2020 Fall Ideal-LIVING

to the fullest LIVE FLORIDA

Lakewood Ranch offers a lifestyle unlike any other in Florida. An incredible variety of homes and villages are all within minutes of our 150-mile trail network, six parks, three town centers, a sports campus, Sarasota Polo Club, a farmers’ market, arts & entertainment and 365 days worth of activities. And just beyond our backyard, you’ll find the whitesand beaches of Sarasota and all the excitement of Tampa. Welcome to The Ranch. We can’t wait to show you around.

Named “Best Health and Fitness Community” by ideal-Living

20+ UNIQUE VILLAGES TO CHOOSE FROM IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA | HOMES FROM THE $200S TO OVER $ 1 MILLION

The Best-Selling Community in the U.S. for All Ages .com

3Ways To Call Brunswick Forest Home.

Move In Today

Select from a vast inventory of newly constructed, beautifully appointed homes.

Choose your site, your builder, and your specifications.

Choose your perfect homesite with water, nature or golf views.

Nestled beside the historic port city of Wilmington, NC, Brunswick Forest has been nationally recognized for its exceptional land plan, outstanding selection of lovely homes and an abundance of luxurious amenities. Residents enjoy an enviable Coastal By Nature® lifestyle, surrounded by scenic marshes, winding creeks and stunning ocean beaches.

Life is Better on the River

River Bluffs offers two home stylesa low country style with generous front porches and low maintenance singlelevel brick homes with a 40’ elevation above the flood plain.

Located just 10 minutes north of downtown Wilmington, NC (by boat or car) sits River Bluffs, overlooking the North East Cape Fear River. Residents enjoy a serene community where they live and play. Together residents and the neighborhood’s developers have established over 30 clubs. The clubs vary from boating & kayaking to water polo, dancing, and more!

RIVERBLUFFSLIVING.COM

Mariner’s Watch

A gated, low-impact development, offering miles of walking trails, elevated walkways, and the longest private over-water Riverwalk in the country! Prices start in the low $300’s!

HOA Dues are low and include yard maintenance, trash service & recycling. Plus, the fitness center, beach entry pool, mail center, tennis & pickleball courts, parks, trails, pavilion, community marina, and RV & boat storage are available for use now!

No city taxes, low county & state taxes, and no traffic!

Located just 10-minutes to the Wilmington Airport, 4-hours south of Richmond, VA., and 3-minutes off Interstate 140.

Our new townhomes are located near the River Bluffs Marina, Riverwalk, various trails, and the new pavilion. The views of the North East Cape Fear River waterfront are breathtaking. If you are looking for a low maintenance home, schedule your tour today.

28429

Tennis, Pickleball, and Half-Court Basketball

The Peninsula is a community with extraordinary amenities right at your fingertips. Just outside your doorstep is a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and the Indian River Bay. Enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, a trip to the spa, a meal at the Terrace Grille and more, all without ever leaving the gates.

With a first-class experience right outside your door, you’ll never want to leave, but if you do, you’ll always be at ease when you come home to The Peninsula. New Homes from the $300s to $3M+. Discover summer at the Peninsula today.

© 2020 Schell Brothers LLC.All Rights Reserved.

ENJOY THE WARM SUNSHINE YEAR ROUND!

Minto Communities USA, based in Florida since 1978, has represented integrity, financial strength and enduring value to homeowners for more than 40 years. In premier locations throughout the Southeast, Minto master-planned communities feature award-winning homes and worldclass recreational amenities designed to provide relaxed, enriched and rewarding lifestyles.

Now introducing Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach, FL and Hilton Head, SC, and One Particular Harbour in Bradenton/Sarasota, FL –communities inspired by the laid-back Margaritaville lifestyle. Wherever life’s journey takes you, an innovative Minto community is ready to welcome you home.

New homes from the low $200s to over $1.5 million (844) 433-3135 | MintoUSA.com

Premier Locations

BRADENTON

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL

LakePark at Tradition

Latitude CommunitiesMargaritaville

DAYTONA BEACH, FL

Latitude Margaritaville

HILTON HEAD, SC

Latitude Margaritaville

WATERSOUND, FL

Latitude Margaritaville - Opening 2021

Fall is here... ask

Specials

Near Pinehurst and nestled in a natural paradise, McLendon Hills has been the location for affluent country living for over 20 years. Where lake and equestrian community living is at its best. This rare community offers its residents an environment and collection of amenities truly unsurpassed anywhere in North Carolina.

2020

Call today to schedule a tour.

SUMMER 2020 VOLUME 22, NUMBER FOUR

PUBLISHER

RPI Media, LLC.

PRESIDENT

Michael Hackeling

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kelly Godbey

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sam Crawford, Jan Cullinane, Kelly Godbey, Warren Grant, Rebecca Meares

Fanny Slater, JG Walker

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Kelly Godbey, Amber Whittington, Ashley Summerlin

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Laurie Kent

DATABASE MANAGER

David Heck

IDEAL-LIVING.COM

David Heck, Will Weinel

MARKETING COORDINATOR

Gina Burwell

ADVERTISING SALES

NC, Myrtle Beach, SC, TN, DE,VA,WV, PA, NJ: Daniel Keir | dkeir@ideal-living.com

SC, GA, FL: Fred Warren | fwarren@ideal-living.com

Western U.S. & International: Dana Leyva | dana@ideal-living.com

Sales Coordinator: Laurie Kent (800) 736-0321 www.rpimedia.com

The real estate projects and services advertised in this magazine constitute advertisements of the owners or their agents. RPI Media, LLC.® makes no representations or warranties concerning such advertisements. Interested parties should direct their inquiries to the appropriate parties listed for information concerning any of these advertisements. The advertisements contained construed as an offer to residents of the states of New York or New Jersey, or where otherwise prohibited by law. Questions on the availability of offers should be directed to the advertiser. Publisher’s notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal Agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property.

Moving Outdoors

As editor of Ideal-LIVING magazine, I have the great opportunity to speak with engaging people throughout the U.S. and around the world. These conversations lead me to value the spirit of people who choose to relocate and start a new life at retirement. Instead of staying in their current life, they have the bravery and the sense of adventure to begin anew. They tend to lead a happy, fulfilled existence where a sense of community permeates. These adventurers are able to make lasting friendships through shared experiences when they relocate. Talking with readers and people who have relocated leaves me ever hopeful for a better tomorrow and excitement about the future.

This year has brought many challenges for us all, and I hope that people have developed a better appreciation for some of the simpler things in life. One of those things is just getting out and breathing in the fresh air, and that’s a lot easier to do, especially if you live in a planned amenity community with walking trails. During the pandemic, you can get out and enjoy the open spaces and outdoor living opportunities better in these communities.

Outdoor living is the theme of this fall’s Ideal-L IVING Ideal Home in Kingfish Bay in Calabash, NC (page 48). The home is designed to incorporate the outdoors with the indoors with fabulous outdoor living spaces

by Kelly Godbey kellyg@ideal-LIVING.com

that include a custom-designed pool and living space with retractable screens, not to mention a spacious interior design where the kitchen, main living area, primary bedroom suite, and upper porch, all overlooking the outdoor living space.

Incorporating outdoor living is a major theme in home design today, as you will see in the third annual Parade of Ideal Homes on page 95, where we feature top builders from around the country. This is a great place to gather ideas for your new home. The open living areas will comfortably accommodate gatherings when we are able to entertain in the home again.

And, to help our readers to escape the congestion of the big cities and find a place where they can live out an ideal life, we are hosting our first-ever Ideal-LIVING Virtual Resort & Retirement shows this September (show program on page 39). We are very excited to offer our readers the first chance to attend a virtual real estate show from the comfort of their home where they can watch informative seminars and speak with community representatives about life in their area. We hope to see you. I will be available throughout the show weekends to live chat if you have questions.

We look forward to seeing you at the VIRTUAL event and helping you find your ideal destination, life, and home this fall.

Find Your Ideal... DESTINATION

The first step in finding your ideal destination is to choose a location of interest, maybe one you have vacationed to or have always wanted to visit. Then, take advantage of Discovery Travel (found on page 46).

Ideal-LIVING welcomes the following communities. Please take the time to visit their websites, and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Ideal-LIVING.

Meritus Signature Homes North and South Carolina

Verona Oceanside Ormond-by-the-Sea, FL

ICI Homes has built more than 4,000 single-family residences in Florida during its 40 years as an award-winning regional industry leader. The company’s emphasis has always been on customizing every floor plan and exterior to create one-of-a-kind homes that are tailored to the specifications and lifestyle of its clients.

Over the past 20 years, Meritus Signature Homes has earned its reputation as one of the most respected builders in western North Carolina and throughout the state of South Carolina.

The homebuilding process begins at the Meritus Design Center in the upstate South Carolina town of Anderson. The experienced professionals there make the extra effort to get to know prospective customers and match their specific desires with one of the company’s customizable building plans. The goal is “affordable luxury,” combining the highest-quality materials and craftsmanship with a fixed-price approach that remains true to the established building budget. And, that cost-savings continues past move-in with energy-saving designs and appliances, as well as warranties that extend for 10 years or more.

Meritus Signature Homes is one of only two companies based in the South Carolina upstate to be chosen for the prestigious Southern Living Custom Builder Program. The Lowcountry Collection and Coastal Cottage designs are featured in choice communities near the South Carolina towns of Beaufort and Bluffton. The Mountain and Lake Collection includes designs created to naturally complement the scenic topography in the highland and waterfront communities of both Carolinas. Along with the Executive Collection and the company’s own Meritus Signature Collection, buyers can preview up to 700 available floor plans before choosing the perfect home in the ideal location for a lifetime of comfort and satisfaction.

Check out the gallery of homes online or visit the new office in Beaufort to see what Meritus Signature Homes has for you.

MeritusHomes.com

Verona Oceanside is the newest Florida community by ICI Homes. This luxurious beach enclave features both customizable single-family homes and townhomes with direct ocean access. An impressive collection of all-new casual lifestyle floor plans feature refreshing outdoor living spaces with front and back porches plus plenty of windows to let the Florida sunshine into the open interior spaces. Craftsmanship of the highest quality and a wide range of finishing-touch options make every Verona Oceanside home unique.

The popular Ormond-by-the-Sea community is the home of Verona Oceanside, which is located on historic Florida Highway A1A. Local shops, markets, and casual cafes are found all along the seaside road, offering Verona Oceanside residents convenient access to all of their everyday needs. A short drive of less than five miles over the bridge and onto the mainland is the town of Ormond Beach. This upscale destination features fine-dining restaurants, day spas, golf courses, and shopping centers, as well as several nearby state parks and nature preserves for hiking and kayaking. Just a bit further south is Daytona Beach and iconic Daytona International Speedway.

ICIHomes.com

Information Center, Downtown Winter Garden Street, Winter Garden FL 34787

Stanley Martin Homes

Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina

subject to change.

an exceptional respect for the environment.

Unique nature-oriented amenities distinguish the 258-acre Oakland Park community. Topping the list is the West Orange Trail, a 22-mile pathway that meanders through the heart of the development. Additional trails run along the shores of Lake Apopka and throughout the community, connecting nearly a dozen on-site parks, lawns, and mews. The Oakland Park Clubhouse overlooking Eagle Lake is the hub of community activity with meeting rooms, a demonstration kitchen, a playground for the kids, and a zero-entry pool. The neighborhood Meadow Marsh Park on Lake Brim features a pool next to the community gardens.

Since its debut in 2008, Oakland Park has won many prestigious environmental awards for its site design, lake restoration, and tree preservation, including some of the region’s largest live oaks. As a certified-green Florida community, Oakland Park adheres to the highest standards in home construction and energy efficiency. Preferred builders David Weekley Homes, J&J Building, and RCB Homes now offer virtual tours of available residences.

The West Orange Trail also makes it possible for Oakland Park residents to walk, jog, or ride their bikes to nearby Winter Haven, a welcoming town filled with shops, restaurants, and professional services like medical specialty practices. And, Oakland Park families appreciate the choice of high-performing public and private schools in Orange County.

LiveAtOaklandPark.com

Stanley Martin Homes was founded in 1966 to build residences in the growing suburbs around Washington, D.C. With core values that include a passion for excellence and a homebuyer-focused approach from first contact to completion, Stanley Martin Homes has grown to become one of the 50 largest builders in America. The company is currently featuring new homes in the finest communities of Virginia and the Carolinas.

In the Virginia highlands near Charlottesville, move-in-ready homes and villas are available in Glenbrook at Foothill Crossing, and estate homes with mountain views are offered in the Whittington community. Townhomes in choice locations are featured throughout northern Virginia and in the Richmond area. Kelton Station is the company’s first-ever neighborhood in Williamsburg.

Coastal North Carolina communities now featuring Stanley Martin Homes include St. James Plantation and Brunswick Plantation, while the active-adult lifestyle distinguishes the Heritage community near Charlotte. Move-in-ready homes are now available in the Raleigh-area neighborhoods of Woodhall and 12 Oaks, and the Retreat at Renaissance townhomes are within walking distance of downtown Wake Forest.

Homes in the Lowcountry of South Carolina include the riverfront Oldfield community in Bluffton, plus popular Charleston-area neighborhoods like Bridgeview and Summers Corner. Spacious single-family homes are now available in more than 20 choice communities in the midlands area around Columbia, while upstate locations include Mayfield Crossing near Greenville.

For high-quality, energy-efficient residences in the best Southeastern locations, check out what Stanley Martin Homes has to offer.

StanleyMartin.com

Community News Update

Don’t miss this opportunity to visit these amazing locations.

COVID-19 COMMUNITY TRAVEL UPDATES

Ideal-LIVING encourages our readers to travel safely when finding your ideal home. First, check out the websites of any communities you are planning to visit. Almost all communities have a section on their website to keep potential residents apprised of their COVID-19 precautions when it comes to community amenity usage, as well as touring options. Many also have 3D home tours online.

NEW WILDLIFE KIOSK

Tellico Village | Loudon, TN

The Links at Kahite Golf Course in Tennessee’s Tellico Village has a new educational amenity—a wildlife kiosk located in a pocket park beside the course. Built and erected by a group of community volunteers, the kiosk displays hi-resolution photographs of all of the bird species found in the community and around Lake Tellico. The pictures were taken by retired New Zealand veterinarian Bill Leaning, who moved to Tellico Village with his wife two years ago.

