Why 55+ Communities Are Cheaper
People dream about a day when they no longer have to handle housework like mowing the lawn or raking leaves. To help them reach that goal, they might consider moving into a 55+ community.
These communities feature homes specifically designed for older adults, and offer amenities, events and opportunities for socializing. But they come with a price.
Location
People choose to live in 55+ communities for a variety of reasons. Some love the quiet, kid-free environment that means only residents can use community amenities and have a say in how their neighborhood looks. Others enjoy socializing with neighbors who share their stage of life, and many 55+ communities offer clubhouse activities like special-interest clubs, fitness classes and organized trips.
These neighborhoods also usually have well-lit areas, security staff and updated fire alarms. They’re also typically gated, making them safer for older adults.
However, these communities may be further away from shopping and entertainment options. That’s why it’s important to check how accessible these communities are and if the commute fits your lifestyle. The HOA fees for these communities will also impact your cost. These fees go toward neighborhood upkeep and running on-site amenities. Some of these include swimming pools, tennis courts and fitness centers. They can also cover the costs of a private security force.
Amenities
55+ communities offer a range of amenities, often including golf courses, pools, restaurants and more. These amenities are designed with the needs of residents in mind, which can help you make a well-informed decision about whether this type of community is right for you.
Many 55+ communities include a Homeowners Association (HOA), which takes care of most of the community’s maintenance, including landscaping and road resurfacing. HOA fees typically cover these expenses as well as homeowners insurance, property taxes and utilities.
Some communities even provide transportation services, which can be useful if you don’t want to drive or need assistance with getting around. 55+ communities also tend to be quieter than other areas, which is appealing if you’re looking for a place where your children won’t be visiting frequently or bringing over loud grandchildren. In addition, homes in these communities usually have wider doorways and accessible bathroom features that can accommodate mobility issues as you age.
HOA Fees
HOA fees in 55+ communities typically cover the costs of community maintenance, including exterior care of homes, grounds keeping and access to shared amenities. This means you don’t have to worry about landscaping or home maintenance, which can save you a lot of time and money.
These communities are usually gated and located in areas with lower crime rates. Most also have security teams that regularly patrol the neighborhoods to ensure your safety.
You may also find that resale values in these communities are better than traditional neighborhoods, which can boost your investment value over the long term. However, you should always consider other factors like location, lifestyle needs, and cost before buying a new home in an age-restricted community. Kian Zozobrado is a content writer at Builders Digital Experience. She is a graduate of Southwestern University and has a passion for writing. She enjoys researching, creating and sharing content about real estate, construction, and lifestyle topics.
Age Requirements
Homes in 55+ communities are typically restricted to homeowners who meet the community’s age requirements. This helps maintain the overall themes and character of a community and prevents younger families from moving in and competing with senior residents for amenities.
However, this restriction can make it more difficult to sell a home if the homeowner decides that the lifestyle isn’t right for them. Additionally, many communities prohibit under-55 visitors for prolonged visits to help protect residents from the noise and disruption of young children in the neighborhood.
While these drawbacks may or may not impact a homebuyer’s decision to purchase, it’s important to consider them before making any final decisions. If a buyer can work around these restrictions, 55+ living offers many great benefits, especially when it comes to affordability.