As a former sales manager for one of Del Webb's largest active adult retirement communities, I've helped many people, from all walks of life, purchase a home. Most people were a joy to work with. There is something truly rewarding about helping people make one of the biggest decisions of their lives. There are, of course, occasions when the excitement of buying a new home fades a bit when the issue of money arises. Trying to negotiate the best price for a new home can be a scary and overwhelming task for some. There is bound to be some tension when two parties are trying to work out an agreement. The developer is hoping to see a return on his investment and buyers are rightfully looking for the best deal. So what is the best way to go about getting that deal? Here are five important things to keep in mind when trying to find the right home at the best price.

A recent story in the Denver Post discusses the increasing popularity of gay and lesbian adult retirement communities. The article highlights RainbowVision in Sante Fe. RainbowVision is the nation's first development for retiring gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (LGBTQ) people. However, it is not likely to be the last.

If you have spent any time researching housing options for your active adult lifestyle, you probably see the terms "Age-Restricted," "Active Adult Community," and "Retirement Community" a lot. But what do they really mean? And which one is right for you and your retirement needs?

Finding a retirement community may be a daunting task, especially for single adults. If you're looking to retire in the Chicago area, consider these five Chicagoland active adult communities that are ideal for singles. You'll be amazed by the list of amenities and clubs geared directly for your interests.

Many people in their fifties and beyond, who have both the inclination and the means to buy a new home in an active adult community, have done a good job of preparing financially for this exciting stage in their lives. Likewise, many of those same people have also learned that the stock market rewards prudent investors who buy low and sell high.

One of the fastest growing relocating trends for those ages 55+ is active adult communities. As the name implies, you are buying much more than a home, you are buying the tremendous value-add of an entirely new community. And because most of these communities are age-restricted, you get a living environment and amenities based on the needs of a target market.