Exploring a Life Plan Community is an exciting step toward planning your next chapter. Whether you’re just getting started or already researching and visiting senior living communities, it’s only natural to have questions when making such an important decision.
You’re not alone. Many prospective residents come to us with questions, and one of the most common topics is waitlists. You may be wondering:
- If a community doesn’t have a long waitlist, is it still desirable?
- What happens if I’m not ready to move when my name comes up?
- How long will the wait really be?
Understanding the answers can help you move forward with confidence. At John Knox Village of Central Florida, we’re here to help by clearing up a few misconceptions about waitlists so you can make an informed choice about your future.
Myth #1: A long waitlist means a more desirable community.
Fact: A long waitlist usually reflects a community’s inventory—not necessarily its desirability.
Some communities have long waitlists simply because they have fewer residences, are located in areas with a larger population of older adults, or only offer a limited number of the most popular floor plans. Others, like John Knox Village, work hard to ensure those who are ready to move sooner don’t have to wait as long. Here, we prioritize individuals planning to move within the next six to 12 months, allowing us to keep our waitlist focused.
By maintaining a shorter, more manageable waitlist, we can make the path to residency more accessible and less stressful. In other words, a shorter waitlist can actually be a sign of thoughtful planning—not lower demand.
Myth #2: Once I’m on the waitlist, I can’t change my mind.
Fact: At John Knox Village, the waitlist process is flexible and designed around your timeline.
If your name comes up and a residence becomes available, but you’re not quite ready to move, our team will sit down with you to talk through your plans and help you determine next steps. In many cases, you may choose to defer and remain on the list.
While we understand everyone’s timeline is different and we’re happy to offer flexibility, the waitlist is not intended for repeated, long-term deferrals over many years. If it becomes clear that your move is still far into the future, you may be moved back on the list so that the process stays fair—and the wait is manageable—for everyone.
Myth #3: Wait times are the same regardless of what type of residence I want.
Fact: Wait times may vary based on the type of residence you’re looking for.
While most communities can’t promise a specific wait time, here is a general overview of how timing typically works:
- Smaller or more common residences tend to become available more frequently, often resulting in shorter wait times.
- Larger or specialty floor plans may have longer waits, sometimes several months or more.
- Unique or limited-availability layouts are often less predictable.
Instead of focusing on an exact timeline—which is impossible for any community to guarantee—John Knox Village encourages you to think in terms of readiness.
If you’re considering a move within the next six to 12 months, joining our waitlist now will give you the best chance of getting the residence you prefer.
Myth #4: I’m too young to think about a waitlist.
Fact: One thing residents tell us most often is this: “I wish I had made the move earlier.” Not because they felt rushed—but because they realized that by moving to our community at a younger age, they could enjoy an amenity-rich and maintenance-free lifestyle—with everything they want to do and nothing they have to do.
That doesn’t mean everyone should join a waitlist years in advance. But it does mean that starting the conversation earlier can help you better understand your options, your timing, and what feels right for your next chapter.
This approach keeps the process realistic, transparent, and supportive—while helping you make the most of what’s ahead.
Thinking about a future at John Knox Village? Why wait?
If you’re considering a move within the next year—or simply exploring your options—we’d be happy to discuss whether joining the Priority List at our Orange City senior living community is the right option for you. As a Priority List member, you can:
- Stay informed about openings.
- Learn about floor plans as they become available.
- Receive invitations to waitlist-only events.
- Secure your future choices with confidence.
Call 386-775-3840 to learn more or join our Priority List today.