TellicoVillage.org

HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE WELCOMES NEW GM Hot Springs Village | Hot Springs, AR

Charles King was recently named as the new General Manager of Hot Springs Village in Arkansas by a unanimous vote of the community’s Board of Directors. King was previously Managing Director of Lodging Operations at Utah’s SnowBird Resort, where he oversaw four large homeowner’s associations and an annual budget of more than $50 million. In a sign of the times, residents welcomed King with a drive-by meet and greet parade in front of the Woodlands Auditorium. Covering nearly 41 square miles, Hot Springs Village is America’s largest gated community in size and home to more than 14,000 residents, with amenities that include nine golf courses and 11 recreational lakes.

ExploreTheVillage.com

Palmer Lake Villas

Coastal Cottages

Palmer & Nicklaus Golf

NEW GOLF VILLAS

Bay Creek | Cape Charles, VA

Virginia’s Bay Creek has introduced Palmer Lake Villas, a new neighborhood of golf homes overlooking the 12th and 13th holes on the community’s Arnold Palmer Signature Course. The spacious lakefront villas feature three bedrooms, designer kitchens, and screened porches with wide views across the water to the fairways and greens. Upgrade options include a second-floor study or bedroom with a full bath. Virtual tours are now available online.

BayCreek.net

EXPANDING MARINA COMPLEX

River Bluffs | Castle Hayne, NC

The Marina Complex at River Bluffs in coastal North Carolina is growing. Mariner’s Watch is the community’s newest neighborhood of townhomes that have been designed for maintenance-free living right next door to the marina. Beautiful riverfront views and direct access to miles of community hiking trails puts Mariner’s Watch on the map at an ideal location. The River Bluffs Marina itself is also expanding to 188 slips, with new kayak/ boat launches and gazebos along the 2,700-foot Riverwalk.

RiverBluffsLiving.com

BRISK MINTO SALES

The Groves of Westlake | Westlake, FL

Minto Communities USA announced a complete sell-out in July of the first 17 homesites released in its newest Florida neighborhood, The Groves of Westlake. An additional 19 lots were released soon after that with more to come. The Groves is planned for a total of 424 single-family homesites, and buyers can choose from two distinctive home collections with 26 available floorplans. Six designer model homes are also now open.

Minto.com

100,000 AND COUNTING David Weekley Homes

David Weekley Homes reached a remarkable milestone in July with its 100,000th home closing since the Texas-based company’s founding in 1976. The landmark sale was made to the Bokelman family, and their new home is in the Viridian community, located in the Dallas/Ft. Worth suburb of Arlington. David Weekley Homes is one of America’s largest private developers and operates in 20 cities, including new age-55+ communities, including Chapel Hill, NC, Tampa, FL, and Phoenix, AZ.

DavidWeekleyHomes.com

BUILDING NEW TRADITIONS Traditions of America | Berwyn, PA

The summer of 2020 saw substantial construction progress in several new locations by Traditions of America, the Pennsylvania-based developer of resort-style communities for age-55+ residents. At the Green Pond community in Bethlehem Township, the Model Park, Design Studio, and Welcome Center opened, and new home sites were released in August, while work on the Green Pond Clubhouse is progressing toward a Spring 2021 opening. Traditions of America at Richland is nearing completion of six model homes and the new Welcome Center & Design Studio, with the community clubhouse and amenities set to be finished by next summer. New model homes have just opened, and tree-covered homesites have recently been made available at the Traditions‘ West Brandywine community in Chester County.

WOMEN’S CENTER UPGRADES Lakewood Ranch | Sarasota, FL

The first phase is nearing completion of the $3 million Women’s Center renovation project at the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. The upgrades are designed to generally give the dedicated facility a more spa-like atmosphere and specifically to enhance access to high-quality maternity care in the growing Lakewood Ranch community. The first new rooms are expected to be available in September, and the project’s completion is anticipated in early 2021. The 34,000-acre Lakewood Ranch near Sarasota is comprised of 25 villages, each with its own neighborhood amenities, plus shopping and entertainment centers, sports complexes, and 150 miles of multiuse trails that serve the entire Florida community.

LakewoodRanch.com

The Shades of Carolina Colours Suit You Perfectly

The blues of abundant waters flowing throughout this coastal region of North Carolina. The greens of our Bill Love-designed championship golf course. The many hues of life in a celebrated planned community, situated in New Bern, a town that is at once historical and modern.

It’s a picture perfect lifestyle, spent among friendly neighbors and fun-filled activities, including swimming, tennis, pickleball, a dog park and miles of walking and biking trails. And the convenience is further enhanced with a retail center now open at the community’s entrance. If you’re searching for a retirement community that celebrates the art of living, these are definitely your Colours.

Inquire about our Discovery Package and come visit Carolina Colours for yourself.

VERDANT PROPERTIES JUST RELEASED

Lake Arenal, Costa Rica

Arenal Region Draws Eco-Tourists and Luxury Travelers Searching for World-Class Recreation

By William Burr

There will come a time when we will travel again and visit the places dreamt of during the pandemic. If you’re anything like me, you’ve formed a mental bucket list of faraway destinations that have become more appealing than ever. Some of us have spent these long stay-at-home hours planning a different kind of vacation, a retirement abroad, or a change of lifestyle by scouring websites, blogs, and country information venues.

A well-planned search follows a reasoned approach. Is this location safe? Is the country stable? Is the cost of living affordable? Does it have the medical and infrastructure facilities needed? Does it satisfy my needs for entertainment, shopping, and transportation? Most articles on a specific country or city will answer these issues or direct a reader to a solution. Volumes have been written on the internet. Like never before, the world is literally at your fingertips.

It’s more difficult, but sometimes more exciting, to find those lesser-known jewels bypassed by travelers, unnoticed, or rarely reported on. These locations can often be more interesting, less expensive, and have the additional advantage of being unspoiled. If a spot like this is of interest, take a look at a little gem tucked in the hinterlands of Costa Rica called the Lake Arenal region.

Most of us are familiar with the advantages that Costa Rica offers, all those mentioned above plus a tropical paradise with the world’s most diverse ecology. As a country, Costa Rica leads the world in eco-friendly resorts, hotels, national parks, and sustainable community developments.

Lake Arenal, in Costa Rica’s mountainous interior, is located a short two-hour drive from the international airport in Liberia and only about three hours northwest of San José, the nation’s capital. For decades, the Arenal region has been drawing eco-minded travelers in search of wildlife watching and hiking in the jungle,

as well as other outdoor activities like world-class windsurfing, sailboarding, fishing, kayaking, and more with each making for a spectacular experience.

Arenal Lake, situated in the northern highlands, is the largest lake in Costa Rica with an area of 33 square miles. Deep and clear, its depth varies between 100 and 200 feet depending on the season. Most importantly, the lake is pristine. The shoreline is mostly undeveloped. In fact, regulations severely restrict any building or development on the water’s edge. As a result, the views are unspoiled with no shore-side condo buildings, big resorts, or busy marinas.

Hidden away on a remote area of the shoreline, Lake Arenal’s hydroelectric power generator produces approximately 70 percent of the country’s electricity and was a driving force in Costa Rica’s green energy strategy. One hundred twenty mammals, including the jaguar and tapir, and almost 300 bird species rely on its constant supply of water.

The fishing is superb. Rainbow bass, a member of the Cichlid family, are especially prolific in the lake’s deep and warm waters. Their tasty white meat and feisty nature make them a challenge and a delight to catch.

Looming above the landscape at the east end of the lake is the magnificent Arenal Volcano that towers among rolling hills and forested slopes. At 5,479-feet, Volcan Arenal is active but not dangerous.

Visible from almost anywhere in the area, the Arenal Volcano is a symmetrical cone-shaped volcano that dominates everything. Until recently, it was the country’s most active volcano with an average of 41 eruptions per day. Currently the volcano is in a resting phase. But for 42 years, Arenal Volcano was flowing lava and pyrotechnic surges that blasted huge rocks and cauliflower-shaped ash clouds into the air. Explosions were often accompanied by loud rumblings, which would wake tourists up at night.

Today, the volcano is closely monitored for the safety of local residents and visitors. Towns, hotels, and public trails are located at safe distances. But, no matter where you stand, the massive cone is still fascinating. It seems so close that you could reach out and touch it with your hand.

While visitors cannot climb up the volcano itself, hiking through Arenal Volcano National Park with a bilingual naturalist guide will reward you with old lava flows

The lake is pristine. The shoreline is mostly undeveloped. The views are unspoiled.

and exotic wildlife. Each change in altitude offers a unique micro-climate and changing ecosystems to expose a vast array of flora and fauna.

Arenal is also home to several hot springs that are formed when water is heated underground and bubbles to the surface. Costa Rica’s mineral waters have been used as therapeutic baths to treat rheumatism and other ailments for more than 200 years.

For a sedate change of pace, just outside La Fortuna is the La Fortuna Waterfall, considered to be one of the most scenic waterfalls in Costa Rica. The waterfall features a spectacular drop of around 245 feet. Adventurous visitors can swim in the natural pool located below the falls.

In recent years, the Lake Arenal region has become much more than a tourist destination by attracting an increasing number of expats interested in making permanent homes there.

Upscale property owners have begun to see the hidden treasure that the Lake Arenal area offers. Most expats are concentrated around Nuevo Arenal, a small village on the northern shore of the lake at about the midway point. In this small town, almost everything needed for daily life is available, including a pharmacy, medical clinic, bank, gas station, grocery stores, and restaurants. There are a few favorite watering holes, but most expats gather in friend’s homes for informal get-togethers, book clubs, card games, and other activities. It’s the type of community where everybody knows everybody and newcomers are openly welcomed.

Also near La Fortuna, you’ll find the luxury resort community of Arenal Hills (arenalhills.com) in the shadow of Volcan Arenal if you are searching to make the “pura vida” a permanent one. Each home is designed and handcrafted by a skilled architect/ builder team that has created world-famous resorts and luxury properties. Purchasing at Arenal Hills also offers residents access to the Springs Resort and Spa, a world-renowned five-star resort.

Practically everyone agrees that life is easy with temperate year-round weather of around 78 degrees. Far away from the bustle of the big city and the burdensome heat of the beach, the lake area offers something delightfully different.

With access to the rainforest, waterfalls, a volcano, the country’s largest lake, and a diverse selection of hotels, it’s no wonder Arenal has become the adventure capital of Costa Rica and one of its best-kept secrets. Lake Arenal waits to be discovered by those who want to explore something undeveloped and different. So, while you are waiting out the pandemic, it’s a perfect place to add to your list of dreams.

In recent years, the Lake Arenal region has become much more than a tourist destination.

SHOW PROGRAM

For over 30 years, ideal-LIVING has helped tens of thousands of people find their ideal destination, life, and home. Watch

(We'll send you a confirmation email with the dates and times)

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On the day of the show, login with your email address to access the lobby, exhibit hall, and seminars. You can come at any time between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. You can leave, have lunch, and come back. Plan on speding a few hours throughout the day.

Click to enter the exhibit hall and compare communities.

You will then see an aerial view of all the booths in the exhibit hall. Visit and see all of the booths, explore communities, and discover your options.

Scroll through virtual booths, click through photos of destinations, and watch videos.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Consider the lifestyle you desire.

Choose a state that interests you, then identify five to six communities to visit in a specific area. Live chat with local experts to learn about communities. Schedule appointments for phone or video conferences.

Why is it important to register for the ideal-LIVING

Virtual Resort & Retirement Show? If you’re retired or thinking about retiring soon and moving to a different location, then this event is designed for you! For over 30 years, ideal-LIVING has hosted live events across the country, making it easy for hundreds of thousands of retirees to find their “ideal destination.” Due to recent events, we’ve gone virtual, but still offer the same opportunity to get information and speak with top-selling communities and builders across the county. All this while never leaving the comfort of your own home!

Whether you’re looking for a low tax lifestyle to settle down, a vacation home, or a warmer climate, we’ve got options for you at our show.

Confirm with a Visit — You Won’t Know Until You Go!

Attend informative seminars on-demand, whenever you’d like throughout the day.

You’d need weeks of travel time to visit every community at our show. At this first-ever virtual event, you can browse them all without leaving your couch. Browse approximately 50 booths of ideal communities across 10 states.

View brochures online (that you can normally only get in person).

Talk to local experts to narrow your options.

Take virtual home tours.

What can I expect while attending the ideal-LIVING Virtual Resort & Retirement Show? You’ll have the opportunity to watch seminars regarding how to choose the right place, building your ideal home, or creating your ideal lifestyle. In addition, you can gather information, learn about the latest trends/styles, see model homes, and engage with representatives from the top-selling communities in North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, Delaware, Tennessee, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. It would take you days or weeks to gather this much information in one convenient location!

How do I register for this event? It’s simple! Just go to ideal-LIVING.com/events and we’ll guide you through a very quick and easy process. You’ll receive a confirmation email/code that will allow you to log in anytime during show hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for the event. You can come and go at your convenience as many times as you’d like.

What kind of information can I gather from each community or builder during the show? There are multiple options that you control like downloading brochures and floorplans, to emailing/live chat/video calls/telephone calls with representatives, to booking Discovery Travel options to visit with communities/areas you’d like to see in person. Multiple options are available, so you set the pace at how you want to gather information.

Not tech savvy? No problem. We’ve designed our virtual show to be simple and easy to navigate.

If you’ve ever thought about lower taxes, less congestion, or warmer weather, then you’re at the right place!

Watch Exclusive Seminars On Demand

CHOOSE YOUR IDEAL PLACE

Learn how to simplify your search by focusing on key priorities such as tax-friendly states, lower cost of living, milder climate, and living around people you like.

Includes Relocation Guide.

CONSIDER YOUR IDEAL LIFESTYLE

Now that you have all of this free time, how are you going to spend it?

Guaranteed to inspire!

IMAGINE YOUR IDEAL HOME

Attend and receive the 2020 Relocation Guide!

Can happiness be measured in square feet? Discover elegant, practical, newhome design trends that personalize the world inside and outside your home.

Come imagine with us!

You Won't Know Until You Go!

Be sure to Choose Communities and Confirm with a Visit.

RSVP at ideal-living.com/events to chat with these communities and more.

River Bluffs

Castle Hayne, NC

River Bluffs developers preserved the natural landscape along the North East Cape Fear River. Completed amenities include a 2,700 ft. overwater Riverwalk, marina, trails, parks, beach-entry pool, sports complex, pavilion, farm, and more! With Intracoastal Waterway access by boat in minutes.

Savannah Lakes Village

McCormick, SC

Savannah Lakes Village is a lakefront community nestled between three state parks and a national forest, all wrapped around 71,000-acre Lake Thurmond, SC. Amenities, including two golf courses, a fitness and sports complex, and miles of hiking and biking trails, make Savannah Lakes Village South Carolina’s Premier Active-Adult Community.

