Finding a community that fits your own set of criteria requires a fair amount of research:

• Before making an investment in real estate, those in the know suggest spending a couple of months in a community to make sure you like it well enough to settle there.
• Talk to locals to learn their overall satisfaction in the community's services and amenities.
• Read the community newspaper to gauge the cultural and political climate to make sure you'd be comfortable with it.
• Be cognizant of some intangible qualities that you may require such as volunteer or social networking opportunities.

Other factors to think about include:

• Availaibility of quality healthcare.
• Affordability and local taxes
• Weather
• Access to culture, shopping and entertainment
• Good transportation and/or proximity to an airport

Living in a gated community or resort area requires a little bit of effort and research but if you take your time and choose your best fit the benefits are endless!