Older homebuyers are often faced with the question of whether to take out a mortgage or buy a home with cash, typically utilizing the equity in their current home. While an all cash deal is a way to avoid years of added interest, taking out a mortgage frees up cash for investments or other purposes.

Active adult homebuyers in the Phoenix area will love the exciting amenities at PebbleCreek. This popular Robson community is set in Goodyear, Arizona, within easy access of both scenic attractions in the White Tank Mountains and urban offerings in downtown Phoenix. Within its own gates, PebbleCreek's resort-style amenities include two amenity centers, two 18-hole golf courses, on-site restaurants and plenty of outdoor recreations.

In recent years, Texas has emerged as one of the more popular retirement states. The Lone Star State features a hot, sunny climate, mild winters and a variety of indoor and outdoor attractions. Retirees headed toward North Texas may want to start their search in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Northeast of Sacramento, Sun City Lincoln Hills is a beautiful California community with a variety of impressive amenities specifically designed for active adults aged 55 or better. This Del Webb development features multiple clubhouses, two 18-hole golf courses, outdoor sports courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools plus a wide range of social clubs, classes and activities.

The best 55+ communities in America combine world-class amenities and finely crafted affordable homes in the country’s most sought after locations. Hundreds of exceptional active adult communities were reviewed for the honor of being included in our list of the 55 best 55+ communities in America.

Active adults will find low-maintenance living just 35 miles southwest of Washington D.C. in Gatherings at Wellington. This new condominium community has a prime location in Manassas, Virginia. It is within walking distance of the Manassas Station Shopping Center and just one mile from Historic Old Town Manassas.

Retirement may mean an end to your professional career, but it doesn't have to be the end of exciting new challenges and interesting experiences. You can pursue new hobbies, volunteer, travel or even train for a marathon. There are a number of ways to keep retirement interesting, and here are a few ideas to get you started.

In Pennsylvania's beautiful Lancaster County, active adults may find their dream home at Home Towne Square. This charming 55+ community has plans for approximately 300 affordable single-family homes. It also offers appealing on-site amenities, including a spacious clubhouse and plans for an outdoor swimming pool and patio.

Active adults looking for an East Coast retirement destination may turn to Delaware for its historic charm and affordable homes. The Northern Delaware area has plenty to offer, including many attractions in the City of Wilmington and a variety of appealing active adult communities. Delaware residents can also enjoy shopping with no sales tax throughout the state.

Open to residents of all ages, Versailles is an upscale Southeastern Florida community with amenities and homes which appeal to discerning active adult retirees. The community is located in Wellington, Florida, in the heart of Palm Beach County. It features 450 single-family estate homes, a spacious clubhouse and resort-style amenities.