Schell Brothers

Sussex County, DE

Schell Brothers has 14 resort communities to choose from in coastal Delaware. They have a wide array of personalized floor plans to fit every retiree’s needs. Whether you want privacy and an oversized lot or you desire a lively community with great amenities, Schell Brothers has a forever home for you.

St. James Plantation

Southport, NC

First-class amenities in this coastal community: private oceanfront beach club, Intracoastal Waterway marina/marketplace, 35+ miles of trails, $4M wellness center, 81 holes of golf, four club houses, tennis courts, dog parks, lakefront amphitheater, community gardens, 100+ social clubs, and more.

RSVP to meet with these communities and more at ideal-living.com/events

Taylor Morrison

Central Florida

Taylor Morrison offers beautifully appointed single-family homes in a variety of open-concept floor plans. Thoughtfully designed for easy, carefree living, these new homes are built to uncompromising standards of quality and craftsmanship.

The Peninsula

Millsboro, DE

This master-planned community is the only 24hour gated community in coastal Delaware. It features nature preserves, a clubhouse with a full-time award-winning chef, multiple pools, a Jack Nicklaus golf course, and is perfectly situated with sweeping views of the Indian River Bay and a private beach.

Horizon Homes

Wilmington, NC

Horizon Homes is a family company with designs focused on the way you live. Build and personalize your home with a builder who listens and creates an affordable, custom home. With their Energy Efficient designs and “It’s Included” mindset, make your dream a reality today!

Bill Clark Homes

Wilmington, NC

Bill Clark Homes spans four counties along Southeastern North Carolina with a reputation built over 40 years. Bill Clark Homes prides itself on building quality homes at an affordable price for families with an unbeatable attention to detail.

Landmark Homes Pennsylvania

Landmark 55+ Living communities offer low-maintenance living, fabulous community amenities, and fully customizable homes designed to fit your lifestyle. Peaceful, rural Pennsylvania settings provide beautiful, scenic views, while the surrounding towns provide a wealth of recreation and entertainment.

City Walk

Beaufort, SC

City Walk is a walkable coastal community just one mile from historic downtown Beaufort and its boutique shops, restaurants, waterfront parks, art galleries, museums, Spanish Moss Nature Trail, year-round events, and more. City Walk offers a peaceful sanctuary with Lowcountry architecture homes starting at $500,000.

Lennar at the Beach Delaware, Maryland

Come discover your new Lennar home at the beach! Each of our Eastern Shore communities offers a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful surroundings, and fantastic amenities. Whether you prefer townhomes, single-family homes, or villas, there are spectacular choices tailored for coastal living.

The Bluffs on the Cape Fear Leland, NC

The Bluffs on the Cape Fear is a vibrant, master-planned community perched on a pristine stretch of the Cape Fear River. Just 15 minutes from the waterfront hometown of historic Wilmington, The Bluffs is a private, coastal haven for the families who call it home.

Waterways

Richmond Hill, GA

Nestled amid ancient moss-draped oak hammocks, winding freshwater lagoons, and the salt marshes of coastal Georgia’s Lowcountry, Waterways is a private gated community with distinctive homes and modern amenities, just 30 minutes south of historic Savannah in Richmond Hill, GA.

Currahee Club

Toccoa, GA

Currahee Club is a lake-mountain-golf retreat that offers year-round amenities, including a stunning Fazio-designed golf course, 48,000 square foot clubhouse, a Sports Complex complete with a wellness center and zero-entry pool, and a lake park along Lake Hartwell.

Beau Coast

Beaufort, North Carolina

Life at Beau Coast extends far beyond the home. It’s a rich, incredible way of life that’s inherently rooted within every detail of the community. Their residents enjoy low HOA dues, resort-style amenities, and great social lives.

Carolina Colours

New Bern, North Carolina

Carolina Colours is the only newly developing, fully amenitized community located in one of the most popular and progressive small towns in the central coastal plain of North Carolina. Great amenities on site just 30 minutes from the ocean.

Logan Homes

Greater Leland, NC & Greater Bluffton, SC

This home builder offers both personalized floor plans and move-in-ready homes in many premier communities, sure to fit your unique style. Enjoy quality craftsmanship, superior designs, and state-of-the-art design studios where you can personalize every detail.

Live Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch

Tampa,Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Longboat key, Siesta Key and Venice

We specialize in finding the perfect community for you, with award-winning beaches, amazing sunsets, and resort-style living. Gated, maintained, and family friendly from golf to Gulf. Come on down! The water is just right, perfect even!

Albemarle Plantation

Hertford, NC

Tucked away in the sanctuary of northeastern North Carolina, find our distinct coastal living, award-winning golf, a private marina, resort amenities, and elegant homes – all on North Carolina’s pristine Albemarle Sound.

Heritage Shores

Bridgeville, DE

This premier 55+ resort lifestyle community features a world-class golf course, clubhouse, and fitness center, sports courts, game rooms, pools, on-site restaurants, social clubs, and more. With new single-family homes available to purchase or rent, there’s something for everyone here.

Noble’s Pond

Dover, DE

Have the time of your life during the prime of your life. Build your dream home at Noble’s Pond, and enjoy the active lifestyle offered at this amenity-rich community with on-site fishing, a community garden, and more.

KINGFISH BAY

Calabash, NC

Enjoy this gated, resort-style community with a Caribbean flare for relaxed living. Amenities include an on-site clubhouse, pool and fitness center, riverfront park with pier, and private oceanfront clubhouse on Sunset Beach all within walking distance to Calabash waterfront.

Black Creek

Chattanooga, TN

Black Creek isn’t just a place to live. It’s a way to rediscover those connections to nature, neighbors, and simple comforts that make our lives worth living. Enjoy luxury, community, and so much more, all just ten minutes from downtown Chattanooga.

K. Hovnanian's Four Seasons

AZ, CA, DE, FL, GA, IL, MD, NJ, OH, PA, SC, TX, VA

K. Hovnanian® Homes has been providing quality hand-crafted homes in traditional and 55+ communities nationwide for over 60 years. K. Hovnanian prides itself on offering stunning spaces for homeowners to fill with memories and an unparalleled active lifestyle and their Four Seasons 55+ communities.

Birchwood at Brambleton

Birchwood, VA

Sophisticated and surrounded in tranquility, Birchwood at Brambleton lets 55+ active adults rekindle their youthful spark. Located just outside Washington D.C., and in the award-winning community of Brambleton, this community says Life Refreshes at 55 and asks the question: Are You Old Enough?

Amblebrook Gettysburg

Gettysburg, PA

This 55+ wellness community consists of five distinct villages that connect residents to a vibrant network of resort-style amenities, including nature trails, on-site cafe, farmer’s market, community garden, wellness campus, learning center, and more.

Bay Creek

Cape Charles, VA

Encompassing 1,720 acres of coastline and featuring two miles of beachfront, Palmer & Nicklaus golf, a 350-acre nature preserve with trails, and much more, Bay Creek is the perfect place for families to create a legacy on the Chesapeake Bay.

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark

Wilmington, NC

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark is a custom home builder in southeastern North Carolina known for thoughtful floorplans, maximized living spaces, attention to detail, and custom trim work. Legacy helps you create your dream home that fits perfectly with your lifestyle.

ICI Homes

Florida

ICI Homes is the award-winning developer and builder of three distinct Florida master-planned communities, including Amelia National in Fernandina Beach, Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club in Ormond Beach, and Verona in Ormond by the Sea.

Compass Pointe

Wilmington, NC

Come get away every day at Compass Pointe. We’re a private, gated community offering an unmatched resort lifestyle surrounded by white sandy beaches and just 10 minutes from downtown Wilmington.

Tellico Village

Loudon, TN

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and along Tellico Lake, Tellico Village features stunning water and mountain views. Offering world-class amenities and more than 200 clubs, this welcoming active adult community offers

On Top of the World

Ocala, FL

On Top of the World is the premier active-adult community in Ocala, Florida. With over 218 acres of outdoor amenities, this community offers an exceptional lifestyle for active adults. This community has three golf courses, four fitness centers, and more.

There’s a Place for You, and Find It!

venture out

DISCOVERY TRAVEL

ideal-LIVING invites you to get out and explore communities to find your ideal destination. You won’t know until you go. Here’s a sampling of Discovery Travel opportunities with over 100 more that can only be found online.

available only on

.com/ventureout

ST. JAMES PLANTATION – SOUTHPORT, NC

Southeastern NC's shimmering coast is home to St. James Plantation. This uber popular community is nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), near the charming seaside village of Southport and historic Wilmington. Residents enjoy completed first-class amenities, including a private oceanfront beach club, a 475-Wet Slip/Dry Stack ICW marina and marketplace, fitness clubs including a new $4 million dollar Signature Wellness Center, 4 welcoming clubhouses, 81-holes of championship golf, 36+ miles of biking and walking trails, dining, Har-Tru tennis, parks and community gardens and over 100 social clubs.

THE FIVES – PLAYA DEL CARMEN, MEXICO

Mexico is one of the world's most popular destinations. More than 40% of the country's tourism converges in the Riviera Maya, a place with a strong economy due to the tourism and real estate industries. Playa del Carmen is the world's second fastest-growing city and stands out because of its important investment opportunities. The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences is comprised of residences, suites and penthouses surrounded by numerous pools, a protected natural area with a cenote, a tennis court, restaurants, a spa, a beach club, a kids club, and other installations. Experience Playa del Carmen's exclusivity in this housing development.

You won’t know until you go!

COLLETON RIVER CLUB – BLUFFTON, SC

Lowcountry luxury lies at the base of Hilton Head's bridge at Colleton River. This peninsula community delivers on its promise of world-class golf, pristine natural surroundings, and an unparalleled water experience. With nature as the centerpiece, Colleton River's 1,500 acres epitomize Lowcountry serenity, with Spanish moss draped Live oaks and palmetto trees lining roadways. Trails wind through a blend of beautiful homes, natural terrain and 7 miles of expansive water and marsh views.

JASPER HIGHLANDS – KIMBALL, TN

Welcome to Jasper Highlands, a unique residential mountain community, nestled along the bluffs of Jasper Mountain in Tennessee. This remarkable piece of residential real estate is positioned above the clouds with majestic views of Lake Nickajack and the Tennessee River Valley, with property taxes starting at $162.10 a year! An affordable mountain bluff gated community, Jasper Highlands is perfect as a second home mountain retreat, a retirement hideaway or as a primary residence.

FAIRFIELD BAY – FAIRFIELD BAY, AR

In Fairfield Bay, residents have all the amenities of a five-star resort, the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains, a clear lake, and natural surroundings to enjoy. Newly opened is the beautiful Cobblestone Inn and Suites, which boasts an onsite restaurant and state of the art spa. And, for those looking to make new friends and become involved int he community, you'll find over 50 active organizations. With two 18 hole championship golf courses, a Community Education Center, and a thriving business community, the incredible value of Fairfield Bay living is unmatched.

SOLIVITA – KISSIMMEE, FL

"Solivita" combines "sun" and "life," the perfect name for this gated 55+ community in Kissimmee. The incomparable Solivita offers an exciting and unique active lifestyle filled with amenities, events and beautifully designed single-family residences, and is well-located located with easy access to the many allures of Central Florida. Choose from a variety of open-concept floor plans to build your new home or browse the available quick move-in homes. Solivita offers single-family homes ranging in size from 1,364 - 2,929 square feet.

To find more than 100 Discovery Travel opportunities, visit ideal-LIVING.com/ventureout

2020 Ideal Coastal Home

Relaxed Living

At Kingfish Bay in the quaint coastal town of Calabash, NC

The long, narrow, palm-lined driveway leads to the CarolinaCaribbean-style ideal home on the wetlands preserve. This home is perfect for two, yet equally comfortable for more when entertaining. The outdoor living space is beautifully integrated with the interior. From the moment you enter the home, you look from the stunning towered entryway through the great room out to the custom pool with raised waterfall and hot tub. The design incorporates lots of different little spaces, like the wine cave under the stairs. There is no wasted space here. The great room, informal dining, and master bedroom all connect to the truly spectacular outdoor living space. You won't find this unique homestyle anywhere other than Kingfish Bay.

"Less is more. We're using simple spaces to create a relaxed feel," says designer and COO Jim Snyder.

Although there is so much to do in the Calabash area, you'll never want to leave home when you can live outdoors year-round. This Ideal Home features the ultimate in outdoor living. Kingfish Bay designs and builds unique outdoor living areas with pools and water features.

The landscaped driveway leads to this Ideal Coastal Home in Kingfish Bay that backs up to a nature preserve.

Though the floor plan is completely open to the outdoors, it is strategically broken into smaller sections by utilizing different ceiling styles, creating the perfect space for two, or a family, while also allowing room for entertaining.

The Vision

Kingfish Bay is a passion project showcasing the belief that one’s home and community is the best place on the planet. This development is an effort to make this true for its residents.

Jeff Samson, President and CEO of Kingfish Bay Development, saw the raw property that is now Kingfish Bay, and together with designer and COO, Jim Snyder, built a vision of a resort-style community where all residents could enjoy the water view. They wanted a place where people could feel as if they were on vacation every day of the year.

Unlike many developments, the amenities were put in place early. The clubhouse, which adjoins a nature pavilion, communal garden, and putting green, feels like it is on an island in the middle of the community and has a true Caribbean flair. A macaw parrot greets you as you enter the clubhouse. In addition, one third of the community has been reserved as wetlands.

Water is a true theme of the community. Rather than saving the best property for the most expensive homesites at Kingfish Bay, the waterfront park is open to all residents. The park with meandering walkways and thatched roof cabanas is where you'll likely find residents enjoying margaritas with their feet in actual beach sand. There's a pirate ship playground for the kids and a day dock for boats. They also built a beach club for residents only five miles away at Sunset Beach. This is the perfect place to put your lunch in the refrigerator, enjoy a day on the beach, and shower off the sand before you come home to your Carolina-Caribbean style home.

The unique architectural style of the community incorporates the best of the Carolina and Caribbean features. Each home has a tower and feels completely secluded. Great care has been taken to ensure privacy while creating a sense of community.

“We want everyone to feel like they are living in a resort every single day.”

Jeff Samson, President and CEO of Kingfish Bay Development

The Location

The coastal Carolina region is renowned for its easy living atmosphere and unspoiled beaches. Just steps away from Kingfish Bay is downtown Calabash, a quaint fishing village, known as the "Seafood Capital of the World." Kingfish Bay offers water access to all of its residents as it is perfectly situated on the Calabash River with access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Midway between historic Wilmington, NC, and Myrtle Beach, SC, Kingfish Bay is less than a 10-minute ride from Sunset Beach, where residents enjoy the community Beach Club. This beautifully designed, multi-level clubhouse allows residents to experience the inviting waters and white sandy shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean.

