am fortunate to have an affordable seniors apartment. My location in the building is good. The apartments are well maintained. I knew the area well, it has great bus service and close to retail and restaurants. My utilities are included and I can use the stairs if there is a problem with the elevator. Of course there is a real assortment of residents and you do have to be careful who you befriend! Always an issue in any apartment building!🇨🇦
I'm very happy for you! Apartment living would not be an option for those of us who suffer from allergies. If any residents smoked or had cats or certain breeds of dogs, for instance, I would be unable to live there, but I'm grateful for building owners who understand the need for affordable housing and that you found one. If you don't mind answering, without giving specifics, where do you live?
If u gave caring peepl. If ubr all alone it,s bad news. No one to notice if u don't go out . Esp.bad if u have a pet or two. Hitva senior center. Offer to trade welfare ck.ph.calls. Trust mr. There are many in the same boat.
im a man and i been trying to find a 55 and up apartment im 58yo and i feel trapped my landlord likes to rent to nightmare young people and the last group that moved out hacked my computer stolen hundreds of dollars out of my bank account to pay netflix and buy video games. and they sold drugs and when they moved they told the landlord they moved because i put a surveillance camera in my window.
Good for you for putting in a surveillance camera! I'm sorry that your "neighbors" stole from you. I wonder why your landlord would rent to them in the first place. Did he not run a background check on them? If you decide to move into a retirement community, talk to some of the residents first. I moved out of one, because I discovered that management lied to me about rent increases. Had I talked to some of the residents instead of the manager, I would have discovered the truth. Good luck to you and thank you for your comment.
@Louise Gross yes he did he is money greedy 2 years ago he served 2 other tenants and myself a eviction notice to move we got together and went to a lawyer and found out it was not legal and he taken it back . he told us he was sorry for that. and he wants us to move into one of his other units so he can charge more rent . but i think he suppose to pay us for that..
@@MrStarofTruth I don’t know where you live, but I know in Los Angeles, Cal they have to pay you a few thousand to get you to move and depending on the age of the Tenents it can be up to 10k. See if you can google for your area Tenents rights. Info should be free and posted!
Thank you for your video this information have help me Choose the right apartment that I’m still looking for I am 67 years old I am in section 8 I have filled out application for independent apartment for senior and there is a long waiting less I can’t believe that I’m still waiting for so many years and I’m still waiting haven’t found one yet. I hope I find one soon. Thank you so much🙏
Thank you for your comment. I hope you find one, too. Probably the reason the waiting list is so long is because more people have applied than are apartments available, and because it takes so long to get an apartment, people tend to stay as long as they are able. You could also check your local senior living facilities. Though they are expensive, they often offer subsidized housing. You'll have to meet the income guidelines, and you'll have to be prepared to have your rent increased often, but turnover in those facilities mean more available openings more often. You could apply for both, and if senior living opens first, move there (make sure your lease is month to month so you don't break any rules) until your Section 8 housing opens up, and then move into that housing. I wish you luck. Have faith!
also weed is now legal in AZ . and there are many places that let you live in a travel trailer in the desert like mead view. i dont live there but you can get a lot with power and water for crazy cheap. sleep in your car a few months and pay cash. there is always a way. when you get older its almost like people cant see you anyway. that can be a good thing . if you have no drug of booze issues you can save some money even on the SS system we have. i worked my whole adult life and at the end of 37 years had a crushing divorce lost everything but my close and an old truck. still turned out for me and it can for anyone with a mailing address and a social security check. may not be the high life but its a no stress life.
Thank you, I will turn 54 this year and I thank God. In the mean time I have a house note and high property tax in Crook county Illinois and I am researching my housing options for when I turn 55.
Illinois is notoriously high when it comes to taxes. I know so many people who have moved out of Illinois to get away from it. The further away you get from Chicago, the less your taxes will be, but be careful, because a lot of the suburbs and even some places far south of the city have extremely high taxes. I still haven't ruled out living in an RV if things don't improve. Thank you for commenting. I wish you luck in finding something you can afford in an area that is safe and friendly.
What about low income housing/Section 8? If the need is that great, that would work. In East TN(Johnson City area) there is a ton of LI housing thats nicer than what is generally available to rent. Maybe think about moving to Ecuador. Its super cheap in Cuenca.
Thank you, Fred. Section 8 is a good option if the housing is located in a safe area. Sadly, sometimes the neighborhoods that offer Section 8 are high-crime areas. I'll stay in the U.S. That's where all my family live.
Hello, I am 60 I'll be 61 in a month I put in low cost housing Hud I'm still on the waiting list for a section 8 but I got to move into a a handicapped apartment that was in July I was in a wheelchair accessible housing I pay $600 a month same thing I was paying over in the house but it was on the upstairs and I couldn't make it downstairs at the back up so I hadn't been out of the house for a year. The doctor had told me three years ago that if I got moved to one of these places he'd get me electric wheelchair and I got it last week it's so exciting it's so wonderful and very happy where I live now we won't talk about my crazy neighbors they don't bother me I won't bother them
An option you did not mention is a senior cooperative.They may not be available or affordable in every state but in the upper midwest there are many options. I live in MN amd we have them in many small towns and big cities. I have visited dozens of thes and they were all in good neighborhoods. You should visit the Senior Cooperative Foundation. Those built by Reallife and Gramercy Park are very affordable if you are selling your home. Check out the Housing List on their website. I have a unit in the Realife Coop in Bloomington MN. The drawback is that many have waitng lists 6 mos to 10 yrs depending on type of unit desired and locati9n.
If you do not own your home there are few options. A friend of mine lived in section8 apartment it was torcher for her with crazy neighbors playing rap music all time (she passed). Another lives in a mobile home and they raised the lot rent every year. I’m not on SS but if I were, I’d do Vanlife and travel before I die.
