Discover the Joys of Retiring in Winston-Salem, Bermuda Run, and Clemmons
News outlets from Forbes to U.S. News consistently highlight Winston-Salem and surrounding areas like Bermuda Run and Clemmons as premier destinations for those looking to retire in North Carolina. Recently, Realtor.com even crowned Bermuda Run as the top retirement mecca nationwide for 2023. If you’re contemplating retiring to Winston-Salem or its charming neighbors, this guide will navigate you through the do’s and don’ts, ensuring a smooth transition to your new life in this beautiful region.
DO Explore the Diversity of Winston-Salem and Its Surroundings
Exploring the varied neighborhoods is crucial when considering retiring to Winston-Salem, Bermuda Run, or Clemmons. From the urban flair of Ardmore and West End to the more expansive feel of Buena Vista, each area offers a unique lifestyle. Sherwood Forest epitomizes suburban living, but even here, distinct flavors await. Ponder your retirement activities, whether hiking, shopping, or enjoying a car-free life. As your guide to retiring in Winston-Salem and its environs, I’m here to help you find the perfect neighborhood for your lifestyle.
DON’T Overlook Housing Styles When Retiring to Winston-Salem
While retiring in Winston-Salem, Bermuda Run, or Clemmons, you might notice the scarcity of condos and townhomes compared to places like Florida. (Note: I’m not saying we have none, but we don’t have much compared to places like Florida.) The focus here is more on single-family homes, often with yards. There’s also a growing trend of patio homes, appealing to those retiring in Winston-Salem or nearby, with many offering HOA-managed outside maintenance.
DO Factor in Healthcare Accessibility in Your Retirement Plans
Retiring to Winston Salem, Bermuda Run, or Clemmons means accessing top-notch healthcare. Winston-Salem hospital facilities include Novant Health and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (how’s that for a name?). In Bermuda Run, the Davie Medical Center, affiliated with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, offers state-of-the-art care. Familiarize yourself with these facilities to ensure they’re within a comfortable distance from your new home. I’d be happy to talk them over with you.
DON’T Rely Solely on National Real Estate Trends
Real estate is a local affair. While national trends provide a broad picture, they don’t reflect the specifics of retiring in Winston-Salem, Bermuda Run, or Clemmons.
Winston-Salem’s housing market often defies national trends, with local neighborhoods experiencing varying degrees of value fluctuation. For instance, in 2023, the U.S. housing market lost an average of $3,260 in equity per home, but in Winston-Salem, the average home gained $6,165. Having a trusted local expert by your side is vital for accurate, localized real estate advice.
DO Understand North Carolina’s Tax Benefits
North Carolina’s retirement-friendly tax system is a significant draw for those looking to retire to Winston-Salem, Bermuda Run, or Clemmons. Here are some things you should know about taxes in North Carolina:
- We have no state estate tax.
- We have no state taxes on Social Security income and certain pensions.
- State income tax (flat tax) has decreased over the last few years.
Combining these perks with much lower-than-normal property taxes makes living in North Carolina an attractive and affordable retirement option.
DON’T Assume It’s Always Warm in Winston-Salem
Despite its southern location, Winston-Salem experiences four seasons, including chilly winters. Some of my clients from Florida and Arizona are a little shocked by the cold weather, even though they’re happy to escape the heat. Ensure your wardrobe is sufficient for all seasons when retiring to Winston Salem, Bermuda Run, or Clemmons.
Please get in touch with me if you plan to retire to Winston Salem, Bermuda Run, Clemmons, or anywhere else in North Carolina and need guidance. You can reach me by calling or texting (336) 837-5924 or emailing jeff@govalentino.com.
