"We're not sure that55 Plus Communities are the right fit for us!"
When I ask a new client if they want to buy in a 55+ age restricted community, they often tell me -
"I just don't want to cut the grass anymore." or "I would like to look at communities which offer lawn care, snow removal, clubhouse, pool, and fitness as well as walking trails." or
"I am not sure that an active adult community is the right fit for me but I am keeping my options open at this point."
An Active Adult Community is not always age restricted, and not all age restricted communities have a lot of activities. Confusing isn't it? Terminology in real estate is not consistent and no two communities, regardless of how they are categorized offer the same features or services. I spoke with a new client today that currently lives in a 55+ community in New Jersey that has absolutely no amenities but there is a large Senior Center nearby.
What makes a community active anyway? I know one community here in Southern Delaware that is not 55+, it is not called an Active Adult Community, and the clubhouse is only now under construction. Despite all of that, it is one of the most active group of people I know. They are always organizing outings, burger nights, barbecues on the beach and more. These people care about each other and it shows.
The largest 55+ Active Adult Community in all of Delaware has all of the amenities you could possibly want BUT cutting your lawn is not included. Go figure!
It's the people after all, not the amenities that make a community work. Today, most of our clients want at least a community pool and clubhouse or community center - somewhere to gather and meet their neighbors. A small fitness center that makes it easy to get in a little exercise without leaving the community is another plus. A community like this does not have to be age restricted and most in Southern Delaware are not. The HOA Fees can also be quite reasonable but remember that the more amenities and the larger the clubhouse, the higher the fee.
What is being advertised to the Baby Boomer planning for retirement is the 55+ Del Webb type of community with all the bells and whistles. My husband Bill Bell likes to call this the "Disney World for adults". Come to think of it, the last time I was at Disney World there were a lot of adults with no children in tow!
Every year when I review what our Buyer clients have chosen, I find that approximately 50% do choose a 55+, age restricted community. The other 50% however end up preferring an all ages community, at least in Southern Delaware. Here, the proximity to the Delaware beaches and access to the great restaurants and activities throughout the year in towns like Lewes, Rehoboth Beach or Bethany Beach are more important.
Boomers are different than earlier generations and not as easy to predict or fit into a nice neat box. The good news in Delaware is that - We have something for everyone, so just tell us what it is you are looking for and that's where we will start the search!
Buyers, got Questions? We have Answers.
Its not unusual to have questions. We recommend that you prepare yourself for the journey by educating yourself. This will ensure you are a knowledgeable home buyer prepared to make a confident home buying decision. CLICK HERE to read our Buyers most Frequently Asked Questions, a.k.a. our FAQs page. If you dont see the answer, email us, we look forward to helping you!
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