Active Adult Communities

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Active Adult Neighborhoods are EXPLODING throughout Georgia!

It is an exciting time to be "55+ and young". Developers are responding to the social and economic demands of the powerful baby boomer generation by building literally hundreds of active communities throughout Georgia.

Market research indicates strong demand for low-to-no maintenance housing, including active adult communities which offer a variety of social activities and amenities for pre-retired or retired seniors.

The developments are as different as day and night! Prices range from the low to mid $100,000’s to high $500,000’s. Purchasers are averaging between 10-20% in upgrades!

Neighborhoods range in size from small, intimate communities with a clubhouse, to grand master planned communities with thousands of acres, lawn maintenance, amphitheaters, lake activities, golf, exercise/fitness centers and on site activity directors. Home Owner Association (HOA) dues range from $90 to $300 per month to cover the expense of the amenities.

From the North, South, East and West, in almost all major counties, there are homes to choose from! Designs include detached single family homes to attached, quadraplex ranch condominiums. Floor plans vary and may include beautiful features such as sun rooms, and use of universal design features such as stepless entry, wider doorways, ranch plan or master-on-main, and grab bars.

Recommendations for a smooth transition

• Hire a Realtor® who can assist you in selling your large, single family home quickly and efficiently, and, work with you on the purchase of your new home!

• Review the marketing plan, comparative market analysis, pricing strategy, projected days on market, staging recommendations for best value, and an estimated net-to-seller

• Whether you buy new construction, a resale, or build a new home, your Realtor® can coordinate back-to-back closings, help negotiate contracts (price and terms), and a smooth moving process

• Interview the Realtor® for his/her knowledge about active adult communities, their team, and their sales experience

• The trust and relationship with one agent during this process can alleviate a lot of unnecessary stress and make sure your personal goals are met

• Make sure your agent is a member of the NAR (National Association of Realtors). Members follow a strict Code of Ethics.

• Look for a Realtor® who has the SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) designation! Agents who have obtained this credential have additional knowledge in the physical and financial needs of active adults and can assist in guiding you through important design features and good investment ideas!

• In addition, look for a Realtor® who is Senior Approved! The Shearer Group, Inc. is the only Senior Approved Real Estate service in Georgia!

• You may choose to downsize and move into a continuing care retirement community, or other type of adult community that has the amenities you need. Your Realtor can assist you with identification of assisted living, independent living and other types of senior communities as they work to help you sell your home.

Hire a Buyers Agent

Many of my adult senior clients tell me they are hesitant to make an appointment to have their Realtor® preview property with them early in their search. They do not want to waste anyone’s time!

My advice is that waiting may be too late! Remember, the on site agents represent the seller (or builder). As you tour models, you may be ask to register. Read the fine print! It often will say that if your Realtor® did not accompany you on the first visit, you cannot come back with your Realtor!

Communicate with your agent prior to visiting active adult communities, and always let agents know that you have already contacted your agent. You deserve to have an agent that represents your interests. The commission is usually paid by the seller and the agents share the commission. It is built into the market price and will be paid whether you have an agent or not! You may as well protect your interests.

I recommend that you avoid the following

• Dual agency: one agent represents both seller and buyer

• Being unrepresented: most folks buy 3-4 houses in their life. Real estate laws change over time and it is in your best interest to hire an agent that will act as your consultant, and educate and guide you through the current process

This is an exciting time in your life! Look for an agent who has dedicated their real estate practice to providing the expertise and knowledge needed to help you achieve the lifestyle that you have worked so hard for!

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