Although Mary Ann Ingram loved her house, she wasn't a fan of the increasing upkeep.
"Expenses needed to maintain my old house were starting to creep up," she recalls. "I had to pay for a new hot water tank, a new garage door opener, and some updated electrical work."
Remaining in her house another few years would've led to another astronomical expense--replacing the roof. So, she set out to find a continuing care retirement community that would not only eliminate the hassle of home maintenance but provide an amazing value.
Fox Run, the Erickson Senior Living community in Novi, Mich., quickly rose to the top of her list!
'Right at home'
"When I toured one of Fox Run's one-bedroom apartment homes, I felt right at home. It provided all the space I needed," she recalls.
Mary Ann chose the Gibson, a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment home with a den. She appreciates the contemporary finishes, including white cabinets, granite countertops, neutral carpeting in the living room and bedroom, and luxury vinyl plank flooring.
Best of all, Mary Ann doesn't have to worry about maintenance and repairs.
"On top of not having to stress over upkeep, I also have access to all the amenities and activities on campus, including bocce courts and a medical center," she says. "When I was researching Fox Run, everything added up to a great value I couldn't pass up!"
Predictable costs
Fox Run's pricing structure is made up of two attractive components: a 90% refundable entrance deposit* and a monthly service package.
The 90% refundable entrance deposit, which is used to secure your desired apartment home, goes
back to you or your beneficiaries, if or when you leave the community.
"Although I don't plan on going anywhere," says Mary Ann, "this was a draw for me and my two sons, Alan and Mark."
The monthly service package covers the costs of all utilities, except phone and Wi-Fi; a meal plan at on-site restaurants; maintenance, including repair and replacement of appliances; access to amenities; regularly scheduled transportation; and more.
Now, when a light bulb burns out or a faucet starts to leak, Mary Ann just calls General Services.
"I no longer have to worry about unexpected expenses, which has really eased my anxiety," she says. "With those things off my plate, I can enjoy fun activities like day trips and off-campus get-togethers with friends who live nearby. I can also go on extended vacations, knowing that everything is secure and cared for while I'm away."
"The predictability of having one comprehensive monthly payment is very compelling to a lot of residents," says Finance Director Greg Meehan. "And when you add in the lifestyle and services provided, Fox Run offers an incredible financial value."
Amenities galore
A January 2024 article in U.S. News and World Report cited not only the major financial benefits of moving to a continuing care retirement community but the intangible advantages of experiencing a sense of community and having an array of amenities.
Just outside Mary Ann's front door is a fitness center, hair salon and barber shop, performing arts theater, woodshop, and dozens of clubs and activities to participate in.
Since settling into her apartment home, Mary Ann has volunteered her time as secretary of the entertainment committee, played team trivia and bocce, and attended monthly meetings of the astronomy, birders, and history clubs. She also enjoys attending Fox Run's free movies and the "Movies That Make You Think" program.
In addition, Mary Ann takes advantage of several information-sharing programs between residents and staff, including Dialogue With Dining, News and Views, and Coffee With Ashley (Executive Director Ashley Bulat).
Meehan notes that these amenities and activities continue to evolve over time to meet the needs of current and future residents, adding to the community's value.
"Since 2017, we have either renovated or built every inch of our campus to be brand-new," he says. "We recently completed a major $4 million renovation of our second clubhouse and a $1 million medical center renovation."
Peace of mind
For Mary Ann, Fox Run's refreshed, convenient medical center--staffed with full-time professionals offering same-day appointments--and access to multiple levels of care provides unbeatable peace of mind.
"I know that I'm safe and secure here, no matter what the future holds," she says. "And Alan and Mark love that I'm surrounded by a great support system! Instead of sitting by myself for meals or trying to keep myself busy, I have friends to meet up with for dinner and an array of activities to explore."
She adds, "Fox Run truly feels like home!"
Invest in your future self at Fox Run. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free apartment homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!
*As per the Residence and Care Agreement.