Sweet Home Alabama Is Even Sweeter for Retirees

May 22, 2024  |  Community Closeout

Sweet Home Alabama is a familiar phrase thanks to southern rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 1974 hit by the same name. The familiar words evoke thoughts of southern hospitality, biscuits, and sweet tea but the sweetest part of living in Alabama is the benefits for retired seniors. One of the biggest advantages for retirees in Alabama is the state’s tax policies:

• Social Security Benefits: Alabama does not tax Social Security benefits, allowing retirees to keep more of their income.
• Retirement Income: Pensions from defined benefit retirement plans are also exempt from state income tax. This includes income from traditional pensions, IRAs, and 401(k) plans.
• Property Taxes: Alabama boasts some of the lowest property tax rates in the nation. For homeowners over 65, there are additional exemptions and reductions available, which can significantly lower the cost of maintaining a home.

Alabama’s overall cost of living is below the national average, which is a major benefit for retirees living on a fixed income. Housing costs, including both home prices and rental rates, are particularly affordable. Other everyday expenses, such as groceries, transportation, and healthcare, are also more reasonable compared to many other states. Even homeowners insurance is less costly.

Holiday Builders is offering new construction homes in Foley, Alabama in a community called Ledgewick. From Ledgewick, residents enjoy nearby shopping, dining, and access to medical facilities. TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Walmart, and Publix are less than five miles from Ledgewick. South Baldwin Hospital is close by as is Foley’s charming downtown. Only eight homes remain in Ledgewick and all are move-in-ready. Home prices range from $314,599 to $350,910 and include three to four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, and a two-car garage, depending on the floorplan. Holiday Builders includes a two-year non-transferrable home warranty with each new home.

Living in Ledgewick in Foley means you’re just a short drive away from some of the most beautiful beaches in the country thanks to the Beach Expressway. The Beach Expressway ensures you’ll be lounging on the white sands of Gulf Shores, swimming in the turquoise waters, or enjoying a seaside meal at one of the many beachfront restaurants in less than 30 minutes. The expressway also makes it easier to enjoy the dining and entertainment options in both Foley and the Gulf Coast region. Thanks to the expressway, homebuyers in Alabama can have the same quick access to Gulf Shore beaches, as Gulf Shore residents do, but at a greatly reduced home price.

New homes in Ledgewick have another advantage. They are Gold Certified. To receive the Gold Certified Building Award, a building must meet several key criteria across various categories:

1. Energy Efficiency: The building must demonstrate exceptional energy performance, often exceeding the minimum standards required by local building codes. This includes efficient HVAC systems, insulation, windows, and the incorporation of renewable energy sources where applicable.
2. Environmental Impact: Sustainable construction practices are a core component of the certification. This involves the use of eco-friendly materials, waste reduction during construction, and sustainable site development that minimizes the building’s ecological footprint.
3. Indoor Air Quality: Ensuring healthy indoor environments is crucial. Buildings must use low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) materials, provide adequate ventilation, and maintain high standards for air quality to protect occupants’ health.
4. Water Efficiency: Certified buildings must employ water-saving fixtures and systems, such as low-flow toilets and faucets, efficient irrigation systems, and sometimes even rainwater harvesting setups.
5. Durability and Maintenance: The construction must be robust and designed for longevity with minimal maintenance. This includes using durable materials and ensuring that the building can withstand local environmental conditions.

To learn more about Ledgewick, contact Sales Manager Victoria Reed. 251-404-4581 or visit HolidayBuilders.com. 

This post was written by Tina Suiter.