Need a Single Story?

Senior Communities Are A Popular Option

With the baby boomer generation and their parents living longer, The recent Census Report shows that over 25% of adult Californians are now over the age of 55! If this includes you or someone close to you then you should find this article helpful.

Many in this age group have purchased the big two-story homes years ago and are now facing the dilemma about how to manage those stairs with their arthritic knees and joints. These people are finding the vacant 4th and 5th bedrooms upstairs are using more utilities and upkeep than desired.

Due to this scenario, single story homes are highly sought after on the market now and the rare newer ones, (less than 20 yrs. old), are in the most demand. Prices between $500-800 are being snatched up by the fortunate cash buyers moving their equity into smaller single story homes.

Taking advantage of Proposition 60 allows a homeowner that is 55 years or older a one time opportunity to move your existing property taxes to a lesser value residence. (If you desire more details on this, give me a call.)

Another option for this age group is moving into a 55+ designated community. After showing and previewing many of these throughout Orange County recently, I no longer think of them as "old people" places. Maybe that is because I am now over 55! The 55 + person of today may have back or joint pain from all those past sporting opportunities, but still is very active mentally and physically. These associations provide many classes, activities, and social events to keep people involved with each other and away from the TV and the couch.

Recently, I have had the opportunity to research all of the 55+ communities in Orange County for a senior couple. Since these developments are only available to less than 20% of the serious buyers in the market, they are priced very attractive compared to a single story home in a regular neighborhood. The association dues are very reasonable when you consider what a typical homeowner pays in yard upkeep, insurance, roof and exterior maintenance, etc.

Here is a list of the cities that have 55+communities in O.C.

City/ Asking Price/ Total Active For Sale Now

Corona Del Mar/ 759,000-1,030,000/ 3

Fullerton/ 165,000 /1

Huntington Beach/ 200,000-430,000/ 16

Laguna Beach/ 261,000/ 0

Laguna Woods/ 3,000-729,000/250

Laguna Niguel/ 425,000-700,000/ 0

Mission Viejo/ 320,000-650,000/ 25

Santa Ana/ 89,000-140,000/ 2

San Clemente/ 239,000-999,000/ 16

San Juan Capistrano/ 325,000-550,000/6

Seal Beach/ 62,000-410,000/ 172

Yorba Linda/ 140,000-200,000/ 2

If you are interested in receiving updated lists of homes for sale for either single story single family residences or the 55+ communities in Orange County just send me an email at kathy@kathykampman.com or call 714-854-7777.

I will be happy to guide you through this very big move!