The kitchen, designed with white cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, is complemented by a large island with dark wood. The informal dining area with wainscoting and dark walls opens on two sides to the outdoor living space. The covered porch (pictured right) allows its residents to electronically lower screens and allow for airflow through the home.

The Future Homeowners

Though they are a few years away from retirement, Peg and Brian Donnelly had owned a second home in the Calabash, NC, area for years. When they saw the sign for Kingfish Bay, they decided they would have a look. These New Jersey residents were fortunate to meet Kingfish Bay developer Jeff Samson and designer Jim Synder and fell in love with their vision.

Peg said, "When they told us that the waterfront belongs to everyone, we were sold." Originally, the Donnelly's purchased a smaller home, but when a new homesite opened on the wetland preserve, they knew they wanted this to be their forever home.

Peg says, "We told Jeff and Jim, 'You're outdoing yourselves. This is your world; we're just living in it. You just tell us what you want, and I'm there!'" That takes an incredible amount of trust between homeowner and builder. And, that trust definitely paid off.

"We love the Caribbean style of the home and community," said Brian. "It's unique. Jim's designs are phenomenal. The attention to detail is amazing."

"You work hard all of your life, and it's time to settle down and live a little. The whole area and ambiance are very calming. We love it. We love the waterfront in Calabash. You can just walk up and buy shrimp right off the boat. It's almost like you feel like you are in a movie."

The Donnellys are very active; they love to bike and kayak. Their vision of the perfect day is to never enter their car. They will kayak in the morning, walk into town for lunch, and then sit riverside in the cabanas with their feet in the sand.

Since it will be a few years before Peg and Brian relocate, Kingfish Bay will use this Ideal Home as a model home. So, schedule a visit to come see the home and the community.

“We bought into their vision...they have done nothing but impress us. They have followed through on everything they promised to the nth degree.”

A Home for Everyone

The vision shaped the design of the utopian development. Homes are built to bring the natural beauty of the Carolina coast into your living space with open floor plans and outdoor patios. Featuring a wide selection of layouts and extras, Kingfish Bay allows residents to create a home that is the perfect fit, with a long list of amenities to match. Whether you're a retiree or a family starting out, there is a home for you at Kingfish Bay. Every plan is so versatile; people can live out their lives the way they desire.

—

INTERIOR DESIGN

BY MICHELLE HITE

Bugalows: 1,040 to 1,690 sq. ft.

Cottages: 1,320 to 2,240 sq. ft.

Courtyard Homes: 1,670 to 2,320 sq. ft.

Custom Homes: 2,000 to over 5,000 sq. ft.

Prices Range: High $300s to over $1.5 million

The custom pool with waterfall and hottub were designed specifically for the home to enhance the outdoor living experience. Kingfish Bay Development has customized pool options for most of the homes in the community. The primary bedroom suite opens to the outdoor living space. The bathroom with large open shower opens to a closet with built-in drawers and vanity.

To the left, there is a wine cave accessed from the main living area. And, enter the laundry area with an ornate tile floor and farmhouse sink from the two-car garage.

Kingfish Bay Amenities

Private Oceanfront Clubhouse on Sunset Beach

Only 5.5 Miles to the island of Sunset Beach

5,000 sq. ft. On-site Clubhouse with Fitness Center

Large Community Pool and Spa

Waterfront Park with Cabanas, Hammocks, Adirondack Chairs, and Fire Pits

Meandering Riverfront Nature Trails for Walking and Exercise

Day Boat Slips, Kayak Launch, and Fishing Pier and Pavilion

Schedule a Visit

3 Day / 2 Night Mini-Vacation only $189

Enjoy a luxurious mini-vacation at Kingfish Bay, and see the ‘good life’ on the Carolina Coast. Explore the growing Grand Strand and Cape Fear communities, check out all of the luxurious amenities, and tour the firstclass facilities during your Kingfish Bay getaway.

Stay in a nicely appointed, fully-equipped home in the community (limited availability).

910.579.4657 or KingfishBayDevelopment.com

Waterfront Park

Set along the banks of the Calabash River, the development design meanders through 62 acres of natural waterfront property with meandering nature trails, a waterfront park, a beach sand and tiki bar, as well as a pier with fishing pavilion, a kayak launch, and day docks with direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway.

On-site Clubhouse

Kingfish Bay fosters a sense of “community by design,” with a 5,000 sq. ft. on-site clubhouse. In addition to the large, resort-style pool, hot tub, and expansive outdoor seating area, other amenities include a fitness center, a putting green, and a community garden.

The Clubhouse at Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach Clubhouse

Kingfish Bay residents have their very own private sandbox at Sunset Beach! This beautifully designed, multi-level private clubhouse is located only 5.6 miles from Kingfish Bay. This beachfront property allows residents to experience the inviting waters and white sandy shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. With open-air decks overlooking the beach and indoor facilities for entertaining, complete with a modern kitchen, furnishings, and fixtures, this is a perfect setting for enjoying the best things in life!

Nature Pavilion

Overlooking the scenic woodlands and wetlands, Kingfish Bay’s nature pavilion and viewing deck offers a wonderful space for lounging and socializing in a beautiful and natural setting. Complete with trellised areas for shade and cover and fire pits for warmth and evening ambiance. This is a popular meeting spot for residents.

Sharon Mathis Community Specialist

Jim White Community Specialist

Tamara Warren Community Specialist

Bethany Berardi Office Manager

Polina Hryn Executive Assistant

Jenna Lesko Assistant Selections Coordinator

Michelle Hite Selections Coordinator

Jordan Lesko Outdoor Living Director

Chris Davis Construction Superintendent

Eric Smith CFO

Jim Snyder Chief Operating Officer

Jeff Samson President/CEO

Tyler Warren Director of Construction

Find Your Ideal... LIFE

Choose to live your ideal life today. Since the pandemic, everyone is looking for ways to improve their quality of life. There is no better place than in a planned community with open spaces, walking trails, and amenities where you can social distance while remaining social.

Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek

by Warren Grant

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, would look a lot different today if not for the thousands of nickels, dimes, and quarters sent in the early 1930s to the United States National Park Service by shopkeepers, blacksmiths, children, churches, and friends of the forest in order to save one of the last and vast remaining pristine expanses of Old Growth Forest in the Appalachian Smoky Mountains from the sawmill.

With their coins, plus a large private donation and federal funds, a swath of over a half-million acres across East Tennessee and Western North Carolina was acquired in 1934 to keep the trees safe within the newly established Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). It is today the most visited national park in America, and it strives to preserve over 1,500 varieties of flowers, countless waterfalls, myriad historical sites, and the thousands-year legacy of precious Old Growth, itself. What a dime can purchase.

Today, you can walk a quarter-mile from the north gate of the GSMNP and get lunch in downtown Gatlinburg, which has sensitively blossomed into the gateway to one of America’s treasures.

But just five minutes west of downtown, another effort to respect and preserve trees is underway at Norton Creek Resort, a 500-acre mountain community being developed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Ayers family in Tennessee.

In addition to sensitively tucking vacation homes within the mountain, all with a stunning view of the 6,593-foot peak of Mount Le Conte in the national park, Joseph Ayers, the executive vice president

and owner of the development, struck on a unique idea.

Says Ayers, “A colleague and I were remarking that for all the rental cabins and cottages in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, there isn’t a single treehouse.”

It seemed to Ayers that treehouses would be a natural fit for overnight lodging at the resort. And there was only one man for the job to design and build them.

In late 2018, Ayers called on the Treehouse Man himself, Pete Nelson, star of the highly acclaimed Animal Planet television show Treehouse Masters, and proprietor of his seven-treehouse bed and breakfast in Fall City, WA.

“Our first phone call lasted an hour and a half, during which we kind of bonded as we both run family businesses, we certainly both respect the natural world, and both deeply sense how a treehouse can bring the childlike wonder back into your heart,” adds Ayers.

By August of 2019, Pete was on the ground in a beautiful 15-acre holler through which the actual Norton Creek has babbled for centuries. He spent several days recording tree measurements and locations while sketching design ideas on his old-school graph paper. Pete ultimately located eight individual, custom treehouses on what would be called Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek Resort. The eight opened to guests on May 1 ... and boy, are they a hit!

According to Pete, “We’re very fortunate to work on single projects for individual clients, but we are most rewarded with the hospitality side of treehouses, where countless people can enjoy several restorative days in the trees. The mission for us is getting people into nature and becoming one with the trees. Once that happens, they appreciate them more and want them kept safe.”

The treehouses were pre-built in Washington and clad in the same western red cedar that graced so many of Pete’s amazing works. The rustic interior design was done by Christina Salway, who has also worked on many a Treehouse Masters project.

All eight treehouses, each named after a different tree species, offer two bedrooms, plus creature comforts of wireless internet, air conditioning, heating, television, refrigerator, and view deck. Upon booking, you will receive a link to the Treehouse Grove Concierge App, where you can request special amenities.

“The mission for us is getting people into nature and becoming one with the trees.”

Guests of the treehouses have access to the resort’s miles of hiking trails, and there are 800 more miles within the national park. The resort also boasts one of the finest trout fishing streams in the Southeast.

Outside the resort, well, there’s just about every imaginable family entertainment activity you can think of, thanks to a 13-year-old wisp of a girl whose fame ignited after singing into a microphone at the Grand Ole Opry in 1959. Old Growth, meet Dolly Parton.

Parton was raised in Pigeon Forge, just five minutes from both Norton Creek and downtown Gatlinburg. Her family entertainment empire there includes the Dollywood theme park, complete with roller coasters, thrill rides, a sprawling water park, firework shows, steam engine train rides, and multiple festivals, shows, and holiday entertainment. It also houses the Eagle Mountain interpretive nature center.

The success of Dollywood has spawned dozens of other area attractions, including Ober Gatlinburg, a four-seasons amusement park and winter ski resort with a thrilling aerial tramway.

Other area attractions include Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, year-round Indoor Snow Tubing, and the Titanic Museum, a replica of the historic vessel. There is also zip-lining, beautiful mountain golf courses, eco-tours, and off-roading adventures.

In downtown Gatlinburg, you can even partake in the Moonshine Distillery walking tour and tastings, featuring the Ole Smokey and Sugarlands distilleries, and made possible in 2009 when the State of Tennessee allowed 41 counties to distill spirits legally.

After all that fun, it will be helpful to get back to the stillness of the holler and the background gurgle of Norton Creek, which can be heard from every treehouse. It is expected, by the way, that the original eight are going to have some company as several additional treehouses, plus two- to six-bedroom luxury cabins, are planned for a little higher up the mountain. So maybe look for Pete, his graph paper, and his unmistakable exuberance for trees the next time you’re up that way.

For more information on Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek, visit www.treehouse-grove.com or call 865-988-1864.

Look for Pete, his graph paper, and his unmistakable exuberance for trees the next time you're up that way.

The Coosaw Plan from the Lowcountry Collection©

You Don’t Have to Shovel Sunshine

Just north of Tucson, AZ, in the high desert of the Santa Catalina foothills, lies the charming community of SaddleBrooke with its gorgeous mountain views and panoramic vistas. A long-established 55+ community, SaddleBrooke combines world-class resort amenities with luxury homes built by Robson Resort Communities. Most visitors wouldn’t even realize it when they explore the community, but there are two distinct HOAs within SaddleBrooke (ONE & TWO). We’ve spoken with three current SaddleBrooke TWO residents to learn a little more about life there.

“Summer Camp for Adults”

by Kelly Godbey

Dave Palmeri and his wife Barbara permanently relocated to SaddleBrooke TWO in April of 2015 from Wilmington, DE. For years they looked for their perfect retirement home, and found it in 2007 when they flew out to Phoenix, traveling throughout Southern Arizona and New Mexico. When they arrived in the foothills of the Santa Catalinas, the Palmeris knew their search was over. So they purchased a home, then vacationed there until they retired. “We had to be in a place where the snow shovel didn’t come with us.”

Dave says there is so much to do here that it feels like a “summer camp for adults.” In addition to volunteering for the HOA, which keeps them both very busy, the Palmeris are avid hikers, and they love to hike Mount Lemmon (the Catalina’s highest peak). Dave is on the board of directors, and Barb is on the board of the pickleball club. The Palmeris play a lot of pickleball and bike both outdoors and indoors (i.e. spinning classes).

Dave shared that it’s been quite a challenging year for SaddleBrooke TWO, navigating COVID closures and keeping all of its residents safe and healthy. They have started using a more web-based approach for communications and other needs, while keeping an eye on the health updates to guide re-openings. And, Fortunately, SaddleBrookies have been able to social distance and have continued to enjoy their desert lifestyle, even in this new reality. Dave concludes, “Nothing is perfect, but with all of the beauty and the amenities here, we have NO REGRETS!”

Bringing Art to SaddleBrooke

Terese Butler was fortunate enough to retire at the age of 50. She and her husband, Tim relocated to SaddleBrooke TWO from Sacramento 13 years ago. At the time, Terese was a bit apprehensive about moving to a 55+ community: she wondered if she would she be able to find friends who were interested in the same activities as she was? She soon realized that her worries were completely unfounded. According to Terese, “It’s easy to make friends here. Almost everyone who lives here is from somewhere else.”

“With all of the beauty and the amenities here, we have no regrets!”

She also says physical activity is paramount at SaddleBrooke. “There’s no doubt about it; the physical activity keeps you younger.” She competes in Ironman competitions and says it is great to train at SaddleBrooke as there are always people to train with and offer encouragement. Tim is president of the hiking and cycling clubs, and they both teach a spin classes in the indoor cycling club. Terese was on the HOA board of directors for five years and was also previously president of the swim club.

Her career had been all-encompassing, and just before they relocated, Terese took up a new passion: fused glass. She wanted to take a class, then ended up apprenticing with an artist for a year. After she relocated, Terese and her friend Candy Armstrong decided to open a gallery, Dos Sirenas (Two Mermaids) Glass. They say the gallery “Keeps us out of bars, but not out of trouble. The gallery has been a good move for us. It’s what we love to do.” Terese and Candy love making custom order art pieces for SaddleBrooke residents and the public to enjoy. “We are just living life and having a good time.”

Longtime Tucson Residents

Nineteen years at SaddleBrooke and Bill Einecker still loves his life. Bill is a former president of the HOA board of directors and is very proud of the community and its financial stability. Bill touts the 45 miles of walking paths through the streets of the community as well as the many amenities, including 36 holes of golf, pickleball, tennis, hiking, biking, fitness centers, swimming pools, clubhouses, and even the DesertView Performance Theatre. He also says the members are very active in helping local charities.

