Tallgrass Creek Offers Impressive Amenities, Predictable Finances, and Lasting Value

For Don and Sue Martineau, moving to Tallgrass Creek, an Erickson Senior Living community in Overland Park, Kans., was not just about convenience and amenities. It was, as Don says, "a great financial decision."

"We looked at several communities around Kansas City. Some were more expensive, some less," he recalls. "But none offered everything Tallgrass Creek does for the price. The level of service, the amenities--it's all here."

With maintenance-free residences, inclusive monthly expenses, and convenient access to an array of amenities, residents spend less time stressing over unexpected repairs and finances and more time pursuing their hobbies and interests.

Now, as residents at Tallgrass Creek, Don and Sue are making the most of their newfound free time and enjoying retirement.

Crunching the numbers

Don, who worked for Dun & Bradstreet for 31 years, was interested in the numbers during their research process. He was intrigued by Tallgrass Creek's pricing structure, which is made up of two components--a monthly service package and a 90% refundable entrance fee.*

The monthly service package bundles the costs of utilities, home maintenance and repair, a meal plan at on-site restaurants, regularly scheduled transportation, professional landscaping, and more into one bill.

"We were very comfortable in our previous home, but the maintenance had become too much," says Don. "I set up a spreadsheet to compare costs. When I looked at everything--property taxes, insurance, utilities, and unexpected costs like tree removal or appliance replacement--I realized Tallgrass Creek offered not just value, but predictability."

He continues, "Now, we pay a single monthly fee and don't have to worry about surprise expenses. For us, the savings came to between $20,000 and $25,000 a year!"

Long-term stability

Behind the scenes, Erickson Senior Living ensures that affordability and quality remain hand in hand, helping create long-term stability for residents.

"Given the size of the organization, we are able to have tremendous buying power for items such as food, utilities, and residence refurbishment supplies," says Associate Executive Director Lynn Schaffer. "This allows for better pricing for residents."

She continues, "Our well-thought-out budget also allows us to refresh common spaces and enhance amenities, ensuring residents reap the best value--now and in the future."

Peace of mind

Residents' financial stability is further strengthened by Tallgrass Creek's industry-leading, 90% refundable entrance fee--the heart of the community's pricing structure. The entrance fee, collected as part of the residency process, will go back to you or your beneficiaries if or when you leave the community.

"In our case, that was really helpful," Don says. "I know that 90% will go to our trust and end up with our kids. That kind of security made the decision easy."

The community's Home for Life promise provides additional peace of mind.

No one ever expects to run out of money, but sometimes unforeseen issues arise that can quickly deplete your hard-earned savings and put you at risk. At Tallgrass Creek, we've planned for life's uncertainties and are prepared to assist eligible residents who outlive their resources. No one will be asked to leave the community because of a genuine inability to pay.

"It's not just about value for the money," Don notes. "It's about the confidence that we've purchased the right to live here for the rest of our lives, regardless of what happens with our health. Those are huge benefits."

A vibrant lifestyle

Without the stress and hassle of home maintenance, residents like Don and Sue have more time to participate in activities--especially since access to the community's amenities is also included in the monthly service package.

"We can travel, pursue hobbies, and enjoy time with friends without worrying about what might go wrong with our home," says Don. "The six restaurants here are a huge plus. We're having dinner with different couples every night. The social aspect of this community is great."

Don also found a new passion for pickleball. "I had played tennis, but never pickleball, until I moved here. I loved it so much that I started an instructional league for beginners," he says. "Tallgrass Creek provided the equipment and the court. Now, we have regular games, and I even helped organize our third annual employee-resident pickleball tournament. It's a lot of fun!"

The right move

After nearly two years at Tallgrass Creek, the Martineaus know they made the right decision.

"Between the clubs, fitness centers, and social events, there's something for everyone," says Don. "It really feels like home. This really is a great place to live."

To learn more about the ways you can explore senior living, request more information today.

*As per the Residence and Care Agreement.

By Julia Collins