What does 55+ living look like today? The profile of the 55+ homebuyer has shifted significantly in recent years. No longer defined by slowing down, today’s buyers are more active, connected and intentional in how they live.
Jaime Godwin, director of marketing at Kolter Homes, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss how Kolter’s Cresswind brand is reshaping 55+ communities with a focus on lifestyle, connection and accessible home design.
Today’s 55+ Buyer Is Tech-Savvy and Lifestyle-Driven
“Tech-savvy and health-conscious…those two things stand out the most,” Godwin said. “Five or 10 years ago, the focus was on slowing down and relaxing during retirement. Now, there’s a complete shift.”
Many buyers are still working—either remotely or in consulting roles—and prioritize high-speed connectivity, dedicated workspaces and wellness-focused amenities. Staying connected to family, friends and professional networks remains essential.
Lifestyle Programming Drives Buying Decisions
While home design still matters, it is no longer the primary factor in many buyers’ decisions.
“The home is the ‘where,’ but the lifestyle is the ‘why,’” Godwin said.
Buyers may fall in love with a floor plan, but the community’s social environment, amenities and programming ultimately influence their decisions. Fitness classes, clubs, concerts and events create a built-in lifestyle that extends far beyond the home.
Breaking the “Retirement Community” Stereotype
Despite how far 55+ communities have evolved, outdated perceptions still linger among some buyers. One of the most common misconceptions is that these neighborhoods are quiet, low-energy environments where residents are largely disengaged from active lifestyles.
Residents are often more active than before, with access to on-site amenities, social events and clubs that eliminate the need to travel for entertainment or connection. Everything is designed to be convenient and accessible within the community.
Buyers Are Moving Earlier Than Ever
Another notable trend is the rise of “pre-retirees.” These buyers often move in before fully retiring.
“They start researching around 50…making the decision around 55 to 60,” Godwin said.
Rather than waiting for retirement, these buyers establish their lifestyle early while continuing to work, allowing them to build relationships and settle into their communities sooner.
“Right-Sizing” Replaces Downsizing
Today’s buyers are not necessarily looking to downsize—they are looking to “right-size.”
Popular features include:
Bonus rooms for guests or gatheringsExpanded outdoor living spacesOpen-concept layouts that connect indoor and outdoor areasLarge, functional kitchens with walk-in pantriesThese elements prioritize flexibility, functionality and entertaining and reflect how buyers want to live day to day.
Cresswind’s “Set Yourself Free” Lifestyle
Kolter Homes brings its lifestyle philosophy to life through its Cresswind communities, built around the “Set Yourself Free” approach: fitness, relationships, education and entertainment. Residents benefit from a full-time lifestyle director who curates events and programming. This intentional programming helps transform neighbors into friends and fosters a strong sense of community.
“All our residents have to do is show up and enjoy,” Godwin said. “They don’t have to put effort into facilitating the lifestyle.”
Standout Communities in Metro Atlanta
Kolter Homes continues to see strong demand across its metro Atlanta communities.
Cresswind Georgia at Twin Lakes
Located in Hoschton, Cresswind Georgia at Twin Lakes has established itself as one of the top-selling 55+ communities in metro Atlanta for multiple years, driven by large-scale planning, natural setting and amenity-rich design.
The community’s appeal begins with its unique environment, featuring private lakes that create a strong sense of arrival and distinguish it from traditional residential developments. This natural backdrop helps shape the overall lifestyle experience and reinforces a connection to outdoor living and recreation.
Beyond its setting, the community is defined by its unique amenities and programming. Residents have access to a two-story clubhouse on the water, along with indoor and outdoor resort-style pools that support year-round activity. Fitness and recreation are further enhanced by an extensive network of pickleball courts and gathering spaces designed to encourage social engagement.
Cresswind at Spring Haven
In Newnan, Cresswind at Spring Haven continues to gain momentum as it introduces a new phase of homesites that expands both the community’s options and its lifestyle offerings. The latest release includes scenic homesites with water views, enhanced privacy and natural surroundings that emphasize a quieter, more picturesque residential setting.
This phase is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a stronger connection to nature while still maintaining access to the full range of community amenities and programming that defines the Cresswind brand. A key milestone in the community’s continued growth is the upcoming opening of Club Cresswind, which will serve as a central hub for resident events and activities.
From thoughtfully designed homes to robust programming and amenities, today’s 55+ communities are redefining what it means to live well in the next chapter of life. To learn more about Kolter Homes’ award-winning Cresswind communities, visit https://www.kolterhomes.com/55-plus/.
About Kolter Homes
Kolter Homes LLC, (together with its affiliates, “Kolter Homes”), is focused on the development, construction, and sale of 500 to 1,500 for-sale single-family units, often as Cresswind branded, age-restricted, amenity-rich master-planned communities, with additional focus on smaller traditional and age-targeted add-on communities of 100 to 500 homes.
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