Linkedin-in Facebook-f Instagram
What to Know About 55+ Communities

As more homeowners look to simplify, downsize, and enjoy a lifestyle-focused environment, 55+ communities have become increasingly popular across New Jersey and New York. Whether you’re planning your next chapter or helping a loved one explore options, understanding how these communities work is essential before making a move.

At Interstate Home Properties, we’ve helped many clients transition into active adult communities—and the right information makes all the difference.

What Is a 55+ Community?

A 55+ community (also known as an active adult community) is a residential development designed specifically for adults aged 55 and older. These communities often offer:

  • Low-maintenance living

  • Lifestyle-focused amenities

  • Social activities and clubs

  • Age-qualified residency requirements

Under the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), at least 80% of the occupied units must have at least one resident who is 55 or older.

Types of 55+ Communities

Condominium Communities

  • HOA covers exterior maintenance

  • Shared amenities (pool, gym, clubhouse)

  • Typically lower maintenance responsibility

  • Monthly HOA fees apply

Ideal for those who want true lock-and-leave convenience.

Single-Family Homes in Active Adult Developments

  • Detached homes

  • More privacy

  • Often single-level layouts

  • HOA still covers community amenities

Perfect for buyers who want space without the upkeep of a traditional neighborhood.

Resort-Style Communities

  • Fitness centers

  • Golf courses

  • Organized social events

  • Walking trails and recreation

These communities focus heavily on lifestyle and social connection.

Common Amenities You’ll Find

  • Clubhouses

  • Pools & spas

  • Fitness centers

  • Pickleball & tennis courts

  • Social clubs & organized events

  • Gated security (in some communities)

Many buyers are surprised by how active and vibrant these neighborhoods are.

Financial Considerations

Before purchasing in a 55+ community, understand:

HOA Fees

Monthly dues can range widely depending on amenities and services provided.

Property Taxes

Taxes vary by municipality. Some buyers benefit from senior tax programs depending on income eligibility.

Resale Market

55+ homes appeal to a specific buyer pool. While demand is strong, pricing and resale timing can differ from non-age-restricted properties.

Lifestyle Benefits

Many homeowners choose 55+ living for:

  • Reduced maintenance

  • Built-in community and socialization

  • Downsizing from larger family homes

  • Predictable monthly expenses

  • Peace and quieter surroundings

For many, it’s not just about the home—it’s about the lifestyle.

Important Rules to Know

Each community has its own bylaws. Common rules may include:

  • Age verification requirements

  • Guest policies

  • Rental restrictions

  • Pet restrictions

  • Exterior modification guidelines

Reviewing governing documents before purchasing is critical.

Is a 55+ Community Right for You?

Ask yourself:

  • Do I want less maintenance?

  • Do I value social activities and shared amenities?

  • Am I comfortable with HOA rules?

  • Do I plan to stay long-term?

If the answer to most of these is “yes,” an active adult community may be a perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning into a 55+ community is a major lifestyle decision—not just a real estate transaction. The right community can offer freedom, connection, and comfort for years to come.

At Interstate Home Properties, we guide buyers through:

  • Reviewing HOA documents

  • Understanding resale value

  • Comparing community amenities

  • Negotiating effectively

  • Navigating inspections and closing

If you’re considering making the move—or helping a parent or family member explore options—we’re here to help you make a confident decision.

📞 Thinking about 55+ living in NJ or NY?
Contact Interstate Home Properties today for a personalized consultation and community comparison tailored to your goals.

Share:

