Latest news with #55plus
Associated Press
11-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Del Webb Breaks Ground On Lost Pines, The Company's First New Austin-Area 55+ Community In 30+ Years
Anticipated to open in early 2026, Del Webb Lost Pines will feature over 500 total residences and resort-style amenities in the historical town of Bastrop, Texas, a 30-minute drive from Austin BASTROP, TX / ACCESS Newswire / July 11, 2025 / Del Webb, the nation's leading builder of active adult communities for those 55 and older, broke ground yesterday on Del Webb Lost Pines, the builder's first 55+ community to open in the Austin area in over 30 years. Located in the historic town of Bastrop, Texas and within The Colony, the area's premier master-planned community, Del Webb Lost Pines will feature modern, resort-style amenities and activities tailored to its residents' diverse interests. It has been designed in response to the evolving tastes and desires of today's 55+ homebuyers, who are seeking an active and engaged lifestyle that places priority on wellness, health, and friendship. With Texas topping the list of a recent study as the number one state for retirees, the timing is ideal for the development of this new, contemporary community. The groundbreaking marks the start of the first of two phases of construction for Del Webb Lost Pines, which will include over 260 residences. Upon full buildout, 500+ residences will be available across more than 323 acres. Home sales and a Grand Opening are expected in Q1 2026. Del Webb Lost Pines is just a short drive from Austin and is surrounded by the natural beauty of Texas Hill Country and adjacent to the Colorado River. The community takes its name from the Lost Pines Forest, a stand of pine trees near Bastrop. 'Given the growth of Austin and the rapidly expanding 55+ demographic, we're excited to break ground on this new community and showcase the Del Webb lifestyle to the great town of Bastrop,' said Pablo Rivas, Division President of PulteGroup Central Texas. 'It's been decades since a new Del Webb community has opened in the Austin area, and Del Webb Lost Pines will fill the demand with its beautiful, consumer-inspired home designs and upscale amenities.' Del Webb Lost Pines will feature three home series designed to enhance active adult living, perfect for hosting family and entertaining. Whether downsizing or upsizing, prospective homebuyers can choose from several one-story homes with open designs, spacious kitchens, and energy-efficient construction. Del Webb Lost Pines redefines 55+ living with its modern assortment of planned amenities. At the heart of the community, a state-of-the-art amenity center will serve as the social hub. Expected to be completed Q3 of 2026, the amenity center will offer residents and their guests year-round activities inside the expansive clubhouse, including a fitness center, aerobics classes, multi-purpose hobby rooms, golf simulator, and more. Outside will feature a resort-style pool, bocce and pickleball courts, and miles of walking trails. A full-time Lifestyle Director will plan and oversee all amenities and events, with plenty of opportunities to connect with friends and neighbors. The groundbreaking ceremony held on July 10th brought together Del Webb Lost Pines's visionaries alongside Bastrop City and County officials who commended the project as a welcome addition to The Colony neighborhood and the larger Bastrop community. Notable attendees included: Pablo Rivas, Division President of PulteGroup Central Texas; Bryan Beil, Vice President of Land Acquisitions at PulteGroup Central Texas; and Ashley Ellis, Vice President of Sales at PulteGroup Central Texas. Interested homebuyers are encouraged to visit the Del Webb Lost Pines community website at to join the VIP interest list and learn about upcoming milestones, including community development updates, special events, promotions, and more. Special VIP and events and tours of model homes are expected to start by late 2025. About Del Webb Del Webb is a national brand of PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM). Del Webb is the pioneer in active adult communities and America's leading builder of new homes designed for pre-retirement and retirees. Del Webb builds consumer inspired homes and communities for active adults ages 55+ who want to continue to explore, grow and learn, socially, physically and intellectually as they look forward to retirement. For more information on Del Webb, visit About PulteGroup PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM), based in Atlanta, Georgia, is one of America's largest homebuilding companies with operations in more than 45 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes, Del Webb, DiVosta Homes, American West and John Wieland Homes and Neighborhoods, the company is one of the industry's most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup's purpose is building incredible places where people can live their dreams. For more information about PulteGroup, Inc. and PulteGroup brands, go to and Follow PulteGroup, Inc. on X: @PulteGroupNews. Contact Eric Podolsky NewGround PR & Media 617.694.6411 / [email protected] SOURCE: Del Webb - Lost Pines press release
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
