Buying a Home in a Senior Community
1. Benefits of purchasing a home in a senior community
Living in a senior community offers various benefits as these communities are designed to cater to the needs and preferences of individuals in their retirement years ( 55 years of age or older).
Here are some of the most common reasons why people choose to live in a senior community:
Social Interaction: Senior communities provide ample opportunities for social interaction. Residents can engage in activities, clubs, and events that help them connect with their peers, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. Also, being surrounded by peers who are in similar life stages creates a strong sense of belonging as shared experiences and interests can facilitate meaningful connections.
Safety and Security: Many senior communities offer security features like gated entrances, surveillance cameras, and on-site staff. This can provide a sense of safety and peace of mind for residents and their families.
Amenities and Services: Senior communities often come with various amenities and services that make daily life more convenient. These might include fitness centers, swimming pools, golf courses, housekeeping, transportation services, meal options, post offices, restaurants, etc.
Low-Maintenance Living: Maintenance and upkeep of homes can become more challenging with age. Senior communities typically offer maintenance services, eliminating the need for residents to worry about chores like lawn care.
Healthcare Services: Some senior communities have on-site or nearby healthcare facilities or services, making it easier for residents to access medical care and support.
Community Activities: These communities often organize a wide range of activities. This can include exercise classes, arts and crafts, book clubs, educational seminars, and more.
Continuum of Care: Some senior communities offer a continuum of care, meaning they provide various levels of assistance as residents' needs change. This can range from independent living to assisted living or even memory care.
2. Santa Clara County Seniors Communities Overview
Please note that this information is for informational purposes only. Please contact directly the senior communities for a comprehensive review of their services.
2-1. The Villages Golf & Country Club San Jose/ Evergreen 95135
The development of the Villages began with the purchase of a large parcel of land in the foothills of the Evergreen Valley area of San Jose. The builders designed the community to accommodate the needs of retirees, offering a wide range of housing options, recreational facilities, and services. The Villages Golf & Country Club was developed in several phases with different housing options. Below is a brief overview of the construction phases and housing options in the Villages.
1). Housing options in the Villages
The community offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses. It is divided into 13 neighborhoods:
- Cribari: The Cribari neighborhood was built in 1967. It features 576 condos and/or townhouses.
- Montgomery: The Montgomery neighborhood was built in 1971 and features 351 condos and/or townhouses.
- Hermosa: The Hermosa neighborhood was built in 1975. It features 74 single-family homes and 196 condos and/or townhouses.
- The Heights: The Heights neighborhood was built in 1978 and includes 72 condos and/or townhouses.
- Verano: The Verano neighborhood was built in 1980. It includes 207 condos and/or townhouses.
- Vista del Lago: The Vista del Lago neighborhood was built in 1985 and features 174 condos and/or townhouses.
- Highland: The Highland neighborhood was built in 1987. It includes 210 condo and/or townhouses and 49 single-family homes.
- Glen Arden: The Glen Arden neighborhood was built in 1989 and features 120 condos and/or townhouses.
- Olivas: The Olivas neighborhood was built in 1992. It includes 207 condos and/or townhouses.
- The Estates: The estate neighborhood was built in 1996. It includes 75 single-story single-family homes.
- Fairways: The Fairways neighborhood was built in 1996. It includes 22 condos.
- Sonata: The Village Sonata was built in 1998. It features 102 condos.
- Valle Vista: The Valley Vista neighborhood was built in 1999 and features 72 townhouses. It offers picturesque views of the surrounding hills and the natural beauty of the Evergreen area.
2). Most common floor plans available in the Villages
- Single-Family Homes: The single-family homes range in size from approximately 1,200 to 2,800 square feet. These homes typically feature two or three bedrooms and two or three bathrooms. Some homes may also feature additional living spaces such as a den or office, as well as outdoor patio areas.
- Condominiums: The condominium floor plans, range in size from approximately 600 to 1,600 square feet. Condominiums typically feature one or two bedrooms and one or two bathrooms. Many condominiums also feature outdoor balconies or patio areas.
- Townhouses: The townhouses' floor plans, range in size from approximately 1,000 to 1,800 square feet. Townhouses typically feature two or three bedrooms with two or three bathrooms.
Source: https://www.thevillagesgcc.com/
2-2. The Cottages at Village Green, Gilroy 95020
The Cottages at Village Green is a gated 55+ active adult community located in Gilroy. Built from 2003 to 2004, the Cottages at Village Green consists of 77 single-family homes. The homes range from approximately 800 to 1,110 square feet, although some homes may be outside this range. The plans have one to three bedrooms, one or two bathrooms, and attached car garages.
Designed for main-level living, many of the cottage homes feature open-concept floor plans, living rooms with vaulted ceilings and skylights, kitchens with breakfast bars, and master suites with en-suite bathrooms. Some homes include lofts that provide guest bedrooms, additional storage, and space for an office, craft room, or sitting area. Homes include front porches and private backyard patios ideal for indoor-outdoor living.
The community is known for its golf course and green spaces and is located at a short distance away from shopping, medical services and, downtown Gilroy.
Source; https://shorturl.at/dHLW9
2-3. Valley Oaks Community, Gilroy 95020
The Valley Oaks Community for residents aged 55 and older in Gilroy was built between 2005 and 2010. The Valley Oaks consists of 24 single-family homes.
The ranch-style homes range from approximately 1,302 to 1,413 square feet with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and attached car garages.
Many of the one-level homes feature spacious open floor plans, great rooms with gas fireplaces, updated kitchens, and master bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Some homes feature front porches, backyard patios, and smaller backyards for easy maintenance.
The community is located 30 miles south of San Jose and 80 miles south of San Francisco. This community is located within close proximity to downtown Gilroy, nearby golf courses, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.
