Floridian wants to be a snowbird

[lolvet]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

[RICH1]

Evidently you are financially able live your dream! A good furnace, thermostat, protected water pipes and a person on staff to shovel your Roof are just a few of your future expenditures! Go for it, life is too short

[JGVillages]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

If you plan to be somewhere north for 3-4 months consider renting instead of buying. This would give you the opportunity to see if you enjoyed the area and determine if it would justify the cost of purchasing vs renting.

[John41]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

Our neighbor rents on a lake in New Hampshire. Weather is in the 70s.

[Papa_lecki]

I’m from PA - I wouldn’t but a single family home - too much to worry about when you are down here. Buy a condo or rent an apartment.
OR, just rent a place for the summer.
As far as where - all depends on what you like to do. Golf/boating/fishing/etc.
There are no “villages of the north” - but plenty of good alternatives.

[Bay Kid]

The great Chesapeake Bay in Virginia! Country living, boating, beaches and golf. Check out some properties at Northern Neck & Chesapeake Bay Realty | Horsley Real Estate | We handle all of your Real Estate needs. (http://www.horsleyrealestate.com) Never hurts to take a look.

[MrFlorida]

Rent, its not worth worrying about another house while you're down here, especially during the winter months.

[lolvet]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

[Madelaine Amee]

Another vote for you to RENT. I only know the East Coast and homes are at a premium right now.

I would suggest you try renting through one of the Suite Hotels, i.e. Embassy Suites, Raddison, and there are more. You will get a decent room and kitchenette, probably a balcony or outside sitting area, a pool and maid service.

If you want to be on the water you have to book way ahead.

[Kelevision]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

I’m also a Floridian which is why i bought in the Villages. My parents live in Lake County, outside of TV. I wanted to be closer. Why don’t you rent in areas that look interesting to you. Like the upper northeast part of Maine for a summer, then try another place maybe Vermont? For a summer. And so on…. Until you find your place. I personally love NYC so I’d be looking for something close so I could train into the city when the urge hit me. Good luck!:welcome:

[paulat585]

There are at least 2 locations that are similar to TV, but not quite in the Northeast. Lakeside Chataqua in Lakeside, OH and the Chataqua in Western NY state have lifestyle & activities very similar to TV but on a smaller scale. My sister goes to the Ohio one every summer and I just visited there. You can rent. Other Villagers (don't know their names) live there during the summer.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

LOL! a post about where and the responses are about how. . .

Although the Northeast is a place, there are many, many places for a snowbird summer
We are from New england, both families here since the 1630's . . .

Maine is nice, choices are along the ocean, very cool water, Moody or Old Orchard, or rural wooded and lakes inland
New Hampshire is nice, choices are less rural wooded and lakes inland, some hiking, very small ocean front
Vermonth is the same as New Hampshire but less lakes and more trees and less people, land locked
MA has Cape Cod, ocean, sandy beaches, option of warm or cool water, Bay side warm, Atlantic side cool

I don't know exactly for what you are looking, however, I would also look at

Prince Edward Island, Canada,
Michigan for lakes and fishing, golfing,
Upstate New York 1000 islands
Utah/Colorado mountain /Park City, Sun Valley, ski towns, white water rafting, hiking
Montana/Wyoming camping in Yellowstone, much more rural

For three months, I would pick one of these options per year. . .

Our summer snowbirding is in an RV trailer, to visit NE relatives/ grand children/neices/nephews and then onto the Canadian and Western locations as this country has some wonderful National Parks. . . pick up a book on National parks, and read about them and pick a few around the country to visit the area. . . and living there for 3 months JUL through SEP would be ideal to learn about most of the area. . .

Yes, I have done the RV with and without kids for 4 weeks and 2 weeks. . it was wonderful to see many parts of the country very, very different than either FL or the NE

travelin guy

[BrendaF]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!
Google Del Webb communities. They are all over. Connecticut has a Del Webb community. Delwebb.com good luck!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

We know what you won't find up north: the Villages, or anything like it. You know this too.

No one can answer your question, since you don't mention a single detail about what you DO want, and what you ARE willing to do.

The north has snow in the winter. It has ice storms, power outages, wind damage to property, branches that need to be picked up, driveways to plow/shovel. In some areas, it needs the oil tank to be maintained, and in other areas you might need the septic company to drain the tank every so often. And then the well water might need service. Access from the street to your utilities even in 10 feet of snow drifts is required.

