willowsford-04.jpgThe idea of the "planned community" may seem intimidating to home buyers. However, many buyers in the DC metro area are spending more time considering moving to a planned community because of it's many advantages. Are you looking to live in a home where shops, restaurants and acitvities are close by? Is an outdoor lifestyle is on the top of your list? How about a neighborhood with a community garden and a farmer's market? Want to enjoy a beautiful water view or walk down the street and spend time at your community golf course? No matter what you are looking for, throughout the DC metro area home buyers can find all different types of planned communities to fit their needs. In this article we'll explore the 8 most popular planned communities to consider when buying a home. 

8 Types of Planned Communities to Consider in The DC Metro Area 

Urban-Style Communities

Moving to an "urban-style" communone_loudoun.jpgity provides residents with the benefits of having shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and more at walking distance. The idea of this type of community is to be close to the downtown area. A growing number of people are choosing urban style communities because of their convenient location to the town center while still offering a suburban community feel. 

One Loudoun in the heart of Loudoun County Virginia is a great example of a more "urban-style" community. Learn about One Loudoun here

Transit-Oriented Development

Many commuter residents are looking for homes close to the mass transit stations. This type of community offers a convenient location close by to a metro or other mass transit routes. Along with a neighborhood with a suburban feel, residents can benefit from easier commutes. Many times a community will be both urban-style and transit-oriented!

Farm to Table Communities

willowsford_619.jpgEnjoy a more health focused and outdoor lifestyle in a farm to table community. These types of planned communities are growing in popularity all across the nation due to their community gardens, farmer's markets and extensive outdoor space for hiking and nature walks. In Northern Virignia you can find the the Willowsford Community, a new farm to table development. In Willowsford families can enjoy weekend cooking classes using the farm's products as well as children events and activites throughout the year. Everyone in the community can volunteer to work in the farm and gardens allowing both children and adults to learn about the benefits of farm-grown produce. Learn more about the Willowsford Community here

Waterfront Communities

Looking for a home with a beautiful view? Consider a waterfront planned community! These developments are situated on lakes, rivers or protected streams so residents can enjoy a gorgeous view along with the many other amenties planned communities have to offer. Living in a waterfront community also comes with water-themed activites such as canoeing, kayaking and fishing. 

Hillpoint Estates in Suffolk, Virginia offers homes backing either a beautiful golf course or natural marshlands. Learn more about Hillpoint Estates here 

Equestrian Communities 

pexels-photo-132673.jpegFor those with a passion for horses and riding, moving to an equestrian community is a great choise. With easy access to facitilies, stables and trails residents have everything they need close by. These communities also feature other recreational activities such as walking trails, nature hikes, pools and community events as well!

Malboro Ridge in Upper Malboro, Maryland offers many recreational activities including horse back riding trails and stables. They also feature Toll Brothers homes! Learn more about Malboro Ridge here 

Golf Course Communities

pexels-photo-114972.jpegEnjoy the benefits of living very close by to your favorite sport! Residents at these communities are just a few steps away from a golf course and can also enjoy the beautiful view of the golf course anytime. 

Dominion Valley Country Club is a great choice for Virginia's golf lovers. Located in Haymarket, VA you can enjoy many community amentities as well as an Arnold Palmer Signature golf course.Learn more about Dominion Valley Country Club here

Active Adult Communities

These type of communities are age-restricted or multi-age active in order to provide the home styles and recreation amentities that make it possible to experience a lifestyle free of home maintainence. 

Everything or All in One Communities

Although we've mentioned so many communities with focus, it's important to note that most communities are planned to fit a variety of needs. It's possible to find a planned community with both open spaces and walkability to town center as well as recreational opportunities such as golfing, hiking and riding.  

Want an easy way to find the DC metro area community that's right for you?

You can send us your search criteria via the link below and we will email you every time a home comes on the market that fits your criteria. This comes directly from the MLS, so it is quicker than any other website out there. No spam, we promise. 

Click here to sign up for MLS email alerts 

Khalil El-Ghoul

Discover our 2.25% Full Service Listings and Buyer Rebates. Khalil is dedicated to guiding home buyers and sellers with expert advice and objective information. For professional real estate assistance, text Khalil at 571-235-4821 or email khalil@glasshousere.com today.