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04/11/2024

Jeff Lichtenstein

Apr 11, 2024

55+ Communities

55+ Communities

55+ Communities

“On a long and lonesome highway, east of Omaha.” If that lyric sounds familiar, it’s because it’s the start of one of the great rock n’ roll tunes. My Grandma Harriet, of all people, who was not a rocker, introduced me to Bob Seger. Grandma Harriet was more Sinatra but loved Seger’s voice. My favorite song of his is “Turn the Page”. I’ve been on part of that stretch of highway that Seger belts out, which is seven hours of monotony on I80. I used to drive from Chicago to Lincoln and Omaha to visit the Omaha Furniture Mart back in the 90’s when I was a young Schmatta rag peddler salesman. However, as any parent whose child goes to FSU knows, the seven-hour drive from Palm Beach County to Tallahassee is even worse. It’s boring and flat. To prevent my mind from wandering, like Seger, I invented a sporting event game. We count the golf carts passing over the overpass of The Villages, the world-famous 55+ over community. The golf cart is the center of the universe at The Villages. There are 20 golf cart dealerships in all. The golf cart political rallies and infighting will be classic entertainment for the television this fall. Further, the dating scene is vibrant and known for, let’s say, talk from their own adult kiddos about being responsible regarding the birds and the bees. The Villages is about ½ way past Orlando and before Ocala.  Six golf carts and a bicycle is the world record so far. You can listen to some of the action of my play by play below….

Now, when you are young, celebrations come fast and furious. Birthdays up to 10 years of age are huge highlights and parties. If you are Jewish, 13 is the Bar and Bat Mitzvah age where you get your first sip of Manischewitz, which wouldn’t make a Palmetto bug drunk. But it’s an entry to adulthood. Mexican and other Latin American cultures have the Quinceanera at 15. 16 is sweet for girls. 16 and 17 is also the age where you can drive depending on where you are from. Plus, at 17 you aren’t restricted at the movies. 18 and 21 are the last of the big rushed birthday milestones although there are stragglers along the way. At 25 you can rent a car. At 30 it’s the Senate. 35 President. 40 you can have a mid-life crisis. If you golf and have a semi flat tummy, then 50 is a resurrection for the Senior Tour. 65 for social security and then the long ocean wait till 100 with nothing in between.  But I did leave one out and that’s 55.   This week is my 55th birthday. If you forgot to email me, a belated birthday wish email would be nice!

55 + Communities were for old people when I first moved down to Florida at the tender age of thirty-one. Shuffleboard and libraries with dusty books were what I thought these communities had to offer. But 55+ is the new 45+ as they say.  New 55+ communities with and without golf are the hottest thing.  In Western Boca Raton/Delray Beach and Port St. Lucie, there are 55+ communities galore.  The new 55+ communities have totally updated what they offer. Instead of shuffleboard and dusty books, some offer the following…

  • Gardening Centers
  • Indoor and outdoor Pickleball
  • Giant community pools with lap lanes, hot tubs and swim against currents.
  • Cooking centers with cooking classes
  • Fitness centers with trainers
  • Shuttle service in and out of town.
  • Arts and crafts and woodwork Centers with classes and painters
  • Full casual and luxury restaurants to meet and gather with friends.
  • Oasis Spas

So, lots of new choices of where to live and play at 55. Although be careful of speeding up in that 55 MPH zone. No special discounts if you speed past that number….!