More Posts

Request Available
55+ Listings

Testimonials

What our Clients say

eleana watkins
5 days ago
Ryan came highly recommended by my niece who use him for her first home and for her investment property. My dad's brother passed away and left us a property to sell in Kenilworth NJ. While we weren't able to list it immediately, Ryan helped us evaluate the property for estate purposes. He provided us with us with comps to show the courts. He then provided us a net seller sheet to show us exactly what we would walk away with art various prices. Once it came time to the list property, he had the property photographed and droned. He set up the lockbox so that other agents could access the property to show it. He had the open house set up exactly when he said that he would. Since he has another office in Staten Island, he listed it on another MLS database for additional exposure. His marketing, pricing, and timing helped us get an offer $35,000 over the asking price. It was an offer we could not refuse. He coordinate with the selling agent, he communicated with the attorneys, he kept in touch with the buyer's lender to update us on the progress of the loan and he even helped us process the fire inspection. He truly provided us a white glove service. On top of all of that, when it came time to close and we out of time prior to the closing, we had no resources available to shovel the property, Ryan went there and shoveled out the driveway and walkway to get the buying side access for the final walk-through. He does everything he says he is going to do. We felt that we were in great hands from start to finish. Moving forward, Ryan is the one who I am going to rely on for all of my real estate needs.
Jim N
3 weeks ago
This was the 7th time that Ryan has leased an apartment for us. As he has shown us in the past, he stays on top of everything. He's in constant communication with the case workers as some of our tenants have city programs. He updates us regularly on everything throughout the entire process. He processes all of the documents required by government agencies, he lets us know when its time to take the next step if DHS is required to set inspections and he also assists us with lease agreements. He is definitely not a set it and forget type of real estate broker. He is 100% hands on and that makes the process that much smoother for us. We trust him with all of our real estate needs and there is nobody else that we would rather use.
Eric Kahn
1 month ago
I first met Ryan through Zillow Leads. He had me come to his office in Hazlet for a buyer consultation to break down expected closing costs, time frame, explaon the buyer agency agreement and to have it signed. I signed it right away as I felt extremely comfortable with Ryan. It didn't take long before we found the one. Ryan helped us submit the offer, negotiate the terms, negotiate commission compensation, and set up the inspection. He helped us negotiate credits and repairs, he worked his magic. He broke down all of the expenses for us, and when it came time to close, his estimates were very accurate. Even when we had delays in the closing, Ryan was on top of everything to help get us to the finish line. Moving forward, Ryan is my agent for all of my real estate needs.
Barbara Burke
2 months ago
Ryan had listed and successfully closed two properties across the street from my childhood home so when we were preparing to sell our house we contacted him. He advised us and guided us throughout the entire process. He was always available and we always dealt directly with him, no assistants, no secretaries and no intermediaries of any kind. His communication was always on point. He was always ready to help and do whatever was necessary to get us to the closing table. He was a fantastic listing broker and he got us all to the finish line in a timely manner.  If I ever need any real estate help in the future, Ryan is the one who I am going to call!
Barbara Russo
4 months ago
I have known Ryan for 20 years as he worked at Costco with me for a few years. He was always respectful, humourous and hardworking. When it came time to sell my home in Staten Island and buy a new home in New Jersey, he was the right person for the job. When he met with us initially, he strategized with us so that we could prepare the house to list. He didn't pressure us to list right away. We set a date for two weeks so that it could be done the right way. He came when he said he would. He did everything that he said he would as he droned the house, he photographed it, he listed it on the MLS and he marketed it effectively. We didn't want a sign or a lockbox so he didn't pressure us, he did what we wanted to do. He was in constant communication with us from start to finish. Even when the closing didn't happen when it was supposed to, he didn't sit there waiting, he took action and he contacted every attorney involved, he contacted every broker and he contacted the lender at the bottom to find out what was going on. He was diligent at every turn and never left us in the dark. I knew that we were well taken care with Ryan. In the future, if I need anything real estate related I would reach out to him every time!
Katie Gonzalez
5 months ago
Back in February of 2025, I requested to see a small house on New Brunswick Ave in Matawan NJ. I brought my fiance as well as my mother and her partner as I never bought a house before. As we toured the property, Ryan pointed certain things out that could be a problem. It wasnt the right fit for us so Ryan invited us to his office to have a formal meeting ti discuss all of the costs associated with buying a home as well as the entire process. He communicated with all of us throughout the entire process informing us of the status of our offers and finally, our purchase. And while the 1st purchase didn't work out, Ryan continued to show us more homes in an area we truly wanted to move to. He had all of the right people to help us through the entire process. We acquired our attorney, lender and inspector all of whom were top notch. They always had our interest the entire time. His lender didn't charge us any hidden fees or points, his attorney was professional and reasonable and his inspector helped him negotiate $10,000 off of the sale of the property. Ryan was always available and even when he wasn't, he responded within 24 hours. Text, calls or email, Ryan was always accessible. He was professional the entire time always explaining everything to us. If anybody that I know needs reliable real estate broker, I would refer Ryan over and over. Thank you for helping us achieve home ownership!
Ryan Calimquim
5 months ago
I never met Ryan before and this was my first time selling real estate. He came highly recommended by my brother. And in the beginning was unsure of the entire process and I was a bit nervous. Ryan explained everything, from beginning to end throughout the entire process. He provided us with possible scenarios which helped us come to a better decision. He was always available, he always communicated with us and he made feel very comfortable in the sale of my childhood home. I will be buying a home in the near future and Ryan is my guy moving forward. Thank you for helping make this a smooth transaction.
Justin Trilling
7 months ago
I've known Ryan for 25 years and I refer him to every single person that I know who needs a REALTOR. He recently helped my parents sell their home in Staten Island with excellent results. They ended up getting $30,000 over asking with NO CONTINGENCIES! It didn't matter if it was me or my parents, he responded to everything. If he didn't know something he made sure he found the answer. He constantly used his resources and told us whatever we needed to know. He is a stellar real estate broker who takes his profession seriously. He treats his client's money like it is his own. He presented the facts and gave all of the information so that we were able to make well informed decisions. I have been referring to him since he has been in real estate for 10 years and I will continue to do so.
Jackie Trilling
7 months ago
I've known Ryan a very long time and I promised him that when it came time to list my home in Staten Island, I would have him do it. And not only did he list it, he helped us achieve maximum value. He came prepared with a comparator market analysis package that showed us closed homes, under contract homes and active homes that we would be competing against. He crossed every T and dotted every I. He gave us his professional opinion but he didn't force anything upon us. He advised us to make certain repairs/preparations to get the home ready for the market. We had 7 offers with 3 above asking price and numerous showings. He kept us informed throughout the whole process. He coordinated the inspection and he stayed for it. He coordinated the appraisal, the survey and of course the final walkthrough. He communicated consistently with our attorney as well as the buying side to insure that this deal would get to the finish line. There is nobody else I would use in NY or NJ for real estate.
Mario Santamaria
1 year ago
Highly recommend Ryan, It was a pleasure to interact with him.
very professional. I'm satisfied with the property found.
Muhammed Ferhat Yuksel
2 years ago
It will be long, sorry for that. I had the pleasure of working with Ryan Brown of Interstate Home Properties, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. From our first meeting to the final closing, Ryan demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism, and expertise in the real estate market. Kudos to that!

