Until recently there were few options open to the 50+ consumer who is selling his or her home. Now there are many ways you can tailor your move to your immediate needs or plan sequential moves that will cover your entire future life.

ADULT COMMUNITIES: These are specific housing areas or even towns built for people 55 and over. They offer all the pleasure of your own single residence without the bother of lawn care, snow removal and other maintainance chores.

CONDOMINIUM/TOWNHOUSES: These are particularly popular with mature adults who have a child under the age of 18. Common services with association fees may be included.

MOTHER-IN-LAW SUITES: More and more people are building homes with mother-in-law suites. You might build one to help your children own a home or if your children are economically fortunate, they may build one in a home for your benefit.

VACATION/SECOND HOME: Many 50+ consumers are very interested in purchasing a resort property or second home to use as a "get-away," as an investment, or as a future principal residence. A good way to start the search for such a property is to visit www.ColonialRealEstate.com.

LIVING CENTER: This allows the mature individual to live in a community that provides a safety net of assistance based on their needs. There are a variety of assisted living options, ranging from independent apartment style housing to totally monitored and medically supervised living.