Linda and Allen Impellitteri were ready to retire from 5 acres on the Tallulah River in Rabun County. "After 12 years, we were ready to find a smaller place with less upkeep. We wanted to be in an area that would offer great shopping and restaurants close by and convenient medical care," says Linda. "When we drove in here, I told Allen, 'This is it. We don't have to look any further.'" The Impellitteris moved into Oak Grove in Athens a year ago.

Christopher Oquendo/Special (ENLARGE)

Linda and Allen Impellitteri enjoy the neighborhood vibe at Oak Grove in Athens. The retired couple moved to a three-bedroom, two-story house in the community a year ago.

Q: Why was the community so appealing?

A: Allen says, "The neighborhood is built on a traditional pattern of streets and alleys, and there are no garages facing the street." Linda adds, "We love the privacy and accessibility of our alleys, too." Services like mail delivery and trash pickup are concentrated on the alleys as well.

Q: What about the homes in the community?

A: "It's really impressive how the neighborhood was designed," says Allen. "The styles blend together so well, all very Southern and charming. While building, they saved as many [trees] as they could and then they've planted lots more," adds Linda.

Q: What is your home like?

A: "We bought a 2,100 square-foot Charleston-style home, with three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, and a master on the main, which we really love," says Linda. "We have first- and second-floor front porches with double stairs leading to the first-floor porch." A side porch leads off the master bedroom and breakfast room.

Q: Who are your neighbors?

A: "We say this is a sidewalk/front porch/neighbor-friendly/dog-friendly/retired-friendly community," Linda says with a laugh. "We have the perfect blend of neighbors – young professionals, families with young children and families with teenage children, and then retired folks like us. The mix is perfect."

TRACT FACTS

Property Name: Oak Grove

City: Athens

County: Clarke

Zip Code: 30607

Phone: 706-340-0424

Web site: www.oakgroveathens.com

Price range: $200,000s to $400,000s

Number of homes: 500 when complete

Number of bedrooms/baths: 2-4 bedrooms/2-3 1/2 baths

Basement available: Yes

Styles: Craftsman, Federal, Charleston, Victorian.

Square footage: under 2,000 to more than 3,000

Standard features: front porch, wood flooring, 10 foot ceilings, back alleyways, period detailing, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances.

Amenities: clubhouse, full-size pool, kiddie pool and lit tennis courts

Developer: Oak Grove Builders