Raising the Bar on Downsizing

Check out this recent article published by Susquehanna Style featuring The Farmstead at Homestead Village.

BY M. DIANE MCCORMICK

MAY 2016

Downsizing? A dirty word? Not to these active seniors in the region’s retirement and 55+ communities. Though it meant uprooting from homes they loved, each found new homes that nurture this next phase in life’s journey. They pursue their passions with even more vigor, now that there’s time, and they continue to find purpose in helping others.

The move:

Lynne and Terry Radcliffe realized it was time to downsize “before it would be too difficult because of health problems, or before it would put the responsibility on our children,” says Lynne. The Farmstead at Homestead Village, near their Lancaster-area home, fit their needs–close to downtown Lancaster, familiar shopping venues and major highways (www.discoverfarmstead.org, www.homesteadvillage.org). The sun porch on their one story, two-bedroom home will be “a sunny retreat,” says Lynne.

Living the life:

The Radcliffes expect to take full advantage of Homestead Village’s amenities, such as the fitness center and dining at Plow and Pineapple. Terry volunteers to rate golf courses throughout the region, so Homestead Village’s accessibility makes travel easy. Lynne, a School District of Lancaster retiree, appreciates Homestead Village’s community ties and volunteers to help kids in need.

Downsizing tips:

The basement means the Radcliffes will be able to store holiday decorations and other items, including those that haven’t made a definitive keep or get-rid-of list. “There are some things you can live without,” says Lynne, “and others you wonder, ‘Do I want to hold onto this and keep it and use it later?’”

Home styles available:

The Farmstead at Homestead Village, a community of green space and cobblestone curbs, will open mid-2016. Four carriage home models range from 1,500 square feet to 2,257 square feet, with airy floorplans and options such as sunrooms and, on some lots and models, basements–perfect for downsizers who can’t part with their Christmas decorations. Homestead Village apartments, cottages and villas are also available.

Amenities:

Farmstead Village residents enjoy all the amenities of Homestead Village–a pool, gym and woodshop in a restored barn. Residents take excursions to cultural events, wildlife areas and historic sites. Meals at Plow and Pineapple include gluten-free and vegetarian options prepared in consultation with residents.

Point of pride:

Life enrichment. Residents engage in a rich menu of pursuits that enlighten and fulfill. They create their own music with the Homestead Harmony Chorale or enjoy performances right on campus through the Homestead Concert Series. They discuss history in roundtable discussions, distribute hats and mittens for children in need and volunteer to operate the Corner Gift Shoppe, where proceeds benefit residents.

http://www.susquehannastyle.com/May-2016/Raising-the-Bar-on-Downsizing/