8 Purchases You’ll Probably Regret If You’re Retired

Boat

Often a dream retirement purchase, but high costs and maintenance can lead to regret; Denny Artache advises caution, questioning if infrequent use justifies the expense.

Resort Living

Initially appealing for its amenities and activities, but many retirees find the novelty wears off and miss the fulfilling aspects of their former home life, warns Manske.

Recreational Vehicle

Popular for retirement travel, but high purchase and maintenance costs suggest renting an RV might be a more practical option, as pointed out by Artache.

Dream House

Building a dream home can be financially risky and lead to disappointment or stress due to unexpected expenses and reduced income, notes Manske.

Giving to Adult Children

Generosity towards children, such as paying off tuition or providing home down payments, can jeopardize retirees' financial stability and lead to family strife.

Time-share

Attractive for guaranteed vacation spots, but ongoing costs like maintenance fees, utilities, and taxes often make them a regrettable investment, according to Manske.

Fancy Cars

Luxury vehicles, often purchased in retirement, depreciate quickly and entail high costs for fuel, insurance, and maintenance, making them a financial burden, warns Kevin Chancellor.

Pricey Musical Instruments

Nostalgic purchases like expensive instruments often lead to regret as retirees realize their abilities have diminished and the camaraderie of playing in a band cannot be recaptured.