I have been asked if there is a blog or a forum of somewhere to check out various retirement communities before a couple goes and moves from one state to another. I know there are several web sites to check out nursing homes, but not independent communities. Does anyone know how to search for a retirement community and get a rating of some sort?

Sorry none that I know of but you need to narrow your search first. Roughly where do you want to live? Once you have the geographics pinned down then searchthe yellow pages to build a list of what's there. Now you can compare apples to apples better. Beware of Home Owner Assiciation Covenants, they are legal documents that are difficult to read and limit your property rights.

I am inquiring on behalf of a couple who is relocating from Va to Chicago. They will be looking at retirement communities where there is a monthly rent, as opposed to a buy in.
Most people do their research on the internet, and that is why they were hoping to find some websites which offered ratings similar to travel sites.

Thanks

Try doing some research on Del Webb's community near Hamshire, Il. Active Adult Communities - Active Adult Community - Adult Retirement Communities (http://www.delwebb.com/) I have some friends at SunCity and they are very happy. You friends are in for an unpleaseant surprise with our weather. Webb is a buy in and I have not heard of any rental retirement places but will keep my ears open. Try this http://www.retirenet.com/location/overview/65-illinois/4-rental-communities/

Could the Better Business Bureau or local Chamber of Commerce be helpful