By John Manns

The saying “location, location, location” has never been truer than when applied to building a new home. It’s often the first thing homebuyers consider before building. Today, more homebuyers are choosing to live in lifestyle communities or private, patio home neighborhoods that provide maintenance-free living for residents, as well as many added benefits. From active adults to busy, young professionals, here are the top three reasons homebuyers are choosing this lifestyle.

  1. A Homeowners Association offers valuable benefits. Patio home communities typically offer a “Homeowners Association” or “HOA.” Homebuyers are sometimes turned off when they hear about association fees, but HOAs have many benefits that provide a homeowner with significant savings long-term. It also gives homeowners back time and money they would otherwise spend on upkeep.”
    • Consistent upkeep, maintenance and beautification. The HOA ensures that the home and community always look beautiful. From the lawn and landscaping to snow removal and trash pickup, homeowners don’t have to worry about caring for their property because the association handles everything. There is no need to purchase expensive equipment like snowblowers and lawnmowers, or to hire someone to trim the shrubs, fertilize, or rake the lawn. This is particularly beneficial for snowbirds who travel 3 to 6 months out of the year, and need to ensure their property is well-maintained.
    • Certain damages are covered. The community HOA takes care of any problems with dead trees, shrubs, and grass, including replacing anything that dies. If trees are damaged during a storm, the association handles cutting down the trees, removes debris, and replacing them. Even snowplow damage is covered by the HOA.
    • Deluxe amenities included. The HOA ensures that all patio home properties come with a sprinkler system, which is opened and closed as part of the association, as well as a mailbox, and fully landscaped yard.
    • Neat neighbors. The HOA means homeowners never have to worry about their neighbor’s property. All homes are meticulously maintained, enhancing the aesthetic of the entire community.
  2. A winning combination of privacy and convenience. Many homebuyers are looking for a neighborhood that offers both privacy and convenience. Lifestyle communities are a great option, as they provide a quiet, safe environment for residents.
  3. Reduced property taxes. Patio home communities undergo a rigorous approval process prior to construction, and receive condominium status upon acceptance through the New York State Attorney General’s office. This designation entitles residents to thousands of dollars in tax savings.

Looking for a lifestyle community with these benefits? Marrano Homes offers the perfect place to call “home.” As Western New York’s pioneer in patio homes, Marrano understands today’s homeowners want to enjoy their homes more and maintain them less. We build more than new homes — we build neighborhoods where you want to live.

To tour our large inventory of Spec homes or for information about personalizing your own, visit www.marrano.com.

John Manns is Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Marrano Homes.