4 Outdated Retirement Planning Rules To Ditch, According to a Personal Finance Expert
Most retirement planning advice seems to follow a similar formula: start saving as early as you can, leave the workforce at 65, and spend the rest of your retirement days playing golf or vacationing in the Bahamas. But personal finance journalist and author Chris Farrell believes this formula is outdated and that we should rethink what retirement looks like. In a recent interview on 'Your Retirement Planning Simplified,' Farrell, the author of 'Purpose and a Paycheck: Finding Meaning, Money, and Happiness in the Second Half of Life,' shared several retirement planning rules that no longer make sense. Read Next: Check Out: Here are the outdated retirement beliefs he believes can be left behind. Also see 35 retirement planning mistakes you're wasting money on. 'If you mention retirement, it's immediately assumed that means not working,' Farrell said. But for many people, retirement is actually more of a transition to a different type of work. More and more older adults are pursuing part-time work, consulting or even launching businesses, even though they've technically retired. Farrell mentioned in the interview that about a quarter of all new businesses in recent years have been started by people ages 55 to 64. Additionally, according to T. Rowe Price, 57% of retirees want to continue working in some way. Farrell himself (now 71) is still writing and working, which makes him the perfect example of how retirement can look different from how it used to. Explore More: According to Farrell, the idea that productivity and innovation peak in your 30s or 40s is not true, explaining that older adults can be creative too. He believes that with decades of experience, people who are nearing retirement age or have already retired can often bring fresh perspective to companies, especially in knowledge-based industries. Technology has also lowered the barriers to starting a business or working remotely. You don't need to commute or maintain a 9-to-5 schedule to stay active and earn income. In other words, even if you experience mobility issues in your golden years, you can still make money online or without having to stick to a rigid work schedule. Of course, saving for retirement is important. But Farrell points out that many Americans simply haven't had the opportunity or resources to build large nest eggs through no fault of their own. Life is expensive and can throw curveballs that completely derail your financial plans. In fact, according to a recent SoFi survey of 500 adults aged 18 or over, only 7% have more than $500,000 saved for retirement, while most respondents reported planning to retire after 60. So for many Americans, it makes sense to continue working after retirement, even if it's just on a part-time basis. If you're in this situation, Farrell said delaying your Social Security, if possible can also make an 'enormous difference' in your benefits. Unfortunately, age discrimination still exists in the workplace, but Farrell believes it's not as prevalent anymore. He said that with labor markets tightening, many companies are now starting to realize the value of experience. Many are hiring retirees back as consultants or part-time contributors and giving them flexible hours and remote work options. Some organizations are even building alumni networks to stay connected with former employees who may want to return in a different capacity. Farrell's main message in this interview is that you don't have to follow outdated retirement planning rules that don't work for you. If you want to start a business or continue working part time at a coffee shop after 65, do it. Follow your own path. He also encouraged anyone nearing retirement to ask deeper questions about what gives them purpose, who they want their community to be when they're not seeing co-workers every day and more. Talk to your network, test ideas and remember that your retirement doesn't have to look like everyone else's. More From GOBankingRates 3 Luxury SUVs That Will Have Massive Price Drops in Summer 2025 Mark Cuban Says Trump's Executive Order To Lower Medication Costs Has a 'Real Shot' -- Here's Why Warren Buffett: 10 Things Poor People Waste Money On This article originally appeared on 4 Outdated Retirement Planning Rules To Ditch, According to a Personal Finance Expert Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
05-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
7 critical estate planning mistakes to avoid if you're in a new relationship, according to a financial planner
