Home Is Where the Heart Is

If you are reading this magazine, you are likely considering relocating soon or within the next couple of years. At Ideal-LIVING, our goal is to help you find your ideal destination, life, and home. With rising interest rates and high inflation, it might seem that dream may be a little further off. However, as editor, I always encourage everyone to find a way to start living the life they want as soon as possible.

The real estate market has seen unmatched gains since the pandemic, but the frenzy has passed. If you find a home today, you will likely not bid against five other households for one home. Of course, that means you probably won’t get five offers on your home if you place it for sale. “Boomers are in the Driver’s Seat” on page 84 gives an account of the current real estate market and how you can navigate your way to an ideal life.

The southeastern United States has attracted residents in record numbers for years. People have flocked to Florida for its no state income tax for generations. Along with all of this growth, higher home prices have followed. So where can you find a great life with more reasonable prices? Ideal-Living shows you three hidden gems on page 75.

Planned amenity communities are the perfect place to find activities that help you live a healthier lifestyle, from pickleball to knitting. On page 28, we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of three planned communities. For half of a century, these communities have welcomed residents by providing an atmosphere that is perfect for multiple generations. You don’t have to be retired to enjoy this lifestyle.

As you consider communities, you’ll find that each has an architectural style or combination of styles that work together. What home exterior works best for the lifestyle that you’d like to live? Do you want to sit on your front porch and chat with your neighbors, or would you like something more modern with sleek lines and a pool? We wish you luck in your search, and if you are in northern New Jersey or northern Virginia in September, please join us at an Ideal-LIVING Real Estate Show. RSVP at ideal-living.com/shows.

by Kelly Godbey | kellyg@ideal-LIVING.com