Port St. Lucie 55+ Communities

Port Saint Lucie where Riverland is located is the most populous in the country for a reason. It is a hidden treasure along Florida’s Treasure Coast and is famous for its combination of stunning natural surroundings and contemporary conveniences. This lively town is a haven for nature lovers, with unspoiled beaches, abundant green spaces, and picturesque water passages that are ideal for fishing and boating escapades. Riverland, located within a short drive of the I-95, is surrounded by an array of captivating attractions and activities. If you venture north along the I-95, you’ll discover Oak Hammock Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy scenic walking trails. Golf enthusiasts can head slightly further north to the PGA Golf Club at PGA Village, which offers three championship courses for an exceptional golfing experience. On the southern side of the I-95, you’ll find Woodland Trails Park, a serene haven with well-maintained trails perfect for hiking and leisurely walks. Nearby, Whispering Pines Park provides a range of amenities, including playgrounds and sports fields, ideal for family outings and outdoor recreation. For those interested in shooting sports, the South Florida Shooting Club is just a short drive away, offering state-of-the-art facilities and shooting ranges. Lastly, the picturesque McCarty Ranch Preserve beckons nature enthusiasts with its vast acres of unspoiled land, providing opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.

 

Here are some of our favorites:

Riverland

Riverland in Port Saint Lucie is a highly sought-after 55+ community that offers a modern and vibrant living experience. Spanning over 4000 acres of thoughtfully planned and designed land, Riverland caters to the diverse needs and desires of its residents. Unlike traditional 55+ communities that may have limited recreational options, Riverland recognizes that today’s 55+ population seeks an active and fulfilling lifestyle. With this in mind, Riverland takes a different approach, providing a wide range of updated features and amenities that promote fun, adventure, and relaxation. Gone are the days of shuffleboard and dusty books. At Riverland, residents can enjoy an array of exciting activities and amenities. The community boasts a variety of recreational facilities, including well-maintained tennis courts, invigorating swimming pools, scenic walking trails, lively pickleball courts, and even access to pristine golf courses. These options cater to different interests and ensure that everyone can find something they enjoy.

Valencia Grove at Riverland

Choose from 5 design collections with a total of 20 different floor plans. The Premier collection offers 5 floor plans of two to three bedrooms, the Regal, Signature & Vintage collections feature 4 floorplans each with two to four bedrooms and the Crown collection is the largest of them all with 3 models offering between three and four bedrooms. Each model varies in square footage with a range from 1,355 for the smallest and up to 3,300 in the largest of the Crown collection. All homes include standard features such as an attached garage, screened and covered patios, impact resistant windows, granite countertops, and a great room, whereas optional features might include a den. The resort style amenities available to residents include a 34,000 square foot clubhouse that houses a state-of-the-art fitness center, an in-house restaurant, live stage shows, and a sports lounge, plus many other things. Outside the luxurious clubhouse you will find a large resort style swimming pool, spa and sundeck. Residents will also have access to Riverland’s Sports and Racquet Club and the Arts and Culture Center.

Valencia Cay at Riverland

These homes come in a variety of styles and floor plans offered in five separate collections with floor plans ranging from 1,355-3,312 sq ft. The building of the homes started in 2018 ensuring modern furnishings and top of the line accessories. All residents have access to great amenities including The Club at Valencia Cay, the community’s 34,000 square foot clubhouse. The fitness center is perfect for starting or maintaining an exercise routine. There is also a cafe, card room, social hall and a multi-purpose room and an arts and crafts room. Outdoor features include a resort-style outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool spa a fire pit for night-time gatherings, an event lawn for concerts and parties and walking/biking trails with fantastic scenery for your evening or morning walks.

Del Webb At Tradition

Del Webb at Tradition is a great 55+ active adult sub-community within the beautiful neighborhood of Tradition in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The homes of Del Webb are single-family homes and attached villas designed to fit your lifestyle. There are several models to choose from with the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you desire. They all have attached garages and beautifully designed open plan living and kitchen areas with top of the line furnishings and appliances.  All homes also have beautifully maintained yards and gardens, great for entertaining and relaxing.

Telaro at Tradition

Nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Port St Lucie Telaro offers a place of peace and tranquility with access to many amenities. Residents have the use of a 20,000 square foot clubhouse, a swimming pool with poolside café, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and courts for pickleball and tennis. The community opened its doors in 2021 with new and stunning homes and when complete it will comprise of 400 villas and single-family homes of varying size and customizable options. With 3 collections of homes, each offering a choice of floorplans there is sure to be something to suit your needs. A villa will give you 1,330 square feet of living space while a single-family home will offer up to 2,800 square feet with three bedrooms. Homes are impressive with large family rooms, decent size kitchens, a flex room, and so much more.