Finding love again should be joyful, not a legal nightmare waiting to happen. Whether you're starting over after divorce or the loss of a partner, failing to update your estate planning and financial documents could turn your romantic second act into a family financial disaster. According to the National Institute on Ageing and RBC Royal Trust, more than 25 per cent of Canadians over the age of 55 lack a will — despite having the most to lose. For those entering new relationships, many also assume their previous estate planning will protect their new partner, but this assumption can be catastrophically wrong. To help seniors navigate these challenges, Yahoo Canada consulted Janet Gray, an advice-only financial planner with Money Coaches Canada, who revealed the biggest mistakes people make when love finds them again. Past relationship trauma often prevents the honest financial discussions that estate planning requires. Many seniors don't want to appear overly-concerned with finances — and don't want to focus on money talk with potential partners. "Not everybody wants to jump in and say, 'Hey, I make this much. How much do you make?'" Gray explained. She warned that "cautious communication" is important. You can share too much too early, but you also can't build a future without honest discussions. Gray suggested starting with conversations about financial values and goals before diving into specific numbers. This approach can allow couples to gauge compatibility on money matters without the pressure of sharing exact income figures or net worth. Many seniors assume they have ample time to organize their documents, but health crises can emerge suddenly and leave them unable to make important decisions. "One of the biggest mistakes is waiting too long," Gray said. "You kind of procrastinate, procrastinate, procrastinate, and now you've gotten sick. You no longer have the legal capacity to make your will." Gray strongly advised starting to update official documents before entering a new relationship. She often sees clients with outdated beneficiary designations on RRSPs, life insurance or pension plans that still name their former spouse. These designations override what's written in your will, so updating them is important. Blended family estate planning involves complex tax, legal and family issues. Balancing children from previous relationships with a new spouse's needs can overwhelm even the most financially savvy individuals. "One of the biggest mistakes is waiting too long. You kind of procrastinate, procrastinate, procrastinate, and now you've gotten sick. You no longer have the legal capacity to make your will."Janet Gray, financial planner "Everyone needs professional help," Gray stated firmly. "This is not something people should try to do on their own." She recommended consulting an experienced estate lawyer who specializes in blended family planning, rather than relying on well-meaning neighbours or general accountants. For particularly complex situations, you may also need a specialized tax advisor or certified financial planner. Gray said many people don't know what they want their estate planning to accomplish when entering a new relationship. Without clear objectives, it's impossible to create effective legal documents that serve everyone's needs. "You can't create a plan if you don't know what you're trying to achieve," Gray noted. Before meeting with professionals, couples should tackle some difficult questions together: Do you want to leave money to your children? How will you provide for your new partner? What happens if one of you needs long-term care? Before any estate planning discussions, understanding your complete financial picture is essential. Gray said many people focus on obvious assets while missing significant holdings that could change everything. "Financial awareness means understanding your complete financial picture," she explained. "Do you have a pension? Where are your RRSPs? What does your money look like?" Gray recommended creating a comprehensive list of all assets and debts, including investments, life insurance, employee benefits and potential inheritance. That way, nothing will slip through the cracks when planning. Assumptions about family loyalty can lead to devastating consequences. Some seniors assume their new partner will look after their kids, or that stepchildren will respect handshake agreements about inheritance. "We all think, 'If something happens to me, I know they'll look after my kids,'" Gray said. But this assumption is "too arbitrary." She noted she's seen cases where families "implode" because estate planning was left to chance. Gray strongly recommended prenups or domestic agreements for blended families to establish clear expectations. Perhaps the most dangerous mistake is failing to understand what happens if you take no action. The legal system has default rules that vary dramatically depending on your relationship status. "There's different defaults for marriage versus common law," Gray warned. Protect your assets and get it in Gray She cited cases where common law partners of 30 years received nothing after their partner's death because the house went to the deceased's children. Property doesn't automatically transfer to common-law partners, which makes it even more integral to ensure your estate planning is set up in the exact way you want it to be. Estate planning for new relationships isn't just about protecting assets — it's about protecting the people you love. While having difficult conversations about money and estate planning isn't romantic, it's essential to preventing family conflicts and ensuring your wishes are honoured. "Protect your assets and get it in writing," Gray advised. Work with professionals to create clear, legally binding documents that reflect your goals and protect everyone involved. Don't leave your family's future to chance or assumptions about loyalty. "Day one of living together could be your last day," Gray reminded.
