Why is a guy 55 with no intentions of marrying or "settling down" creepy to use your term?
I was annoyed by that sentence too, but I agreed with the last part — at least being honest. What's funny is that a percentage of women are definitely interested in someone who is not interested in settling down, and a further percentage who will attempt to change their minds. When I lived in Austin, I represented myself honestly as someone who was still trying to work out some relationship issues, and just couldn't see myself in a long-term relationship. In spite of that, and a ridiculously expanded waistline (I am vulnerable to Southern foods, like Kryptonite for Superman) I seldom wanted for intimate female company, much of which was (in my opinion) well beyond my league. I wasn't buying gifts, although I was paying for some dinners, which was frankly my pleasure.
There's just no need to misrepresent yourself to get laid, though I will say, it's more tempting in California. Ugh. This place is shallow AF.