His knowledge of the local market, and the way he provided insights that helped me make informed decisions throughout the buying process was smooth and accurate. Most important thing for me was; he was always available to answer my questions, address my concerns, and provide guidance whenever needed. His attention to detail and commitment to finding the perfect home for me truly set him apart from other brokers I have worked with in the past.

What stood out the most about Ryan was he really took the time to understand my specific needs and preferences, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that I found a property that met all my criteria. He is a negotiator! And he secured a fantastic deal for me, far exceeding my expectations.

I am incredibly grateful for Ryan’s assistance and thrilled with my new home.

If you are looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, and dedicated real estate broker, I highly recommend Ryan and Interstate Home Properties. His commitment to excellence and client satisfaction is unmatched, and I am confident that Ryan will exceed your expectations just as he did mine.
I told you it will be long.
Thank you!
Lauren Arculeo
2 years ago
Ryan was the best. He was professional, knowledgeable,and extremely helpful. He sold our house when other people couldn't. He was always accessible and solved all our problems. We thank him a thousand times.
Sharon Langan
2 years ago
Working with Ryan Brown from Interstate Home Properties has been a pleasure. When my brother and l lost our mother, we had to make the difficult decision whether to sell her home.
Ryan came highly recommended from a childhood friend and I can see why.
Ryan is professional, kind, helpful and is knowledgeable. He was able to secure a buyer quickly. He answered questions all times of the day and night, with an immediate response. He was also respectful to us and has made a difficult process seem effortless.
Paul
2 years ago
Ryan was very helpful and answered all my questions and was available when I needed to talk and answer questions. He made the process easy and gave me peace of mind during this stressful but exciting time
Response from the owner:Paul your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
moon zipperman
2 years ago
Great experience, sold
my house quick and painless.
Response from the owner:moon zipperman your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
NATALIE DURANTE
2 years ago
Ryan is an amazing realtor! He was with me every step of the way with the sale of my house and went above and beyond my expectations. I was apprehensive about selling because I thought it would be a stressful/complicated process, however, I never felt alone. Ryan also works within a network of people who he referred me to which was so helpful. He has the clients best interest, always available, and is passionate at what he does. I cannot thank Ryan enough for his support and guidance throughout the process.
Response from the owner:NATALIE DURANTE your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again! Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Spencer Friedman
2 years ago
Working with Ryan and Interstate Home Properties was a great experience. Shopping for a house is a stressful experience full of a variety of unknowns that can go wrong. Ryan was able to stay on top of all of these things, advise on how to approach different opportunities, and make sure we were in the best position possible. He followed up quickly and was reachable at all hours. When looking to buy your next house, definitely use Ryan at Interstate Home Properties. Thank you!
Response from the owner:Spencer Friedman your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
nancy nicastro
2 years ago
Ryan Brown is an excellent realtor. He is honest, hard working and returns your calls promptly. He is a very professional person who has found decent, respectful tenants. I highly recommend him!
Response from the owner:nancy nicastro your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Cheryl Garber
2 years ago
Thank you, Ryan for making my apartment search smooth and stress free! He was able to answer any question that I had at any time of the day and responded quickly. Ryan explained every little detail to me and taught me so much from the beginning all the way to signing the lease. I would highly recommend Ryan for all of your apartment and house search needs!
Response from the owner:Cheryl Garber your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Latavia Smith
2 years ago
Ryan Brown has helped me tremendously with finding a place for me and my family to call home! He made me feel like family! He assisted in the footwork and paperwork and even made important calls on my behalf to assist in my move. Ryan Brown knows what he's doing is very Knowledgeable and committed to his work!! I will Always choose him and Interstate Home Properties.
