
Answers to Your Questions About Retirement Living Options
How does the Independence Hill community differ from other options for retirement living?
There are several ways in which Independence Hill is unique. We have three different communities designed for different needs within our larger campus. Only one of them requires a buy-in. Having three options allows our community members to remain within their “neighborhood” and move to appropriate housing as long as they do not require nursing care.
We also know that Independence Hill is a unique environment. Located in a highly desirable location in north San Antonio, Independence Hill is a beautifully landscaped, resort-like community that is served by people who truly love to work here. We have staff members who have been part of our team for a decade or more. They get to know the residents and the residents get to know them. This family-like atmosphere makes Independence Hill Retirement Resort a great place to work and to live.
How does Independence Village differ from other 55+ communities?
There are many 55+ communities across the country. Many of them offer community amenities like swimming pools, golf, and tennis or pickleball courts. They may also offer services like housekeeping and yard maintenance services. Independence Hill offers those amenities and services, too. But many 55+ communities do not offer on-site dining options, group activities, and personal services like Independence Hill. Our independent living community offers more options for housing and other services than are available in many 55+ communities.
Can I bring my car? How about my pet?
Yes, there is parking available for your car. All of the Independence Village homes include two-car garages. Apartment-style homes at Independence Hill and the assisted living center also include parking spaces. However, we also offer transportation services that can reduce the amount of driving needed.
Pets are permitted in our homes and select apartments. In fact, even have a dog park for your furry friends. Small pets only may be permitted in the apartments. Ask your senior living advisor when you tour our community.
Can I bring my own furniture and other furnishings?
Yes. The homes and apartments at Independence Hill Retirement Resort Community do not come furnished. You may decorate them as you wish so they truly feel like home.
I will be moving to San Antonio from out of state. Will I be able to meet new people and make friends at Independence Hill?
This is one of the best things about our community. There are myriad opportunities for you to meet people who share your interests through our planned activities and events. You will find many among us who have lived a military lifestyle. Because they have moved frequently, they are especially good at reaching out to new residents and making them feel at home.
Can friends and family members outside the community visit me at Independence Hill? Can they stay overnight?
You can have visitors at any time. They can join you for meals and for any events and activities offered. We often plan holiday-related events that children and grandchildren will enjoy. If you want to host a gathering for friends and family, there is a private dining room that is available by reservation. If you do not have space for an overnight guest in your home, there are guest suites available—also by reservation.
What is the difference between independent living and assisted living at Independence Hill?
The independent living option is designed to make things easier for those who could safely continue to live in their own home.
Assisted living is for those who need a little more care. These residents receive help with bathing and dressing, medication management and more.
Meals, housekeeping, linen service, and transportation are included with both options. If you aren’t sure whether independent or assisted living is right for you, our senior living advisors can help.
What are the primary advantages of an independent living community vs. other options?
Generally, our residents choose to move to Independence Hill for three reasons:
- Fewer responsibilities and unexpected expenses. Moving to Independence Hill is a good way to downsize and enjoy more time for the things you love to do. Your living expenses are also easier to predict.
- Increased safety. Independence Hill is a gated community, and residents enjoy both physical safety and protection for their possessions. Assisted living apartments include medical emergency response pull cords and there is always a licensed nurse on site or on call. Independence Hill is also located just blocks from both North Central Baptist Hospital and Methodist Hospital Stone Oak. The homes and apartments are designed to accommodate the physical limitations of seniors and to provide a comfortable, safe haven.
- Opportunities for social interaction. Every day there are many activities and events that are available on our campus. You will find people that share your interests. And you need never eat alone.
Can I afford to live at Independence Hill?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. However, Independence Hill Retirement Resort represents an all-inclusive lifestyle that comes with almost all-inclusive costs. We encourage you to review your monthly household expenses. You may find that living at Independence Hill is surprisingly affordable when you consider your existing cost of utilities, home services, groceries, meals in restaurants, gasoline, insurance, property tax, etc.
How will I know when it is time to move into a community like Independence Hill Retirement Resort?
The only hard-and-fast answer to that is that you must be 55+. Independence Hill is largely an independent living community. But we offer an assisted living option with greater levels of assistance when people need it.
Many members of the community have told us that they decided to move to Independence Hill when they became frustrated with the work and expense involved in maintaining their home. They also recognized that living independently in their current home was likely to become more difficult as they grew older. Some report that the decision to move came about when they began to feel isolated in their home neighborhood. They were less comfortable behind the wheel of a car, and they found themselves longing for more human interaction and more activity. There are also Independence Hill residents who joined our community because their homes could not accommodate physical limitatio
What is the difference between a rental community and a buy-in community? Is Independence Hill Retirement Resort a rental or buy-in community?
Independence Hill offers options for either buy-in or rental. Independence Village is a buy-in community. When you move to one of these homes, you make an up-front financial investment in the home. You also pay a monthly fee for the community services that you receive. Consult your Independence Hill senior advisor for guidance on the options for buy-in.
The Independence Hill cottages and apartments, as well as the assisted living apartments, are rentals. There is no up-front investment outside of a one-time community fee. You pay a monthly rental for the apartment or cottage that you choose. The cost of the apartments and cottages includes a package of services and amenities.
You may have other questions that are not covered here. Feel free to contact our team of senior advisors and schedule a tour of our community. Experience the level of activity within the community. Sample the food available in our dining rooms. We are here to help you make the best choice for your retirement lifestyle, so bring your questions.

Independence Village Homes

Independence Hill Apartments
