Las Ventanas' referral program leads to Scandinavian vacation

Betty Krolak is the first winner of Las Ventanas' Referral Rewards Program, and will soon collect her prize -- a trip to Scandinavia. Krolak's recommendations to her friends to consider the retirement lifestyle offered at Las Ventanas provided her the opportunity to win a $7,500 international adventure.

"I've traveled through almost every country in Europe, as well as Asia, Australia and New Zealand, but I've never been to Scandinavia," said Krolak, one of the life care community's charter residents. "Since my mother was from Norway, I've always wanted to visit this area of Europe. Winning the trip was the perfect opportunity. And when I return, I'll be anxiously awaiting my move into my new home."

Las Ventanas is under construction at Town Center Drive and West Charleston Boulevard in Summerlin. It is a development of Westport Senior Living, Greystone Communities of Dallas, and American Baptist Homes of the West.

Krolak currently resides in Sun City Summerlin.

"I've always had a nice home and have tremendously enjoyed living in a community like Sun City the past few years," she said. "But I'm growing tired of all the responsibilities associated with homeownership, the maintenance and the upkeep. I wish I could move in to Las Ventanas today, but I know it will be worth the wait."

Krolak first learned about the community from a couple who had already become charter residents.

"When they told me about Las Ventanas, I said, `I like the sound of that,' and made an appointment to learn more. I was intrigued by the concept of living in an environment that encouraged my active lifestyle, while essentially removing the anxiety of the unknown," she said.

"Because Las Ventanas is a life care community offering not only independent living in my own private apartment, but assisted living and skilled nursing care, any trepidation associated with my future health care needs has been removed."

Krolak also attended a seminar that addressed the community's Masterpiece Living program, which is based on a 10-year study on aging.

"Las Ventanas' commitment to a healthy lifestyle fit right into my life-long approach to staying physically and mentally robust," she said, adding that she also views it as a good investment.

"I have the comfort of knowing that my life's savings is protected and 95 percent of my deposit will be returned to my estate. Las Ventanas is a form of estate preservation."

In addition, charter residents who reserve their guaranteed occupancy during construction will receive an 8 percent interest credit on their initial 10 percent deposit. Residents who choose to make an additional 10 percent deposit receive a 6 percent interest credit on the added 10 percent deposit. All monies are held in escrow with Nevada Title. Interest credits will be applied to a resident's monthly service fees following move-in.

Krolak chose a one-bedroom unit with a den as her future home.

"I'll be downsizing a bit, but I'm so busy living my life that a little downsizing is a good thing."

Las Ventanas will feature 198 independent living apartments, six 1,500-square-foot villas, 60 private assisted living suites and 60 private accommodations for skilled nursing care. The 26,000-square-foot common areas will include an elegant dining area, private dining rooms, a lounge, cyber café, library, exercise room, wellness center, an enclosed pool, hair salon and barbershop, business center and performing arts center.

Amenities and services will include an all-electric kitchen, washer and dryer, optional gas fireplace, 24-hour emergency call system and security, storage area, paid utilities (except telephone), weekly housekeeping and linen service, and basic cable television.

The information center is located in Howard Hughes Plaza at 10000 W. Charleston Blvd. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment.

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