Those are all things you need to either be willing to do, or willing to hire someone to do as needed.

Now that you have what you MUST be willing to do out of the way, what features are you looking for?

Do you want a basement? A townhouse? A senior apartment building? What kind of area? Suburb within 10 minutes of the nearest shopping mall? City where the local coffee shop is down the elevator 2 floors? A farm on the outskirts of town? A fancy double-wide modular home in an upscale senior trailer park? One floor, two floors? Do you need access to a clubhouse? An indoor pool? Golf course? Near/on the beach?

Are you looking into New England? New York? Ohio?

You need to know what you're looking for, so people can help you narrow it down.

[manaboutown]

In the early 1970a when visiting my aunt and uncle in Winterhaven I got to know a couple local businessmen in their early sixties. They had motorhomes and took off during the summer months every year. That might be a good way to start, see the country a piece at a time. It is vast, beautiful and variant. During the years my children were growing up we owned a series of three motorhomes and took them all over the country and into both Canada and Mexico. We had some incredible experiences!

[PugMom]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

just bring lots & LOTS of $$$$$$$

[CoachKandSportsguy]

New England being settled for 300+ years, has a different land use than FL, much less farming, and much more residential, so condo developments are best near where there are activities you find interesting.

Just some quick options for a summer of northern activities

Wyoming Dude Ranches - ResortsandLodges.com (https://www.resortsandlodges.com/resort-type/dude-ranches/usa/wyoming/)

Mt. Washington Valley NH Condos For Sale | Select Real Estate (https://selectrealestate.com/nh-condos-for-sale/) buy and use during summer, rent out during the winter ski season

New England style retirement villages. . easy drive to Cape Cod, Boston, Providence and Newport, RI

Symington Woods - The Pinehills (https://www.pinehills.com/homes/neighborhoods/symington-woods)

just for options,
Active Life - RiverWoods Retirement Community (https://riverwoodsrc.org/our-community/active-community/)


good luck

[lolvet]

More insight of my wants and needs. I have 2 small dogs and will always have a dog. :-). Love those little guys. Ideally, I would love what The Villages have here; a Courtyard Villa up in the Northeast area. I traveled all of the USA and World while I was younger. I'm a homebody now and do not want to rent and do not want to travel. I want to be where the action is, no Green Acres Life for me. Someone mentioned they wanted more info of my needs. This is it in a nut shell.............an active retirement community but in the northeast. I will find it. Stop telling me how much work a winter home is and all the negative remarks. I'm not afraid of work and I know the negative already. This is my dream, can we make it a little more positive please.........love you and thanks for all the replies.

[Shorebirds]

Check out the Jersey Shore, beautiful beaches, lots of great restaurants. A few miles inland has a lot of retirement communities, especially in Ocean County.

[njbchbum]

Run an internet search for 55+ communities in Maine []55+ communities in maine at DuckDuckGo (https://duckduckgo.com/?q=55%2B+communities+in+maine&va=b&t=hc&ia=web) - there are a few - but not so much in your desired location - but your desired location does offer several retirement communities without the 55+ designation.

We love the Cumberland/Oxford County areas - Bridgton specifically - which has a small 55+ community there. We love Bridgton because it has 1 traffic light, a Police Dept, a Hospital with Urgent Care Center, 3 gas stations, 2 grocery stores. a Country Club with 18 hole golf course, an active senior center and community, a ski center [Shawnee Peak] several lakes/ponds, a farmer's market and 2 organic farms that sell to the public, 5 Fields Farm that offers the best apples/cider in the Fall, a full blown hardware store and best of all a Reny's department store! And don't let me forget its restaurants from Chinese to Southwest to steak house and Italian, too! We love the 30 minute drive to the tax free shopping in N. Conway [read Walmart and the outlets and more outlets] and we enjoy an occasional ride on the Conway RR and along the Kangamagus Hgwy in any season. Driving in the other direction takes us to the Oxford Casino/hotel in Oxford, Maine also home to stock car racing at the Oxford Plains Speedway. Bridgton is about a 45-60 min drive up from the Portland airport - no shuttle service that I'm aware of. We are also about an hour and a half drive from LL Bean in Freeport if we don't find what we want in the N.Conway outlet store! If you decide to go the single family lifestyle - there are lots of folks making their living from the property maintenance business. And no - I do not work for their Chamber of Commerce! lol We own a home next door in Denmark, ME - a bit more sleepy than Bridgton!