Section 8 apartments are usually the last place anybody wants to live. And the waiting list could be longer than a couple of years. As my lot rent increases every year here in this mobile home park, my intentions are to do van life, too. I just have to pay off my debts first and save for a van/bus/truck/whatever. I'm researching. Maybe one day we'll meet in a caravan!
Why don't any of us consider helping each other out? I'm a former accountant. My mother's illness wiped me out financially (Dallas, TX). I guess everyone thought I was too old ("overqualified") to employ and so I lost my house. I am very clean, quiet, considerate, and easy going. Am I the only one that likes hearing someone else moving around where I'm living? I've moved out a several rooms that made living there unbearable but I've had some good ones too. Children move back in or parents need to be taken care of and I've had to give up my room. I was living with a friend for a couple of years and then she passed away. Yes she was an alcoholic but a nice one and I don't judge. She still worked (was only 55) but the drinking finally did her liver in. Reasonably, her children sold the house and of course, I was out. I think there are a lot of us living alone that hate living alone but our fear of getting stuck with a nightmare keeps us trapped. I went into Senior Home Share and keep sending messages in answer to available rooms but no one answers. To all of you who have a room and want to find a good person like myself - please consider Senior Home Share or other similar sites. And please answer when someone messages you. Even if it's just to say - I have received your message(s) and I will let you know. I wish everyone the best. Take care and may God Bless All of Us in this time of need.
I have lived in my one bedroom, with terrace for 46 years. I have loved my terrace, & still do somewhat,but the insects that fly around it have have made it unbearable @ times. ( I have a plan to get rid of the insects) Utilities are included in my rent. Since I live in NYC. I am lucky to have : buses, cabs @ my disposal. There is a Bus stop in front of my building! There are many seniors, like myself who live in my Community. Others have made me realize I am fortunate to have amenities & to stay put. I realize they are right. I still play lottery, & dream of owning my own home & having $$$ to call on Uber, a good Cab Co.
wow are you a model or actress? You are beautiful. This is great info. I'm also an older retired woman living on SS and Pension. Houses have property taxes/insurance/maintenance. Rents in apartments go up each year. RV'ing is the way to go.
Thank you for the compliment. RV life is my back-up plan if I can't afford to live where I'm currently living anymore. I've been designing one for years now (it has to accommodate all my crafts).
I'm 64, male, USA. I own my home but I like small/tiny home living. So I remodeled my home so I have about 500 sq ft that I live in and the other 1100 sq ft is a wood shop which is a hobby. It's super simple living. My "kitchen" is an induction top which I love way more than a stovetop, and a microwave. My "counter" space is an old butcher block table which I added nice wheels so it's easy to move. I have one cupboard with my dishes. I don't entertain, I'm a dude, so a couple plates, glasses silverware is plenty. I've been living this way for about 15 years, I retired 19 years ago. Now I'm planning on moving to another country but will keep this house probably as a home base. I'm now remodeling the other 1100 sq ft which I can rent out while keeping my 500 sq ft. I live in Phoenix and do love the climate, even the summer. So I'm not sure where I'll actually live. In the video she said she didn't want to share a house with college kids...me either. But living in a college town is an asset if you use the asset. I would look into buying a large house and dividing the living space so you have a private space, your own entrance (corner lots are great for the feel of completely separate homes). Put together a business plan and you can probably get financing and not only have the college kids pay the mortgage but maybe make a profit. Plus appreciation. You can also pool resources with other retired people to buy a house together. There are groups setup for that type of living. I looked into tiny homes...they're not a good deal imo because of the trailer they have to be on. That limits space and adds expense. And yeah, finding a place to set them can be hard. Imo the best "tiny house" option is building a "tiny house" within a standard house and renting the rest of the house. Renting a space for a tiny house or manufactured home puts you right back into renting accept you're even more locked in. In an apartment you can move if there's a problem. Tiny homes and manufactured homes aren't easy to sell or move. Van life could work if you really want to travel. It is NOT cheaper. Do research. There are serious risks. Vans aren't cheap and do break down. Gas is not cheap and you do have to move because few places allow you to stay for long periods. Food costs are higher because you can't buy a lot, no big freezer or fridge so lot's of trips to the store and chances are you're going to be a long way from reasonable stores. Weather...ever sit in a van because it's pouring down rain for 3, 4, 10 days? Try it. Before spending money to try van living go live in your care for a few weeks as a trial run. See how much you spend. Can be hot, can be cold. Biggest issue imo is condensation. When cold outside the inside, with you breathing, will cause condensation and "rain" inside. Mold can form too. It's a huge PITA for people who see it just as a "free" apartment. Condos are a little better because they can appreciate a little. But yeah, lots of fees and if management goes bad you're kind of screwed but most condos I know of are very stable. Another option is moving to another country. I get many people have a list of "wants". lack the resources for the "wants", and instead of considering serious change just sit and complain. No problem, enjoy. But for people willing to consider options and can deal with change, living in another country can be pretty great. Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Columbia, Ecuador, etc.. Rent for a very nice apartment can be in the $200-400 USD range. Like the beach? How about a nice house right on the beach for $800/mo? Don't like a hot climate? No problem many countries near the equator have mountain communities where the temp ranges from about 65-75F everyday. They're called "eternal spring cities". And you can find love there too, especially for men. It is common for men over 65 years old to marry a much younger woman and even start a family. And these can be really great women. They have a very different view of men. Yes, being able to provide is part of why they love older western men but that's only part of it and is true imo in the west too. When I read dating site profiles most women mention looking for a "professional" guy or come right out and say the guy must have this and that. Women in many other countries love white skin. Women in the Philippines buy horrible products to try and whiten their skin. It's a little crazy. They also love western noses. As a compliment they might say "Wow, you have a really big nose!". Yeah weird to us but for many of them that's really attractive. I assume women could find love in another country but that isn't super common. I think for most western women they feel they have to conform to some silly western standard. Kind of a bummer. Many more options than in this video.
