From the category archives:

Top 10 Lists

Active adult communities come in many sizes and styles. Smaller, more intimate communities certainly have their own picturesque charm, yet the grandeur of some of the larger developments makes quite an impression with lush appointments and sought-after resort-style amenities. Here is a look at some of our favorite luxurious amenity centers.

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Active adult communities come in a wide range of sizes and locations. By choosing a large community, residents can often enjoy a wider range of amenities and social clubs, as well as a diverse mix of home sizes and styles. Homebuyers who hope to live in a sprawling, extra-large community have several West Coast options.

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55Places’ Top 55 Active Adult Communities for 2012

by Bill Ness on February 27, 2012

Active adult communities are certainly popular with older homebuyers, but which communities have actually been getting the most buzz? Here at 55Places.com, there are some communities which readers inquire about more often than others. By analyzing the number of inquiries we have received, we’ve compiled a list of our 55 most popular active adult communities in the country.

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Florida’s Top 8 Lowest-Priced 55+ Communities

by Bill Ness on January 27, 2012

After getting a great response for our new Advanced Search feature, we decided to use it ourselves to find the best low-priced communities in Florida. Our search focused on communities which met three criteria: all community sizes, an age-restriction and new construction homes. We further restricted our search to communities with homes priced in the low $100s or under.

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10 Great Low Tax Retirement Communities

by Bill Ness on January 16, 2012

Along with sunshine, gorgeous scenery and resort-style amenities, the perfect retirement destination also includes retirement-friendly tax laws. While you should consult a tax professional for more specific information, here is an overview of some of our favorite low-tax retirement communities.

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Our 7 Favorite Beach Retirement Destinations

by Bill Ness on January 9, 2012

In the chill of winter, as the snow starts to fall, many active adults begin dreaming of a warm and sunny beach retirement. Though each getaway may have its own sandy shores and sunny skies, not all beach retirement destinations are cut from the same cloth. Here are some of the highlights (and selling points) of our seven favorite coastal getaways.

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7 Questions to Ask When Choosing a REALTOR

by Bill Ness on December 9, 2011

Whether you are buying a new construction or resale home, a REALTOR will protect your interests and help you make the best possible investment. But how do you go about choosing a REALTOR? And should you look for special skills when you plan to buy a home in an active adult community?

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7 Reasons Life Is Better in an Active Adult Community

by Bill Ness on November 28, 2011

There are many reasons why empty-nesters and retirees choose to live in active adult communities. Some love the idea of living on a championship golf course, others are drawn to the wide variety of social clubs, and many are won over by the thoughtfully-designed, low-maintenance homes. Here are seven benefits to consider when imagining life in an active adult community.

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Around this time each year, 55Places.com receives many inquiries from retirees who are planning to winter in a popular retirement destination and would like to rent a home in a 55+ community. Based on our experience — and the pleading tone of these inquiries — we know that finding an ideal rental home is not an easy task.

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When it comes to moving to an active adult community, there are some couples who are on the same page right from the beginning. However, more often than not, the idea resonates with one person first and the remaining spouse may need a little more convincing. Here are a few suggestions for ways to encourage your spouse to see the benefits of an active adult lifestyle.

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The Pros and Cons of Condo Living

by Bill Ness on October 7, 2011

While active adult communities commonly feature single-family homes or attached villas, some developers also include the option of apartment-style condominiums. Designed as mid-rise or high-rise buildings, with features like elevators and underground parking, these thoughtfully-designed condos provide benefits which appeal to many active adults. Yet, condos in age-restricted communities also come with some drawbacks.

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Illinois’ 10 Best Active Adult Communities

by Bill Ness on September 28, 2011

The Chicago, Illinois area is home to many diverse active adult communities. There are newer developments and more well-established neighborhoods. They range from having less than 100 homes to well over 5,000 residences, including options to fit nearly any budget.

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If a Man Designed the Perfect Home, It Would Include…

by Bill Ness on September 26, 2011

A few weeks ago we did a post on “If A Woman Designed the Perfect Home, It Would Include…” We got an overwhelming response from our female readers, and even had some great comments about other attractions our aspiring female architects would put in their ideal retirement homes. Well, men, it is your turn. What home features do you want most?

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If you long for a retirement in The Golden State, don’t assume that high home prices will put your California dreaming out of reach. While the West Coast does have many high-priced areas, there are also several attractive options for retirees on a budget. The following active adult communities offer condominiums, attached homes or single-family homes starting in the mid $100s (or even less!).

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8 Terrible Tax States for Retirees

by Bill Ness on September 12, 2011

Each year, Kiplinger and other financial analysts offer advice on which states are the most and least tax-friendly destinations for retirees. The criteria for these lists can vary, but they generally attempt to look at the total tax burden including taxes on income, property, sales, pension, Social Security benefits and inheritance.

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