In addition to playing golf together, Bill’s wife, Mary Jo, likes to play with the ladies in the community. They love to ride bikes and walk throughout SaddleBrooke, enjoying the views of the mountains. Outdoor living is perfect in the Tucson area, “You don’t have to shovel sunshine.”

SaddleBrooke is a great place to live year-round, and is a perfect option for the snowbirds who leave by Easter. Bill says it’s a good deal—for a little over $200 a month, the HOA fees cover most everything but golf and the shows at the theatre. He concludes, “Come out to SaddleBrooke TWO. Robson builds a wonderful community. Pretty much anything you want to do, you can find it here.”

“Come out to SaddleBrooke TWO. Pretty much anything you want to do, you can find it here.”

Taking to the Waterways Marina Village Emerging on the Georgia Coast

The first phase of the Waterways Marina Village opened in July with a state-of-theart dry-slip boat storage and launch facility, giving local mariners convenient access to the Atlantic Ocean via the Great Ogeechee River. But that’s just the beginning of what’s ahead at Waterways.

by JG Walker

Set to debut in early 2021 is the adjacent Cottenham Exchange, a waterfront community center with swimming pools, fitness/yoga studios, retail shops, and sidewalk cafés.

Doug Davis is the president and chief executive officer of Fletcher Davis, the company that’s developing Waterways. He’s especially happy with the latest additions.

“I remain confident that this development will become the heartbeat of our community. With the dry-stack facility opening, it will be the first glimpse into what is to come with our Marina Village,” says Davis. “This amenity is key for both Waterways residents and those from beyond. I really think it sets us apart from any other community in the Southeast.”

A 2,300-acre coastal Georgia residential community located about 30 miles south of Savannah, Waterways was planned from the beginning to be a welcoming home for nature lovers. Tree preservation and environmental protection were top design priorities. At the same time, an internal network of freshwater lagoons was enhanced to create more than five miles of blueways for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Shady paths for hiking and biking meander throughout the community, with stops at the Waterwags Dog Park, the community gardens, and the sprawling Event Lawn along the way. The centrally located Ridgeway Amenity Center features a junior Olympic pool and a complete fitness center, while the community’s Hawk Island Nature Preserve and the new Lakewood Amenity Center are on-site destinations for year-round outdoor adventures.

“As a family, we love to go out and explore nature, whether we’re kayaking or taking a hike,” says Waterways resident Laurie Slaughter. “And, our youngest son loves to fish. It was a great move for us, and honestly, we wish we would have moved to Waterways a lot sooner.”

James Newman and his family have also found that the community fits their lifestyle to a tee. “Waterways takes it to the next level,” he says. “They have something for everybody.”

Five distinctive single-family neighborhoods—Long Creek, Parkway South, The Enclave, Ridgewood Park, and Lakewood—offer Waterways residents an impressive variety of building sites and move-inready homes. Some feature private docks, and all are constructed to the highest energy-saving standards beneath a maritime-forest canopy of live oaks and towering pines. Stylish Village Center townhomes with up to three bedrooms are also available. While about 65 percent of current Waterways residents are retirement age, the rest are working families with kids who attend the top-rated Bryan County schools.

“I think Waterways is unique,” says the development’s Senior Project Manager, Vanessa Cunningham. “It is just an all-around great place to be, no matter who you are or how old you are.”

Popular outdoor day trips in the coastal Georgia area include invigorating hikes on the six-mile McQueen’s Island Trail and the seven-mile Savannah-Ogeechee Canal Trail. Boating excursions from the marina can consist of cruises to the Intracoastal Waterway and the pristine barrier islands of Wassaw and Ossabaw, plus deep-sea fishing in the warm Gulf Stream waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Located just beyond the Waterways gates is the thriving town of Richmond Hill, a convenient destination for everyday shopping and professional services. Just a short drive to the north is the historic city of Savannah, which offers world-class fine dining, cultural venues, and medical facilities.

Fletcher Davis’ Chief Operating Officer, Ron Lamm Jr., is enthusiastic about the completion of the Marina Village with the opening next year of the Cottenham Exchange. “It’s going to be a very exciting future for Waterways,” he says.

“Waterways takes it to the next level. They have something for everybody.“

– James Newman

Reflections on a Career in Golf

At the end of 2019, Dave Britton decided that it was time to announce his retirement after 24 years as Dataw Island’s Director of Golf. He envisioned 2020 as a time of transition, completing plans in the works and smoothly handing off to the new management operation of the private golf club located in the South Carolina Lowcountry near the town of Beaufort. Little did he know...

“The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly affected our business,” Britton says. “We have adopted optional single-rider carts. We are emphasizing sanitizing of golf carts and have minimized touch points on the practice range, putting green, bag drop and on the golf course and in the golf shop.”

And some good advice for other retirees

by JG Walker

Those safety measures have been effective, and Britton has been able to keep his staff working. “Although some of our golf events have either been cancelled or adjusted due to the social-distancing requirements,” he says, “the enthusiasm for golf has not declined. We are fortunate that our weather has been good all year, which has allowed our members the opportunity to play more golf than normal. At Dataw Island and other facilities in our area, golf rounds are up and sometimes dramatically.”

Enhancing participation in the game, he loves so much has been a focus for Britton during his decades at the helm. “We offer complimentary instruction for new members, new golfers, and those who have not

decided to purchase a golf-amenity package,” he says. “Many who have participated eventually become active club members. We also offer a variety of clinics and give many individual lessons, which have been very successful in the growth of the golf program. Our Ladies 9-Hole group is particularly fun; it’s a low-pressure opportunity for new players to get outside and enjoy the natural landscape and socialize with fellow members.”

Dataw Island’s innovative membership options have also contributed to that growth, according to Britton: “Folks looking at Dataw Island enjoy the flexibility of our membership plans. The variety of golf and sports amenity options allow our residents to plug in at many different levels that suite their lifestyle.”

Community involvement has also been an important part of Britton’s tenure. “Dataw Island has reached out in many areas,” he says. “We have been part of junior golf with the First Tee of the Lowcountry program, Beaufort Junior Golf, and the Beaufort High School golf teams, as well as our annual collegiate tournament. We also have hosted a variety of charity events in my years here. Our members enthusiastically support many community fundraisers. For example, our Women’s Golf Association has a tournament to raise money for the Kesyerling Cancer Center at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. And our Men’s Golf Association runs tournaments to support a variety of local and national veteran’s organizations.”

In addition to those events, competitive inter-league play on both of the award-winning Dataw Island golf courses has kept Britton and his staff on their toes. “We are constantly striving to make the golfing experi-

ence the best it can be,” he says. “We renovated Cotton Dike in 2011 and Morgan River in 2012. Added to that, we replaced all our cart paths with concrete in 2018 and 2019. In 2021 we’re looking at renovating our tee complexes so that golfers of all abilities can play from the correct distance and enjoy their experience even more.

“Off the courses,” he continues, “in the last few years we’ve added Bocce Ball and a History & Learning Center, built a new pool, bought and renovated the marina, and this year we rebuilt one of the croquet

“We are constantly striving to make the golfing experience the best it can be.” — Dave Britton

lawns and are building new pickleball courts and renovating our ballroom. There’s always something going on at Dataw Island.”

Looking back after nearly a quarter of a century on the job, Britton has a lot to be thankful for. “My fondest memories,” he says, “are the many residents, members, and guests that I have met and come to know over these many years. It’s truly what makes Dataw Island so special—people who move here from all over the country coming together to make a great experience for those who live here, work here and visit here.”

And would he have any advice for other soonto-be retirees, whether they move to Dataw Island or elsewhere? “Doing your financial homework,” Britton says, “is the most important thing that folks looking at a community can do. Make sure you understand all the dues and fees that are involved, and the local tax structure. The upfront work you do will be more than worth the effort. Combined with looking at the amenities, it will make your long-term experience a great one.”

While he will be stepping aside as Dataw Island’s Director of Golf later this year when a successor is hired, Britton will continue to work with the club as a consultant to the course superintendent. “Most people think that golf professionals play a lot of golf,” he says. “That’s not the case—we spend most of our time in the office and the golf shop. I’m looking forward to playing more golf, attending fewer meetings, answering fewer e-mails, and helping to keep the courses in good shape.

“So if you come to Dataw Island and see an old guy mowing the grass with a great big smile on his face,” Britton concludes, “that will be me.”

“The upfront work you do will be more than worth the effort.

Combined with looking at the amenities, it will make your longterm experience a great one. ”

Dave Britton

Palm Trees and Pan-Seared Grouper

A Peek into the Culinary World of Wycliffe Golf & Country Club’s Chef Christopher Park

by Fanny Slater

“Just try it.” These were the momentous words spoken to Chef Christopher Park by one of his mentors many years ago that helped shape him into the audacious culinary captain he is today. And just try it, he did. From dishwasher to undeniably driven teenager (balancing a full-time culinary education with 60-hour work weeks in a restaurant) to Saucier to running his own kitchen, Chef Christopher is no stranger to climbing his way up the professional ladder. In his present-day position as Executive Chef at Wycliffe—one of Florida’s premier country clubs—he diligently guards (even amidst a global pandemic) the needs and well-being of his members.

He trumpets his former teachers, the talent of his current team, and the stability of working in the country club industry for the success that surrounds him. Read on for his delightful, delicious story.

Chef Christopher Park | Executive Chef | Wycliffe Golf & Country Club | Wellington, FL

It sounds like you knew from a very early age that you wanted to be a chef. What are some of your earliest memories in the kitchen?

My parents have pictures of me standing on my tippy toes, making pancakes and eggs!

When I was 12, my mom worked for a catering company, and I tagged along. I would wash dishes, unload the trucks, and bus tables. I also got to taste some things I had never had before, and I started loving food.

It was interesting to see how they produced everything, especially because with most of the catering events, they went to different locations

and had to work with whatever was available. And to see how they did it—whether in a tent outside or a small kitchen in someone’s house— was interesting for me.

From tagging along with a catering company to hopping into the kitchen at a Marriott, it sounds like you dove right into “mass food production.” Did you enjoy it?

I loved the rush of the business and bulk cooking. At the Marriott, I started as a dishwasher. One day, someone in the kitchen asked me to jump on the line. Soon after that (during my sophomore year in high school), I applied for culinary school at the Florida Culinary Institute.

Many culinary students wait until after they graduate to work in a kitchen, but you were way ahead of the game, right?

I was 18, living on my own, and had to

support myself, so I needed to make sure I had enough money to pay for school. I was working 60 to 70 hours a week (while also attending classes). This gave me a taste of what the industry hours were like.

It was school, work, school, work, and back and forth. Our classes were about six hours, four days a week, and the teachers were very flexible with me so I could go to class in the morning if I had a night shift at work (and vice versa). I’d go to school, sometimes sleep in my car, and then head to work!

After culinary school, I worked at The Breakers (Palm Beach’s most luxurious and historic hotel) and became the saucier. I had the pleasure of working with a lot of talented chefs. 9/11 happened right around the time you were getting into your culinary groove. How did that affect your career path?

At this time, I was working at the Breakers, and

FROM THE CHEF’S KITCHEN Seared

Florida Grouper

WITH GRILLED PINEAPPLE RISOTTO, SAUTÉED KALE AND TROPICAL SALSA

Protein:

2 pieces Florida grouper, 6 oz. ea.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp flour

1 tbsp butter

½ lemon

1 oz white wine

¼ c chicken stock

salt & pepper to taste

Method of Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Season the grouper with salt and pepper and dredge in flour.

3. Heat a sauté pan on medium heat and add the olive oil. When the pan is hot, lightly place the grouper in the pan, and cook until golden brown.

4. Gently turn the grouper. Deglaze the pan with white wine and then add the chicken stock.

5. Place the pan with the grouper into the oven. Cook for seven minutes and then return the pan to flame.

6. Remove the grouper from the pan and let rest. Add butter to the pan and stir until melted and remove from heat. Pour over the grouper just before serving.

Grilled Pineapple Risotto:

1 tsp olive oil

½ c risotto

1½ c chicken stock

1 c pineapple juice

Place 1 tsp. of olive oil in a sauce pot, add risotto to the pan, and coat with oil. Cook on low.

Add half of the pineapple juice and chicken stock. Cook until the liquid is dissolved, then add the other half of the liquid. Cook until the risotto is tender and cooked through and the liquid is completely dissolved.

Sautéed Kale:

3 c kale

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp chopped shallots

1 tsp chopped garlic

salt & pepper to taste

Heat a sauté pan on medium heat. Place 1 tbsp. of olive oil in pan. When hot, add the kale, garlic, and shallots, and cook until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tropical Salsa:

¼ c diced pineapple

¼ c diced papaya

¼ c diced mango

1 tsp chopped cilantro

1 tsp dark rum

1 tsp chopped red peppers

In a mixing bowl, add the diced pineapple, mango, papaya, red pepper, cilantro, and rum. Toss together to combine.

although they tried to keep as many people as they could, no one was traveling, going to hotels, or going out to eat. Everything was at a standstill for several months, and unfortunately, they had to let a lot of their employees go, including me.

Luckily, I had some friends in the business and was able to get some work here and there to make ends meet. I helped open a restaurant where I worked as the sous chef for about two years, and then eventually went into the country club industry.

You worked at two other country clubs, BallenIsles and Ibis (for approximately 15 years), before coming to Wycliffe. What is it about this environment that’s charmed you and continued to draw you in?

A friend had recommended that I try working at a country club (BallenIsles), and the General Manager told me that one of the reasons people love working in that environment is the quality of life it provides. And that’s so true. I didn’t have to work until one or two in the morning, which meant that when my kids were small, I was able to go home and read them a story and put them to bed.

I was able to fulfill my passion while also maintaining a balanced quality of life that included more consistent hours with my family. For the last 20 years, the club industry has allowed me to have exactly that. Don’t get me wrong; we still do 60+ hour weeks, especially during the busy season, but I’m able to leave a bit earlier and have more flexible hours.

How would you define your cooking personality, and what helped to shape it?

I worked under an unbelievable chef, Chef

Jerome, at BallenIsles. Because of that training, I put a lot of French influence in my food. At BallenIsles, it was such a big operation that if Chef Jerome came around to see you and have time for you, it was awesome.

His famous words to me were, “Try it. Try it for us, and we’ll see how it goes.” I’ve made some incredible dishes and some that I’ll never do again.

When we do farm-to-table dinners here, I meet the farmers and seafood purveyors. Building a relationship with the people who produce food is what influences how I cook.

Florida is a mecca for fresh seafood. What’s a quintessential fish, and how do you describe the region’s overall culinary style?

Yellowtail snapper is very popular!

The culture here is diverse, and the area is flooded with culinary talent. You have the Spanish influence, the Creole influence, and if you can incorporate the vibe of Florida into the food, that’s important. We source as much locally as we can because it’s good health-wise as well as for the environment.

