A walker's guide to home buying

According to urban planners, changing demographics are driving this growing trend.  The baby boomer generation is approaching empty-nest retirement age, while their children are buying their first homes; neither group wants large lots in remote areas with little access to big-box stores, public transportation, and entertainment.  Concerns about future oil prices also are increasing the attractiveness of walkable communities, according to planners.

Home buyers interested in finding homes in walkable communities can use myriad Web sites; one commonly used site is WalkScore.com.  The site enables users to enter an address and receive a score ranging from zero to 100 ("car dependent" to "walkers paradise") indicating the walkability of the community.

Housing prices also are reflecting the new interest in walking distances.  A study published by the nonprofit group CEOs for Cities found having more amenities in walking distance can boost home values.  As measured on Walk Score, walking-distance amenities raised values by as much as $3,000 for each one-point increase in rankings.

The Villages Golf & Country Club is a "walkers paradise" within the secure  24/7 security gates which enhances the health benefits of the active adult residents.     The community is considered "car dependent" for shopping and entertainment.