Thinking about living in a 55-plus community? Here's what to know before you buy.
Why it matters: Age-qualified neighborhoods can be great for lifestyle and low-maintenance living, but rules on age, guests, pets, and even paint colors will shape day-to-day life. Choose with eyes open.
Age rules: restricted vs. targeted
Many communities are legally age-restricted (often 55+), meaning at least one resident must meet the threshold and others in the home may have minimum ages.
“In Briar Chapel’s Encore 55+ living segment, requirements include restrictions on age of residents,” said Shannon McSwiney, marketing director for Newland Communities. “For example, Encore prohibits residents under the age of 30, unless evidence is provided that the individual is necessary to the health and well-being of the homeowners; in addition, at least one of the homeowners must be over the age of 55 years.”
Others are age-targeted, meaning they are built and amenitized for active adults but without formal age limits. “Residents come from a variety of life stages,” said Rob Krohn, marketing manager with Epcon Communities. “And with accessible features built in, our communities are ready for people planning ahead to age in place.”
The rulebook: who sets it and what’s common
Most active-adult neighborhoods have an association or board that sets and enforces bylaws. “Active adult communities usually have a group or association that collectively determines the bylaws and structure for those who are living there,” said Jim Harrington, director of development at Baywoods of Annapolis, a continuing care retirement community along the Chesapeake Bay.
Common restrictions you’ll see:
Occupancy limits (how many people can live in the home)
Who can use amenities (residents only vs. guest access)
Exterior changes (paint colors, landscaping, décor)
Pet rules (number, size, breeds, cleanup)
Visits/overnights by guests under 18 (frequency and length)
Grandkids are typically welcome, but policies vary. “Baywoods has guest accommodations on site for visiting family members and relatives as needed,” Harrington said. “We are a 62 years-and-older community where family members are always encouraged to use our amenities with their parents or grandparents.”
Lifestyle: will you love it
Start with the activities you enjoy now, and the ones you want next. Look for aligned amenities such as a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, walking trails, and spaces for clubs, classes, and events.
“One of the key factors that influences your quality of life is a welcoming sense of community,” McSwiney said. “Look for a neighborhood with a vibrant social calendar of on-site events and a plethora of activities to fill your free time.”
Maintenance-light living is a big draw. Many neighborhoods include lawn care and exterior upkeep in dues. “There are differing levels of maintenance that residents choose to adopt when moving into an age-qualified segment,” McSwiney said. “Typically, they will provide lawn care and outdoor maintenance for these residents.”
Care model: active adult vs. continuing care
Active-adult (55+) communities focus on independent living, social life, and amenities; medical care is off-site. Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) bundle independent living with higher-care options on one campus.
“Consider your needs and what is available in your community as you age in place,” Harrington said. “A continuing care community is designed to help with future needs and is supposed to be the last move one will ever need to make.”
The home itself: age-in-place features that help
Prioritize floor plans that make daily life easier now and later:
One-level living (or a main-level primary suite)
Step-free entries and wider halls/doors
Walk-in showers, with room for seating or grab bars
Accessible storage and appropriately placed appliances/controls
“When it comes to floor plans, consider the long-term time you’ll be spending in your home,” McSwiney said. “Opt for single-level living that avoids stairs, offers easily accessible storage and provides thoughtful features such as walk-in showers and low appliances.”
Your next move
Ask if the community is age-restricted or age-targeted—and get the policy in writing.
Request CC&Rs/bylaws and all guest/pet/parking rules.
Confirm HOA dues, what’s covered, and any one-time fees.
Review amenity hours, guest access, and quiet hours.
Check resale/lease rules.
Visit at peak times and talk to current residents.
The bottom line
With the right fit of rules you can live with, amenities you’ll use, and a home that supports aging in place, 55-plus living can deliver the community and convenience many buyers want for the next chapter.
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Drew Port
Drew Port is a writer for NewHomeSource. She writes on the homebuying process, as well as informing readers on homeownership.