[davem4616]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

take a look at Plymouth Massachusetts...or Cape Cod

[njbchbum]

Check out the Jersey Shore, beautiful beaches, lots of great restaurants. A few miles inland has a lot of retirement communities, especially in Ocean County.

NAH! It is NOTHING like Maine [except for the Old Orchard Beach area], and it already has too much traffic! There is little to enjoy here in the summer unless one has a front porch from which to watch traffic and tourists - which we have! lololol

[VILLAGERBB]

Where? :) 70's sound great during the summer!
Our neighbor rents on a lake in New Hampshire. Weather is in the 70s.

[HIgolfers]

There’s a place called Leisure Village in Ridge, NY. It’s on the north shore of Long Island, near Brookhaven. Many years ago friends of my parents retired there and loved. But I have no idea what it’s like now. Looks like it only has resales now.

[cypress]

DUNSTAN CROSSING | A Chamberlain Homes Community in Scarborough, Maine (http://dunstancrossing.com/)

Drove through this development yesterday. Looks nice. I believe it is homes, condos and apartments and it is in Maine just below Portland.

[DAVES]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

I regularly wonder why people ask this sort of question. We do not know you. We are ex-New Yorkers. You could rent an apartment in New York City. New York City has everything including Florida tourists blocking up the place when we were trying to get to work.

[PattiQ]

Check out Alta Vista West Virginia.... mountains and a lake. I know some who live there and it's small but the weather is nice.

[Kgcetm]

No problem. A majority of Villagers go to the Northeast for the summer months. Shouldn't be a problem organizing a local club for weekly get togethers and some line dancing in the NE corridor.

[maggie1]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

My wife and I are snowbirds from Ohio. In my humble opinion, I think you need to look no further for a summer stay than Camden, Maine. A beautiful, small town (pop 4800) located in mid-coast Maine on Penobscot Bay. There are so many things to do and see there and don't forget that this is the home of the lobster. You are just a stone's throw from a multitude of small towns along the coast, where you can watch the lobster trawlers pull into the docks and unload their catch. If you want to head a little further north on a sightseeing tour, you'll come across Acadia National Park. If you Google Camden Maine, you can judge for yourself if you'd like to make that a part of your future - I don't think you'd be sorry if you do.

[maggie1]

I regularly wonder why people ask this sort of question. We do not know you. We are ex-New Yorkers. You could rent an apartment in New York City. New York City has everything including Florida tourists blocking up the place when we were trying to get to work.

That's exactly the way we "Florida tourists" feel about you NYC people when you block the aisles at Publix.

[stadry]

good suggestion chataqua - understand they've s built condo since i left ny
rockport mass is a nice area as is ogunquit, wells, & kennebunkport, me. hopefully we're there next july & aug.,

[DaleDivine]

That's exactly the way we "Florida tourists" feel about you NYC people when you block the aisles at Publix.

:popcorn::popcorn::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[agjaret@aol.com]

What are you interested in? Beach, mountains, city. There are so many great places in the north east. Burlington, Vermont. the Berkshires are exquisite. Any town, Lenox, lee, Great Barrington. Pennsylvania, the Poconos . I live in the Hudson valley ..Saugerties, Woodstock, Rhinebeck ny.
Beautiful beaches in Cape cod., Maine, Delaware. what’s your dream. I have been to all the above places. I like quiet under developed places, now, originally from nyc. I will be in villages this winter for the first time and am concerned it is too over developed. But willing to explore.

[EileenRo]

Look at North Shore Towers Golf and Country Club….golf, tennis, pickle ball, twenty minutes to the beach and express bus to NYC.

[La lamy]

I recommend Collingwood in Ontario, Canada. Lots to do: tennis, pickleball, golf, hiking, beach activities, boating... The weather is perfect in the summer. If you buy a place, it can easily be rented out during the ski season too. Good luck with your northern adventures!!

[Lisanp@aol.com]

I would consider a condo in a ski resort. This would give you rental income in their “season” and allow you to use this property in the summer. We own one with ski in/out access, heated boot room/ski lockers, etc in the winter. In summer there is a golf course, gym/spa, pool, mountain biking, etc and nearby hiking, fishing, farms and charming small towns to explore. Those in VT would probability rent best in season. Alternatively I would consider a NE beach destination such as Cape Cod or the Delmarva peninsula in DE. They are building lots of new senior communities in that area of DE.

