Given that the average lifespan for Americans is 78, aging does not mean that life after retirement means racking up endless hours in a rocking chair. People want to stay active and enjoy traveling, sports, social activities, and other pursuits as long as they can. While they may still want the financial benefits of home ownership, they may not want the responsibilities of lawn care, the hazards of steps, or the burden of space. As they find their health slipping a bit, they want to be in a place that can comfortably accommodate change, with transportation options.
Within the Metro area, there are over 120 Denver developments geared to the over 55 population, with prices starting in the low 100's. Virtually any active adult who wants to be a homeowner can enjoy the climate, natural attractions, and reasonable cost of living that Denver is famous for and do so in a home in their choice of a single family home (often ranch style), townhouse, condominium, or high rise. Many senior adult communities offer additional amenities to make the development a self-contained social and recreational center. Some areas are viewed as over 55 properties exclusively, but others are considered good retirement properties because senior-friendly floor plans are available.
One community specifically for active adults is the Del Webb Anthem Ranch Community in Broomfield, CO. Acquired by Pulte Homes in 2001, Del Webb started building retirement communities back in 1960, when they built their first complex in Phoenix. This group now has 50 developments in 20 states, including Anthem Ranch in Broomfield. Anthem is gated and promotes a lifestyle within that includes many recreational facilities and many opportunities for developing relationships with neighbors - so much that the residents only need venture out to shop. A golf course and fitness center are on site, as well as opportunities to pursue hobbies, join clubs, or take classes. A 30,000 square foot community center further brings the residents together.
The community, only a few minutes from Denver and Boulder, is served by buses. The availability of reliable public transportation makes the location a good one for mature homeowners who might need or want to cut down on their driving over the years.
The Anthem Ranch homes are built by a company noted for its green building practices - a good fit for Colorado, a very environmentally conscious state. Since 1996, Pulte has built 70,000 Energy Star Certified Homes; currently, 70% of homes constructed by the company nationwide are built to these standards. The company has been recognized by the Department of Energy for its participation in Builder's Choice, a voluntary energy-savings program aimed at constructing homes 30% more energy efficient than typical homes built to code. Pulte also utilizes value engineering to use resources more efficiently and reduce waste in home building, plus aggressively recycles waste on the jobsite. About 8,000 pounds of waste are generated in the construction of a 2,000 square foot home; Pulte recycles over 70%.
Anthem Ranch is only one of the senior-friendly communities near Denver that bring together convenience and green goals. Another popular community with active senior adults is Heritage Eagle Bend in Aurora, CO. At Bandy Homes, we can lead you to a home you'll love in Aurora, Broomfield, or Castle Rock.
Marianne Bandy
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