by Robert Borges on March 16, 2023
The past couple of years have been interesting in the real estate market. With a homebuying frenzy giving way to economic uncertainty and high interest rates, today’s buyers have become much more discerning. And while home prices are beginning to stabilize, they still remain on the high side for many budgets. That’s why we wanted to dedicate an article to spotlighting some of the communities from PCR’s 2023 Most Popular Communities list that feature affordable homes for all buyers—specifically communities with homes under $350,000.
Considering the top line energy efficient construction on homes in these communities combined with a resort-style atmosphere and a multitude of desirable amenities, the affordable real estate you’ll find here is a tremendous value.
Located in several Sunbelt states from Florida to the Carolinas to Georgia and even Texas, here are several top communities of 2023 with homes under $350,000.
Ave Maria- Ave Maria, FL
Homes starting in the $200,000s
One of the best-selling communities in the nation, Ave Maria is an award-winning master-planned community that combines an active lifestyle with the charm and friendliness of a small town in the Gulf Coast region of southwestern Florida. The community features multiple residential neighborhoods, schools, a town center with shopping and dining, office space, business parks, and recreational amenities. Included among those amenities are a resort-style water park and two expansive community parks with picnic areas, sports fields, playgrounds, tennis, bocce and pickleball courts, 100 miles of trails, a dog park, a fitness center, 2 championship 18-hole golf courses, and much more. Affordable Florida homes in a variety of styles- from single-family homes to condominiums are priced from the $200,000s.
Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure- Lake Lure, NC
Homes starting in the $200,000s
This 2023 top North Carolina community is a lakefront retreat offering a variety of real estate and lodging options on Lake Lure, including vacation homes, condominiums, studios, and motor coach lots. Each property has unique qualities and scenic views of the mountains, golf course, or lake. The community is primed for a variety of outdoor recreational activities and spans 3,000 scenic acres with resort-style amenities and award-winning golf. Residents stay connected to nature through an extensive system of hiking and biking trails, as well as 21 miles of shoreline to enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and a white sand beach.
Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head- Hardeeville, SC
Homes starting in the high $200,000s
Not only are the Latitude Margaritaville communities extremely popular among active adults, but they’re also extremely affordable. The unique island-style homes with architectural stylings and vibrant colors reminiscent of the tropics start at around $295,000. Providing a Jimmy Buffet inspired laid-back lifestyle, Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head’s exclusive amenities include the Paradise Pool, FINS Up! Fitness Center, Last Mango Theater, Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant, sports courts and much more. Keeping residents socially engaged, the community’s lifestyle manager organizes year-round activities, events, and entertainment.
Chambers Creek- Willis, TX
Homes starting in the low $300,000s
Just north of Houston near popular Lake Conroe, this unique and affordable Texas community promotes a well-balanced lifestyle through its enhanced amenities, programming, and resources. Centered around a Tom Lehman-designed links-style golf course and a private onsite marina, residents enjoy not only regular golf, boating, and water activities, but also an array of amenities. Developed by Caldwell Communities, the custom-designed homes boast the best in 55+ designed Texas real estate and include smart home conveniences and front yard maintenance.
On Top of the World Communities- Ocala, FL
Homes starting in the $300,000s
Located in the heart of Central Florida and surrounded by vast thoroughbred horse farms and rolling landscapes, On Top of the World Communities is a top-selling 55+ active-adult community in the sunshine state. Aside from its well-constructed, energy-efficient homes priced from the $300,000s, the community boasts three championship golf courses, tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, billiards and swimming, as well as lifelong learning opportunities, fitness facilities with active-aging programs, entertainment and social clubs. There is also a private 14-acre radio-controlled flying field, drone course and race car track.
McCord's Ferry at Lake Marion- Santee, SC
Homes starting in the $300,000s
One of our most popular communities of 2023, McCord’s Ferry at Lake Marion in the scenic lake town of Santee, SC, is conveniently connected to Santee State Park. This peaceful lakefront community offers residents a slower pace with condos, townhomes, and single-family homes priced from the $300,000s. Just an hour from the coast, historic Charleston, and Columbia, SC, amenities include a community center with a fitness center, swimming pool, and pickleball courts, as well as a lakefront pavilion, boat slips, and nature trails.
Savannah Quarters®- Savannah, GA
Homes starting in the $300,000s
In this award-winning Georgia community, beautiful homes and outstanding amenities combine with a vibrant club experience to create a unique lifestyle. Featuring an 18-hole Greg Norman Signature Golf Course, a resort-style swimming pool and fitness center, tennis courts, and fine dining, the Lowcountry setting creates the perfect sanctuary for residents to build their dream home. There are so many home-styles to choose from, with a selection of single-family homes, paired villas, townhomes, and estate lots—all starting at just $300,000.
