Estimates from the Atlanta Regional Commission are that one out of every five Atlanta residents will be over the age of 60 by 2030. As this large generation approaches retirement age, many are looking to downsize their homes in exchange for something that requires less maintenance. A recent joint study by the 50+ Housing Council and the MetLife Mature Market Institute reveals that 55+ buyers are more practical than ever, caring less about the design and appearance of homes and more about proximity to friends, family and work. In today’s market, the focus is more on utility as opposed to amenity. Some of the features they want include open floorplans, storage rooms, large garages and low to no maintenance homes.
What does all of this mean for Atlanta real estate? Well, Atlanta home buyers are fortunate to be in a market with many home builders entrenched in building homes for the 50+ buyer. A quick browse through the recent posts in the Active Adult Communities category on Atlanta Real Estate Forum quickly reveals a variety of builders and housing choices.
Soleil Laurel Canyon offers residents the opportunity to participate in more than 50 social clubs and regularly scheduled activities that range from Friday night movies to arts and crafts classes, cooking demonstrations and wine tastings. Exceptional recreational amenities include a 28,000 sq. ft. clubhouse with a heated indoor saline pool, billiards parlor, gourmet teaching kitchen, fitness center and aerobics studio, library, card rooms and an arts and crafts studio. Outdoor amenities include a performing arts center, outdoor amphitheatre, outdoor lagoon-style pool, six clay tennis courts, full-time tennis pro, walking trails and greenhouse. To learn more call 678-880-3071 or visit www.SoleilLaurelCanyon.com.
Jim Chapman Communities builds elegant, yet affordable one-level ranch communities in Douglas, Cobb, Gwinnett, North Fulton and Forsyth Counties. Planning and delivering extraordinary communities designed for the active adult lifestyle, Jim Chapman Communities offer Well-Earned Elegance for today’s active adults. For more information, call 770-319-7474 or visit www.JimChapmanCommunities.com.
Cresswind on Lake Lanier has a variety of two and three-bedroom ranch-style floorplans inside a private, gated community. A three-story clubhouse offers several amenities and activities like arts and crafts, billiards, aerobics, a demonstration kitchen and a ballroom. The community also has indoor and outdoor pools, a tennis campus and extensive walking trails. Visit www.Cresswind.com or call 770-532-4926 for more information.
The Orchards Group builds active adult retirement communities for empty nesters, retirees and seniors. The interiors of each home are spacious and free flowing. From oversized doorways and bathrooms to step-less entryways, each home is designed to making each homeowner’s life easier. And with an exclusive activities program and gracious amenities, life at an Orchards neighborhood can also be fun. For more information, call 678-795-0200 or visit www.OrchardsGroup.com.
Windsong Properties builds active adult ranch home communities in Cherokee and Paulding Counties. These single-level homes offer low maintenance exteriors and landscaping, leaving residents more time to enjoy life. Homes are also fully accessible thanks to no-step doorways, lever handles and other amenities. For more information, call 770-516-3409 or visit www.WindsongLife.com.