Response from the owner:Latavia Smith your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Dexter Calimquim
2 years ago
This was the first time that I worked with Ryan from Interstate Home Properties. He came highly recommended from a good friend of mine. I met with a few realtors who were pressuring me to sell when I only wanted to rent my property. He walked me thru the whole process and advised me accordingly. He helped me structure the lease with the tenants properly that made both parties happy. I will be using him moving forward for both my NY and NJ needs.
Response from the owner:Dexter Calimquim your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Rita Bobe-Saleh
2 years ago
Ryan helped us with our sale and purchase of our new home. He explained things and kept in touch through calls/emails/text messages. He’s not a 9-5 guy and would respond to our questions as we thought of them morning or night. He was supportive as certain events unfolded out of everyone’s control. He’s not pushy and just wants you to be ultimately happy with your choices. We highly recommend him for the sale or purchase of your next home!
Response from the owner:Rita thanks for taking the time out to leave a review for me and my company. There are so many options out there that it means a lot when somebody chooses to use us. And even though we had some speed bumps, thank you for trusting me to handle your sale and your purchase at the same time, and remember I’m here for you and Orlando for whatever you guys need.
matthew kutun
3 years ago
Ryan never gave up, even when we did. He answered my questions day or night. The process of selling your house is daunting but Ryan was there for us every step of the way. Thanks Buddy
Response from the owner:matthew kutun your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
David Geller
3 years ago
I DONT THINK THERE ARE WORDS TO EXPRESS MY GRATITUDE FOR ALL THE HELP THAT RYAN BROWN HAS EXTENDED TO ME, HIS PATIENCE KNOWLEDGE AND AVAILABILITY ARE EXCEPTIONAL. HE WAS NOT PUSHY OR INSISTANT IN ANY WAY, HE IS ALWAYS INTOUCH TO SEE HOW THINGS ARE GOING WITH THE SEARCHING FOR A HOME AND AS WELL IN THE FINAL STAGES , ALWAYS OFFERING HIS HELP MANY DIFFERENT AREAS FROM LOOKING ,MAKING AN OFFER AND OF COURSE WHEN GOING THROUGH THE CLOSING PROCESS.HE IS THE TYPE OF PERSON YOU WOULD WANT TO HAVE AS A FRIEND, HE WAS REFERRED TO ME AND I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR THAT .AND I WOULD WITHOUT A DOUBT REFER HIM TO ANY OF MY FRIENDS AND MOST DEFINITLEY TO MY FAMILY, IT WAS A PLEASURE HAVING HIM AS MY REALTOR IF THERE WAS A RATING SYSTEM 1 TO 10 I WOULD GIVE MIN A 20 WITH A 10 STAR RATING, I WOULD USE HIS SERVICES OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
Response from the owner:David Geller your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Nicole
4 years ago
Ryan is such a good guy!! He went above and beyond every step of the way!! I can't say enough good things about him and our experience with Interstate Home Properties!!
Response from the owner:Nicole your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Henry CHUU
4 years ago
It was my wife and I first time buying a house, Ryan had guided us to the right house, he didn’t wasted our times, he answered his phone when ever we called him with questions about certain house/ houses. We love the house that we purchased three years ago, Ryan still called us to see how my family are doing , and see everyone is doing well doing the pandemic
Response from the owner:Henry CHUU your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Kimberly Amatrudo
4 years ago
Ryan from Interstate Home Properties was absolutely amazing! He walked me through the whole process of looking and then eventually purchasing a home. Ryan kept me in the loop on everything that was being discussed and give me feedback and insight on next steps.. working with Ryan was a wonderful experience and I’m so happy he was the one to help me purchase a home.
Response from the owner:Kimberly Amatrudo your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
D Dimitriou
4 years ago
Response from the owner:J Dimitriou your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
John Morrongiello
4 years ago
Ryan was easy to work with. He is knowledgeable of what was necessary to complete the deal. He was a big help to me and my daughter find her the perfect house.
Response from the owner:John Morrongiello your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Matt Kurz
4 years ago
Response from the owner:Matt Kurz your review means a lot to me. Dealing with Real Estate can be a very stressful process. And with so many options, I am glad you chose to work with Interstate Home Properties and me! Congrats again!
Remember, even after you close, I am still available when you need anything, even beyond Real Estate!
Locations
  • 80 Hazlet Ave. Hazlet, NJ 07730
  • 395 Hillman Ave. Staten Island, NY 10314
Phone
Email
Linkedin-in Facebook-f Instagram