How To Know The Type Of Community Best For You
A Planned Community today is much more than a group of houses in the same neighborhood or geographic area.
Today when we talk about a planned community, it is much more than just a "subdivision".
People of all ages are flocking to "communities" all over the country because it gives them a sense of belonging and being part of something. So you may not want to rush to any judgment if a planned community is your best place to live in the Carolinas.
It's not about the community being "gated" as much as it is about the fact that they are "planned".
It gives people a sense of assurance that their investment will be protected and maintained.
Whether there's a gate and guard house at the entrance or not, people feel safer living in a community of like minded people with similar interests.
In many communities, hundreds of acres are being left undeveloped, so people can afford to enjoy wide open spaces that would otherwise be inaccessible to them.
Today, there are many different types and styles of "communities" all of which have different levels of amenities. The communities I'd like to talk about that might help you to find your best place to live are:
- Active Adult Communities
- Private Residence Clubs
- New Urbanism
- New Ruralism
- Co-Housing
Communities designed in this fashion tightly cluster a wide variety of different types of homes, to foster interaction; have residents of different ages and economic backgrounds; feature a walkable Main Street with shops, restaurants and a mix of commercial development; contain a Village Square or Green in which residents can gather; de-emphasize the need to use a car; and leave a portion of the site undeveloped so residents can enjoy common "green space" together.
It is characterized by undisturbed open spaces shared by everyone, large home sites, and a more private feeling. New Urbanism fosters planned community connections whereas New Ruralism fosters a connection with nature, more privacy, and community involvement only as desired.
Houses are separated by nature preserves, natural features, and agricultural land.
This is a concept borrowed from Denmark in which residents have their own private townhomes or condos but share a "common house". The people who live in such a community are interested in creating a close-knit community where people are committed to helping each other.
The residents actively participate in the design and operation of the community, and work together to maintain the common areas. The physical layout of the streets, buildings and common areas encourage interaction among the residents, and a sense of community.
The common facilities are an integral part of the community and usually contain a common kitchen for optional group meals, lounge, recreational facilities, children's space, craft room, meditation room and workshops.
All in all, it's a matter of the "lifestyle" and a "way-of-life" that's important to you! Of course, there's no better way to find out more about the communities you're considering, than taking a trip to visit them.
Many of them offer "discounted" weekend packages, so you can visit the community and get a first hand feel for it, without going broke. Many provide a DVD of their community, so you can get a feel for them without ever leaving home.
Do some research, before you decide which type of community is best for you.
See you next week!
About Bob Bencivenga
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Bob Bencivenga is a professional site locator and location analyst for major corporations and has been researching the growth of NC and SC to find the Best Places to Retire or Relocate that are still affordable. |
| Visit his blog The Carolina Report and sign up for FREE updates by email,his FREE Affordable Best Places To Live Report and, get FREE Expert Advice on how to find Your Best Place to Retire or Relocate to in North Carolina and South Carolina, additional resources, and a lot more.
Bob does not sell real estate. |
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