Traditions of America

Category: News & Press

Traditions of America Locations Ranked in Top 19 Places to Retire In America and Buy a House Under $250K by Business Insider

In October, U.S. News & World Report released their list of Best Places to Retire in the U.S., with Lancaster at #1 followed a few spots down by Pittsburgh at #5. With many Traditions of America communities including Lititz, Cranberry, and Summer Seat falling right inside the top five places to retire, we were ecstatic to share this with our homeowners and future residents!

Just last week, Business Insider took it a step further by filtering the top places to retire based on affordability. The publication explains, “We filtered the US News list to find the cities where retirees can buy a home for under $250,000 and find a rental under $1,600 a month — that’s slightly below the national median asking price for a home and the national median rent, according to Zillow’s latest estimates.”

After adjusting for affordability, Business Insider reports there are FIVE Pennsylvania locations in the 19 best places to retire in America where you can buy a house for under $250,000. In all five of these locations, Traditions of America offers, or will soon offer, brand new resort-style communities allowing 55+ homeowners to experience the Live Better lifestyle during their retirement! Below, learn more about each location and where it ranks on the list:

#1 Lancaster, PA

At number one on Business Insider’s list and the U.S. News’s Best Places to Retire in the United States, Lancaster takes the ultimate prize! Traditions of America at Lititz is located right where you want to be, among the rolling hills of farmland, but within a few minutes’ drive to shopping, dining, and America’s coolest small town of Lititz.

#3 Pittsburgh, PA

Traditions of America at Summer Seat is the fastest selling resort-style community in Pittsburgh’s North Hills and is almost sold out! Additionally, our newest community Traditions of America at Cranberry has just opened to rave reviews from visitors and is quickly on its way to becoming the talk of the town! Just outside Pittsburgh, also ranked #5 on U.S. News’s Best Places to Retire, these communities offer the best of resort-style living in the area.

#11 Allentown, PA

Traditions of America at Green Pond is slated to break ground very soon and will be the premier 55+ resort-style community of the Lehigh Valley. Residents will be just minutes to world-class golf, superior health care, and shopping and dining.

#17 Harrisburg, PA

Traditions of America at Silver Spring is located right near the capital of Harrisburg and with our final homesite release, this community is quickly selling! U.S. News & World Report describes Harrisburg as “one of the country’s most affordable housing markets” with an “urban atmosphere” and “manageable price tag.”

#18 Philadelphia, PA

Coming soon to the suburbs of Philadelphia is our first community to open in 2019, West Brandywine! This community will offer the best of both worlds, with the sprawling nature and history of Chester County right outside your front door, and the excitement of Center City just a short drive away!

If you’ve thought about retiring to Traditions of America, our locations are truly hard to beat. Contact us today to explore your options and next steps towards the Live Better lifestyle!

January 11, 2019
The Washington Model: Re-Envisioned and Exuding Classic, Relaxed Charm at Traditions of America at Cranberry

Our all-new designer Model Homes made their debut at Traditions of America at Cranberry in a snowy mid-November and they were overwhelmingly well-received by all who toured them. The new floor plans, including the Washington, had been over a year in the making based on customer feedback, changing design trends, and recommendations from our Construction Managers. Staying up to date with our home designs is something very important to the entire Traditions of America team. We always want to create the best possible layouts for our residents, incorporating functionality and space optimization with aesthetically pleasing “flows” for how people really want to live.

When our in-house architecture and design teams sat down to create the best possible Washington floor plan they could envision, some of the key updates included an enlarged Foyer with an impressive volume ceiling for receiving houseguests, a larger Kitchen and Nook for enhanced entertaining, windows in the Master Bath and Laundry to allow for more natural light, matching his and hers walk-in closets in the Master Suite, a larger Loft and third Bathroom for more comfortable quarters for overnight houseguests, and an optional overlook to the Foyer for a feeling of openness and visual interest.

With a new and improved Washington floor plan, the next step was a fresh design approach to keep up with ever-changing design trends. For this all-important task, we brought in Lita Dirks & Co., the nationally-recognized, award-winning interior design firm based in Colorado. The result? A gorgeous and inspirational new Washington Model Home wrapped in exquisite design layers showcasing the very best features of this large, popular home. The Washington lends itself to the appealing Craftsman style, with wood columns prominently set on stone pillars at the home’s inviting and distinctive entrance.