The Sun
06-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Can you pay back equity release?
WITH equity release, you are not required to make regular repayments. Instead, the amount borrowed, plus any accrued interest, is repaid when you die or move into long-term care. But is there a way you can pay back equity release early? 3 The most common form of equity release is a lifetime mortgage which is a loan secured against your property. Your lender will determine how much you can borrow based on the value of your home among other factors such as age, whether you're a joint or single applicant, and what you require the money for. This type of lending is only available to homeowners from the age of 55, and it's often used as a financing option in retirement. Your money can then be given in one lump sum or smaller amounts over time, known as drawdown, - but regardless of your choice, it's tax-free. Once you've repaid any existing outstanding mortgage, which is a condition of equity release, the money is yours to enjoy spending. If you decide to take out a lifetime mortgage, you'll be given the option to pay back the interest and in some cases part of the loan, but this is subject to certain limits and early repayment charges may apply above a set value. This means you can choose not to make payments if you wish and, unlike a traditional loan secured against the property, your home won't be repossessed. While these traits make it a viable form of borrowing for some homeowners, there are a few things to consider. Mainly, if you decide not to make repayments the interest you owe will compound. The other form of equity release is a home reversion plan, which involves selling part of your home in return for a lump sum or series of payments. You can continue living in your home, typically rent-free, until you die or move into long-term care. At this point, the property is sold and the proceeds from the sale are used to repay the plan provider for their share. Any remaining proceeds from the sale, if applicable, are distributed as a part of your estate. Unlike lifetime mortgages, home reversion plans do not accrue interest. However, the plan provider won't make a full-market offer for the percentage of your home that they buy. Both a lifetime mortgage and home reversion plan will reduce the value of your estate and impact funding long-term care. How can you pay back a lifetime mortgage? 3 Calculate how much you could unlock You can start making repayments on your lifetime mortgage arrangement once it begins. However, how much you can repay without incurring a penalty depends on your agreement and lender. If your main goal is to keep your loan as cheap as possible, then these are your options: Making repayments While you have the flexibility to make repayments at your own pace, it's important to keep in mind that this may come with some added costs. If you choose to not make interest repayments, that debt will compound, meaning that interest will be applied to the interest and the amount outstanding will grow more quickly. So, if you want to prevent the roll-up of interest, you may decide to repay the interest before it compounds. In instances where you can't, even repaying some of the money that month can make a difference. Overpay your loan If you find yourself with a surplus of cash, there are plans that may allow you to make overpayments on your lifetime mortgage. Reducing the amount outstanding will reduce the interest that accrues but make sure you know the terms of your plan as lifetime mortgage providers typically limit the amount you can pay before they begin charging early repayment fees. All new plans which meet the Equity Release Council standards must allow penalty free payments, subject to lending criteria. To protect the interests of equity release borrowers, this industry body sets an additional set of rules all providers who are members must adhere to. For example, this includes the no-negative equity guarantee - which means that your estate will never owe more than your property is worth when it is sold. It's important to note that plans from providers who are not part of the Equity Release Council do not have these requirements. Repay the entire loan If you're looking to exit from your equity release agreement in its entirety, then some providers allow you to repay your loan before you die or move into long-term care. But, this usually comes with an early repayment charge which is set out in your agreement. Early repayment charges are set differently depending on your lender and could include: Fixed charge - Where your lender states exactly how much the penalty will be for exiting the agreement. While your charges won't increase, it could lessen if it's based on a sliding scale. Often lenders reduce their fixed charges over time. So the longer you've had equity release, the less you need to pay in exit charges. Variable early repayment charge - Where your exit charges fluctuate. In this instance, these early repayment charges will typically be linked to the price of UK government bonds. Some lenders calculate your early repayment charges