[bonrich]

The correct spelling for Chataqua is Chautauqua. Located in Western NY it is a gated community, Chautauqua Institution, dedicated to the arts of all types, only opens officially for two months to have all the events scheduled, July 1st through August 31st, and is located on Lake Chautauqua, approx. 25 miles long. Boating, fishing and just cruising. Beautiful old style homes, many summer residences only. The community does have year around residents. Across the highway is a 18 hole golf course.
Too much to write about here. Google it!

[lakecottage2000@yahoo.com]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

This is a beautiful retirement community. Lakes golf courses community center. Best of up north Michigan living.

[Girlcopper]

Another vote for you to RENT. I only know the East Coast and homes are at a premium right now.

I would suggest you try renting through one of the Suite Hotels, i.e. Embassy Suites, Raddison, and there are more. You will get a decent room and kitchenette, probably a balcony or outside sitting area, a pool and maid service.

If you want to be on the water you have to book way ahead.
Shes not looking for advice on renting vs owning

[Enhancer77]

There are so many lovely places to visit. I wouldn't limit myself to one place but to travel/fly to various places if possible. As a previous poster listed the Chataqua resorts; Stockbridge, MA puts you close to Tanglewood for music, Berkshires for beauty and peace; Saratoga, NY, thoroughbred racing in August; Chatham, MA; Charlevoix, MI and a day trip to Beaver Island; Good Hart, MI and the Tunnel of Trees; easy day trip to Mackinaw; also Saugatauk and Douglas, MI; Jamestown, RI; Ashville, NC, putting you close to the Biltmore and Hendersonville and Flat Rock, Flat Rock Playhouse, also Carl Sandburg home - so many places to go and visit to find where you might want to land.

[Hiltongrizz11]

Evidently you are financially able live your dream! A good furnace, thermostat, protected water pipes and a person on staff to shovel your Roof are just a few of your future expenditures! Go for it, life is too short

I lived in the Northeast specifically Rochester New York for 55 years, And have never nor known anyone else to ever shovel a roof.

Be careful on the advice you give and pretending that it applies to everyone.

[Ele201]

I like your post. Lots to consider. I personally am interested in the Wyoming ranches. Thanks New England being settled for 300+ years, has a different land use than FL, much less farming, and much more residential, so condo developments are best near where there are activities you find interesting.

Just some quick options for a summer of northern activities

Wyoming Dude Ranches - ResortsandLodges.com (https://www.resortsandlodges.com/resort-type/dude-ranches/usa/wyoming/)

Mt. Washington Valley NH Condos For Sale | Select Real Estate (https://selectrealestate.com/nh-condos-for-sale/) buy and use during summer, rent out during the winter ski season

New England style retirement villages. . easy drive to Cape Cod, Boston, Providence and Newport, RI

Symington Woods - The Pinehills (https://www.pinehills.com/homes/neighborhoods/symington-woods)

just for options,
Active Life - RiverWoods Retirement Community (https://riverwoodsrc.org/our-community/active-community/)


good luck

[Hiltongrizz11]

Dude you are so wrong. Don't paint everything with the same brush. You scaring the heck out of her you heck you scare the people out that live there and no better... 10-ft rule, training the septic tank, trying to put paranoia in someone. These are all optional depending on where you buy and not a requirement so don't scare everybody

[Luggage]

Toms river NJ has many Senior communities .

[Luggage]

P.s. taxes ...sorry .

[Luggage]

We have neighbors who own there for years .

[MandoMan]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

If you have an open mind, you might consider Sunny Rest Resort, near Palmerton, Pennsylvania. A number of Villagers have been there and loved it. It’s in beautiful mountains a half hour from Allentown and ninety minutes from Philadelphia. While it’s not a retirement community, a lot of people there are retired. It’s gated and fenced. While some people live there year round, the resort is mostly open summers. Weekdays are quiet, weekends buzzing. Most permanent residents own cabins or single-wide permanent trailers fixed up however they like. One comes up for sale now and then. Some are there every day in the summer and others on weekends. Lots of people rent camping sites and bring in an RV or trailer. Most people have golf carts for getting around. There’s one pool, big hot tubs, a small restaurant and a snack bar, volleyball, pool tables, a bar, a nightclub. It’s super friendly, especially if you are there all summer, as so many people hang out on their decks and invite you over. There are hiking trails in the woods. No golf course or club meetings to choose from, but there is still plenty to do, and there is so much community. If you buy a small used trailer, you can rent a nice site for under $5,000 for the summer, then store the trailer there for the winter. Buy a cheap used golf cart and you are all set.
Sunny Rest (https://sunnyrest.com/)

[LetsGeauxSee]

This is not what you asked, but I agree with the gentleman who recommended an RV. Consider buying an RV and explore ALL the North. I liked the Poconos, but I hear some of the mountain and lake views in the North are a spectacular sight. There are women’s groups of ladies that camp/RV recreationally and full-time. You can find them on FB groups! Happy Retirement!!!

