MIAMI—How are single-family home builders accommodating the senior demographic's needs and demands with amenities? What about social and activity clubs?

According to Bob Kanjian, director of sales for AV Homes, the trend and desire for socialization should be extended from home design into the amenities offered. In his experience, Baby boomers want to form bonds with their neighbors and fully integrate into the communities in which they will retire. That, he says, usually means communal areas are very important. AV Homes' developments include amenities and offerings that promote social connectivity and an overall feeling of togetherness. (Read the truth about so-called “forever homes.”

“This sense of socialization is supported by a 2016 survey by John Burns Real Estate Consulting,” Kanjian says. “When choosing a 55-plus community, the majority of those surveyed look for organized, on-site programming and interest groups—such as yoga enthusiasts, painting groups—in a master-planned community.

That same study also found that recreational clubs with spaces for social gatherings is the second most important desired amenity. This—coming close behind the top desired amenity, a fitness center—showcases the generation's interest in health and wellness, Kanjian says. In fact, he notes, within AV Homes' active adult communities, more than half of the homeowners are involved in some type of fitness or outdoor recreational activity. (New trends are emerging in single-family home design.)

Solivita offers 150,000 square feet of amenities, for example, and although the two golf courses are very popular with residents. seeing a rise in pickleball participants. Kanjian says there is also more than 240 clubs and organizations that residents can join, from photography and book clubs to bowling nights. In his view, implementing these features and pastimes are what really connects a community and creates a unique place that people love to call home.

Meanwhile, Vitalia at Tradition has luxury amenities that helps distinguish it from other 55-plus communities. With a 24,000-square-foot resort-style clubhouse, residents can participate in activities, host events and mingle with neighbors.

“It is also home to one of the country's largest synthetic turf putting greens with 18 practice holes,” Kanjian says. “Every Sunday, Vitalia hosts its famous 'Tiki Party' social event for its residents at the Captiva Club. With a bar set up by the pool, more than 100 residents typically come out to enjoy the night.”

MIAMI—How are single-family home builders accommodating the senior demographic's needs and demands with amenities? What about social and activity clubs?

Instant Insights /

How Single-Family Home Builders Are Meeting Senior Demands

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