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Active Adult Communities

Small 55+ Communities Offer Big Attractions

by Susan Quilty on August 4, 2010

Active adult communities across America are available in a range of sizes. The largest may encompass more than 10,000 residences, while more intimate communities may include less than 100 homes. Smaller active adult communities often do not have as many resort-style amenities as their sprawling counterparts, however they can be ideal for those who are less interested in centralized community events and activities.

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The Appeal of Youthful Active Adult Communities

by Susan Quilty on July 7, 2010

According to Del Webb’s 2010 Baby Boomer Survey, youth is on the mind of those aged 55 and older. To most respondents, age is only a state of mind and not something that should slow down their active, busy lifestyles. With this positive, youthful attitude, it’s no wonder that active adult communities that appeal to younger residents have fared well through the recent real estate storm.

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How Del Webb Defines the Sun City Active Adult Community

by Susan Quilty on June 23, 2010

When Sun City Arizona opened its doors on January 1, 1960, the American active adult community was born. Del Webb, the developer behind Sun City, envisioned a different kind of retirement community, one where residents could pursue an active lifestyle among neighbors of their peers. Since that time Sun City has blossomed into a brand of active adult communities which have spread across the nation, bringing the Del Webb vision to new generations of active adults.

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America’s Largest Active Adult Communities

by Susan Quilty on June 14, 2010

Active adult communities come in a range of sizes and styles, from intimate neighborhoods to sprawling resorts. The largest age-restricted communities contain more than 10,000 homes and feature a wide selection of amenities, including shopping centers that make it easy to manage day to day living. While sprawling resort-style communities are usually found in popular retirement states such as Florida, Arizona and California, newer developments in Texas, Nevada and South Carolina are becoming more common.

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Northern California’s Favorite Active Adult Communities

by Susan Quilty on June 7, 2010

California has been a popular with retirees for many years. While some active adults prefer to settle in the sunny southern portion of the state, Northern California’s temperate climate and lush natural beauty makes it an ideal setting for many active adults. It’s no wonder the area offers many active adult communities. There are both sprawling resort-style communities and cozy, thoughtfully planned neighborhoods.

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Retirement Destinations in the Great American Southwest

by Susan Quilty on May 24, 2010

The American Southwest, with its temperate climate and beautiful vistas, is one of the country’s most popular retirement destinations. As such, the area is home to many impressive active adult communities. Whether relocating adults are interested in a resort-style community or a more intimate neighborhood, they are sure to find a community to meet their needs. Here is a look at just a few of the spectacular active adult communities found in the American Southwest.

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7 Steps to Choosing the Right Active Adult Retirement Community

by Susan Quilty on April 12, 2010

While active adult communities are all designed to support an active lifestyle, there are many variations from one community to the next. Some active adult communities are sprawling, resort-style locations while others provide more intimate neighborhoods. Each community has its own draw, whether it’s a championship golf course, active tennis facility, or a cozy clubhouse with a variety of social clubs. While a search for a new home is a personal experience, there are some similar steps that potential buyers take along the way.

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Canadian Active Adult Communities

by Susan Quilty on April 2, 2010

Just as many Americans are planning for an active retirement, our neighbors to the north are also seeing an increased interest in active adult communities. Though many Canadian snowbirds choose to winter in the warmer, southern portions of the United States, other Canadians enjoy resort-style living year round–without crossing the border.

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Active Adult Living for Under $150,000

by Susan Quilty on February 25, 2010

Retirees on a budget may be surprised to learn that some fabulous active adult communities, in prime retirement locations, offer single-family homes for under $150,000. Florida, as the most popular retirement state, includes several budget-friendly active adult communities, as does the neighboring state of Georgia. Arizona, another popular retirement destination, has communities that won’t break the bank as well, including the very first of the modern-day active adult communities.

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10 Questions to Ask When Choosing an Active Adult Community

by Susan Quilty on December 18, 2009

Moving to an active adult community is a dream for many adults. Yet making the dream a reality by choosing a community to live in can be fraught with indecision and self-doubt. By asking many questions you can avoid some potential problems, understand the role of the community’s Home Owners Association (HOA) and know that you have made the best decision for your family.

1. What is the reputation of both the community and the builder? While the community amenities and the house you intend to buy are likely to be your primary focus, you should take the time to learn more about the community’s builder. A builder such as Del Webb, who developed their first age restricted community in 1960 and now has nearly 60 active adult communities across the United States, has the experience needed to run a successful community.

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What Makes an Award Winning Active Adult Community?

by Susan Quilty on November 27, 2009

Active adult communities offer amenities and activities that appeal to many retirees and empty nesters. Choosing a community is subjective, and any potential resident will have their own particular interests and preferred amenities. But what features can be found at an award winning active adult community?

Since 1992, the Best of 50+ Housing Awards have been presented annually by the National Association of Home Builders’ 50+ Housing Council. These awards are given each April at a gala event in Philadelphia. Winners are chosen from the communities submitted for review. Beyond selecting award winners, the 50+ Housing Council works year round with National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) members in all aspects of 50+ community living, including design, development, management, sales and marketing.

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