If you're a senior, new homes in a dedicated retirement community can be very appealing. There's a focus on active adult living, your lawn maintenance is taken care of, the community is committed to seniors and you get to live independently while enjoying the comfort of on-site health care amenities.

Retirement communities and age-restricted resort communities are one of the fastest growing sections of the residential building country. These mega-communities are targeted toward seniors and filled with state-of-the-art recreation centers, on-site social coordinators, gyms, golf courses and even community centers. If you're thinking about moving to an age-restricted or retirement community, read on to find out what you should look for in a prospective new home.

Closeness to Your Family

If you're close with your children and grandchildren, you may want to restrict your search to new retirement communities in the nearby area. Also, when planning on many visits from young grandchildren, you may need to opt for a larger home with more than one or two bedrooms.

Recreational Facilities

If you love to swim, search for a retirement community with an on-site swimming pool. If you are into to golf, find one with a gold course. And if you get a kick out of making pottery, look for one with a potter's studio. Fitness buffs should make sure there's an on-site gym.

The idea is to find a retirement home that fits your personal needs as a senior. New homes can be beautiful and architecturally perfect, but if the community facilities aren't there, then it won't be right for you and could actually turn into a frustrating experience.

On-Site Amenities

If you're concerned about your future health needs, go after a senior's community that offers an in-community walk-in clinic or, at a minimum, pharmacy. Health-focused amenities such as an on-call nurse or close proximity to a nearby medical center can be crucial for many aging adults.

Can You Easily Get Around?

Not only is walking a great way to stay in shape and keep your muscles moving, it's often easier than driving - and for some seniors, it's their only mode of transportation. Before you buy in a senior's community, ask yourself if you could walk to the nearest grocery store or pharmacy. If not, is there at least accessible transit nearby?

Your New Neighbors

Moving into a new community concerns a lot more than simply appreciating the house and the amenities - you also need to like your neighbors. Before you buy into a new senior's development, try to get out to a new owners' meeting. Look around the room and ask yourself if you could spend your retirement with them? Introduce yourself to people and get a feel for the community before you commit to a purchase.

If you're a senior, new homes in an age-restricted community are a great way to combine independent living with a neighborhood that's focused on the needs of seniors. But, before you buy, remember to evaluate the community itself, how close it is to nearby amenities and your family, and whether the facilities match up with your own needs.