on the original capital borrowed, while others base it on your remaining balance. Dangers of equity release EQUITY release can be a good way to unlock cash in retirement - but there are some dangers to consider, according to The Sun's Tara Evans. Interest rates on lifetime mortgages are around 5.5%, with some topping 8%. This means they can be more expensive than a traditional mortgage and you should always consider downsizing first. You could end up owing more than you borrowed, although it will never be more than the value of your home. Using equity release to take cash from your home will reduce the assets you have to pass on to loved ones when you die. It is a long-term commitment and you may be charged an early redemption fee that can be as high as 25% if you want to pay it off. Be aware that equity release could affect or stop your benefits. Always seek advice from a qualified equity release adviser. Will I face early repayment charges? You can expect to face early repayment charges if you want to overpay more than your equity release provider allows or if you wish to pay off the loan altogether. However, exit fees can be hefty. It could cost thousands of pounds in fees to exit your agreement, and for some, it may be cheaper to keep servicing their interest repayments. So if you're looking to end your agreement, it's best to get in touch with a financial adviser to evaluate your options. Can you get equity release with no early repayment charges? 3 Calculate how much you could unlock Of course, there are some instances where you don't need to pay an early repayment charge. These include: Moving home All plans that meet the standards of the Equity Release Council give you the right to move home, but it does come with a caveat. Your lender must be willing to accept your new home as security for your loan based on certain criteria such as property type, condition and value. As with any move, you can expect valuation and legal fees to apply and if your new property is of lower value, you might need to repay a portion of the mortgage to maintain the lender's security. Downsizing In the instance where you move to a smaller home that's less valuable, you'll be downsizing. Equity release lenders treat downsizing differently to moving home. That's because if the new property is worth less, then they could receive a shortfall from the agreement. In these situations you're allowed to pay off some of the loan without facing an early repayment charge if your arrangement includes a downsizing protection clause. If not, then check with your lender to understand what will be payable – or seek the advice of a financial advisor to see what options are available. If your spouse dies or moves into long-term care Also known as a 'compassionate window' or 'significant life event exception', some equity release providers enable a clause called the 'compassionate repayment feature'. If you have a joint lifetime mortgage, this feature allows you to repay the loan penalty-free if your spouse or civil partner moves into long-term care or dies. This typically applies for up to three years following the significant life event. Unlike the rules set out by the Equity Release Council, this isn't something all lenders need to adhere to - so it's worth checking if your agreement has this feature in place. As advice is required before proceeding with equity release, Age Partnership can help you find out more and if it could be right for your circumstances. Through their service, initial advice is provided for free and without obligation. Only if your case completes would an advice fee of £1,895 be payable. Other lender and solicitor fees may apply. Age Partnership is a trading name of Age Partnership Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct registered number 425432. Company registered in England and Wales No. 5265969. VAT registration number 162 9355 92. Registered address, 2200 Century Way, Thorpe Park, Leeds, LS15 8ZB.
Japan Times
17-05-2025
- Health
- Japan Times
FDA clears first blood test to diagnose Alzheimer's disease
U.S. regulators have approved the first blood test to help diagnose Alzheimer's disease, potentially making it easier to find and treat patients with the mind-robbing disease that affects nearly 7 million Americans. The test made by Fujirebio Diagnostics, a unit of Japan's H.U. Group Holdings, was cleared for people 55 years and older who exhibit signs and symptoms of the disease, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said in a statement. It is designed for the early detection of amyloid, a protein that can build up in the brain and is a hallmark of Alzheimer's, the most common form of dementia in the elderly. The development and approval of blood tests that can spot which patients are likely to have toxic amyloid in their brains has been viewed as a critical step toward making drugs to treat the condition more widely accessible. While the test is approved for people who are already exhibiting signs of cognitive impairment, studies show amyloid begins accumulating in the brains of some patients years before symptoms begin.