Thanks for the additional options! A lot of people don't want to share space with others. They would rather have their own space. Also, some of us have family in our countries of origins, so we want to stay where we are. For me personally, van life would allow me to visit all my kids and grandkids. For now, though, I'll remain in my manufactured home. Thanks again!
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman I do understand people have many, many wants and desires. Then there's what they can afford. I personally think ignoring reality gets people into trouble and being unhappy. Good luck to you.
Thank you for the sharing your experiences. I will be looking for a new home next year, and I plan on it being my last one. So I want to make sure there's no problems like you described. I too can't handle smoking. so I understand that.
Listening to your message because I have a home and we are considering renting it out when we move instead of selling. I live in a nice area in Florida with tree-lined streets and really close to amenities. I know there is a need for good housing for seniors in my area that is affordable. I live in a small community of about 20 homes and 80% of my neighbors are over 50. I would prefer this route because we don't really want to deal with really young people. Saw this ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-DcmhNMV3EwY.html If you have a house you should stay in it if you can. One of my elderly neighbors rents out her guest bedrooms, but make sure you do a background check on them. Her nephew lives in the garage apartment and he is about 6'5" so nobody is going to mess with her but you make not have your own bodyguard. Thanks for the additional information on the problem.
Make sure you run a background check on whoever rents your home. I made the mistake of renting one of my earlier mobile homes to a man who gave me a down payment but never once made an actual payment. I wish you luck with your move, and yes, absolutely run background checks on anybody you're entrusting your home to. Thank you for your comment and your advice.
This is a great video. I'm sure you have helped a lot of people. Thank you! For me, it is a house. I made sure in my late fifties that any house I was thinking of getting was going to "work" in the long run. Make sure the house had a first floor full bath and bedroom if not a one floor living style house like a ranch or some Bungalows. Even a Cape style house can often have a first floor bedroom and a bath with two beds also upstairs. I would make sure there were no step downs like a sunken living room might have. I didn't want to be in my seventies and fall. So I made sure all the floors lined up. No steps. Also, as someone ages, they may need a walker and you need to be able to push it around with out any climbs. You want flat flooring. I also would check the kitchen floor for room for pet dishes to be put in a safe area. I have three dogs and will always have at least one. A yard is important to me for this reason along with the idea of a private space to go out in and sit. To have a garden area with cute animal statues and memorials along with flowers. I am 60+ right now and know a women who is in her 80's across the street from me. She lives in a large Colonial and has a little porch in front. She is losing her eye sight but is doing well staying at home. Healthcare workers come to see her. I have a friend that lives in a nice townhome in a suburb of Boston. She has a little poodle but no yard. She is in her 70's and it is hard for her in bad weather to take her dog out. She regrets not making sure she had a yard area before moving into this place. I don't like Condo's at all. They really are just Apartments with costs. So anyone thinking of a home, just be sure to look at how many stairs to get in the home and out. Then, again inside. Remember the full bath and a bedroom on first floor. Wishing everyone out there all the Best.
Well thought-out plan! A lot of people don't consider everything you've mentioned. When my mom and dad bought their home, they chose a 2nd floor condo. My father became so ill, he couldn't make it up or down the steps and died in 2015. My mom, who was always a feisty little woman, had problems that caused her a lot of pain every time she climbed those stairs. She died in 2019. Maybe you could create a video explaining everything you've talked about here. You could help a lot of people, too. Thank you for your input!
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman I am so sorry about the loss of your father. And your mom having to go through so much pain had to be so hard for her and for you to see. I'm so sorry for your loss. Losing our parents is so hard. I appreciate your kind words to me. I subscribed to your channel right after seeing this video. You did so many a great service. I don't have a channel but have been thinking about doing something. It would be good for me to remind people about how much stairs can ruin our enjoyment in our homes. I will try to get the word out in some form. Thank you again for your help.
Great advice! Very valuable information and things to consider. However, at one time, I was confused about the different types of homes available. Get the facts before making a decision, and educate yourself on the differences between a Mobile/Manufactured Home vs. a Modular Home vs. A Stick-built, aka a traditionally built home. The differences can be very costly and insurmountable depending on your "long-term" needs, wants and financial ability.
Excellent point! Mobile Homes are now called Manufactured Homes, so they really are the same types of structures, usually placed in Manufactured Home "Parks," but also located on an individual owner's land. Modular homes are more like actual homes, but because they are built in factories, they cost less. In my opinion, they are still quite expensive.
I'm living in a small house. I like the location, small yard & sun exposure. It's the cost of maintenance that will determine how long I can live here. I have some expensive repairs to get done this coming summer that will wipe out the savings I'd set aside for them. I'll face that hurdle when I get there.
You might also want to ask around. Neighbors and friends sometimes know people who will work for you without depleting your bank account. Suggestions from friends give you at least a little security in knowing you won't get robbed.
I neglected to mention, I live in a rent stabilized Co-0p.However, I have applied to SCRIE a state program that freezes increases in rent since rents keep climbing. My rent has increased to $ 170 these past 4- 5 years ! Thank GOD ! I can afford the increase & still go on Affordable Bus excursions with several senior clubs in my community.
Thank you for that information. Unfortunately, while Illinois offers rent increase exemptions for seniors in Illinois, mobile home dwellers who pay rent don't count. But I'm very happy for you!
Sadly, I think you're right - apparently "affordable" means something different to those seeking affordable housing and those renting or selling what they term as "affordable" housing.
