House hunting tips for your next chapter

Gone are the days of cookie-cutter options and premium-priced amenities that don’t add value to homeowners. Today’s active adult homebuyer is more dynamic and aware that a master-planned active adult community can be the foundation to a happier and more fruitful life.

So as homebuyers age 55 and older begin the house hunting process, it is critical that they understand not all communities are created equal, and that finding the right one means making sure it closely meets their needs and desires. With this in mind, here are some key issues to consider when evaluating a potential community:

Activities and amenities should cater to mind, body and spirit

Many of today’s communities offer a wealth of unique activities designed to promote well-being, along with highly-customized amenities, all delivered in a relaxing, resort-style setting. While a world-class golf course may still serve as an anchor, retirees should also look for state-of-the-art fitness centers, exceptional spas with comprehensive offerings, aquatic centers, hiking and biking paths.

For instance, Solivita in Central Florida was meticulously planned to offer a choice of championship golf courses, a 32,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, an exercise studio with an advanced cardiovascular suite and more. It also comes equipped with a 19,000-square-foot amenity complex to host social events, offer additional pool and fitness centers, tennis, bocce and pickleball courts.

Location is key for success

When looking at potential communities, buyers should pay close attention to the environment, climate and the surrounding area, as each of these factors will determine overall satisfaction. Designing around a natural environment, with open green spaces, water features and extensive landscaping, in the temperate climate of Florida, and within close pro.

Don’t settle for run-of-the-mill home designs

Great active adult communities not only offer the best amenities and social spaces, they deliver great homes. They often bring a choice of multiple, innovative home designs, with top-of-the-line finishes and quality craftsmanship, delivered in a well-priced package.

Buyers should consider just how versatile and adaptable the design features of a particular community really are. For example, many communities now have rooms that offer versatility; guest rooms that can serve as getaway spaces, home offices, or a second master bedroom. Smart designs allow for adaptability as well, with greater-than-standard distances between counters to allow a dishwasher or oven to open while permitting a wheel chair to pass by.

Be sure to try before you buy

Lastly, to make sure a community is the right fit, potential buyers should make an effort to experience what it is like to live there. Look for communities that offer homebuyers a chance to test-drive the experience. Solivita offers what’s called “Discovery Days,” an opportunity to experience the community by living like a resident for three days and two nights in a fully furnished guesthouse, with all-access privileges to recreational facilities.