See for yourself in the stunning photo display:

Craftsman Style Looks Sensational on the Washington

Sitting Area off Family Room/Kitchen

Sumptuous Master Bedroom

Sleek Master Bath

Gorgeous Shot of the Great Room

Dining Room

And, so much more! Warm and inviting spaces abound in the Washington where there is something to please everyone: from the Steelers fan, to the wine bar enthusiast, to the grandkids!

Photos are wonderful, but seeing this home in person is the best way to experience the rich design details. Visit Traditions of America at Cranberry today and take a tour. Prepare to be amazed!

December 27, 2018
Cranberry’s Gorgeous New Model Homes Make Their Debut

Despite the challenging early-season snow and an unexpected power outage in the township the night before, the recent Model Home Grand Opening at Traditions of America at Cranberry was nothing short of spectacular! Enthusiastic attendees eagerly walked along the red carpet to tour the all-new floorplans fitted with top-shelf, awe-inspiring interior designs of four popular home designs: the Franklin, the Washington, the Betsy Ross and the Hancock.

Each home has its own style, theme and personal flair: there is no mistaking the Pittsburgh sports teams featured in the Betsy Ross, while the Hancock is befitted for the golf enthusiast. The Washington has a travel and destination focus and the Franklin simply exudes an overall warm and inviting atmosphere where you immediately want to sit down and make yourself at home.

Future Site of Community Clubhouse – the Social Hub

With a warm and bustling tent, plenty of delicious, seasonal culinary offerings, and a lively and entertaining band, the over 200 attendees were treated to a fun and informative event. The Traditions of America team was at the ready to lead personal tours and answer questions, as were the many Ambassadors – homeowners who live in nearby Traditions of America communities who just love their community and want to share the Live Better lifestyle with others! Comments from attendees heard throughout the day ranged from “I just love the colors in this home” to “Can my home be exactly like this model?” to “I can definitely picture myself cooking in this kitchen.” Visitors also had the opportunity to see where the community’s resort-style Clubhouse will be situated – an element so integral to every Traditions of America community because it is the social hub of the community, the place where friendships are formed and memories are made. And, the place everyone wants to be for Friday night happy hours!

Our next blog will feature a photo spread of each model home…stay tuned and check back soon. You won’t want to miss it! Better yet, plan a visit to the community today and see the homes up close and in person. Our New Home Counselors are excited to share the beauty of the new models with folks near and far.

November 27, 2018
Cranberry’s Gorgeous New Model Homes Make Their Debut at the Model Home Grand Opening

Despite the challenging early-season snow and an unexpected power outage in the township the night before, the recent Model Home Grand Opening at Traditions of America at Cranberry was nothing short of spectacular! Enthusiastic attendees eagerly walked along the red carpet to tour the all-new floorplans outfitted with top-shelf, awe-inspiring interior designs of four popular home designs: the Franklin, the Washington, the Betsy Ross, and the Hancock.

Each home has its own style, theme, and personal flair: there is no mistaking the Pittsburgh sports teams featured in the Betsy Ross, while the Hancock is bedecked for the golf enthusiast. The Washington has a travel and destination focus and the Franklin simply exudes an overall warm and inviting atmosphere where you immediately want to sit down and make yourself at home.

Future Site of Community Clubhouse – the “Social Hub”

With a warm and bustling tent, plenty of delicious, seasonal culinary offerings, and a lively and entertaining band, the over 200 attendees were treated to a fun and informative event. The Traditions of America team was at the ready to lead personal tours and answer questions, as were the many Ambassadors – homeowners who live in nearby Traditions of America communities who just love their community and want to share the Live Better lifestyle with others!

Comments from attendees heard throughout the day ranged from “I just love the colors in this home” to “Can my home be exactly like this model?” to “I can definitely picture myself cooking in this kitchen.” Visitors also had the opportunity to see where the community’s resort-style Clubhouse will be situated – an element so integral to every Traditions of America community because it is the social hub of the community, the place where friendships are formed and memories are made. And, the place everyone wants to be for Friday night happy hours!

Our next blog will feature a photo spread of each model home…stay tuned and check back soon. You won’t want to miss it! Better yet, plan a visit to the community today and see the homes up close and in person. Our New Home Counselors are excited to share the beauty of the new models with folks near and far.

November 27, 2018
Lititz Knows How To Live Better and Have Fun!