Lakepark at Tradition

The homes of this active 55+ adult community are two and three bedroom single-family and villa homes with 1,565 – 2,220 square feet of living space, 2 – 2.5 baths, 2-car garages and flexible room options. They have open interiors, designer kitchens and sleek bathrooms. The properties also have large yards that are maintained for you so you can spend more time relaxing and enjoying time with friends. All residents of LakePark at Tradition have access to great community features just yards from your door. Enjoy resort-style amenities at The Club at LakePark, including a state-of-the-art gym, a luxurious swimming pool, an outdoor seating area and grill and a dedicated dog park for residents. LakePark residents will also have full access to all the amenities that TownPark has to offer including a spa, basketball, tennis, bocce, and pickle ball plus much more. Lakepark has completed building all phases. Resales are currently available.

Veranda Preserve

Veranda Preserve is a new master planned community in Port St Lucie and is exclusively for the over 55’s. 310 single family homes make up this expansive area with 3 stunning collections to choose from. The grand clubhouse takes center stage and overlooks the resort style pool and gorgeous landscaping. Inside the clubhouse enjoy access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, an aerobics studio, and plenty of gathering spaces for meeting with neighbors, or taking part in social events. Clubs and classes are arranged according to people’s interests giving you the chance to learn something new. Outside you can find tennis courts, a pickleball court, and a pond. There are about 322 homes, 55+ resort style community, $339,000-$555,000.

Esplanade at Tradition

One of the newest 55+ communities to be added to Tradition in Port Saint Lucie is Esplanade, this active adult community will join similar subdivisions such as Del Webb and Telaro. Esplanade at Tradition will bring with it beautiful designed single-family homes with two- and three-bedroom floor plan. Being part of this community gives you access to many wonderful amenities that include a swimming pool, tennis courts, a clubhouse, pickleball court, fitness suite and more. There are about 300 homes, 55+ resort style community, $420,000-$900,000.

 

Southern Palm Beach County 55+ Communities

Valencia Falls

Valencia Falls is an active 55+ community located in West Delray Beach and just like the other Valencia subdivisions no expense has been spared. These fabulous homes are single story with two to four bedrooms and feature spacious open plan living with walk in closets, gourmet kitchens, and outdoor space. Inside the gated community the amenities are top notch and include an elegant lakeside 25,000 square foot clubhouse where residents can enjoy arranged organizations, entertainment, and various clubs. Residents can also work out at the state-of-the-art fitness center with fitness program, enjoy a nice swim in the resort sized pool, get your arm in full swing on the tennis courts, or enjoy a game of pickleball. Along side the resort style pool is a poolside café open for breakfast and lunch with indoor and outdoor seating.

 

Valencia Bay

If you are over 55 then a beautiful single-family home at Valencia Bay can be yours. GL Homes have left no expense spared when building the luxurious properties of the Valencia Communities. Each home features fabulous upgrades with an impressive list of high-end features. At the center of it all is the luxurious clubhouse that spans over 33,00 square feet and boasts fabulous amenities; a social hall with dance floor, card rooms, billiard and internet room, exercise studio, ping pong tables, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and swimming pools. Also include is a state-of-the-art racquet club which offers six Har Tru tennis courts, basketball court, bocce, two handball courts, and six pickleball courts. Lessons can be arranged for tennis and pickleball through the on-site staff.

