Notes from the retirement co-living situation that will never happen
Two beers in, it was starting to sound great. Friends living together in a semi-shared space as we age. No HOAs, no rules, no management company. Shared and private spaces. Quiet and joyful noise. Everyone contributes something. Privacy is the default, but regular group meals and outings for those inclined. Bulk buying, carpools, enough discussion of expectations that people get pretty much the life they signed up for, but no one policing trivial infractions. A garden, fire pit, crafting area, maybe a home brewing setup in a corner of the garage.
Then came the what ifs. Someone gets sick, their family or financial situation changes. Stuff breaks. What about pets, guests? Use of common spaces? Making sure everyone pays and does their share? And who decides what their share is?
And suddenly we were creating an HOA. Crap.