When it comes to finding the perfect active adult community, there are many factors to consider before making a final decision. This includes the community’s price, location, amenities, and the overall atmosphere. With so many variables, it can be stressful to find the best fit. Fortunately, that’s where ‘stay & play’ vacations come in handy.
What Is a ‘Stay and Play’ Vacation?
Designed for potential homebuyers to see a community up-close, ‘stay and play’ packages let homebuyers spend time in a community. Hopefully, once their stay is complete, they’ll be able to decide whether or not that community is a good fit. You can usually explore for two or three full days, meeting potential neighbors and getting a sense of what it’s like to live there.
Also, make these weekend stays at 55+ communities worth every penny by making a vacation out of it! If you’re planning to move out of state, these packages are a great way to explore an new region. A ‘stay and play’ vacation also gives active adults a chance to experience multiple communities in one trip.
Make It an Event
If you’re planning to live in Arizona or Florida, plan your ‘stay and play’ around something you want to do or see in the state. For example, a big event for both states is Major League Baseball’s Spring Training. On weekends, you can visit two or three communities, and then spend the week watching your favorite baseball team.
It doesn’t need to be event-based either. Even if you just want to relax on the beach, rent out a vacation home with friends, or finally visit Hollywood like you’ve always wanted. All these are great opportunities to have some fun and find your future home.
How to Book a ‘Stay and Play’
A number of communities offer their version of ‘stay and play’ vacations, each wiht specific perks. 55places can connect you with a local real estate agent who can tell you which communities offer these experiences. They’re experts at understanding how to make the most of your visits to each community. They’ll also help you plot out a schedule so you can see multiple communities and experience the region.
Here Are Some Potential ‘Stay and Play’ Vacations
Florida
You can test drive a 55+ lifestyle with GL Homes’ Try Before You Buy program at their Valencia communities. You can stay 3 days/2 nights in a furnished home for only $99 and explore the lifestyle at Valencia. Experience world-class amenities, tour gorgeous model homes, and enjoy a complimentary lunch.
GL Homes’ Try Before You Buy program is available in three of Florida’s most desirable locations: Valencia Walk at Riverland in Port St. Lucie, Valencia Grand in Boynton Beach, and Valencia Trails in Naples. This vacation-inspired lifestyle allows active adults to live close to beautiful beaches, world-class shopping and dining, and so much more.
You’ll find even more Florida ‘stay and play’ communities here.
Arizona
Shea Homes offers a Discovery Stay Program for 55+ homebuyers who want to experience their communities firsthand. You can enjoy a 3-day, 2-night stay in a fully-equipped home with access to a golf cart or bicycles. As part of this program, you can socialize with current homeowners, experience the lifestyle amenities, and enjoy exclusive community events. You’ll also receive a gift card to book activities such as golf, dining, or spa services.
Shea Homes’ Discovery Stay Program is available in three Arizona communities: Encanterra in Queen Creek, Trilogy at Verde River in Rio Verde, and Trilogy at Wickenburg Ranch in Wickenburg.
If you want to see what else is out there, you’ll find more Arizona ‘stay and play’ packages here.
South Carolina
Many Del Webb communities offer day and overnight passes. With an overnight pass, you can stay in a fully furnished home and explore the community in a golf cart. With a day pass, you can meet current residents over a meal or participate in a class like art, bocce, or pickleball.
If you want to explore Del Webb’s offerings in the Coastal Carolinas, you can book a day or overnight pass at these three communities: Del Webb Charleston at Nexton in Summerville, Del Webb at Grande Dunes Myrtle Beach in Myrtle Beach, and Sun City Hilton Head in Bluffton.
For more ‘stay and play’ packages in the Carolinas, click here.