 

Valencia Sound

Opened in April 2019 that makes Valencia Sound the 10th luxurious community of its kind. From the very moment you enter this wonderful community you get a feeling of tranquility with beautiful tropical landscaping, serene lake views, and the spectacular water fountains as you enter through the front gates. GL Homes have built these stunning single-family homes and they are filled with luxurious features and plenty of space. Expect impact resistant windows and doors, stainless steel appliances, designer tile flooring, screened and covered patios, and so much more. This wonderful 55+ community also comes with 5-star amenities. Swim, play, dine, enjoy, it is all possible at Valencia Sound. The 39,000 square foot clubhouse features the very best in amenities including a full-service restaurant, sports lounge, many pickleball courts, and tennis and bocce courts.

 

Valencia Grand

As with all the Valencia communities you can expect a high quality of amenities to keep your days busy. Discover the expansive clubhouse that spans 44,000 square feet and encompasses a grand hall, several card rooms, a sports lounge, fitness center, exercise studio, a mind and body spa, and much more. As well as indoor amenities there are also outdoor amenities such as a yoga garden, a few different pools, and a whirlpool spa, as well as cabanas, shaded lounging areas, and a patio bar. The racquet club caters to those who enjoy tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball. With a prime location in Boynton Beach Valencia Grand is close to all conveniences of downtown, the Atlantic Ocean, and the upscale dining and shopping of Delray Beach. Top sites of the area include Oceanfront Park, Grand Cay Nature Center, the Boynton Harbor, and the Morikami Japanese Museum and Gardens. Golfers will delight at the choice of courses throughout the city and with easy access to major highways more can be reached at a moment’s notice.

 

Valencia Palms

Located on Jog Road in Delray Beach Valencia Palms was the 5th subdivision to be built in the Valencia communities. This gated community is specifically for the over 55’s and offers an active lifestyle. The single-family homes are spacious, and many were built with large lake lots. Designs vary, while some were built with great room layouts others feature a family room and formal living room. At the center of it all is the fabulous 31,000 square foot clubhouse that houses a grand ballroom, a café with indoor and outdoor seating, three spacious card rooms, kitchen, billiards room, arts and crafts room, and a large theater that hosts shows and events.

 

Quail Run

Quail Run is a gated residential community for the over 55’s located in Boynton Beach, FL. The community features townhomes and condos with a monthly HOA fee so some restrictions are in place. HOA covers maintenance, common areas, security, etc. Inside the gates, residents have fabulous amenities at their disposal including a luxurious clubhouse, billiards, bocce ball court, exercise room, card rooms, library, shuffleboard, spa, hot tub, and tennis courts. There is also a lake where residents can enjoy a picnic or just relax and read a book. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities with plenty of water sport options such as scuba diving, fishing, and jet skiing or a round of golf at The Links Course.

 

 

More 55+ Communities

It’s not just Saint Lucie County that is home to incredible 55+ communities. Echo Fine Properties has identified and categorized these communities so that you can easily find the perfect senior-friendly community in whichever area you prefer.

Martin County – View all Martin County 55+ communities

Northern Palm Beach County – View all Northern Palm Beach County 55+ communities

Southern Palm Beach County – View all Southern Palm Beach County 55+ communities

Western Palm Beach County – View all Western Palm Beach County 55+ communities

St. Lucie Communities: View all Saint Lucie 55+ communities

 

Find your next Florida home:

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Jeff Lichtenstein, originally from Chicago, got his start in the home furnishings textile business where he traveled over 35 weeks a year selling fabrics. After the family business was sold, Jeff moved to Florida and became a real estate agent. Today he is the owner and broker of Echo Fine Properties, a luxury residential brokerage voted best brokerage of the year. Jeff manages a non-traditional model of real estate that mimics a traditional business model. Echo has 80 agents, an average of one million dollars per transaction and over 500 million in annual sales. Between traveling for work and annual family trips to national parks with his wife and 2 now adult children, Jeff has visited 49 states. He is also one of the few Chicago White Sox fans you’ll ever meet.  Some publications he has been quoted in.

Author of business & leadership book How Making a Sandwich Can Change Your World –  The Amazing Success of the PB&J Strategy – Available to Buy Now!

Feel free to ask him a question directly at [email protected] including a complementary  valuation of your home.

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