What is "manufactured housing"? I've never heard of that. Also, even people who own a house and have paid off the mortgage have to pay for utilities, property upkeep, home insurance, property taxes, etc. So not really like paying nothing.
Manufactured housing is the new term for mobile homes, which once were referred to as "trailers." You'll still hear about people living in "trailer parks," but now sellers prefer everyone to call the homes manufactured homes, meaning they were manufactured in a factory with walls and floors intact and shipped to the site to be hooked up to utilities. Unfortunately, nothing is cheap and with a manufactured home, in addition to paying for your home, insurance, and utilities, you also have to pay lot rent if you living in a manufactured home community. If you have your own land, you have to pay taxes. Thank you for your comment.
I saw a video that talked about investors buying up mobile home parks - I don't know about manufactured home parks, but bet they're the same - but investors are buying up these cheap housing options & either raising rents incessantly or dramatically OR just booting everyone out & building something more profitable there. I own my home outright but have grown to hate it because of traffic, noise, horrible neighbors (renters) in the house next door - they think my driveway is their trash can & that they should be able to play their LOUD subwoofer car stereos in the shared driveway for hours daily. I've had to call police & hire an attorney to make an enemy next door. It's miserable. BUT, this video has made an impact. Own my own home outright - $700 annual property taxes now - and keep my art, plants, piano and be grateful that architecturally, this is the home of my dreams plus fenced yard & doggy door for my pup. And deal with the annoyances next door - just part of the cost of living. Much to consider. I'd love to flee this area & get back to city living, but I don't think I can afford it. On the other side of the scales is needing the money out of this house as my savings are rapidly evaporating - like 3-6 months and big costs like replacing my ancient car, home maintenance (I have something scary going on in the basement with my plumbing & within 2 weeks $5,000 for gutter work to get the birds out of the soffits & fascia and on and on with expenses beyond available funds. Love your video. I wish I had a few senior friends to go in together & buy a big house to share. That might solve both money & loneliness issues & if they cooperated on meals, might even have a positive impact on nutrition. Cooking for one, IMHO, can be difficult. Many things I don't buy because I can't use it up or just too many ingredients for just one meal. Greed is killing us. Great video. Thanks.
Thank you for commenting, Keri. Manufactured homes and mobile homes are exactly the same. For some reason, somebody at one time decided to call mobile homes manufactured homes, maybe because it sounds more sophisticated? Modular homes, on the other hand, look exactly like manufactured homes, but they sit on a lot you own rather than in a park that somebody else owns. I saw the same video you mentioned and was horrified! Greed is rampant and greedy people don't really care about who ends up living on the street as long as they can watch their portfolios expand. After reading about your neighbors, I wondered if sound could work the same way as light does. Wouldn't you love to erect a wall of sound reflection between you and them? The fact that renters are notoriously transient might give you hope for a future without them. Have you contacted their landlord? And as far as food is concerned, as a single person I make enough food for several meals. After one night of leftovers, I freeze the rest for another time. Thanks again for watching.
I live in Oregon there are many Seniors now living at the Mission for homeless people , seniors can't afford the rent ,there is a shortage of affordable housing , even for seniors , people with kids living in cars even people working , its sad what's all going on now days , they are talking about increasing wages , and it needs to be done , but then utilities will go up so will rent and food !, I am afraid this will just keep getting worse ,unless federal government does something to stop all the rent increasing and food prices
You are so right. If the minimum wage gets raised, and we can't get off this merry-go-round of higher and higher costs, every business affected by the wage increase will increase the prices of their products/services, and probably not in equal proportion. I see so much greed in those whose mindset is more, more, more while at the same time, for those struggling just to survive, so much suffering. The gap between income and expenses widens and many of us are falling into the abyss. Thank you for your comment.
lucky you, in my area, lot rents in senior mfg parks are $700-$900+ now, and that doesn't include the mortgage on the mfg house you are buying (no rentals I can find). No pools, no community transportation, not sure why the lot rents are so high, they cover almost nothing. Maybe just greed?
I think greed is absolutely the answer. You should watch John Oliver's video on Mobile Homes on his Last Week Tonight RU-vid channel, dated April 8, 2019. People who live in these communities generally can't afford a sticks and bricks home, which is why they move into them, but when the lot rent increases at alarming rates, residents find themselves in a Hotel California situation. They checked in, but they can't afford to stay and they can't afford to leave. Thank you for your comment.
I know this video is 3 years old but it came up so I watched it. I hope your manufactured home situation is working out for you but I wanted to share what I have learned. I've heard about so many situations where people bought and paid off manufactured homes but then the land got sold to landlords or corporations who no longer want to rent at affordable rates. The homes are too expensive to move so people have to just leave them. If I didn't own my home and had to find another place to live, I would either rent in a mobile home park where I could just leave if their rates went up or I would buy land that allows me to put my own manufactured home on it. I know the trick is finding affordable land but at least you own it and people can't kick you off and it will most likely go up in value. of course their a other complexities like electricity and water but lots of people own land and put manufactured homes on it so it's doable. That's frustrating about people smoking out on their balconies. It's a shame because many apartments have low income rates for seniors.
Thank you for your comment. I still live in a manufactured home and the rent has gone up significantly. The problem I'm finding with moving my home is that in the county where I live, and in surrounding counties, I am not allowed to put a mobile home on property that is less than ten acres. Utilities wouldn't be an issue for me, because I would get solar, a generator, and a composting toilet, but I would also have to come up with money to move my home, and the cost for that is exorbitant. I had considered moving back to a retirement community that offers a small percentage of low-income apartments, but I remembered all the issues (smoking being one of them) and decided against it. Here is a video that accurately depicts the plight of manufactured home owners who live in mobile home parks (basically, it's all about greed - Mobile Homes: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO) ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-jCC8fPQOaxU.html
While often the case, finding a home in a safe neighborhood isn't impossible. Many mobile home communities require criminal background checks of their residents. I'm living in one of those places now. Research the neighborhood, talk to prospective neighbors, and check crime rates in the area where you would like to live. Also drive through it to get a feel for your possible future home. If you don't feel safe in your car, you won't feel safe living in that neighborhood. Thank you for leaving a comment and I wish you the best of luck in finding a safe place to live!
You are so right. My lot rent just went up $15 a month. My SS income did not go that high. Don't you sometimes feel as if you're running a marathon and the finish line keeps moving further and further away? No matter how hard we try to keep up, we become exhausted trying. I'll be 70 next month and I'm already planning on moving into a vehicle of some type. I've realized I won't ever reach the finish line when the price of everything continues to rise disproportionate to my income. I wish you well. I hope you can find some way to afford your life. Thank you for commenting.
You don't even look like a senior. Yes, manufactured homes are a great option, you can buy an old one that comes with the land, sewer and electricity and then purchase a new one, manufactured home companies will do all the work along with a good realtor. Thank you for the video!
The thing with mobile home parks and not owning the lot that your home is parked on is that more and more they are selling out to developers, closing down and giving the residents a short period of time to move. Most low-income residents can't afford to have their trailer moved and many trailers are not in any condition to be moved. If you rent-to-buy or buy a financed trailer in a mobile home park, or buy a cheap, used model and move it into the park, make sure that it is new enough, in good enough condition and that you can keep it up to be moved if your park should close. If you don't, you could lose all of your investment and end up homeless. I have watched Chance's Mobile Homes here on YT and those new, small, cottage manufactured homes are just lovely. I'd love to have one of those but the prices, even though under $40-50,000 are not affordable. As I learn about affordable mortgages it is sad to find out that often you can't get financing under $65,000.
The concept of "low income" seems to be arbitrary and I guess, because of the different income levels in various places, that's understandable, but when your income falls below the poverty level for your state, affording anything seems impossible. And you are so right - when your income falls so far below the poverty level you can't get a loan for a supposedly "affordable" home, what options do you have. I sincerely understand why more and more people are choosing to live in their vehicles. I'll probably be joining them soon. Thank you for your comment!
So glad you were fortunate enough to find a place that suits you and your needs, however here in the north east housing prices are astronomical! In the waiting list for affordable apartments that allow you to pay 30% of your income I’m very very long, section 8 is closed in my state due to high volume of applications, and limited amount of apartments. I’ve researched the option of moving out of state, leaving my adult children behind. I have no problem paying 50% of my income for a decent two bedroom apartment with washer and dryer and ample closets face… I don’t think I’m asking for too much, but part of Pennsylvania and Delaware have some apartments that pretty much measure up to what I would not mind paying and so does North Carolina South Carolina and Georgia, and yes Florida as well, however not sure if I wanna move that far away from my roots And we can’t forget the luxury 55 years and older communities that everyone cannot a Ford but would not mind living there. My search continues and I am hopeful that I will happen upon a place that suits my needs☺️
I sincerely hope you find a place that suits your needs as well. Most of my children live in the same state as I do, but one of them lives several hundred miles away, and I really miss seeing her, so I understand your reluctance in leaving your home state. Sadly so many people today are homeless or nearly homeless and finding affordable accommodations is even more difficult than ever. My hope and prayer is that when everyone is vaccinated against Covid, we will all be in a better place. Thank you for your comment.
Please keep in mind that if the land is not yet improved (set up for electricity, sewer, water, etc.), unless you plan to live off-grid, you'll have to add those expenses as well. I wish you luck, Lonnie.
Rent increases are astronomically high lately and not at all in keeping with inflation. People like Bernie Sanders are trying to help the lower and middle class, but greed seems to have more power. It's such a shame, because too many of us are suffering while the extremely wealthy make more money in an hour than a lot of us make in a year.
60 and above premises where no one lives here but people that are 60 and above touch try that out in the country somewhere let's all of us by the property together so not one person owns everything
Hi, nice video and I just subscribed! I see that you might have had breast cancer, my wife was diagnosed in 2005 with TN Breast Cancer and it was tough seeing her go through it. I’m not sure if I can even watch those videos of yours on the topic because it’s so close to home. I like this video because we all need affordable housing especially if we are on a limited income. Can you discuss more about you? What type of employment were you in, and are you currently working? If you are not working and collecting SS, what age do you feel one should apply for those benefits in your opinion? Are you dating or married? Let’s say one lives in an expensive City, should one consider moving to a cheaper place like Arizona? I’m asking these questions to give you some future ideas on some videos that you can make... I know an entire series of videos can be done on just cancer alone, all the best!
I'm so sorry to hear about your wife. I hope she's doing well now. The hospital where I received treatment set me up with SSD. Two years after the day I began receiving SSD, and unbeknown to me, I was automatically put on SSI. I have been receiving Social Security ever since. My employment ranges from working at the University of Chicago making appointments to teaching graphic design to working as a graphic designer to writing. Thanks for asking. Where to live is such a personal issue. The best thing for all of us is to figure out how to live without being too much in debt, whether that means staying where you are or moving someplace cheaper. In Illinois, and perhaps in all of the U.S., the Social Security Administration suggests applying for social security 3 months before your 65th birthday. I think I have about 4 videos on cancer and breast cancer. I'm currently not planning on doing more of those, but never say never, right? Thank you for your comments and for subscribing. I genuinely appreciate your support.
@Rainwood Grace...Have you checked to see if your township offers tax relief program? If not check with your real estate assessment office. I live in Northern Virginia my county has tax relief for ages 65 and over otherwise taxes on my house and 1/3 acre as of 2021 is little over $4,000 yearly. There's not any way my husband and I could pay that amount on social security.
