Retirement Communities

Retirement Communities - Choosing Where to Retire by Home Style
By Carol Fena

Do you think you would choose what state to retire to based on the style and appearance of the homes located there? No, you laugh, how absurd to even think of making an important decision that way. However, styles of homes vary so much, depending on the region of the U.S., that the style of home you find appealing may be a reflection of your personality, and a clue as to where you might like to live.

I reviewed the styles of new homes in active adult retirement communities. Take a look at the following styles by region or state and ask yourself which you prefer. It may tell you something about your personality and where you would like to live. And it turns out most of these home styles are what you would envision them to be for that region.

Florida: - The stucco sidings of condos and single homes are frequently painted a rose color. Sometimes the rose is deep and sometimes pale but a lot of pink to rose paint is used. As you would guess, the roofs are Spanish tile that is preferred for tropical climates but recently a more up-to-date look combines three color tones and in lighter rosy hues. The use of columns and enclosed porches sometimes called "Florida rooms" is prevalent. Florida's style is tropical and unique and not used anywhere else in the U.S. The landscaping in Florida features palms of all kinds.

Georgia: Georgia is a Southern state but the architectural style is strikingly different from its next door neighbor, Florida. In Georgia the colors are more neutral and surprisingly somber. Lots of bright white trim along with the muted taupe colored paint of the wooden clapboard siding. English cottage style seems to suit Georgia. Long shutters seem more New England but here they are happily displayed in Georgia along with boxwoods, blooming roses and floor plans named after English towns.