Ashby Ponds: A smart financial decision

“I am absolutely convinced that moving to Ashby Ponds was the best value for our investment," says Charles Duggan, a retired accountant who serves as chair of the Resident Advisory Council. “This is clearly the best financial decision we’ve made, and it's turned out to be the best social decision we’ve made too.”

Charles and his wife Eileen knew that they were interested in a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in the Virginia/Maryland area, so they visited a number of options before they chose Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Living-managed community in Ashburn.

“We came to the conclusion that Ashby Ponds was the best value of all that we explored,” Charles says. “I’m convinced that the Erickson Living model is the best available from all those we’ve seen.”

With one of the highest occupancy rates for continuing care communities in the nation, an industry-leading 90% refundable entrance deposit, as outlined in the Residence and Care Agreement, and a comprehensive monthly service package, Ashby Ponds provides community members with the financial strength and security that are the cornerstone of Erickson Living.

For nearly 40 years, residents of Erickson Living-managed communities like those at Ashby Ponds have balanced their budgets with confidence, knowing with certainty, that no matter what the financial future holds, their investment is safe and their future is secure. In fact, many community members find that they enjoy an unbeatable lifestyle while spending either the same or less than they did in their previous house.

Researching options

To ensure they were making the best decision, the Duggans visited 10 different communities before narrowing their list down to their top choices.

“We did a hard analysis,” says Charles. “We put together a financial spreadsheet comparing the size of the apartment home, the amount, the refund percentage, the first and second person fees, and the monthly totals. It became clear that Ashby Ponds was a financial bargain.”

The couple placed high value on the community’s entrance deposit, which reserves a resident’s apartment home and is based on the home’s individual features.

Ashby Ponds' monthly service pack-age also helps community members by enabling them to plan for their daily expenses with confidence. The monthly service package covers the costs of all utilities except phone, as well as home and seasonal maintenance such as snow removal and furnace heat pump inspections and conditioning. All major repairs, 24-hour security, one meal a day in the community’s restaurants, and cable television are also included.

“Since our move five years ago, I’ve gone back and looked at the spreadsheet we created,” says Charles. “Even now, many of Ashby Ponds’ fees are lower than competitor’s fees were five years ago.”

Taking full advantage

In addition to providing a financially secure investment, Ashby Ponds provides numerous opportunities for activities and socializing. Community members enjoy access to a wide range of unbeatable amenities and services right outside their front door, including a state-of-the-art fitness center with pool, medical center, restaurants, professional theater, class-rooms, a beauty salon, and bank. There are also more than 200 resident-run clubs and activities providing a wealth of opportunities to meet like-minded friends.

“Moving to Ashby Ponds gave us the opportunity to start a new life, to make new friends, and try new things,” says Eileen. “There are so many activities. There is a drama club, which allows us the ability to continue our love of theater; opportunities to sing; book clubs; fitness activities; and so much more. Ashby Ponds offers all the activities that are mentioned when you read articles on how to stay active and healthy and enjoy a productive life after retirement.”

Charles agrees. “Our life is more active than it was before,” he says. “I’m also glad we moved when we were younger and not in need of the many services available to help us. But we know these services are there, and we’ve removed a large burden from our children.”

First things first

Thanks to Erickson Living’s strong financial record and the peace of mind that comes with a financially sound investment, the Ashby Ponds sales office is busy each day meeting with people interested in a future at the sought-after community.

“Just as not everyone has the same tastes, not everyone has the same budget,” notes Holly Henderson, director of sales. “I believe that one of the many reasons Ashby Ponds continues to grow is due to our commitment to providing the highest standard of services and a wide variety of financial options.”

Holly encourages anyone wanting to learn more about the financial options available at Ashby Ponds to schedule a visit. “Our sales team is committed to helping you make a decision that is right for you,” she says. “There is never any pressure–just a terrific opportunity to see what Ashby Ponds has to offer.”

To find out more about the financial benefits of moving to Ashby Ponds, visit AshbyPonds.com/Pricing or call 1-800-516 -0328.

Written by Kelly Shue

About Ashby Ponds: Ashby Ponds, one of 20 continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living®, is situated on a scenic 132-acre campus in Ashburn, Virginia. The not-for-profit community of more than 1,650 residents and 550 employees is governed by its own board of directors, affiliated with National Senior Campuses, Inc., who provide independent financial and operational oversight of Ashby Ponds. Additional information can be found at AshbyPonds.com.