Residents at Lititz have been busy….busy having FUN and embracing the Live Better lifestyle. Rachel Bechard, Lifestyle Director at Traditions of America at Lititz in Lancaster, PA, provided a glimpse into some recent seasonal happenings at this active and popular community. An all-around favorite, the Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, was a crowd-pleaser at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, the largest buffet in America. Residents rented a private ballroom for the event, and it was tons of fun! As they settled into their seats and were introduced to the cast (from Third Space Theater), they were surprised to learn that in this edition of the show, some members of the audience would be playing characters, as well! A dozen volunteers later, and the show was ready to begin.

Each person played their role beautifully! Some took their acting very seriously, like Lee Madison, who was one of the characters to die, and made sure everyone knew it. Bravo, Lee! The food was also amazing. With hundreds of options along the eye-popping buffet, there was something for everyone. We got 4 mini-intermissions to replenish plates between acts. Needless to say, by the time the show was over, everyone was not only entertained but completely full, as well! In the end, the audience uncovered the “murderer” (played by our own Sherrill Baumgartner), and everyone who correctly guessed her as the culprit got a prize. Lititz homeowners had a wonderful time and you can be sure that event will be booked again by popular demand.

Gearing up again for another favorite event, Lititz homeowners recently held their annual Chili Cook-Off. There were a dozen contestants and over 50 eager chili-tasters who showed up to sample and vote.

Four categories were judged in the contest: “Most Like Mom’s”, “Best Use of Spice”, “Best Decorations” and “Best Overall”. The decided winners were:

Most Like Mom’s: Chris Jensen
Best Use of Spice: Colleen Harris
Best Decorations: Julie Brouse
Best Overall: Betty Martin

With Thanksgiving around the corner and the holiday season and New Years Eve on its heels, Lititz residents will be sure to continue the celebrations and festivities!

November 21, 2018
Lancaster named the NUMBER ONE place to retire in the country by US News & World Report!

US News & World Report unveiled 2019’s Best Places to Retire in the U.S. last week and, my oh my, Pennsylvania did well! Florida and Texas cities also ranked well, but our very own Pennsylvania holds the TOP spot with Lancaster receiving the highest honors. And, we are proud! Another feather in the cap goes to Pittsburgh for ranking as the FIFTH best place to retire in the country.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, topped the list at No. 1 due to increases in housing affordability and the overall happiness of its residents. And, it’s no wonder. We hear all the time from our homeowners at our active adult community at East Petersburg that they simply LOVE where they live. And, that makes sense. Lititz is often warmly referred to as “America’s Coolest Small Town.” Editors at US News & World Report had this to say: “Lancaster offers a balance between natural and commercial spaces that residents appreciate. Expansive farms rub elbows with manicured suburbs, which lead right into the bustling city. A short drive can take one through each of these environments. Each area boasts its own unique groups of inhabitants: farmers, families, college students and young professionals. From close-knit church communities to the indie coffee shop scene, Lancaster holds something for everyone.”

Fort Myers, Florida, jumped from No.15 to No. 2 due to increases in desirability and happiness scores. Sarasota, Florida, fell from No. 1 to No. 3 this year due to a decline in both overall happiness and desirability. Austin, Texas, jumped to No. 4 from No. 9 due to an increase in desirability, followed by Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, rounding out the top 5. Here is what the editors had to say about Pittsburgh: “Known by nicknames like Blitzburgh and Steel City, Pittsburgh is on the verge of greater heights. Emerging from a dying steel industry, Pittsburgh is earning another name: reinvention city. Since the steel mills closed in the 1980s, Pittsburgh feels cleaner and full of energy. Pittsburgh encompasses almost 2,000 acres of land in just its city parks, and offers county parks, state parks and riverfront parks to its residents.” Our residents at Cranberry, Summer Seat and Richland definitely reap the benefits of living so close to Pittsburgh, yet surrounded by natural, wooded areas and open space.

The rankings offer a comprehensive evaluation of the country’s 100 largest metropolitan areas based on how well they meet Americans’ expectations for retirement, with measures including housing affordability, desirability, health care and overall happiness. “Deciding where to retire is a big decision,” says Emily Brandon, senior editor for Retirement at U.S. News. “The Best Places to Retire offers a way for future retirees to make a more informed decision based on what matters the most to them. Whether that be housing affordability, access to quality hospitals or the desirability of a place in general, the rankings offer a comprehensive list that can point people in the best direction for their needs.”

