MIAMI—What does it take to create master-planned communities that appeals to this generation? Bob Kanjian, director of sales for AV Homes, has some insights. In fact, his speaks of a term frequently used in the industry called the “forever home.” The question is, at what age do homebuyers typically find their “forever homes”?

According to a new study by National Association of Realtors' buyer/seller generational trends report, that age is after 52. And by age 70, nearly a quarter of homebuyers are purchasing a home in senior-related housing, which includes master-planned active adult communities. To help active adults find their forever home, Kanjian tells GlobeSt.com, homebuilders need to make sure they are getting their offerings right. (New trends are emerging in single-family home design.)

“Today's active adult communities are much different than the retirement neighborhoods of the past, and understanding what appeals to this generation is key to success,” Kanjian says. “As a builder of active adult communities, like Solivita in Kissimmee and Vitalia at Tradition in Port Saint Lucie, AV Homes focuses on the needs and wants of this demographic, making it more than just another community and rather a truly vibrant lifestyle. After all, this segment of homebuyers won't settle for anything less than resort-style amenities, flexibility in home design, and great opportunities for social interaction.