If you’re in the market for a new home, you’ve probably heard the term “master-planned community” thrown around. But what exactly does that mean? And why should you consider buying a home in one?
Master-planned communities are typically bigger than regular neighborhoods. They are known for having amenities and common areas centered around a community lifestyle for residents to enjoy.
There are several features master-planned communities are known for that set them apart from typical neighborhoods.
Let’s discuss things to look for in a master-planned community before deciding whether a community is right for you.
Easy Walkability
One of the best features of a master-planned community is its walkability. Since these types of neighborhoods can include hundreds, if not thousands, of custom homes, many are designed with walkability in mind.
Imagine waking up on a sunny morning, walking to go get a coffee, and strolling to your favorite spots without getting in the car. It’s all about that convenience.
Schools: Parents, I see you! A good master-planned community often includes schools right next door. This means no more hectic morning drives or waiting in long carpool lines. Your kids can walk or bike to school safely and easily. If you’re within close proximity to schools, you won’t have to worry about pickup and drop-off as much since you’ll only be a few minutes away.
Shopping centers: Did you forget to pick up milk? No problem. Many well-designed communities feature shopping in the neighborhood or nearby. These could include grocery stores, retail shops, restaurants, or other kinds of stores.
Town Center: You’ll see many communities designed around a town center or town square. This kind of feature is usually a central gathering place for everyone to enjoy. It’s not uncommon for the town square to be right in the middle of the neighborhood, so everyone enjoys easy access and a short walking distance.
But let’s be real—more amenities can sometimes mean more traffic. As some of these neighborhoods get bigger, the streets get busier. The key is in the design. Good master planning ensures that traffic flows smoothly, keeping your neighborhood peaceful and accessible. Pay attention to traffic and congestion when you’re touring new neighborhoods.
Outdoor Space
One of the biggest perks of a master-planned community is the abundance of outdoor space. Many developers invest in greenery and landscaping for new homeowners to enjoy.
Most master-planned communities are designed so you can live an active lifestyle and enjoy the outdoors.
Let’s take a look at what you might expect:
Walking Trails: Lace up those sneakers! If you enjoy going for a morning walk or an evening jog, pay attention to how many walking trails a particular community has. They’re also great for biking or walking the dog.
Parks: Green spaces are essential for relaxation and recreation. Well-designed parks offer plenty of open areas for picnics, playing ball, or just lying on the grass and watching the clouds drift by.
Lakes & Waterways: There’s something incredibly soothing about water. Many communities feature lakes, ponds, or waterways. These water features add to the neighborhood’s aesthetic. Depending on community rules, you might even be able to go fishing, swimming, or paddleboarding.
Playgrounds: Kids need space to play and explore. Therefore, one of the things to look for in a master-planned community is safe, fun playgrounds. These staples are places to run wild and make new friends.
Community Gardens: Got a green thumb? See if the community has space to grow your own veggies, herbs, and flowers. Community gardens are also a great way to meet neighbors who share your passion for gardening.
Pet Parks: If you have a furry friend, see if your neighborhood has dog parks! These are a great way to meet your neighbors, too.
Range of Housing Options
One size does not fit all if you’re in the market for a new construction home.
Some planned communities consist entirely of single-family homes, while others might include townhomes, condos, villas, or apartments.
These types of housing typically range across price points, so keep that in mind during your home search.
It’s great if the community you’re looking at offers options for you to upsize or downsize later, but each neighborhood is different. Think about whether you plan on living there long-term, or if you’ll be moving again in the near future.
Not to mention the variety of designs and floor plans. Even if a community is all single-family homes, see if there are different home styles available. These designs could differ by price range, square footage, or layout.
This is especially true when multiple homebuilders are building in a new neighborhood. Check out model homes in the neighborhood to get a feel for each builder’s quality.
Recreational Amenities
Staying active is a breeze in a master-planned community because they often include great recreational facilities. When it comes to community amenities, bigger neighborhoods tend to have better options.
See if your community offers any of the following:
Pools: Who doesn’t love swimming on a hot day? Community pools are fantastic for relaxation and exercise. They’re a great spot for families to cool off during the summer and for swimmers to get their laps in. Depending on the size of the neighborhood, there could be several swimming pools to choose from. Your community might also have water parks, splash pads, or other resort-style amenities.
Gyms: Forget expensive gym memberships! A well-equipped fitness center right in your community means you can work out whenever it’s convenient for you.
Clubhouse: The clubhouse is the heart of the community. It’s where you’ll find social events, fitness classes, and more. It’s also a great place to host private gatherings and birthday parties.
Sport Courts: Do you love sports? See if your neighborhood offers tennis courts, pickleball, bocce ball, basketball, or other sporting areas.
Golf: If you’re a big golfer, one of the things to look for in a master-planned community is a golf course. If that’s difficult to find in your area, you might be able to find a neighborhood located near a country club.
Community Events
A strong sense of community is one thing that sets master-planned neighborhoods apart from smaller subdivisions. The homeowners association is typically responsible for event planning, so make sure you have a good HOA board of trustees. Regular events help residents connect, unwind, and create lasting memories.
Concerts: Who says you have to go far for great entertainment? Some communities host concerts, performances, and live music.
BBQs: Nothing brings people together like a good old-fashioned barbecue. Community barbecues, cook-offs, and potlucks are a great way to meet your neighbors, share some food, and enjoy the outdoors.
Central Gathering Space: A central gathering space, like a plaza or open lawn, serves as the social hub of the community. If your neighborhood has one, you might find farmers’ markets, festivals, and other events that bring everyone together.
Living in a Master-Planned Community
Moving into a master-planned subdivision is all about convenience, lifestyle, and connection.
From easy walkability and beautiful outdoor spaces to diverse housing options and fantastic amenities, these communities are designed to enhance your quality of life. Whether you’re a young family, a retired couple, or anyone in between, there’s a perfect community out there for you.
Look out for these things in your next master-planned community, and enjoy your time there with friends, family, and neighbors.