[emdaley1140@gmail.com]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

Pinehills in Plymouth MA is very similar to The Villages.

[Oconnork]

Any place in New York along Lake Champlain is beautiful. Adirondack Mountains are nearby too. Great beaches, fishing, golf, etc. Montreal to the north, Burlington Vt right across the lake, and Maine and New Hampshire make great day trips.

[Dot Rheinhardt]

My son lives in Cape Cod. Lots of water sports. Buzzard's Bay area is good. Stay away from the Atlantic - sharks. Cooler than Boston in the summer with nice breezes. He lives a block from a swimming pond, has a small stream behind his house, and is close to the Bay. There are condos in the area (not huge developments) which would be nice for a part timer.

[ScottGo]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

Not in Connecticut. Taxes!

[Brondrisek]

Ohhhh. NYC! All the things to do! Gets my vote😄

[Ken D.]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?
As others stated, there's nothing like The Villages anywhere. However, a cool place for the summer is Frye Island on Sebago Lake in Raymond, ME. It's not a retirement community, but most everyone rides golf carts to get around. (approx. 475 houses) The only access from the mainland is by Ferry. It has a 9-hole championship golf course, but only one store/restaurant on the island. They also have entertainment various nights at the clubhouse and restaurant near the ferry. There are plenty of other stores/restaurants off the island when desired.

[mpefloral]

Every place has it's up and downs. Personally, I would rent in various parts of the country for 1-4 months depending on the area and your want for adventure. Switching starting locations each year. My husband and I traveled for a year and a half renting at places for a month using AirBnB or similar services. One of the things I use the most in these services is skimming through the reviews. This gives you a good idea of what to expect in the area and the rental. I always look for at least some negatives - more believable. I also prefer ones being rented by a nearby person. I have always found them much more helpful than any agency. Once there for a month you will make contacts if you want to have a return visit. Spring and fall are very different even in the same spot. Cottages along lakes or rivers are a personal favorite. Downtown's often have some great vibes. We traveled with our computer bag, 1 suitcase and an overnight bag each - these days you can buy what ever you may run out of our forgot just about anywhere.
Have a wonderful time !

[MrFlorida]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?
Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Upper Michigan , Montana, or North Dakota. Maybe Wyoming.....If it was me......

[nob77@comcast.net]

How far north? Lakes, shore? Poconos PA, Hamptons NY,SIC NJ, Delaware? Best of luck!

[tilly123]

I'm a Villager 7 months a year and go North for the summer to Cape Cod. I have a small 2 b/r condo in a mini Village atmosphere. 750 units, pickleball, tennis, par 28 golf, rec center with indoor/outdoor pool, fitness center, woodworking, pool tables, bocce, shuffleboard, and many more activities. 13 minutes to the beach. Great restaurants in the area. Lots of lobster. Also many 18 hole golf courses nearby.

It' an over 55 community called Southport in Mashpee, MA.

[HRDave]

Door County Wisconsin!!
You would love love love it!!

[LateBoomer]

we intend to be reverse snowbirds at some point too

[fcgiii]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

Try Search 55places.com (https://www.55places.com/search?q=Maine)

[Notsocrates]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern U
topia?

The Poconos in PA
Mount Desert Island Maine
Bristol, RI
Vancouver, BC

Nothing like TV. You will have to find your own activity but enjoy the weather and beautiful country

[Smason]

I’m so glad that you set it straight on your finances not being anyone’s concern. I have seen so many snarky comments on these posts since I’ve been in tv….if you don’t have kind words for people keep them to yourself. Aren’t we the friendliest hometown??
Good luck on your search in the northeast and congrats on your lifelong journey to success

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

[Barborv]

Go to Retirement Communities | 55+ Communities | 55places (http://www.55places.com)
Also , Ideal Living. I once went to an expo in Long Island about 9 years ago and I still am receiving their magazines.

[Mudder]

North Conway, NH. Has everything. Maine, Vermont and Massachusetts easy drives away.

[Bella6368]

Google Del Webb communities. They are all over. Connecticut has a Del Webb community. Delwebb.com good luck!