This year, U.S. News increased the weight of the desirability metric from 10% to 15% as it provides a more balanced understanding of the opinions gathered through consumer surveys. Desirability is one of the six factors in the 2019 Best Places to Retire methodology that includes housing affordability, desirability, retiree taxes, the happiness index, job market and health care quality. These measures were selected and weighted-based on a public survey of pre-retirees (age 45-59) and retirement-age (age 60+) individuals across the U.S to find out what matters most when considering a place to retire. Data sources include the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as well as U.S. News rankings of the Best Hospitals.

Here are the top ten:

(1) Lancaster, PA, (2) Fort Myers, FL, (3) Sarasota, FL, (4) Austin, TX, (5) Pittsburgh, PA, (6) Grand Rapids, MI, (7) Nashville, TN, (8) San Antonio, TX, (9) Dallas-Forth Worth, TX and (10) Lakeland, FL. Another Pennsylvania city earning high marks was Allentown, PA in the Lehigh Valley coming in at number 18. The Lehigh Valley has been a long-time favorite area of Traditions of America, having completed several successful communities there with a new one on the way: Traditions of America at Green Pond in Bethlehem. Visit one of our communities today to see for yourself what the buzz is all about – you’ll be glad you did. And, get on the list to hear the latest news about Green Pond.

Sources: BuilderOnline.com October 10, 2018 article and US News & World Report 2019 Best Places ranking

October 16, 2018
Interior Design News: Washington Model at Silver Spring is a four-time WINNER at this year’s annual Parade of Homes Contest!

We are pleased to announce that our newly re-designed Washington Model at Silver Spring is the proud recipient of FOUR interior design awards at this year’s Parade of Homes. This popular, annual contest sponsored by the Home Builder’s Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg is well-attended by folks from near and far who are interested in getting an “insider’s look” at the best concepts and latest trends in home design. In its interior decorating debut, the sleek Washington took home silver medals for Best Interior, Best Kitchen, Best Master Bath/Suite and Best Decorated.

Freshly minted gourmet kitchen with the latest appointments

The award-winning Washington Model was recently re-envisioned to give the home a fresh air of casual elegance. The gourmet kitchen boasts a large, angled island creating an immediate statement in the space. A crisp and clean subway tile back splash and creamy white cabinetry accented by antique brass finishes adds to the current, fresh look. These unique touches create a unified look of effortless elegance and speak to the attention to detail present throughout the home. The kitchen opens to the great room, which exudes an eclectic aesthetic that marries old and new to create a stylish space while remaining comfortable and inviting.

Soothing tones in the Master Bath create an inviting space

The sumptuous master bedroom suite features an expansive walk-in closet and an exquisite master bath, replete with a white quartz soaking tub, frameless glass shower, double vanity, and elegant chandelier.

Serene hues of the Washington Model’s Master Bedroom

Soothing, neutral paint tones, luxury plank flooring, and natural brass finishes throughout the home add to the Washington’s sophisticated serenity. A picture is worth a thousand words, but getting to see the finishes up close and in-person is a transformative experience for those who love interior design! Come see for yourself and design your DreamHome!

October 10, 2018
Meet the Team Behind the Dream: Deepa Ambe from the Architecture Team at Traditions of America

As part of our continuing series, we are pleased to provide another sneak peek into the Team Behind the Dream. In this edition, we introduce you to Deepa Ambe, an Architectural Designer with the Traditions of America in-house architecture group. Recently, we interviewed Deepa about her work, what a typical day on the job looks like, and some fun facts about her. Designing DreamHomes is just one of the highlights of her work at Traditions of America!

Q: Describe your typical day at TOA:

A: I work as an Architectural Designer for Traditions Architecture to create custom home drawings for our future homeowners. Based on feedback from homeowners, and with the comprehensive inputs from our talented onsite designers, I am committed to creating a highly functional, safe and aesthetically pleasing living environment for all of our clients. I love drawing their DreamHomes!

Q: Favorite part about your job:

A: Brainstorming design ideas and providing solutions to make every homeowner’s dream come true is very fulfilling at the end of the day.

Q: Most memorable moment in TOA career:

A: The opportunity to work on our newest, much-awaited community at Cranberry. Looking forward to seeing the grand opening of these model homes.

Q: Best advice you have ever received:

A: “Be the best you can be.”

Q: If you were a superhero, who would you be, and why:

A: I would love to have teleporting abilities to visit my family in India and to travel all over the world and explore countries and cultures every weekend.

Q: First job ever:

A: Interned at an Architect’s office to work on presentation drawings. For me, the doors had just opened into the magical world of computers, internet and 3-dimensional design.

Q: Favorite TV show growing up:

A: Friends

Q: Where would we find you after hours:

A: Cooking, gardening or chilling on my patio swing with my family.