We also pull from other industries (like hotels and restaurants) to allow for a diverse range of talent and flavor influence in the food.

When you first began at Wycliffe, the club was in transition. Were you excited to be part of something that was actively moving and changing? And were you able to offer up some of your visions?

The club had a late 90s theme to it and needed to be more modernized. Just the thought of being a part of such an evolution excited me.

The kitchen especially needed refreshment, and a little light brought to it. I helped with the design and got involved with the plans and layouts so I could make sure everything would flow. I was able to get all the bells and whistles I wanted! And I helped create the fantastic team of men and women that I have now who do an incredible job.

Speaking of healthy, Wycliffe’s website says that the dining scene is “recognized as one of America’s healthiest clubs.” How do you incorporate wholesome, nutritious ingredients while also making sure that guests are getting something incredibly delicious? Is there a separate menu, or is this mostly by request?

We often work with ingredients that are fresh and locally-sourced, and the less you add to food, that’s when it’s the healthiest. It’s usually by request, but when I write a menu, I do try to make healthy, tasty food. We have a spa and a fitness center, so everyone here is trying to live an active lifestyle.

When we were at full-service, we had a healthy section on our lunch buffet. We see the members all the time, and they’re our biggest supporters, so if there’s something we can modify or change for them, we try to help them out.

“Building a relationship with the people who produce food is what influences how I cook.“

Are they ever shy about their feedback?

I have an open-door policy. Customers are always able to call me, email me, or pop their heads in the kitchen. I also encourage all of my chefs to be seen, so they’ll walk the dining room and greet the guests. They’re part of the experience.

Wycliffe has a few different dining venues. In which kitchen are you most comfortable?

Flavours is our fine dining restaurant that’s allowed our members to experience a variety of flavors. We delicately prepare a robust range of extraordinary dishes for their refined palates, and I’m the most comfortable here because of the level of creativity I get to put into every dish.

I heard that you’d made some interesting accommodations to Wycliffe since the pandemic rocked the restaurant industry. Tell me about how you’ve been able to adapt and address the issue of Covid-19 with the members?

We wanted to make sure we could provide as many of the same services as possible. We started doing to go’s like everyone else for

lunch and dinner, but we also turned part of our ballroom into a grocery store (for produce, toilet paper, etc.) where members could go through an app for contactless curbside pickup. Our valets even turned themselves into delivery drivers!

Our pastry chef is also very active with our members, and she wanted to make sure she was still involved and well-seen. She started doing take-and-bake kits with recipe videos. Every two weeks was something different, and people were able to reach out to her with any questions.

We also did theme nights (like seafood platters with cooked and chilled crab claws and lobsters), a happy hour menu where members could order bites and drinks, and even a brunch menu on Sundays. All to go! We wanted to ensure that our members were well taken care of and receiving the same level of service they were accustomed to.

What are some of your favorite special events you’ve created for members? And what’s your process for coming up with menus that are different and exciting each time?

The beauty of working in a country club as opposed to a quintessential restaurant is you are catering to the same audience night after night. Therefore, you must be creative and showcase new offerings for every event. This can’t be done alone. I look to my team for creativity. Whether it be for Halloween or a Ladies’ Card Party, our pastry team is always

putting twists on decadent desserts. Our Chef Garde Manger is often found creating unique fruit carvings that are beautiful enough to be used as centerpieces. And our farm-to-table meals feature local ingredients and allow our chefs to showcase their ability to use seasonally-available ingredients.

What inspires you when you’re writing menus? Seasonality? Cookbooks? Food television? Travel?

I have a whole library of cookbooks in my office, and I encourage everyone to grab a book, take it home, and get inspired. The best way, I think, to write a menu is to sit down with my chefs and bounce around ideas. When a menu is finalized, it’s a collaboration of each of our personalities.

Favorite takeout dish to order when you’ve been on your feet all day and had enough of the kitchen?

Something simple and easy. When I leave work and don’t want to do anything, I can pick up the phone, call my favorite wing or sub place, and it’s ready when I get there. Sometimes that’s all you want!

What advice do you have for home cooks who aren’t very comfortable in the kitchen but want to entertain and improve their skills?

Try it! You’re not going to find out what you like until you try it. Use a recipe as a guideline. Cook what you love. Enjoy the process. If you mess up, there’s always takeout!

“I look to my team for creativity ... When a menu is finalized, it's a collaboration of each of our personalities.“

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Want “new” eyes? I bought them!

by Jan Cullinane

Iwas fortunate to have excellent eyesight until I hit my late forties, when good old presbyopia hit. That’s when our eye lenses become stiffer and less elastic, making it more challenging to focus on close-up objects. It’s an age-related thing, and it cannot be reversed through diet, exercise, or drugs. The majority of people begin to develop presbyopia in their 40s, and often its first manifestation is that it’s harder to read small print. Unfortunately, at some point, we’re all affected, although some of us develop presbyopia later than others. Presbyopia comes from the Greek words for old (presbys) and sight (ops). Sigh.

There are steps you can take to optimize your vision, such as eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep, protecting your eyes from the sun, etc. But, presbyopia cannot be stopped or reversed. So, I first turned to good old over-thecounter readers. I started with the lowest magnification and gradually reached the highest magnification I could find without a prescription. They helped for awhile. Prescription glasses were next. As time passed, I needed glasses with varying prescriptions for close work, for computer work, and for distance vision. I started to HATE wearing glasses. I disliked taking off one pair and putting on a different pair depending on what I was doing. I didn’t like wearing bifocals, I didn’t like wearing trifocals, and I didn’t like wearing progressive lenses. I investigated monovision with contact lenses, but I also wanted crisp vision for intermediate distances.

Now, I know I probably sound like a primadonna, but I have to say, most people would call me fairly easy-going (I am a Libra, after all!), but something about wearing glasses drove me totally bonkers. And, with my normal work and play activities, which involve reading, working on the computer, giving presentations, tennis, and bike-riding, I really wanted good near, medium, and distance vision sans glasses.

So, I began investigating implanting artificial permanent lenses in both eyes and totally ditching the glasses. And, with several additional years having passed, the ophthalmologist said I had cataracts, too. I told him I’d love to have my cataracts removed and, at the same time, have lens implants that “fixed” my distance, intermediate, and near vision, as well as clear up any astigmatism (when the shape

of the cornea blurs vision). He handed me a brochure about getting artificial lenses called IOLs, or intraocular lenses. My goal to be glasses-free was within reach.

PanOptix Lenses

There are several types of these intraocular lenses, but I decided if I was going to do it, I would get lenses that address everything, so I chose PanOptix lenses because they are trifocal and would address close, intermediate, and distance vision. (I don’t represent the company, by the way, nor receive anything from writing this—just letting you know my experience.) These lenses are new in the United States, having been FDA approved in August 2019, but they’ve been available elsewhere since 2015 and are used in more than 70 other countries. I had the implants in October 2019,

and I felt a bit like a guinea pig—my ophthalmologist had implanted these lenses in only one other patient. Short summary: I am very happy with the results. But, here’s the rundown:

PREP: There were several pre-op visits that involved making sure that I—and my eyes—was healthy and for taking measurements for my customized lenses. I basically looked into a machine that calculated the measurements for my new lenses. Two weeks prior to surgery, I needed to scrub my eyelids, use artificial tears, and use three kinds of eyedrops: an antibiotic, an anti-inflammatory, and a steroid.

PROCEDURE: Each eye was done separately, one week apart. The procedure was quick, taking only several minutes, and was performed in the surgery center associated with my ophthalmologists’ office (they have a big practice). They monitored my blood pressure and I was given an IV with a very light sedative. I remember a bright light overhead, my eyes were numb, and there was an eye holder that kept

the lid open during the procedure to prevent blinking. (It reminded me of the scene with Alex in A Clockwork Orange if you've ever seen that film.) I was a little nervous about having something implanted in my eye, but there was no pain, no discomfort, and it was fast! You do need someone to drive you home, but I went to Chick-fil-A afterward for lunch. That’s how simple it was. Post-surgery, you need to take additional eye drops for a few weeks and go in for several follow-up appointments.

PRICE: The PanOptix lenses are not inexpensive. The price, which included the pre- and postop appointments, was $2,995 for each eye, over and above the cost of the surgery itself which was covered by insurance because my cataracts were removed. In addition, I had to pay for the various eye drops that I had to take pre- and post-surgery. One of these was expensive, so ask for a free sample (I did this for my second eye surgery, and they gave me one).

PROS AND CONS: I love being glasses-free,

and even colors seem more vivid (perhaps that’s also due to the cataract removal). I am very happy I did the surgery and would recommend it. Aside from the price for the procedure, for me, there was one additional “con.” I had been warned from the get-go that many people see “halos” around lights at night — things like car lights, streetlights, and even the moon. The first evening of the surgery, I was freaked out. I didn’t see halos but huge arcs of light from cars and streetlights that went from one side of the road to the other (I was a passenger). I wasn’t prepared for that! I called the doctor in a panic but was assured those would become much more subdued. The arcs did disappear by the next evening, but I do still see halos around lights that I did not see before the surgery. But, even if that is permanent (it’s not yet been a year, and sometimes the brain adapts), I’m still delighted I purchased my “new eyes.”

Jan Cullinane is an award-winning retirement author, speaker, and consultant. Her current book is The Single Woman’s Guide to Retirement (AARP/ Wiley).

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How to Avoid Biases that Can Undermine Your Portfolio

A Lesson in Behavioral Finance in the Era of COVID-19

by Rebecca Meares, CFP®

Generational traits are often shaped by the major social, economic, and political milestones of the time. Values and behaviors develop in response to these defining experiences and influence how we make financial decisions moving forward. After witnessing the 1929 market crash, Depression-era Americans were famously known for their aversion to the stock market and preference for cash under the mattress. Many millennials graduated during the Great Recession with piles of student debt and low job prospects, leaving them disillusioned with Wall Street and reluctant to enter the housing market.

Experiences like 9/11, the technology boom, and now the COVID-19 pandemic affect the way we save, spend, and invest our money. But are these emotionaland psychological-based decisions the best avenue toward financial success? While we wait to see how the COVID-19 crisis will affect long-term investor behaviors, we can identify and overcome three common biases that transcend generations and tend to lead us off course.

Recency Effect Loss Aversion

Recency effect places greater emphasis on events that occurred most recently. As the memory of 2008 had faded with the 11-year bull-market run, so did the pain of the losses endured. With major stock market indexes up over 20% in 2019, many investors let their portfolios drift to more aggressive levels than they may have been previously comfortable with, only recalling their most recent market successes. As a result, many were in for a rude awakening when their account values plummeted with the excess embedded risk. On the other hand, when a portfolio drops 10%, recency effect convinces us it will keep on falling even though market pullbacks, and subsequent recoveries, are fairly common. Disregarding the full picture to place undue importance on recent events can get us into trouble as we make snap choices.

Do not let this most recent downturn cloud your longterm vision and investor behaviors. Stick to your plan and maintain a methodical approach to your investment process.

is the notion that humans psychologically experience the pain of loss more acutely than we feel the joy of gain. It has been nearly impossible to remain stoic in the face of the wild market swings this year. Even if your portfolio made a full recovery, the turbulence likely caused added stress and feelings of pain. The powerful negative emotion associated with loss may cause an investor to overestimate the risks associated with a portfolio, which can be counterproductive to strategies for long-term success. Changing strategies, like selling during a moment of panic to avoid the pain of potential losses now can end up hurting significantly worse in the long-term. Take emotion out of the equation. Start with a strong understanding of your risk tolerance and how it compares to your portfolio. Consider how your investments may behave in both good times and bad. Also, speak with your financial advisor about strategies that may take advantage of market fluctuations, like dollar cost averaging or tax loss harvesting, if appropriate. Finding silver linings may help you stay focused.

Stick to your plan and maintain a methodical approach to your investment process.

Bias

Herd bias speaks to our human nature to follow the crowd and believe, “If everyone else is doing this, it must be right.” Even if you are adept at managing your internal voices, it can be challenging to go against the grain. Investors may disregard the information and analysis at hand to blindly follow the actions of others, especially in times of crisis. Between the constant news updates and chatter amongst social circles, it can be challenging for even the most rational investor to stay on track. Irrational optimism and excessive pessimism amongst groups often play significant roles in bubbles and crashes. Think back to those who cashed out in 2008, only to have missed the significant rebound that kicked off the longest bull run in history. Or how about the irrational optimism in the late ‘90s that enticed so many to invest in internet companies that were not financially sound, only to be disappointed when the tech bubble burst?

Do not make any sudden changes. Disregard investment fads and group-based fears, and chart your course based on solid data and your own personal financial plan.

If 2020 has taught us anything, it is to expect the unexpected. We cannot plan for every possible scenario or completely set aside our emotions, but we can manage our behaviors and design strategies to safeguard against potentially imprudent decisions. So, when the next black swan event does occur – be it a pandemic, a natural disaster, or a zombie apocalypse – are you prepared to overcome those irrational internal voices and make wise decisions for long-term financial security and success? Make sure you have a sound financial plan in place and reach out to the experts for help.

Rebecca Meares is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional at Caudle Meares Wealth Management, in McLean, VA. The firm’s mission is simple: to empower clients to live the life they desire, knowing they are financially secure. Contact Rebecca for a complimentary consultation at rmeares@cmwealth.com.

Herd

The Albemarle Sound Offers a Life of Golf and Boating

by William Burr

We thought it might be interesting to read the experience of new homeowners from the inception of an idea of moving to a community to its fruition. There are a million stories like this, and all will be different. But, it might be helpful for someone beginning the process to hear what others have been through. Wayne and Kate Appelmann, who chose Albemarle Plantation on the Albemarle Sound on the inner banks of North Carolina, were kind enough to answer my questions. We have edited their replies slightly for a better clarity.

How did you find Albemarle Plantation?

Kate and I searched for several years throughout the Southeast, looking for what we considered our ideal retirement location. We visited communities in North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina, and they all seemed to be missing one or more of our retirement boxes. Kate found Albemarle Plantation on the internet and, after reviewing the website, we decided to go and see firsthand if it measured up to the claims made.

We visited for a weekend and found that they were true. Everyone was extremely friendly and willing to share information about their experience. A few months later, we returned to look at properties. We planned to purchase a lot, then design and build on it. Later, when we retired, we again visited Albemarle Plantation and, to our surprise, found an existing home so suited to our needs that it allowed us to move into the community without the delay of building a house.

What were your criteria for choosing a community?

We primarily looked for a golf course community with an active social environment in a geographic location that allowed reasonable access to our children.

How long have you lived there?

