We are noticing an interesting trend in this area. Builders are catering to the “active adult” retired population. The trend began in 2006 with the opening of Sun City Carolina Lakes, an over 55 (age restricted) active adult community. Sun City Carolina Lakes continues to be the “hottest” Pulte/Del Webb retirement community in the country. The new trend is the Non-Age Restricted Active Adult Community. True Homes, Lennar, and Horton are a few builders who are targeting the 55 plus retirement population. They are not restricting age, but their efficient ranch style homes with lawn maintenance and planned social activities is very attractive for adults who opt for a “simpler” life style.

We specialize in “Active Adult” Communities.

We were one of the first to recognize the potential of Sun City Carolina Lakes when we purchased our home in 2006. Our primary focus since that time was to “live the life-style” and to educate buyers on this community We wanted to create a team of experts who could be a resource for buyers of retirement age. We have been the leading realtors for Sun City Carolina Lakes for several years and we have helped hundreds of buyers relocate into this area. We are proud of our reputation as being “experts” who truly educate clients to make the best decisions.

We have been working with area builders who have targeted the “non-restricted active adult”market and we are very familiar with what each community has to offer. Each community offers something special for the “active adults”. Our goal, as always is to become experts so we can: be a resource to buyers and show buyers all of their options.

What is a Non-Restricted Active Adult Community?

A “non-restricted active adult” community is generally a mixed community with a portion of the community catering to the retiring baby boomers. However, unlike the 55 plus (age restricted) communities, there are no age requirements. Generally, the homes will be single level ranch style with lawn maintenance included. Sometimes they will even have a “life-style” director to facilitate community activities. Most will include a very elaborate club house. Some communities may incorporate county parks, golf courses, or lake access to add a special element for the retired population that has time to take advantage of the extensive amenities. Generally, the buyer in these communities will be able to purchase a larger home for a less expensive price than the 55+ age restricted communities. The buyer, under 50 who works long hours, or travels a great deal may find the low maintenance, simple life that these communities offer appealing as well.

Builders in the Lancaster “Pan-Handle” are designing homes and “non-restricted communities for the “active adult”.

Carolina Reserve- Carolina Lakes is a Lennar community that has designated approximately 50% of their community to the ranch design w/ lawn maintenance included. It is no surprise that the Executive President of Lennar Homes, Jon Hardy was also the Executive President of Pulte when they began Sun City Carolina Lakes. He recognizes the draw that this area has for so many retirees moving here because of the desirable climate, low taxes and an active lifestyle. This “active adult” community has most options standard making the homes “well-appointed” and very affordable. Located just off 521,this community is convenient to medical facilities, shopping, and dining out.

Mark O’Brien, is VP of sales for DR Horton Homes. He saw the need to build models and floor plans that cater to “active adults” in the new community called Walnut Creek. Mr. O’Brien was former VP of Sales for Pulte and was very instrumental in developing the sales force for Sun City Carolina Lakes. A trademark of Walnut Creek which will have over 3000 homes when completed will be the extensive county park and natural walking trails that will be incorporated into the community.

True Homes, a local builder and the largest in the area, sees so much potential for the non-restricted “active adult” communities that they have a separate division called Tribute Homes catering, but not restricted to the active adults. “Dan’s Quote” Tribute Homes has several communities under construction. They are known for their two “Fuzzy Zoeller” golf course communities, Stone Bridge and Edgewater. Edgewater also offers lake lots and boat slips for lake access.