What is an Active Adult Community
A distinguishing feature of active adult communities is that the decision to live there is driven by lifestyle choices, not needs. Buyers who opt for an active adult community see it as a launching pad for taking advantage of community activities, particularly wellness and lifestyle amenities. They want to take advantage of the amenities that attracted them to the community but don’t need the community to be self-contained. Their parents may have wanted everything contained within the gates of the community, but today’s adults are more interested in exploring and engaging in the surrounding community.
Is an Active Adult Community the Right Choice?
An active adult community isn’t the right option for every retiree. Weighing these pros and cons may help make the right choice.
Advantages
- Lots of activities
- Easy to meet and make new friends
- Community of like-minded people
- Walk, bike, or possibly take a golf cart where you need to go
- No noise or disturbance from younger people
- Home that meets your lifestyle and age
- Strong HOA regulations govern the community
Disadvantages
- Lack of diversity
- Possibly overly restrictive HOA rules (Be sure to read the CC&Rs)
- Cost of fees and assessments
- Not a good atmosphere for someone who isn’t a joiner
- Less privacy
- May need to drive to reach urban areas, city center
What is an Affinity Community
Communities designed around a particular interest or lifestyle are known as affinity communities. Part of the appeal of affinity community is that residents share a vision or lifestyle that enables forging of friendships quickly.
Examples of niche communities include:
- Florida Latitude Margaritaville communities based on the laid-back style and music of Jimmy Buffet
- University based retirement communities (UBRCs), such as Kendal at Hanover at Dartmouth College, Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame, or Oak Hammock at the University of Florida offer access to university level life-long learning and cultural events
- Fountain Grove Lodge in Santa Rosa, California, a LGBT community
- Enso Village in Healdsburg, California, a community focused on Zen values appreciation of nature, and environmental stewardship
- Burbank Senior Arts Colony in Los Angeles for former professional musicians, actors and writers
- Nalcrest in Polk County, Florida a community for retired U.S. Postal letter carriers