@@rachelc.5463My township or county doesn't offer any tax relief for seniors and I'm 78 now and on Social Security. I have to clean out this big house and move which seems impossible now.
Sorry for the delay in responding. The senior living building I lived in decontaminated our units monthly and we knew, before moving in, that we had to allow management to enter our apartments at least once a month.
I'm sorry I haven't responded, and I'm sorry for your situation. I've already told my kids that I can't afford my home any longer (and I now live in a manufactured home), so I've been looking for RVs, buses, step vans, etc. They're not happy about it, but it's just a fact that when your expenses exceed your income, you have to come up with an alternative. I wish you luck.
I wish I could. Unfortunately, the terms, "affordable housing," for "low-income seniors" mean something entirely different today than they did when I first published this video. For instance, a new apartment complex that represents itself as "affordable" was built near me. I would have to make an additional $300 per month to be able to afford it. BUT I would also have to go without food, electricity, water, and personal expenses, including doctor bills and medications. The mobile home park where I currently live was bought out by a very greedy company that has raised the lot rents $100/month in other parks they have purchased. Rather than build fencing all around the park and installing tennis courts, resident here would probably prefer maintaining our current lot rent. That would be my preference anyway. We're next on the chopping block. Already so many people have either abandoned their homes or moved them somewhere. What kind of housing is left for me and other seniors who make little money? If I do discover a way to update the video, I will. Thank you for the suggestion. Until then, I'm looking at RVs and other vehicles where I might be able to live, because I can find nowhere to move my mobile home due to so many restrictions on placing mobile homes on properties less than 10 acres.
Have two friends with condo units. They have issues. I own my home but since i'm retired and kids are gone I could downsize. 1000 SF would be fine for me with a carport and storage shed.
My mother used to live in a condo and I have a friend who wants to live in one, too. The nice thing about condos is that all of the outside maintenance is handled by the condo association, but sometimes those assessment fees are outrageous! If I had a home, I would keep it so my kids and grandkids could visit and then I would have something for them to sell when I die. Right now I live in a manufactured home and I can already see them saying, "What are we supposed to do with THIS?" Seriously, though, if you can keep your home, why not keep it?
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman The economics would need to work VERY well before i'd pull out of my current home. The upkeep, utilities, and taxes is my issue. I'm getting less able to DIY stuff around here.
@@lakecrab I can't DIY much anymore, either, so I rely on other people. Very likely, I will end up living in some kind of vehicle someday. I hope you're able to keep your home and find people who can help you.
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Good advice if you can find somebody who is compatible, but run a background check on whoever you choose to live with you. I've had problems with a few of them.
I live in a mobile home. I own it. My lot rent is $125.00 per month. My water and lawn care are included. I pay for electric and garbage pickup. I know I am very lucky!
WOW! Maybe we should all live where you live. I thought I was getting a deal with a $295, soon to be $305, lot rent. I also pay for water and sewer. You ARE lucky! Do you live in a manufactured home community or are you renting somebody's land?
Yes, those lot ret increases can be exorbitant. I live in Illinois and I've lived in 3 different manufactured home communities - I live in one now. The first place where I lived raised the lot rent so high - randomly - that I could compare my situation to a Hotel California situation. I couldn't afford to stay, but I couldn't afford to leave. In the second place I lived, I asked how often the lot rent rose and was blatantly lied to. So in this third place, I discovered that the manager was also a tenant and he told me honestly that rent is raised $10 a month every year. Greed is so ugly! When the wealthy take advantage of those of us who cannot afford to live, we understand the extraordinary gap between those who have and those who have not. John Oliver discussed this very issue in his video about Mobile Homes: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-jCC8fPQOaxU.html. Needing to know if we truly can afford where we want to live is why we need to talk to residents before choosing our homes. Thank you for your comment.
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman Yes, Most Landlords Lie! (9 out of 10). That's where talking to at least 6 neighbors or more is the BEST. That's what I do after being lied to so much. That goes for ALL types of landlords, for Apartments, mobile homes, condo's, etc. etc.
Nice vid. What's tricky is that on paper anyway there are some, not a lot of places with heavy subsidies from private grants and or housing authorities. But then there is the wait list and the no longer wait list as its so long you can't even be on it. What seems expensive is a place that has venues for socialization ideally on site but at least nearby. Here you can be a single yet have opportunities anyway for interaction. Finding this in local with good medical care and low to modest cost over say 10 years is hard. I notice small drab rentals that are tax credit places that bill out as 55/62 + with activities (very few though and no staff for them) but these are very few and rent is 85% of the area. Lots of paper work and qualifying for not much benefit. So hard to beat the private paid off house eventhough you have to drive all over for brief socializing, shopping, medical. So maybe I'll keep the money in the bank and spring for the last 5-10 years of 'life' (when still able to get around)
If you can keep your money in the bank and plan ahead, you stand a better chance of finding affordable housing when you get older. Paperwork can be overwhelming and often you have to fill out the same stack of documents year after year, but if you can afford your home, filling out all that paperwork was worthwhile and necessary. I wish you well. Thank you for your comment!
You are such an attractive lady! You wear your age, whatever it is, very well:) I live in TX and am 67 and single and looking for a 55 and over but the wait lists are ridiculously long. Another option that I am seriously considering is moving to Mexico. The apartments there are sooo cheap and also very beautiful and the people are so warm and welcoming and it's safe.
If I didn't have so many family members in Illinois, I would probably move there, too. I hope you find something that brings you joy. I'm 69 - will be 70 in July. Thank you so much for your comment!