Source: https://rb.gy/e8hng
2-4. Pine Tree Villas, Morgan Hill 95037
The Pine Tree Villas gated 55+ community construction began in the early 1990s. The attached homes start at 1,148 square feet. The plans have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an attached car garage. There is plenty of storage throughout the house as well as backyard space that can be used as a private patio or garden.
Spacious floor plans include an open great room with a gas fireplace, and large windows welcoming plenty of natural light. Features in some homes include hardwood floors, granite counters, covered entrances, and high ceilings.
Members of the community can socialize with neighbors at the community center and/or outdoor pool. This community is located just 20 minutes south of San Jose.
Source: https://rb.gy/58b8q
2-5. Cottage Green, Morgan Hill 95037
Cottage Green is a gated, 55+ community that features a variety of single-family homes and many amenities that range from a clubhouse and pool to a gym and playground for grandchildren. The community is also close to the entertainment, recreation, and culture of San Jose, located only 20 minutes away.
Cottage Green was developed from 1990 to 1998 and features single-family homes that range from 587 to 945 square feet, though some models may be outside this range.
Floor plans have one to two bedrooms, one to two bathrooms, and an attached car garage. Features in some homes include cathedral ceilings, a breakfast bar, and a backyard patio.
Source: https://rb.gy/o0ny0
2-6. Villa Capri, Los Gatos 95032
Villa Capri is a gated 55+ community and offers homebuyers low-maintenance condos within a quiet and tranquil setting. Residents of this community also have access to well-appointed amenities that promote an active and social lifestyle. Villa Capri enjoys a prime location that allows homeowners easy access to everyday necessities in downtown Los Gatos as well as highways 85 and 87, making traveling across town a breeze.
Villa Capri was built in 1987 and consists of a total of 35 condos. The condos range from 934 to 937 square feet, making them an ideal choice for those looking to downsize. These homes have one to two bedrooms, one bathroom, and an assigned garage parking space. These condos feature inviting living areas, large master suites, open floorplans, spacious decks, indoor laundry units, and plenty of storage space.
Homeowners will find plenty of options to explore in the area. There are multiple greenspaces and parks to choose from, including the Vasona Lake County Park, La Rinconada Park, and Jack Fischer Park. Golfers can also find multiple courses to tee off at, like the Pruneridge Golf Club, Blackberry Farm Golf Course, and Deep Cliff Golf Course.
Source: https://rb.gy/qeem5
2-7. Los Gatos Commons, Los Gatos 95032
Los Gatos Commons is a gated 55+ community and consists of low-maintenance condos and amenities that promote an active and social lifestyle. Los Gatos Commons is located near highways 17, 9, and 85 as well as Downtown Los Gatos and Vasona Lake Park.
Los Gatos Commons was developed from 1978 to 1980 and consists of 110 condominium units. These low-maintenance condo homes range from 768 to 1,452 square feet. The homes have one to three bedrooms, one to two bathrooms, and a one-car garage or carport parking. Some condos feature spacious living areas, granite countertops, updated kitchen appliances, plantation shutters, large private patios, indoor laundry units, storage spaces, and elevator access.
Source: https://liveinlosgatosblog.com/los-gatos-commons/
2-8. The Forum at Rancho San Antonio – Cupertino 95014
The Forum at Rancho San Antonio in Cupertino offers a wide range of amenities and services for seniors, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care options.
- The Independent Living option is suitable for active seniors who can live independently but want access to amenities, social activities, and a maintenance-free lifestyle. Independent living units in The Forum at Rancho San Antonio may include apartments, cottages, or townhomes.
- The Assisted Living units are designed for seniors who require some assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation. Residents in assisted living have access to personalized care services in a supportive environment.
- The Memory Care units are for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. These units offer a secure and structured environment with trained staff who provide specialized care and programs tailored to the needs of residents with memory impairment.
Source: https://theforum-seniorliving.com/
2-9. Round Tree - Sunnyvale 94086
Sunnyvale Round Tree Homeowners Senior Community offers a range of housing options and amenities tailored to the needs and preferences of seniors. The community includes various types of housing along with common areas and facilities for socializing, recreation, and wellness activities.
Sunnyvale Round Tree Homeowners Senior Community offers a variety of services:
- A choice between independent living or assisted living;
- 24-hour access to care;
- Wellness checks by onsite physicians and/or nurses;
- Fitness and recreation activities;
- Transportation services;
- A personalized plan of care with comprehensive skilled nursing services;
- Memory care services;
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy services.
Source: https://rowntreegardens.org/contact-us/
2-10. Parc Regent - Los Altos 94022
Parc Regent retirement community offers a range of housing options and amenities for seniors looking for an active and supportive lifestyle. Parc Regent provides independent living accommodations designed for seniors who can live independently but desire a community setting with access to various services and activities.
The independent living apartments at Parc Regent:
- Parc Regent provides spacious and well-designed apartments specifically tailored for independent seniors. These apartments feature modern amenities, such as full kitchens, private bathrooms, and comfortable living areas.
- The Cottages: Parc Regent standalone cottages provide additional privacy and may include features like private entrances, outdoor spaces, and attached garages.
Source: https://www.parcregent.org/
2-11. The Hamilton - Palo Alto 94301
The Hamilton retirement community offers a range of housing options and high-quality amenities for seniors seeking an active and upscale lifestyle. The Hamilton provides independent living accommodations. The spacious apartments feature 2- & 3-bedroom floor plans from 1,354 - 2,574 sq. ft., a balcony or patio, 2 + bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, gas fireplace, in-unit washers & dryers, and walk-in closets.
Additionally, The Hamilton offers various on-site amenities, including dining options, fitness centers, social and recreational activities, and access to health care services.
Source: https://www.thehamilton.net/
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