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Health & Fitness

Incredible Senior Living!

What choices are there in our community for those aged 55 or older?

Laguna Niguel is a young community, incorporated in 1989, but it does offer one senior community that is age restricted.

Monarch Summit II is located on the very top of Niguel Summit just off of Pacific Island Drive. This age-55+ community has ocean views, a pool and clubhouse and is near walking trails. A quick five-minute drive will get you right down to Salt Creek Beach. All of the homes in Monarch Summit II are either 2 or 3 bedroom duplexes.

I take many of my out-of-town clients to the top of Niguel Summit to see the sweeping panoramic views of Laguna Niguel, South OC and the San Clemente Bay. and Monarch Beach Golf Course are right below the summit.

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If you are considering a senior community with more amenities, here are some of other communities besides the one on our own backyard. These are two of the largest senior communities in central OC.

Laguna Woods is its own town of about 14,000 people and is located west of the I-5 freeway and south of Irvine. Half of the homes are condos and half are co-op shares. The co-ops can only be rented out for 6 months, while the condos can be rented out permanently. You must qualify with minimum income stream and asset base to buy in Laguna Woods.

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If someone else, such as a relative, goes on title with you then you may use their assets to qualify. Many seniors absolutely love Laguna Woods because of the clubs and activities, not to mention the $8 greens fee!

Another senior community is Casta Del Sol in central Mission Viejo. There are approximately 2,200 homes inside this gated community. There are no income requirements to buy but you must be 55 + to live there. You may have children or grandchildren stay for visits but there are some restrictions. There are pools, club houses, lawn bowling lanes and it is adjacent to the Casta Del Sol Golf Course.

The homes in Casta are predominately one story with attached garages. The community is located just south of beautiful Lake Mission Viejo. This area may be a little warmer because it is further from the ocean, but it is still a short 20 minute drive to Dana Point Harbor

Orange County may be young, as is Laguna Niguel, but there are options for those 55 and older.

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