Q: Word that best describes you:

A: Compassionate

Q: Most surprising fact:

A: Technology is not my forte.

Q: If your life had a movie title, what would it be:

A: Live, Laugh, Love and Smile!

Q: If you ruled the world, what would you change on Day 1:

A: Encourage everyone to adopt a simpler, smarter and sustainable way of life. A world we can proudly hand down to the next generation just as we received it.

Q: If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring three items, what would they be:

A: Book, coffee and a comfortable chair.

Q: If you could meet any historical person, who would it be and why:

A: My grandfathers. Never saw them but heard so much about, would have loved the opportunity to have long conversations with them.

September 25, 2018
Announcing Our Return to the Lehigh Valley with Traditions of America at Green Pond!

It’s finally here – the moment you have all been waiting for! We are very excited to announce that we are returning to the Lehigh Valley with our brand new active adult community, Traditions of America at Green Pond in Bethlehem, PA! After our long-awaited return, final approval of the community has been granted and we are eager to bring the Live Better lifestyle back to this highly sought-after area for those 55+ or better.

Set adjacent to pristine wetlands and a vibrant population of wildlife, this Bethlehem, PA community provides a unique opportunity and location amongst the natural beauty for which the Lehigh Valley is so well-known. Located just north of Green Pond Country Club, residents will have easy access to the area’s most scenic public golf course, as well as other courses nearby.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Lehigh Valley holds some of the top historic attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping that Pennsylvania has to offer! The best part is, it can all be yours just minutes from your new Traditions of America home at Green Pond. Spend your days exploring the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail or immerse yourself in history and culture at some of the many art galleries and museums throughout the area. When you’re hungry after a long day of exploring and shopping to your heart’s desire, there is a long list of award-winning cuisine options just waiting to impress your palate.

Breaking ground this winter, and delivering homes in 2019, our Traditions of America at Green Pond community will be no exception when it comes to the amenities, events, and close-knit community that our residents know and love. Centered around a 5-star clubhouse, residents will enjoy a heated swimming pool, pickleball court, bocce ball court, walking trails, and so much more! Start envisioning your DreamHome at Traditions of America at Green Pond and join our VIP list to be among the first to receive updates on this exciting new active adult community!

September 7, 2018
Lititz Residents Taking the Live Better Lifestyle to the Next LEVEL: Travel, Travel & MORE Travel!

Among the many benefits of living in a Traditions of America 55+ community is the low-maintenance aspect of the homes which truly allows residents to Live Better. Case in point: the Lititz community has planned countless trips to exciting destinations both near Lititz, PA and far, with every destination more exotic than the next! With the ability to simply “Lock and Leave” their homes, knowing the yard work will be taken care of, many residents are signing up for these incredible and enriching experiences.

First up: an exotic cruise to Greece and Italy! Over 80 residents are getting ready for this amazing 10-day trip in September 2018. Cruising on the high seas, not your speed? In December 2018, a group of Lititz homeowners will be traveling to NYC to see The Rockettes, just in time for the holidays! Next June, an eager group of residence will travel to the remote 1000 Islands and Alexandria Bay area of upstate New York. And, in August 2019, there is an Alaska Land & Sea Adventure on the books. Thirty people have already signed up for this spectacular trip! Other journeys on the books and generating lots of interest: New Orleans, Peru and Inca Discovery/Machu Picchu, a Grand Canyon Adventure, a South Dakota excursion to the Black Hills and Badlands, and exploring San Antonio, Texas.

The latest and greatest trip just announced will explore the French Riviera! The 9-day trip (slated for November 2019) begins in Nice, France, the fourth largest city in France and a popular vacation destination. Nice is well-known for exquisite views along the Promenade des Anglais, its renowned waterfront area. Highlights of the trip include 7 nights in a centrally located choice Nice, France hotel. While in Nice, residents will experience Nice first-hand, starting with a tour of Nice, the Chagall Museum, the Nice Flower Market, and Notre Dame Cathedral. A side-trip to the quaint seaside town of Ventimiglia and well-known San Remo, Italy is on the itinerary, as well as excursions to Monte Carlo, Cannes and St. Tropez!

Living in a maintenance-free home, without the obligation of shoveling and lawn mowing, opens up so many new opportunities. Traditions of America at Lititz homeowners have embraced this new-found freedom to the fullest! We can’t wait to see photos from their travels and hear stories of the highlights!

August 17, 2018