Peggy Lasater, Realtor® Active Adult Community Specialist Virginia

These are the primary characteristics of "Active Adult Living:"

• Age-restricted - Active Adult Communities typically require that at least one resident be at least 55 years old and that no permanent resident be below 19 years old. Visitation rules vary.
• Amenities - Most communities have a clubhouse, fitness center, meeting/gathering rooms, swimming, tennis, and various planned activities.
• Privacy and Security - Most communities are private, gated enclaves. Some have 24/7 staffed gatehouses.
• HOA Managed - All Active Adult Communities are managed by a Home Owners Association supported by mandatory fees. Fees range from under $100 per month to over $400 per month, depending on community size, amenities and services provided.
• Locations - Active Adult Communities are usually located near towns or cities with a good range of resources necessary to a household; shopping, medical, entertainment, etc. The majority of Virginia Active Adult Communities are in Northern Virginia but there are also communities in smaller towns around the Commonwealth.
• Price Range - Prices vary by two key factors; the extent of amenities and the location. Northern Virginia is generally more expensive and the closer to The District, the more expensive. Generally, smaller communities outside Northern Virginia start in the mid $200's while larger, Northern Virginia communities start in the mid $300's.,
• Home Styles - The most common home styles are single family and attached (by a variety of names: villas, patio homes, cottages, etc.) "Traditional" architecture is most prevalent. Several of the larger communities also have condominiums. There are several all-condo communities in Northern Virginia.

Read additional information about Active Adult Living at this page on my OWL55 website: Selecting An Active Adult Community.