Although we have been part of the community since 2017 and visited on numerous weekend getaways, we have only recently become full-time residents in June of this year.

Where did you come from?

Kate and I are both originally from Madison, CT, but have lived in Charlotte, NC, for the last 22 years.

Why did you choose this community?

The location was a significant factor, as it puts us equal distances between our two sons. The scenery is fabulous, and of course, the amenities are hard to beat. Having access to both the golf course and marina is a unique benefit not easily found in other communities.

What is it you love about living there?

The tremendous sense of community and friendliness of the residents is a very rare quality to find these days. The community provides an active environment that is enhanced by the fabulous scenic vistas provided by Albemarle Sound and Mother Nature. We are looking forward to meeting new friends and enjoying our home for many years to come.

ARE YOU OLD ENOUGH?

Located in award-winning Brambleton, in the heart of Loudoun County, Virginia, Birchwood has become the best-selling active adult community around. Buyers have fallen in love with this new, walkable community where everything you want is at your fingertips including a 20,000 square foot clubhouse with indoor and outdoor pools, open spaces and trails, shopping and dining.

Birchwood is within easy access to Dulles International Airport, the nation’s capital, the new Metro extension and dozens of wineries, breweries and historic sites.

Choose from condominiums, villas, carriages and single-family homes with furnished models by nationally recognized homebuilders Miller & Smith, Van Metre Homes and Winchester Homes.

Plan your visit today. Move in this year.

The White Sand Beaches of Sarasota Lure New Residents

by Warren Grant

There are people around the world who cross continents in order to marvel at the world’s most perfect white sand beaches, found in Sarasota and the seven islands (keys) that flank the city on the gulf coast of Florida, just south of Tampa. The people put the sand in a jar and carefully take it back home; such is its unique treasure.

While Sarasota offers boundless cultural, civic, dining, and recreational opportunities, it is the 99 percent pure quartz sand—powdery, white as snow, and cool to the summer touch—that shines brightest. Indeed, the Siesta Key beach there contains the “Finest Beach Sand in the World” as voted by countless outlets, including the Travel Channel , USA Today, and Conde Naste Traveler.

No need for a jar, however, for Ken and Judith Allen, who recently moved to Sarasota after 50 years living in metro-Washington, D.C. The Allens hadn’t really considered Florida as a retirement destination but were convinced otherwise after visiting with realtors Irv and Leslie Rothschild, who were manning a Sarasota booth at an ideal-LIVING Resort and Retirement Show last winter in Washington, D.C.

Just weeks after their encounter, the Allens spent four days luxuriating in the considerable allure of Sarasota, guided by the Rothschilds. “They literally took us under their wing and brought us through every step of the process. They are the most genuine couple and lifted every weight from our shoulders,” says Ken.

After the visit, the Allens sold their home in D.C. and purchased a homesite at Lakewood Ranch, a 34,000-acre, multi-generational planned community, just 20 minutes inland from downtown Sarasota and the beaches. The 2,400-sq.-ft. home they’re building should be ready by Thanksgiving, for which they are thankful given the current constraints on the workforce.

The Allens are renting right now, but Judith has already found great walking trails, and Ken is in heaven with some 75 golf courses in the region. They also enjoy the lower cost of living, low taxes, no snow shovels, and the low-maintenance lifestyle of their new home.

Some of the unique attractions of Sarasota include The Ringling, home to the State Art Museum of Florida, the Bayfront Gardens, two circus museums, the Ca' d'Zan Mansion, and the historic Asolo Theater.

There are also compelling examples of the Sarasota School of Architecture, a modernist movement that thrived in the mid-1900s. And a longtime local recommends Walt’s Fish Market and the Siesta Key Drum Circle that plays at dusk on Sunday nights.

To explore real estate offerings in Sarasota, visit Bright Realty at www.livesarasota.com or call 941-266-5308.

Life is for living, and you’ll find plenty of living going on in Hot Springs Village – the largest private, gated community in North America. Sitting on 26,000 acres of the scenic Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs Village is a place you’ll be proud to call home. Whether you custom-build or move right in, your days can be filled with golfing, boating, hiking, fine dining and so much more. It’s truly a place for you to live your best life!

Find Your Ideal... HOME

K HOVNANIAN'S FOUR SEASONS AT KENT ISLAND, MD

Many developers and builders have virtual home tours on their websites to help you discover new home styles without leaving your current home. If you would like to tour in person, communities can arrange home tours at your convenience.

PARADE OF IDEAL HOMES M

odel homes are open and ready for business in planned developments around the country. October is a great time for you venture out and see the newest in home designs by some of the top builders in the United States featured on the following pages. And, to show you more images than we have space for in these pages, we've created photo galleries of these builders' top designs at:

ideallivingmagazine.com/paradeofidealhomes

IDEAL KITCHENS

Spending a lot more time eating at home these days? Why not create a kitchen that you really want to cook in?

The trend in kitchens is toward even larger islands with lots of flexible storage space/bays for wine refrigerators or microwaves.

While white cabinetry and stainless appliances remain ever popular, you can spice it up with decorative tile backsplashes and pops of color.

Meritus Signature Homes - The Cliffs at Keowee Springs | South Carolina

Taylor Morrison Homes

"We take time to listen to our customers and choose new communities, create floor plans, and design selections based on those needs. A lot of what we see is an interest in single-floor living, open floor plans, a dedicated office space, and an even higher attention placed on crafting the perfect outdoor living space. Additionally, we are seeing an interest in options such as bonus rooms, lofts, and loft porches, which are great to create additional living space and maximize the homesite's views."

Logan Homes | North Carolina and South Carolina

Schell Brothers | Delaware

Fairfield Glade | Tennessee

IDEAL KITCHENS

ICI Homes | Florida

Change it up by having the island a different color cabinetry from the wall cabinets or maybe using different colors on the base and wall cabinets.

Ceiling-high cabinets offer extra storage space as does a well-thought-out pantry.

Natural tones including stone tile backsplashes, the use of quartz for countertops, and warm wood flooring add a touch of warmth.

Bill Clark Homes | North Carolina

Latitude Margaritaville by Minto | Florida

Birchwood at Brambleton | Virginia

The Oakwood from The Executive Collection©

MAIN LIVING

Open floor plans, especially those that open to the outdoor living areas, make the space feel larger than the actual square footage. You can always create individual spaces with the use of different ceiling and lighting designs, as well as smaller nooks.

The farmhouse chic infuence is illustrated with use of exposed wood beam ceilings and rustic interior barn doors. Bring warmth to the open spaces with the look of wood. Wide wood plank flooring or even engineered wood flooring allows the use decorative accent rugs to add some color.

Bill Clark Homes | North Carolina

Brookfield Homes | Delaware

“The best 55+ floor plans are universally appealing with large, open rooms and outdoor spaces that cater to hobbies including cooking and entertaining. These houses subtly accommodate the changing needs of their homeowners, allowing them to live comfortably in their home for many years.”

Kelly

-

Scibona, Stanley Martin Homes' Regional Director of Architecture

Landmark Homes | Pennsylvania

MAIN

LIVING

Fairfield Glade | Tennessee

An open floor plan can help you incorporate Universal Design Principles into a new home plan, allowing you to age in place.

Look up. Use your ceiling as a canvas by either separating spaces with a coffered ceiling, wood beams, or wood accents.

Built-in cabinetry allows for more storage and can nicely frame the fireplace.

Many 55+ buyers seek single-floor living with perhaps a bonus suite over the garage.

ICI Homes | Florida

Horizon Homes | North Carolina

David Weekley Homes

Start living the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming about with Encore by David Weekley Homes. Our lifestyle-driven approach to home design offers the ideal balance of livability with thoughtfullydesigned floor plans featuring indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces and a high level of customization to make your new home everything you’ve imagined.

Plus, you’ll delight in more freedom and fun in one of our friendly 55+ lifestyle neighborhoods offering a variety of amenities, activities and clubs – all planned by a lifestyle director – to enhance your active life. These intimate communities make it easy to develop friendships with your neighbors, too.

PRIMARY SUITES

Traditions of America | Pennsylvania

Fairfield Glade | Tennessee

David Weekley Homes

Lennar | Delaware

Birchwood at Brambleton | Virginia

Think of the primary or owner's suite as a retreat. Many bedrooms are designed with an entrance to the outdoor living areas, making them appear larger. Or, the bedrooms might include a separate sitting area.

If you like to wake with the sun, place your suite on the east side of your new home.

Unique ceilings aren't just for the main living areas. Dramatic ceilings and lighting in the bedroom add a touch of romance.

Spa-like bathrooms can include saunas, double vanities, and frameless showers with multiple showerheads. Many bathrooms no longer include a tub, except as a statement piece.

Don't forget the his and hers closets with built-in cabinets.

Birchwood at Brambleton | Virginia

This well-established private community encompasses 2,000 acres of gently rolling foothills that have witnessed centuries of history that can be traced back to the Native American tribes. Mount Vintage has been carefully planned to enhance the natural beauty and tranquility of the setting. Just a few miles from Aiken, SC and Augusta, GA, and pretty close to perfect It is truly one of a kind An amazing offering of amenities provide an active lifestyle while the blending of understated elegance and casual comfort creates the ultimate in easy living To learn more visit mountvintage.com or call 844-428-8330.

GOLF CLUB 27-hole golf course, state-of-the-art practice facility, Pro Shop, Grille and locker rooms

TOWN CENTER/ATHLETIC CLUB includes swim, tennis, fitness, bocce ball, lending library, event/meeting spaces and community garden

Homesites from $39,000 Patio Homesites from $29,000 Spec Homes from $300’s

235 Mount Vintage Plantation Drive North Augusta, SC 29860

PRIMARY SUITES

Schell

ICI Homes | Florida

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark | North Carolina

Brothers | Delaware

K Hovnanians Four Seasons at Wickenburg Ranch | Arizona

Stanley Martin Homes

It’s Different Here Single-Family Home from the High $200s

HOME OFFICE

Now more than ever, it is easier to telecommute from anywhere. So, you can go ahead and make the move to a less congested area now, continue to work, and then retire later.

During the pandemic, millions were forced to work from home, thus creating the need for more individualized office spaces in the home.

Whether it's converting an existing bedroom into a study or planning the office from the start, these images show some ideas that will make working from home that much more appealing.

Logan Homes | North Carolina and South Carolina

Fairfield Glade | Tennessee

“Smart home technology has been on an upward trend for a while now, and we are seeing this more and more through our buyers. They want easier living with the touch of a button and to ensure that their family is safe.”

Bill Clark Homes | North Carolina

Meritus Signature Homes

Birchwood at Brambleton | Virginia David Weekley Homes

HOME OFFICE

THINGS TO INCLUDE IN A HOME OFFICE

Create a space that you want to spend several hours in each day by including:

• Lots of natural light

• Built-in cabinets

• Some greenery

• Charging stations

• Panel walls or an accent wall with shiplap

Landmark Homes | Pennsylvania

Lennar | Delaware

ICI Homes | Florida

Bill Clark Homes | North Carolina

HOME GYMS

ICI Homes | Florida

Yet another way that COVID-19 has changed home design is the desire for a home gym. This could be the perfect space for a treadmill, weights, or even a yoga studio.

You can use an existing room or even carve out a space, such as space in a multi-purpose laundry area. The main goal is to encourage you to workout from the comfort of your home.

ICI Homes | Florida

Neal Communities | Florida

OZY UP AT B

OULEVARD

WELCOME CENTER THE

CNOW OPEN

The Boulevard Welcome Center is the first of Amblebrook’s many resort-style amenities, and it’s a place like no other. Think of this as your sophisticated neighborhood coffee shop, where you’ll meet up with friends while enjoying your favorite light fare and beverages in our charming The Heartland Market & Café.

• Sales Office & Hospitality Area

• Green House

VISIT OR CALL FOR A VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT TODAY

(866) 796 • 7299

AmblebrookGettysburg.com

/amblebrookgettysburg

@amblebrookgettysburg

• The Heartland Market & Café

• Giving Garden

• Model Village

• Fresh Farm Market

8 DECORATED MODELS NOW SELLING SINGLE FAMILY AND VILLA HOMES FROM THE $300s

RESORT-STYLE LIVING FOR THOSE 55 AND BETTER

The Community is intended to provide housing primarily for persons 55 years of age or older and additional restrictions apply. The Community shall be operated as an age-restricted community in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws. Any illustration/depiction is based on the current proposed development concepts and actual development may vary from what is depicted. Certain features and amenities depicted have not yet been, and may not be, constructed, and views may be impacted by future development. This material shall not constitute an offer or solicitation in any state where prior registration is required. Amblebrook™ is pending trademark registration by Corbelis Management, LLC. All rights reserved. 2018 Corbelis Management, LLC

FLEXIBLE SPACES

Flexible spaces allow you to choose what you want to do with the space. It could be a laundry room that doubles as a pet grooming station, craft room, or an office.

Bonus rooms offer a great deal of flexibilty for additional guest rooms to game rooms or entertainment centers.

You can create a reading nook that also doubles as a yoga space.

ICI Homes | Florida

Birchwood at Brambleton | Virginia

Stanley Martin Homes

Logan Homes | North Carolina and South Carolina

OUTDOOR LIVING

Bringing the outdoors in is the perfect way to expand your home's square footage. Whether it's through large telescoping doors from the living area that open to a screened porch or even designing a living space with full kitchen and living area, outdoor spaces are among the most popular home features. Homeowners spend more time outside than ever before by creating inviting areas to enjoy the fresh air and for entertaining a few friends.

Meritus Signature Homes

Neal Communities | Florida

“Fairfield Glade has been experiencing building trends with a marked emphasis on outdoor enjoyment. Because the weather is so comfortable for much of the year, opportunities to enjoy that trait are at the forefront of what our customers are looking for. Outdoor porches and patios with opportunities to gather with friends in an intimate relaxed environment are the most asked for home inclusions."

Fairfield Glade | Tennessee

SaddleBrooke

Retire with Stanley Martin Homes

• Belmont

• Bolivia

• Calabash

• Southport

• Indian Trail

• Belmont South Carolina

• Aiken

• Boiling Springs

• Bluffton

• Chapin

• Columbia

• Duncan

• Eglin

• Indian Land

• Lexington

LIVING OUTDOOR

Birchwood at Brambleton | Virginia

You can design an outdoor living space for any lifestyle. As seen above, the putting green adds a touch of fun to this backyard.

If you have a green thumb, there is no better place to show it off and to increase privacy than on your porch or lanair. And, who doesn't want to enjoy the outdoors on cool evenings with an outdoor fireplace or firepit?

