Business
As a trusted expert, Sales Counselor Molly Fricker can offer valuable insights about Charlestown
This post was contributed by a community member.
When it comes to researching a retirement community, there's nothing quite like seeing it for yourself. That's why Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., offers countless ways to do just that.
From personal appointments to informational events and group tours, Charlestown invites prospective residents to explore the community at their own pace.
See for yourself
Learning more about Charlestown is as easy as requesting a free brochure online or scheduling an appointment with a sales team member, like Sales Counselor Molly Fricker.
As a trusted expert, Fricker can offer valuable insights into the community's pricing structure, provide tours of specific floor plans, and answer questions.
"If you're looking to have your questions and unique needs addressed one-on-one, I recommend scheduling an appointment," explains Fricker. "Our goal is to meet prospective residents where they are and provide all the information they need to help them determine if Charlestown is the right community for them."
If you're interested in exploring the community in a group setting, consider signing up for one of Charlestown's welcome luncheons. Guests have the opportunity to tour amenities and enjoy a delicious meal, prepared by the community's culinary professionals, with current residents.
First steps
For couple Bob Jacobs and Barbara Ryan, attending Charlestown's on-campus events--including luncheons, expos, and educational seminars--played a crucial role in their decision to join the community.
Conducting their due diligence, they researched several senior living communities near their condo in Silver Spring, Md.
"When we started researching communities, we attended several events at Charlestown where we toured apartments," recalls Bob. "Once, we had breakfast with Charlestown's [executive] staff. And Barbara, on her own, attended a financial seminar."
One aspect that set Charlestown apart from the other communities they visited was the campus itself. "It reminded us both of a college campus. We instantly felt like we were in a very special place," explains Bob.
Excited about the vibrant lifestyle and amenity-rich campus, Bob and Barbara joined Charlestown's Priority List--to save their spot in line for a residence--and met with Fricker to put the wheels in motion for a future move.
Live the Life
To test-drive the community's lifestyle before moving in, Bob and Barbara took advantage of the Live the Life program--another exclusive Priority List perk.
Members stay overnight in a furnished guest suite, utilize amenities, join club meetings, dine at on-campus restaurants, and chat with current residents.
"We stayed on campus for two nights and took advantage of as many things as we could," recalls Bob. "We explored the campus, the nature trail, and the lake. We used the fitness center, and Barbara used the pool."
He continues, "We also enjoyed dinner with residents who were very gracious and answered all of our questions. In fact, since moving here, we have become friends!"
Fricker encourages Priority List members to sign up for a Live the Life stay, as it's the best way to become familiar with Charlestown.
"It's an unbeatable firsthand experience," she says. "Even if you've toured the campus before, this is a wonderful opportunity. Every time you visit, you learn something new. You may discover a different amenity, tour another floor plan, or meet new people. The more you visit, the more comfortable you feel."
'Took our time'
Bob and Barbara, soon celebrating their first year at Charlestown, love their one-bedroom residence and all the amenities that are just steps from their front door.
Barbara joined a book club and Bob plays pickleball, softball, and pinochle. Together, they attend on-site concerts at the Our Lady of the Angels chapel and see plays and movies in the theater. They also enjoy hosting their grandchildren for pool days and overnight stays.
Reflecting on their journey to Charlestown, Bob and Barbara are glad they had so many ways to learn more about the community and helpful experts who patiently guided them each step of the way.
"We were very pleased with the entire process," says Bob. "We never felt like we were being pushed or pressured. We went at our own pace and took our time."
Request more information today to learn more about all the different ways you can explore the vibrant lifestyle at Charlestown.
By Danielle Rexrode
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