@@SDiane-lf5hh there are videos on youtube of Americans living in Mexico medical is cheaper as well and medications and they do say the locations the ones I seen are more mid east to southern Mexico, its not even safe along the boarder , Texas boarder is very unsafe, on youtube search bar put in retirement living in Mexico or Americans moving to Mexico different videos will show up to watch of Americans living in Mexico
I own my home in a great community. I have a sob neighbor that smokes and plays music very loud next to me. We share a connecting wall. Hoa won’t help and I can’t afford to move. Life a b 😂
I'm so sorry for you. Your HOA is obviously not doing its job. I would be tempted to spray perfume or bug spray into the vents. Also, have you tried sleeping with a fan on? It might help drown out the noise.
So move. I know, you don't want to move either. Well, that's what living is about. There are ways to reduce the noise and how in the world are you smelling his smoke? Sounds like you're looking for problems. Seems like complaining is the most popular hobby.
@@MrWaterbugdesign As an asthmatic with other respiratory problems, I can attest to the fact that people with lung problems are highly sensitive to smoke. That connecting wall might share a vent or the smoke filters into the hallway. I lived in a retirement community where residents were not allowed to smoke indoors, but did anyway and it affected me greatly.
I've lived in apartments before. There's nothing worse that tenants who don't monitor their laundry. Yes - people do remove a person's laundry from a joint used washer and dryer. I think they're well within their right(s). Be responsible!
@ Stephen Smith, she "went back later thinking the laundry might be done." That doesn't strike me as someone who left her laundry unattended for a long period of time. It sounded to me like she anticipated it being done at a certain time.
I did sign a lease, but I was told that, because I received subsidized housing, my rent was based on government standards for my income. It never made any sense to me. Why bother signing a lease if management can arbitrarily raise it? That was just another reason for me to leave that place.
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman Income based rent is real... They base your rent on your income. If your income goes up a little or however much then they raise the rent to the percentage of your income that is commensurate to your income increase. They will always come for their share.
@@pmmacctg Thank you for your comment. Their "share" is often arbitrarily greed-driven. So many people today are being forced out of their homes, apartments, condos, etc., because the increases are substantially higher than many can afford and they are not in alignment with the cost of living.
I subscribed immediately! Thank you for this video. I would love to have a tiny house but couldn't have one in Philly. I'm trying to find out in PA if a senior citizen who has been renting an apartment for over 10 yrs in philadelphia but needs to move into a senior residence that's based on income level (but the seniors is on a waiting list for this apartment in NJ) what is the law for PA that s senior citizen can break the year lease without penalties from landlord? Just give them several months notice? I know a law exists like this in NJ because a family member has used it with no issues. I need to find PA'S law asap. Thanks.
Thank you for the video and I'm so sorry that person threw your laundry on the floor that's just absolutely terrible. I have MCS, a chemical injury. I cannot do shared washer dryers. Because so many people use scented lab made laundry detergents like Tide, dryer sheets. I also cannot live in apartments that have cheap vinyl flooring and off-gassing carpets. is there a place you know of that has sustainable/Eco apartments, condos? Thank you.
I'm sorry. I don't. But, like you, I have allergies to so many things that living near others is not an option. Living in a mobile home was my only way to avoid exposing myself to allergens. I couldn't afford a house, so this works for me. As far as apartment living is concerned, because of my respiratory issues, I find that even though clearly written in the lease are rules tenants are supposed to follow, many of them don't. Passing an apartment where people smoke like chimneys, and the smoke travels through the ventilation system into my apartment, can cause my lungs distress and put me in the hospital, which is why I choose to live in my own space so I can avoid as many allergens as possible. Eco-friendly apartments or condos are a great idea, but you have to trust that tenants will follow the rules. You could make a mobile home eco-friendly. I know a lot of people are afraid to live in mobile homes, but other than living in my car or being able to afford a house, this option works for me. I wish you luck in finding a home that keeps you healthy.
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman thank you so much for your reply. Yes it's difficult having chemical injury. Allergy to so many things. Trying to figure out if I can stay here at this apartment or not? I don't know if a mobile home would work for me with off gassing?.. I'm still trying to figure this stuff out. Also, I have a section 8 housing voucher. I asked a couple of manufactured home places if they take them and they were all to own. Can I ask for your located have you seen very many eco-friendly type apartments? I'm in Washington state outside Seattle
@@dianeibsen5994 I was told that the formaldehyde in new mobile homes dissipates in a couple of weeks. But if you're leery of moving into one, try RU-vid by putting, "eco-friendly dwellings in Washington state" in the search box. A lot of results appear. Also, new tiny houses should be eco-friendly. And if you could find a tiny house community, your cost might be low. I hope that helps.
I stumbled across your video. I am seriously looking at buying a small mobile home in a 55 plus community where you own the lot and HOA and taxes are low. Very low.
I wish you luck. I don't know where you live, but in my area putting a mobile home on land requires that I own between 5-10 acres. Even with a permit, which is required, I still need the approval of the township where I would put my home. Funny thing is, the township where I wanted to put my home doesn't have an answer for me. I can't help but wonder that if I went ahead with putting a home there, AFTER I moved in, somebody would know the answer and require me to move my home. I wish you luck in finding answers. Thank you for your comment. By the way, every mobile home I've lived in has never had an HOA. Around here, only condos and homes have them.
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman Thank you for replying. I'm in Texas. There are some 55 plus parks in deep south Texas where you can buy the home and the lot for less than 50, 000. The HOA fees run about 300 a year. I'm also looking in Florida and Arizona. 🙂
@@David-vh8ij I'm in Arizona now, but I've been looking in Texas and Florida, too. I would like to be close to a lake or ocean without the hassle of tourism. It's hard to find a park with garage or double carport options either (and my husband really would like that). I'll let you know what I find.