If you like your privacy, I would "Duck Duck Go" Dell Webb Community. Google permanently saves all of your search history. Why would anyone want to use google, when Duck Duck Go is such a great alternative. Privacy Simplified, it's another search engine. Just a suggestion.

[casqueglia@gmail.com]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

You might check out the many retirement communities in the Plymouth MA (55places.com)

[smacca56]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

I have lived in Maine my entire life so far. My husband and I bought in the Villages in February and will become FL residents in November. We will still come home to Maine for part of the summer. Lots of people buy park models or campers and keep them seasonally in campgrounds for the summer months. That too is what we will be doing. We currently own a class A motor home which we have been living in since April and sold our home here in May. Recently bought a 31 ft camper already set up in a campground and will sell the motor home. We will come back to Maine to stay in that 2 or 3 months in the summer. It's the least expensive way to have the best of both worlds. And yes.... people ride around in golf carts here too just not anywhere near the extent of what TV has to offer.

[smacca56]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

You would probably love Point Sebago in Maine. Check it out!

[John41]

More insight of my wants and needs. I have 2 small dogs and will always have a dog. :-). Love those little guys. Ideally, I would love what The Villages have here; a Courtyard Villa up in the Northeast area. I traveled all of the USA and World while I was younger. I'm a homebody now and do not want to rent and do not want to travel. I want to be where the action is, no Green Acres Life for me. Someone mentioned they wanted more info of my needs. This is it in a nut shell.............an active retirement community but in the northeast. I will find it. Stop telling me how much work a winter home is and all the negative remarks. I'm not afraid of work and I know the negative already. This is my dream, can we make it a little more positive please.........love you and thanks for all the replies.

Holiday City retirement community in Ocean County NJ.

[Spalumbos62]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?


I totally understand....I think a nice "villages" type of place up in the Adirondacks, Old Forge area would be fun. Golf Carts, the whole works. Of course the activities would be different swimming...in the lake, hiking..on the mountains, boating and fishing. Rent a small lodge from May thru Oct.
Now this isn't build yet... but what an adventure and investment.
I am currently in upstate NY for the summer and actually heading to "the forge" in a few weeks to stay at a very rustic condo...on the outside, updated on inside. So close to the senerio, but obviously needs more fun added.

Ps I would suggest some kind of fence around the whole perimeter... those damn bears scare me.

[KRMACK55]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!
Lake George in upstate NY is nice.

[KRMACK55]

Another vote for you to RENT. I only know the East Coast and homes are at a premium right now.

I would suggest you try renting through one of the Suite Hotels, i.e. Embassy Suites, Raddison, and there are more. You will get a decent room and kitchenette, probably a balcony or outside sitting area, a pool and maid service.

If you want to be on the water you have to book way ahead.
As a person who did that it’s very expensive 4000-/ mo it’s hotel living and within weeks you’ll want to leave

[Orvil]

I like the idea of renting in a variety of places, too. Starts with the letter V and ends with the letter O, RB are in the middle, makes this so easy.
In answer to your question, two ideas. Landsdowne Woods in Landsdowne, VA. It's the Old Leisure World. Both homes and condos with all the social programs of the Villages. I have friends who live there. Great retirement community. Located on the Potomac. The views are beautiful. Shut the door when you ready to leave. Convenient to Dulles Airport and the Appalachian Trail. Beautiful part of the country.
Second idea, Cashiers, The Highlands or Asheville, NC. I've spent some great summers in all those locations. Higher altitude and wonder summer temperatures with Southern ambiance. This is where Atlantans go to escape the heat. Why go to New England when you can stay in the South? The good season will be longer.

[virtue51]

I would suggest that you rent 1 to 2 months in one place and go to various areas. The northeast is a large area and the range of options is endless. If you decide to purchase a home, look for a home in a retirement community that takes care of the outside property -- lawn mowing, snow removal, etc. Even if you have the money, it is often hard to find people willing to do snow removal for residential customers. Also, there are areas that have sump pumps in the basement -- you should avoid those areas because even with a battery back-up, the pump will continue to remove the water for only a short period of time. The cost of normal household maintenance is higher in the northeast than The Villages. Good luck with your search.

[Pachine58]

There is a sleepy town on Lake Erie, golf cart town, low taxes called Fairport Harbor. Fishing, golfing, lake activity, great senior center.

