Active adult communities across America are available in a range of sizes. The largest may encompass more than 10,000 residences, while more intimate communities may include less than 100 homes. Smaller active adult communities often do not have as many resort-style amenities as their sprawling counterparts, however they can be ideal for those who are less interested in centralized community events and activities.
Location is often an important element of a small active adult community. Homeowners who want to live in a prime location, particularly one close to a popular city or beach, can opt to live in a smaller, more affordable age-restricted community. Less on-site amenities usually means smaller monthly homeowner’s fees. This is perfect for homeowners who are more interested in the attractions that are found just outside of the community.
For those who desire age-restricted living in an urban setting, North Ridge Estates (which includes 84 townhomes) is located just six miles outside of downtown Tuscon, Arizona. The on-site community amenities are limited, yet its prime location lets residents easily enjoy Tuscon’s shopping, dining, cultural attractions and nightlife. For beach-lovers, Breakwater Village in Redondo Beach, California, offers upscale living just two miles from the ocean. This beautiful community contains 191 exquisite garden style condominiums. This prime location is in the midst of plenty of shopping centers and is only ten minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Smaller active adult communities can still offer an active social calendar. Though built on a smaller scale, the clubhouses in less-populated, age-restricted communities often include several of the same amenities found at larger resort-style developments. Smaller communities can also offer a more intimate, neighborhood setting. This may make it easier for homeowners to really get to know their neighbors.
With 127 single-family homes, New Jersey’s Renaissance at Manalapan is a small active adult community that includes several amenities to support an active lifestyle. This upscale community includes a comfortable clubhouse, complete with a fitness center, card room, billiards, a library and a ballroom. Outdoors, residents enjoy a heated swimming pool, tennis facilities, shuffleboard and bocce ball courts. There are also a variety of active social clubs, community events and a full-time Activities Director.
While some small active adult communities boast affordable living, others focus on luxury. Like Renaissance at Manalapan, both Tivoli Reserve in Florida, and The Woods of South Barrington in Illinois (pictured above), offer spacious clubhouses and several on-site amenities. Yet each of these communities also offer single-family homes that are designed for discerning buyers. At Tivoli Reserve, European-inspired homes are set on large, estate-sized home sites which feature professionally manicured landscaping. The Woods of South Barrington, one of the Chicago area’s most expensive active adult communities, feature homes with the finest in luxury upgrades, such as granite countertops, hardwood floors and intricate brick and stone exteriors.
Sprawling resort-style communities may offer an impressive number of amenities, but consider your own lifestyle needs before choosing a new home. When researching active adult communities, do not overlook the smallest of the bunch. You might be surprised by what you find.
This article originally appeared on 55Places.com. For more articles like this or for information about hundreds of 55+ active adult retirement communities across the country, please visit 55Places.com.
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