When considering a move to a 55+ community, enjoying the retirement lifestyle you’ve dreamed of should be at the top of your priority list. That means looking beyond the house itself to the location of your new home. There are plenty of options within active adult communities that range from quiet streets to lively corners of the neighborhood. Choosing the best space depends on what your idea of the perfect retirement looks like.
Considering properties along cul-de-sacs? These homes can be a fantastic fit for some and a less-than-stellar option for others. Our team has broken down the pros and cons of living on a cul-de-sac so you can move with confidence.
What Defines a Cul-De-Sac?
A cul-de-sac is a street or lane that ends in a rounded or looped turnaround, with no connecting streets. Unlike through streets, which experience a regular flow of traffic, cul-de-sacs offer the central appeal of a quieter location, generally used by residents, visitors, and the occasional lost driver looking to make a U-turn.
Pros of Cul-De-Sac Living in a 55+ Community
Reduced Traffic and Noise
If peace and quiet are high on your retirement list, choosing a home in a cul-de-sac may be a great fit. Many residents opt to live in cul-de-sacs due to the reduced traffic and noise. These streets don’t serve as a throughway, so you’ll have fewer cars racing by and less bike and foot traffic too. The reduced noise is a big selling point for active retirees looking to enjoy their own peaceful oasis.
Safe and Secluded
Cul-de-sacs are some of the most walkable areas in active 55+ communities. Due to the reduced traffic, residents can enjoy walking, biking, and chatting with the neighbors with less concern for speeding vehicles. These properties often back directly onto bike paths, making them ideal for safety and accessibility. They’re excellent locations in pet-friendly retirement communities too, providing a safe area for dogs and cats to explore.
A Tight-Knit Community
Cul-de-sacs are like their own micro communities. It’s easy to make friends and get to know your neighbors. These properties foster a sense of closeness due to there being only a few homes per street. Imagine the support of having neighbors to watch your house, water the plants, or petsit while you’re away. Many residents enjoy a chat on the porch or a cookout on a nice summer day.
Greater Curb Appeal and Property Value
Homes situated on a cul-de-sac feature have excellent curb appeal. These properties often feature unique layouts, some with more backyard and patio space. The lack of traffic means less debris and well-maintained common spaces. Additionally, cul-de-sac homes typically feature more privacy and better views. All of these features combined mean increased property value.
Cons of Cul-De-Sac Living in a 55+ Community
Limited Parking for Guests
While a quiet neighborhood might be peaceful, cul-de-sacs offer limited guest parking. This can make it challenging to have visitors or host get-togethers. Street parking may be especially hectic around the holidays. Depending on how often you plan to have visitors, it’s worth considering whether or not your lifestyle is better suited to a main street property.
Too Close-Knit for Some
Although some residents appreciate having neighbors close by, others may want a bit more distance. If you’re easily suffocated by having neighbors a bit too close for comfort and prefer some space between homes (and residents), cul-de-sac living may not be the best option for you.
Higher Home Prices and Stiff Competition
Of course, cul-de-sac living has plenty of benefits. That means prime homes located on a cul-de-sac will be valued higher than those on busy streets. Consider your budget and how much value you’re willing to place on the perks of living in a cul-de-sac in a 55+ community. Competition for these properties can be stiff. If you’ve decided a cul-de-sac location is right for you, working with a 55+ real estate expert is the best way to secure your new home in a prime location.
Distance From Central Amenities
Distance is an important factor to consider when looking at homes along a cul-de-sac. Although many communities feature adjacent walking paths, these homes can be far removed from amenities like the clubhouse, pool, and gym. A more centrally located home may be convenient for getting the most out of the community’s best features.
Questions To Ask Before Choosing a Cul-De-Sac Home
Choosing the right home in a 55+ community is a big decision that goes beyond square footage and fresh paint. Consider asking your realtor or the community manager a few key questions to determine the right location. If you’re considering living on a cul-de-sac, be sure to inquire about the following.
- How many homes share the cul-de-sac?
- How far are the nearby amenities? Do walking paths connect to the cul-de-sac?
- What are the rules on guest parking? Is street parking an issue? Is there a limit to the number of guest cars allowed?
- Do these homes include options for privacy fencing?
- Are there HOA policies specific to cul-de-sac homes (e.g., landscaping, fencing, or lighting)?
Ultimately, whether or not a cul-de-sac is right for your future retirement home depends on your priorities. If peace, quiet, and a close-knit community sound like living the dream, a home along a cul-de-sac might be perfect. However, if you’d prefer a more centralized location with ample guest parking and generous space between neighbors, it’s worth touring other locations in your top communities to find the right property.
Are You Move-In Ready?
Cul-de-sac homes are highly sought-after properties in 55+ communities. If you’ve settled on living in a cul-de-sac, the next move is to begin browsing communities. Keep in mind budget and lifestyle expectations as you tour different active retirement communities across the country. Our expert team of 55+ real estate experts is here to help guide the journey and get you settled in.
Finding the right space means exploring as many options as possible. Check out The Most Innovative Active Adult Communities for more retirement inspiration. Happy house hunting!