Weekley Homes

Schell Brothers Homes | Delaware

Bill Clark Homes | North Carolina

K Hovnanians Four Seasons at Wickenburg Ranch | Arizona

Enjoy the lap of luxury with a screened-in lanai with a pool, hot tub, and outdoor living area.

An all-season room (pictured at the left) incorporates outdoor living year-round.

OUTDOOR LIVING

ICI Homes | Florida

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark | North Carolina

“Outdoor living areas have always been popular, but it seems to be a big focus now for buyers to truly utilize and enjoy the outdoor space that our homes offer.”

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark | North Carolina

The Traditional Options:

• Pay cash for your new home and reduce your retirement liquidity

• Use traditional financing and increase your monthly expenses

A New Option:

The HECM for Purchase Program

• Bring a one-time down payment of 40-60%

• Never make a monthly mortgage payment

For more information on how to buy your dream retirement home with the HECM for Purchase Program, please contact us:

Ron Heath | NMLS: 450503

HECM for Purchase Specialist

Phone (919) 412-0686

rheath@mutualmortgage.com

5580 Centerview Dr., Suite 115, Raleigh, NC 27606

Ken Updegrave | NMLS: 109435

HECM for Purchase Specialist

Phone (919) 567-1004

kupdegrave@mutualmortgage.com

5580 Centerview Dr., Suite 115, Raleigh, NC 27606

must occupy home as primary residence and remain current on property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, the costs of home maintenance, and any HOA fees. Synergy One Lending Inc. d/b/a Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, NMLS 1025894. 3131 Camino Del Rio N 190, San Diego, CA 92108. These materials are not from HUD or FHA and the document was not approved by HUD, FHA or any Government Agency. Subject to Credit Approval. www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

IDEAL BUILDER

PROFILES

Bill Clark Homes Builds in: North Carolina

Bill Clark Homes is an esteemed, award-winning homebuilder with a reputation built over 40 years in Southeastern NC. Bill Clark Homes prides itself on building quality homes at an affordable price for families with an unbeatable attention to detail. Since 1977, Bill Clark Homes has been committed to being an innovator in the building industry and providing homes with details that set them apart from the competition. “Through the years, I have learned that a house becomes a home when a family breathes life into it. That gives meaning to what my family does every day,” says Bill Clark.

Birchwood at Brambleton Builds in: Virginia

Sophisticated, brimming with action, and surrounded in tranquility, Birchwood at Brambleton lets 55+ active adults rekindle their youthful spark. Located near the cultural metropolis of Washington, D.C., Dulles Airport, and the upscale offerings in the award-winning community of Brambleton, this Loudoun County community says Life Refreshes at 55. “Getting older” is okay. Empty nesters, entertaining mavens, and everyone in between will find their perfect home to suit their lifestyle. The natural beauty surrounding Birchwood at Brambleton will remind residents that there’s no better time than the present to start writing the next chapter. Are You Old Enough?

Encore by David Weekley Homes

David Weekley Homes was founded in 1976, and has grown to become one of the nation’s largest privately-owned builders. The company currently operates in 20 cities and 12 states across the nation and has closed more than 100,000 homes since inception. “Encore by David Weekley homes was created specifically with our 55+ customers in mind. Our lifestyle-driven approach incorporates beautiful and accommodating home design with single-level floor plans featuring large, open living spaces, and options to personalize a space with expanded outdoor living areas and summer kitchens or unique spaces like a craft room,” said David Weekley, chairman of David Weekley Homes.

Fairfield Homes has proudly served the Fairfield Glade community for almost 50 years. The company has been able to maintain its long reputation with an attention to quality construction practices while making customer service at the forefront of their business philosophy.“ In the business that I own, my job is pleasing the customer, and I feel in my business, that’s pretty easy to do. In the construction business, it must be next to impossible! For me, I always felt like Fairfield Homes were the pros, and they would take care of us. In the end, I felt like the house was being built by my friends,” says Don Arbuckle.

For links to these builders and their home galleries, go to IdealLivingMagazine.com/ParadeofIdealHomes

2020 of

Fairfield Homes

Builds in: Tennessee

Builds in: Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina

ONLY EIGHT REMAIN!

• Located in historic Beaufort, SC

• Walkable (1 mile) to shops, restaurants, parks, art galleries, and museums

• Featuring homes by Allen Patterson and Front Light Building Company

• Adjacent to 16-mile Spanish Moss Trail

• 20 minutes to Hunting Island Beach

• Build your dream home in just 6 months

• Tour our homes from the comfort of yours at citywalkbeaufort.com

Virtual Tours and Appointments Available Homes From $500,000

Giles Homes from $390,000 gileshanoverva.com

Liberty Ridge Homes from $600,000 libertyridgeva.com

City Walk Homes from $500,000 citywalkbeaufort.com

The Riverfront Homes from $500,000 the-riverfront.com

Founders Pointe Homes from $450,000 founderspointe.com

Benn's Grant Homes from $299,000 bennsgrant.com

Riverwatch Homes from $300,000 www.river-watch.com

Eagle Landing Homes from $290,000 eaglelandingfl.com

IDEAL BUILDER

PROFILES

Heritage Shores

Horizon Homes

Builds in: Delaware

Heritage Shores, Delaware’s premier 55+ active lifestyle community, provides residents with an unmatched resort lifestyle. Its 28,000-square-foot clubhouse, sports courts, community pools, and three on-site restaurants create the vacation that never ends. Residents also enjoy everything from a world-class golf course to a private kayak launch and open-air shopping at the Sugar Beet Market for fun and excitement all year long. With stunning new single-family homes available to purchase or rent, there's something for everyone at Heritage Shores.

Builds in: North Carolina

Horizon Homes is a family company with designs focused on the way you live. Build your home how you want it from a builder who listens and creates an affordable, custom home reflecting your personal style. With our Energy Efficient designs and “It’s Included” mindset, you do not have to put your dreams on hold. Let our family build a home for yours, and make your dream a reality today!

ICI

Homes

Builds in: Florida

Headquartered in Daytona Beach, FL, ICI Homes is consistently ranked among the nation’s Top 100 Builders by Builder Magazine. Established in 1980, ICI Homes has been the recipient of countless prestigious awards for design and innovation and has long enjoyed local, regional, and national acclaim. Founder, Chairman, and CEO, Mori Hosseini says, “Our success is a direct result of listening carefully and being able to completely customize a floor plan to uniquely suit the homeowner and then delivering the highest quality craftsmanship, design excellence, superior value, and personal service... one home at a time.”

K. Hovnanian® has been building active lifestyle communities for the past 25 years under its celebrated Four Seasons brand. Since 1994, 64 communities have been opened across the country. As a leader in active living, K. Hovnanian® Four Seasons offers homeowners the best of both worlds – resort-style amenities and modern singlefamily home and condominium designs – all in ideally located, private settings. At the heart of each Four Seasons neighborhood is an exquisite clubhouse that brings homeowners together and serves as the central hub of community activity. K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons communities set the standard for lifestyle, fulfillment, and value, with life getting better all the time for residents.

For links to these builders and their home galleries, go to IdealLivingMagazine.com/ParadeofIdealHomes

K. Hovnanian

Builds in: Arizona, California, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, South Carolina

IDEAL BUILDER

PROFILES

Landmark Homes Builds in: Pennsylvania

Landmark Homes is an award-winning, family-owned designer and builder of new homes and communities in central Pennsylvania. In Landmark 55+ Living communities, residents enjoy low-maintenance living, fabulous community amenities, and fully customizable homes designed to fit your lifestyle. Communities are located in ideal low cost-of-living locations in Pennsylvania, where retirement income is non-taxable. The rural settings provide beautiful, scenic views of farmland and rolling hills, while the surrounding towns provide a wealth of recreation and entertainment. Whether you choose to spend your time pursuing your hobbies, entertaining, socializing, or exploring, a Landmark 55+ Living community is the perfect place to live, play, and enjoy all life has to offer.

Latitude Margaritaville by Minto Builds in: Florida and South Carolina

Latitude Margaritaville is a new portfolio of active-adult communities developed by master developer Minto Communities and global lifestyle brand Margaritaville Holdings. Offering resort-style amenities, Latitude Margaritaville is the ideal destination for those looking to live the Margaritaville lifestyle as they grow older, but not up. The communities feature a resort-style pool, fitness center, live entertainment, signature Margaritaville food and beverage concepts, arts and learning programs, and more. The NAHB named Minto Communities as 2019’s 55+ Builder of the Year. Minto’s Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach was awarded 55+ Community of the Year for 2019, and Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head was awarded 55+ Community of the Year for 2020.

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark Builds in: North Carolina

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark is a semi-custom builder with a long line of North Carolina home building history. As one of the nation's "Top 100 Builders" for over a decade, the Legacy Homes division is a trusted partner in the Wilmington, NC, region that spans four counties and is a featured builder in many premier planned communities, such as Brunswick Forest, Compass Pointe, Salters Haven, Riverlights, St. James, and Summerhouse, with more to come. Best known for thoughtful floor plans, maximized living spaces, attention to detail, and custom trim work, any Legacy Home is destined to be a showstopper.

Lennar by the Sea

Builds in: Delware and Maryland

Discover the many communities Lennar has to offer at the beach! With each of its Eastern Shore communities, you can take advantage of a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful natural surroundings, tax-friendly environment, and award-winning medical services. Whether you are looking for a townhome, single-family home, or villa, there are spectacular choices specifically tailored for coastal living. All of Lennar’s homes come with the Everything’s Included® program. That means homeowners will receive granite countertops, wide plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, designer cabinetry, home automation features, and much more—all standard in your new Lennar home.

For links to these builders and their home galleries, go to IdealLivingMagazine.com/ParadeofIdealHomes

2020 of

IDEAL BUILDER

PROFILES

Logan Homes

Builds in: North and South Carolina

Logan Homes has a mission to build homes and develop communities where value, location, and lifestyle come together. They offer personalized floor plans and movein-ready homes in many premier communities in North Carolina and South Carolina! With plans ranging in style, size, and price, you are sure to find a new home to fit your lifestyle. Enjoy quality craftsmanship, superior designs, and state-of-the-art design studios where you can personalize every detail with a Design Specialist. Decades of experience, streamlined processes, and regular communication are just a few things you will enjoy when you choose Logan Homes.

Meritus Signature Homes

Builds in: North and South Carolina

Meritus Signature Homes is one of the most respected and trusted custom home builders across the upstate Beaufort County in South Carolina and the western North Carolina regions. Many families have realized the affordable luxury of their custom homes in the areas' most scenic and elite communities. Since 2005, their promise to you is to provide a complete and quality construction experience to meet your budget. Meritus offers in-house plan collections; each plan can be customized to suit individual preferences and space requirements. Just as important, each is designed for optimized construction efficiency that allows the best price possible.

Neal Communities

Builds in: Florida

Neal Communities knows it's not just about building a tapestry of homes. It's about how those homes weave together to form a true community. For 50 years, they have been building Neal Communities throughout southwest Florida. Doing this takes more than tools and blueprints. It takes commitment and the utmost dedication to their buyers. For Neal Communities, customer satisfaction is what matters most. They strive to make the homebuying process easy and enjoyable. That's why they offer everything you need within their family of companies, so you are taken care of from start to finish. Neal has you covered, from financing to insurance to interior design to pool creation.

On Top of the World

Builds in: Florida

On Top of the World is an award-winning, family-owned, debt-free company founded in 1947 in Ocala, FL. The homes are extremely innovative, with the majority of floor plans featuring an open-room concept. Some homes may also be multigenerational with different living spaces for family members who need to stay with the resident. New homes in On Top of the World are now equipped with smart devices that work with Amazon Alexa to automate daily tasks, provide more control over your home, and allow you to live your life with hands-free convenience. Just ask Alexa to adjust the settings on your smart home devices, and get news alerts, play music, and more without lifting a finger.

For links to these builders and their home galleries, go to IdealLivingMagazine.com/ParadeofIdealHomes

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Oakland Park is everything Florida living should be. With picturesque scenery and close proximity to Winter Garden, Oakland Park is the perfect balance of modern conveniences and old Florida charm. Our preservation of the natural surroundings and the area’s history, character and craftsmanship create a stunning sanctuary that you’ll want to call home. Follow the West Orange Trial to the quaint downtown or take in picturesque views of Lake Apokpa from nature trails bordering the lake or one of our many parks. New builders, new models and new homesites are now being offered. Come explore Florida living at its finest with home prices beginning in the high $300s.

Oakland Park Community Clubhouse 1000 Civitas Way, Winter Garden, FL 34787

Oakland Park Information Center, Downtown Winter Garden 100 W Plant Street, Winter Garden FL 34787

IDEAL BUILDER

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Schell Brothers Builds in: Delaware and Virginia

Schell Brothers has 14 resort communities to choose from in coastal Delaware. They have a wide array of personalized floor plans to fit every retiree’s needs. Whether you want privacy and an oversized lot, or you desire a lively community with great amenities, Schell Brothers has a forever home for you. Schell Brothers prides itself on a business purpose and culture of happiness for its employees and customers. For homeowners, the Schell process starts with a full day at the company’s Dare to Dream Design Studio, where experienced professionals help customers plan every detail of their new home.

Stanley Martin Homes

Builds in: Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina

Finding the perfect place to retire is not easy. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with resort-style amenities, a new home close to the city, or to be near family, Stanley Martin Homes has something for you. For over 50 years they’ve designed and built homes that people love at prices they can afford. Their new homes are built with features that homeowners appreciate, from open kitchens and guest suites to outdoor living and flex spaces.

Builds in: Florida

At Taylor Morrison, they provide the resources, support, and deep industry experience to inspire you and help you make educated decisions about your most important purchase. It’s this trust that earned Taylor Morrison the recognition of being America’s Most Trusted Home Builder for five years in a row. They approach each home with a discerning eye, ensuring they select locations and amenities that fit for their homebuyers’ lifestyles. Taylor Morrison wants your home to be a place where you create a lifetime of lasting memories. With more than 100 years of experience building a lifetime of memories for our homebuyers, you can rest assured they’ll build the right home for you.

Traditions of America

Builds in: Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Ohio

Traditions of America is a leading developer of lifestyle communities for active adults over 55. Nationally recognized among the best in the industry, Traditions of America attracts empty-nest buyers seeking resort living while remaining close to family, friends, work, and activities. With a focus on high-energy living and a low-maintenance lifestyle, Traditions of America communities are rich with 5-star amenities: sprawling clubhouses, swimming pools, tennis courts, pickleball, walking trails, and more. Renowned for its unrivaled Custom Home program, Traditions of America offers single-family and garden homes at affordable prices.

For links to these builders and their home galleries, go to IdealLivingMagazine.com/ParadeofIdealHomes

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