[jgmroc67]

Look at the Fingerlakes in upstate NY. They are a series of lakes in beautiful rolling hills that offer many amenities in the summertime. We are snowbirds staying 3-4 months @Canandaigua Lake. The area “wakes up” in the summer with festivals, wine trails, & art.

[Jayeagley56]

Burlington Vermont is a nice town. Lake Champlain is pretty! But you might run into Bernie Sanders there though. LoL

[KsJayhawkers]

We traveled full-time in our motorhome prior to purchasing a winter home in TV. In the summer, we chase 70 degrees, ending up in Breckenridge, Colorado this year for the summer. Next year, we are going to try Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island if the border is open. Owning a RV gives you flexibility to try other places.

[Nellmack]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

I have a summer home on/near the Chesapeake Bay. I have a boat and travel to various locations around the Bay for long weekends. I love Annapolis, MD, St. Michaels, MD (at one point voted Top Retirement Location), Oxford, MD (a little more low key but beautiful).

There you have it or should I say, there you have my picks. :)

[in2it17]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

Also would recommend renting. Renting offers the opportunity to spend time in different States or places you're interested in seeing. The expenses involved in ownership are not worth the 2,3,4 months you might spend there. Why pay a huge heating bill for a place you will not be in? Best of luck!

[CFrance]

OP says s/he doesn't want to rent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[ZippyFireRider]

Many good replies, if you are considering somewhere by the shore and price is no object then Cape Cod, or a MA community by route 3a are crowded but lovely. If New Hampshire then around Portsmouth is charming. Southern Maine also is a favorite getaway for New Englanders (Ogunquit area) but that's for summer.

[PJMuzz29]

Lake George, New York

[Red Rose]

Google "Cottages At Summer Village" and "Seaglass Village". They are both in Wells, Maine. They are both beautiful communities with nice amenities. They are not over 55 communities, but are worth looking into. Good luck.

[Buffalo Jim]

Thanks for your replies, but only a few of you have mention where. That is my question, don't worry about my finances I have worked since age 12 and have no children. I'm also used to stress. I owned several businesses and strive quite well from it. Where is my northeastern Utopia?

Check out Lake Placid NY or Saranac Lake NY .... which is only 10 minutes away .

Located in the Adirondack Mountains . Worth exploring . Beautiful setting , lots of interesting things to do . Plenty of different options from condos to townhomes to individual homes and most importantly not overcrowded . Good luck !!

[ronda]

Toms river NJ has many Senior communities .

We have a house in TV and one in Toms River (TR). Yes, TR ans surrounding areas have many retirement communities (Holiday City, Leisure Village etc). They are fine, but do not compare to TV. We are, having grown up in TR, partial to TR and the Jersey Shore. We love living in TR in the summer months, and love the Beaches in Seaside and Ortley Beach. There is also proximity to NYC, Atlantic City and Cape May. All can be day trip excursions.

[DruannB]

We bought land in Tellico Village. It’s in East Tennessee in the Smokey Mountains outside of Knoxville. Cool in the summer due to its elevation. We are selling the lot because the area is too expensive for us. It’s like The Villages, but smaller. Check it out. Resale homes available.

[stadry]

another vote for camden, wells & kennebunkport area!!!

[macawlaw]

If you are intent on the Northeast, I can't help. However, you might want to check into Chautauqua communities. There is the most well-known in New York. We have a cottage at Lakeside Chautauqua on Lake Erie. We don't retire for a few years yet, but will spend our summers there and our winters in TV.

The Chautauqua movement was built on four pillars: education, recreation, religion, and cultural arts. During the Chautauqua season, there are LOTS of activities in all of these areas. My husband plays tennis and pickleball. There are nightly shows and daily lectures on a variety of topics. There are classes to take. The international shuffleboard tournament is often held there. The scenery is beautiful. It is a small, friendly community that is easy to become a part of. I, actually, like it better than TV.

Programming has continued, but is not at full-force during Covid. Check out Lakeside at lakesideohio.com.

Good luck with your mission.

[njbchbum]

We have a house in TV and one in Toms River (TR). Yes, TR ans surrounding areas have many retirement communities (Holiday City, Leisure Village etc). They are fine, but do not compare to TV. We are, having grown up in TR, partial to TR and the Jersey Shore. We love living in TR in the summer months, and love the Beaches in Seaside and Ortley Beach. There is also proximity to NYC, Atlantic City and Cape May. All can be day trip excursions.

How do you feel about having to leave the community and contend with the traffic in the area when it cones to getting to appointments and doing errands?

