Most retirees are likely to be active baby boomers – the million Americans born between 1946 and 1964 – who want an active recreational and social lifestyle, preferably with warm weather.  It is no surprise that Florida is the #1 state!

Quality of life is usually the main attraction for these active seniors, such as a clubhouse with a party room, a theater for movies and shows, and a well-equipped fitness center.  Most larger communities also offer classes and activity rooms for cards, arts and crafts, music, along with outdoor walking trails, tennis and pickleball courts.  Some find that it is important to be close to medical facilities or have access to community transportation. 

Most have heard and know about the 55+ communities with single family homes.  But there are also active adult Condominium communities ranging from a few hundred to thousands of residences configured as apartments of units in low-rise or multi-story buildings or attached villas.  Upkeep is maintained by the condominium association which is why seniors are attracted to all the amenities. 

But strict condo regulations can be challenging for buyers moving from a private home and they may have to accept association rules, such as no pets.  Most of these communities also run a background check and consider financial records.  Even with money in the bank, buyers and prospective tenants may have to show regular income to cover association maintenance. 

It is highly recommended that senior buyers work with a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) who knows all of the area senior communities and what they offer or require.  It will help make the transition much less stressful and you will have assistance in making wise and positive choices in a particular community that will fit all your needs.