Siena Lakes Priority List Members Plan with Confidence

January 29, 2025

Betty Ann and John Fazio are living the dream in one of the largest, most sought-after residences at Siena Lakes, the Erickson Senior Living community in Naples, Fla.

In fact, they credit their Siena Lakes Priority List membership with helping them secure their popular floor plan.

"If we weren't on the Priority List, we probably wouldn't have even seen this unit," says John. "It would have been gone before we ever had a chance."

But the Fazios' story doesn't begin in Florida. It starts in 2018, when they were living in New Jersey.

Making their own decision

In 2018, Betty Ann's mom passed away, and the time leading up to her passing had been difficult for the couple, as they were traveling back and forth to her house.

"We decided that we would not do this to our two sons," recalls Betty Ann. The couple wanted to plan ahead and be in control of their senior living decision, so they started researching continuing care retirement communities, where they could receive additional care, if or when needed in the future. 

They first looked at Cedar Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Pompton Plains, N.J. While they weren't ready to make the move at that time, Betty Ann says, "We liked the Erickson community and the way it was set up."

In 2019, when their older son was planning to move to North Carolina, the couple joined the Priority List at Windsor Run, another Erickson Senior Living community in Matthews, N.C.

"We did it sight unseen because we really liked Erickson," says Betty Ann. About six months later, their son changed his mind.

Priority List transfer

By then, the Fazios were living in a house in Naples, so they began researching communities around the area before deciding on Siena Lakes. 

After transferring their Priority List membership and date over to Siena Lakes--quite easily, the couple notes--they chose the Tramonto floor plan.

"The Tramonto has unique features like a large master bedroom and sitting room as well as a large custom master closet," says Sales Director Suzy McAllister. "The kitchen has new, high-end appliances, and the counters have a waterfall edge."

The couple loves the size and style of their new home. "We have two bedrooms, two full baths, a beautiful and spacious office for John, a kitchen with a huge peninsula, a laundry room, and two bonus storage rooms," says Betty Ann. 

"We also have two lanais, and we have windows in every room except the bathrooms, where the lighting is perfect."

Living the life

Now, the Fazios are taking advantage of the amenities and activities just steps from their front door. 

Nearly every day John works out in the fitness center. Twice a week he plays cards "with the guys." He is also on the finance committee of the Resident Advisory Council (RAC) and attends lots of lectures on campus given by professors and instructors with the Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU).

Betty Ann is just as active. She walks daily, either around campus or on a treadmill in the fitness center. She also enjoys attending the FGCU presentations and is a member of the RAC's dining committee. In addition, she's in a book club and started a regular Hand and Foot card game with other residents.

"We're fully engaged because of our participation and our interest in Siena Lakes," explains Betty Ann. "There's so much to do that I need to buy another calendar because the one I have is too small!"

Planning ahead

Whether you just started your research or are already envisioning living at Siena Lakes, joining the Priority List is the way to go.

"The first step in creating a plan for your future is to join the Priority List," says McAllister. "It's a comprehensive program that helps prospective residents make the move to an Erickson Senior Living community on their terms."

As it did for the Fazios, being a member could help you secure your ideal home, as you get right of first refusal on your choice of available floor plans.

In addition, you will get the latest news about everything going on at Siena Lakes delivered right to your mailbox, as well as invitations to special events exclusive to Priority List members. You also receive realty and moving assistance from a planning and moving consultant.

"We're at home!" says Betty Ann, glad that their research and planning on the Priority List paid off. 

Invest in your future self at Siena Lakes. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free residences, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!

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