[Cmpwillard]

There are at least 2 locations that are similar to TV, but not quite in the Northeast. Lakeside Chataqua in Lakeside, OH and the Chataqua in Western NY state have lifestyle & activities very similar to TV but on a smaller scale. My sister goes to the Ohio one every summer and I just visited there. You can rent. Other Villagers (don't know their names) live there during the summer.

Lakeside Chataque is my family’s favorite vacation spot and they go there almost every summer for the last ten years. My siblings live on the east side of Cleveland so it’s a two hours drive from their homes. I have been there for few times myself as for our family reunion vacations there. It’s a beautiful small quiet community with Normal Rockwell and Victorian themes.

[Fratrick8]

There are at least 2 locations that are similar to TV, but not quite in the Northeast. Lakeside Chataqua in Lakeside, OH and the Chataqua in Western NY state have lifestyle & activities very similar to TV but on a smaller scale. My sister goes to the Ohio one every summer and I just visited there. You can rent. Other Villagers (don't know their names) live there during the summer.

Just visited Lakeside yesterday. Make that much smaller than TV and living on Lake Erie in the winter would be only for the hardy. Also some of the nearby restaurants and shops close off season after Labor Day.

[ronda]

How do you feel about having to leave the community and contend with the traffic in the area when it cones to getting to appointments and doing errands?

Are you asking about leaving TR for appts in NJ, or leaving TV for appts in tv?

[Frank Giardino]

A nice area in NY is in the wine country part of NY, the weather is milder then further north, you have the lakes and great scenery. There are a lot of activities during the summer months, and its not far from larger cities like Rochester, Syracuse. Can't figure why I don't live there, always enjoyed it.

[PennBF]

We lived for many years in New York on the Hudson and my recommendation would be Rhinebeck, New York and a rental. It is a great community, close to a number of places to go to and not far. Some examples: Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park/Roosevelt homestead, the Catskill Mountains, Olana Castle in Hudson, NY, The Dutchess County Fair which is one of the best in New York and beyond, Restaurants on the Hudson, a lot of visitors and residents come to Rhinebeck on the weekends and there are some rather notable people who have homes there on the Hudson. Also you get some of the best fruit during the season. Guess I have said enough. Just a place to look at to get away for a few months. Hudson which is about 1/2 hour away is a center for Antique shopping and a fun place to walk around. This kind of gets you away from the "organized" way of living vis vis the Villages. Also, Woodstock is not far away and a fun place to visit on the weekends. You can always catch a train at the small station there and take the train to NYC for a day (about 1-2 hour ride down the Hudson) and through all of the small villages on the Hudson. A movie was just made about the ride. If I were to go back for a couple months and rent I would probably choose Rhinebeck.:popcorn: Good Luck

[njbchbum]

Are you asking about leaving TR for appts in NJ, or leaving TV for appts in tv?

Neither! Wondering about the convenience vs inconvenience re exiting the NJ retirement community to face the traffic that exists on the outside of it! You couldn't pay me to contend with the misery that exists there between the young drivers and older drivers taking their driving frustrations out on each other! I stopped going there because of all of those folks on the road there!

[Tripngirl]

My answer would be Cape Cod. Wellfleet, Truro, all the way to Provincetown. No, it's not going to have a golf cart to ride everyday but you will hear the ocean and walk the beaches :)

[Tripngirl]

I have to agree! Camden is beautiful. Bring your camera and if you paint or sketch great spots can be found to do this as you relax.

[justjim]

I have lived all of my life in Florida and now that I am retired I would like to fly north for the summers. I would love a Villages in the Northeast area, but I know it does not exist. Any suggestions on where I should look? I love the Maine upper northeast part, but I'm open to suggestions. I would like an active retirement community. Thanks!

The name for residents of Florida who want to go north for three or four months in the summer is SUNBIRD. A northern resident who goes south during winter months is a snowbird. Having said that, renting for the first year makes a lot of sense. That is especially true now when there are more buyers than sellers and real estate generally is currently over priced in the current market. Good luck.

[Ben Franklin]

Before my wife decided to get a cat rescue, we would pick a state we wanted to explore and then rent a house in that state. So whatever you want to do then pick a state. We loved Colorado, Maine, Vermont and Pennsylvania. Then the cat came. Rental houses that allow cats are far and few in between, not to mention the pain it is traveling with a cat.

Btw, Chautauqua communities are all over the US. There's one in Boulder, CO, PA, NY, OH... Enjoy!