@@Warmfireandtea I've seen the roof torn off a three-story brick apartment building located on a busy street during a tornado and I saw twin tornados down the street from where I lived in a mobile home. I don't think it matters where you live. Any place can be scary. But it doesn't have to be. Thank you for your comments.
@@JoyfulEclecticWoman That's one thing vans/RVs have going for them. They can always drive _away_ from such storms. This is also how a lot of people saved their skins from the CA fires.
@@celestepalm6949 RV life is looking more and more appealing to me all the time. I have been looking about ten years for a home on wheels I can afford. Maybe someday... (thank you for your comment).
Thank you for sharing. You gave some great information. A lot of times people don't give real information, they give "have truths". I will be 54 this year and I'm looking forward to 55. I researching info now. Thank you.
Thank you for your input. I have lived in a Federally subsidized housing for 11 yrs. But I am just so unhappy. But it is an unreal option anymore. What are we seniors to do.
Believe me, I empathize. Even now, with the price of everything rising exponentially, including my lot rent, I am once again considering moving into a vehicle of some kind. Still, we need to seek joy in our lives, and in my case that means finding a way to make money. I'm trying desperately to sell items I've made. I get lots of compliments on them, but nobody buys them. I, however, am not giving up! And I hope you don't, either. If you believe in the power of prayer, try praying for what you want. If you don't believe in prayer, consider repeating affirmations to bring some positive energy into your life. Just don't give up. Believe that you deserve happiness and call it forth for yourself. Thank you so much for your comment. I hope your situation changes for, not the better, but the best!
I am 65 and need to find cheap housing. Apartments are very high here. Even senior apartments are high for the low square footage they offer. Mobile home parks are great but the lot prices are over $500. Like you said buy a house. Even houses are expensive. My area doesn't allow tiny houses. There is one year round rv park but the lot prices there are as much as a house. I am really frustrated.
I've seen greedy landlords charge exorbitant lot rents. We have to research, research, research. You might have to move to a town further away from where you are living. I'm 80 miles south of Chicago, living in a college town, so rents differ from one extreme to another depending on where you live. Just make sure you check crime rates wherever you want to live. I once chose to live in a town that was safe, but one area of it had a high crime rate and people broke into my apartment - while I was in it with my oldest daughter. Be safe! I hope you find something you can afford.
Lot rent can work for many situations. Here, they normally are not the best communities, run down, crime etc. Cheap lot rent here starts around $400, better ones about $600+. Main issue I have though is for lower income folks who might run into financial issues and find themselves, even briefly, struggling to make lot rent. If they get kicked out they likely can't afford to move the home, if they had the money it takes to move then they would have money to pay rent.
That's why we need to research the areas where we want to live. Some manufactured home community owners are so greedy, it seems they want to make living in your home impossible. John Oliver's Mobile Home video talks about the greed and corruption of many owners. It's interesting, disturbing, and true: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-jCC8fPQOaxU.html
Thank you so much for this video. The information you provided and so many replies makes my situation a little bit better because of many realistic and practical options presented. Thank you again and lots of luck to all of us in our search and continued journey to happiness. Happy New Year, Jan 2022
Thank you so much! We are NYC Seniors and looking for a quiet peaceful place to relocate that is affordable! We like the idea of rent to own. Can you please send us some great locations or communities to look into? We can't find any Realtors that deal with rent to own or owner finance. Thank you so much!
If you are a member of Facebook, you could try Facebook Marketplace. Craigslist sometimes offers rent-to-own homes also. Or you could Google "rent to own homes" in the area in which you'd like to live. Good luck! I hope you find something you like! Thank you for your comment.
There is a huge difference between "affordable" senior housing and actual low income senior housing, which is hard to find and typically has a long wait list -- need to plan ahead a couple years. Check the income restrictions first.
"Affordable" is subjective. "Low income" is based on government standards that seem arbitrary, at least to me, because when you receive only $1,000 a month, you can barely afford any place to live. And if $1,000 is considered low income, imagine receiving $800 a month. Are your choices limited, or do you even have a choice? Finding a place that rents based on income is probably the way to go, but yes, waiting lists are very long. Surprisingly, or not so surprisingly, openings occur often, though, due to seniors moving from retirement homes to nursing homes, moving in with family members, or dying, a 2-year wait might actually turn out to be only 6 months. I agree that we should all plan ahead. Sometimes, though, unforeseen events occur to alter even the best plans. However, researching our options gives us some comfort in knowing we tried. Thank you for commenting.
Im not yet retired, but getting there and am in an extremely expensive area, only way im able to do it, my son, and 2 friends of his and I. Found a job that is the best pay I've ever had, only thing, long term it isn't going to work, but at least my employer has several places to work in several states, So i'll look into that at some point.
How nice that you have help! I know that any one of my kids would help me, too. My parents helped when they were still alive. I don't know how far away from retirement you are, but I wish you well no matter what you choose.
You settled on a used manufactured home but did not say anything about buying the land under the home. This is a huge problem because you are at the mercy of the land owner.
You're right! I could be. For now, all is fine. The manager of the park where I live is also a resident and when I asked how much the lot rent went up, he told me truthfully that it went up $10 a month once a year. I would love to have my own land, but in the area where I live, I would have to own 5 or 10 acres (I can't remember which) in order to put a manufactured home on it. Someday maybe...
l live in lreland, where things work a bit differently, but l was greatly helped by what you had to say. I was also soooooo totally struck by how beautiful you are. You would give ANY Hollywood filmstar (then & now) a run for their money...♡ I have subscribed to your channel and am looking forward to sharing a little time with you. Eileen...Dublin ♡
For years I have been in poverty, my mother tells me every day, my son, when are we going to get out of this misery, but I don't have the answer pris I took the canoe for an immigrant 2faith and I had to die, please help me make my dream come true and finance my transport project in my country please💕
