At every stage of life, homebuyers have different factors to consider. First-time homebuyers can follow certain steps to buying a home, while those who have been homeowners for decades face different considerations when they’re ready for their next move.
Whether active adults want to downsize from their large family home, need or want a low-maintenance lifestyle, or simply desire to live among like-minded retirees, a 55+ community is often the answer. An age-restricted community opens the door to an ideal way of life for active adults.
They can take part in a variety of exciting activities and events without ever leaving their neighborhood, from golf and yoga to movie nights and wine tastings. With so many enriching events close to home, it’s easy for retirees to meet new people and form meaningful friendships.
Active adults also reap many health benefits by living in a 55+ community, including decreased stress levels, access to better nutrition, more opportunities to stay physically fit, and an array of classes and workshops to help them commit to lifelong learning.
While they might long for the kind of lifestyle a 55+ community provides, many active adults are left scratching their heads when it comes to actually finding and moving to the right neighborhood. They often wonder, “How can I buy a 55+ home?” and “Where can I buy a 55+ home?”
When active adults are ready to purchase a home for the next stage of their life, making that step sometimes proves difficult. Many different types of 55+ communities exist, and they all have something different to offer homeowners in terms of amenities, activities, services, and even level of care.
If a retiree is just beginning a search and wants to know how they can buy a 55+ home and how is it different from buying a regular home, it helps to know the basics.
Homebuying in a 55+ Community


Can you spot the $207,744 difference between these identical homes?
Financing is the difference!
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About 55places
We’re changing the way people 55 and older are searching for their perfect next place. With a national network of hand-selected real estate experts, plus comprehensive information, unbiased content, and on-the-go insight about thousands of communities across the country, we’re a trusted resource paving the way from here to home. Whether you’re interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet.