A new home equals a new life. The US Census Bureau reports that the average retirement age in the United States is 63 years old. As baby boomers are retiring earlier and living longer, they are looking to begin their golden years in a new home – and they know exactly what they want and where they want to live. Florida is consistently listed as a top state to retire to, likely due in large part to the friendly climate, hospitality mentality and the absence of state income tax.
Where to Retire magazine has been informing the US on retirement relocation since 1992, offering information and insights for retirees looking to begin the next leg of their journey. In June of each year, Where to Retire reveals “The Short List: 50 Best Master-Planned Communities in the United States.” The communities come from 17 states. Florida has nine of the winning 50 communities.
In Central Florida – The Lakes at Harmony, in Harmony, is one of only nine master-planned communities in Florida to be recognized on “The Short List: 50 Best Master-Planned Communities in the United States” this year. This age-restricted neighborhood touts a private amenities complex, sports courts and outdoor splendors like two lakes. Residents also have access to amenities in the larger Harmony development, including a golf course that winds through a 260-acre nature preserve.
Top Considerations for Relocating Retirees:
- Safety and Convenience of Master Planned Communities – The Lakes at Harmony offers options for new homebuilders. Lennar new homebuyers enjoy a streamlined building process where Everything’s Included – Innovative and simple – all the extra features you want, included at the best possible value.
- Seamless Financing – Retirees often take advantage of their builder’s mortgage programs. For example, part of the Lennar family, Eagle Home Mortgage is fully integrated in your home buying process and works with Lennar to make closing on your home easy.
- There is Nothing like a Good Neighbor – It has been said that good neighbors can increase your property value and that in order to have a good neighbor, you must first BE a good neighbor. Retirees have more time to nurture new friendships.
- Living in Harmony with Nature – With more time on their hands to invest in resort style living – retirees want access and options to fun. In addition to Central Florida being a golfer’s paradise new Floridians are drawn by the proximity to two coastlines – plus there are more hours of funshine to enjoy pools, sports courts, fitness equipment and hiking trails.
- Age Targeted Communities – Grandparents will often note that one of glorious benefits of having grandchildren is – the ability to give them back. Master planned retirement communities are typically age-restricted or at least age-selective, with 55 years and older being a popular cut off.
For more ways to enjoy your golden years in sunny Florida and for reasons why Florida consistently ranks as a top state to retire in, check out Lennar’s Open-Door Blog.
