By Carolyn Crist
For the AJC
Wayne Huey, a retired high school coach and counselor, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 15 years ago and began using a cane to walk during 2014. Wayne, 71, and wife Patsy decided to find an active adult community near medical facilities and offering low-maintenance homes that feature minimal stairs, handicap-accessible doors and a screened porch.
Brookhaven at Johns Creek was 3 miles from their previous home, which kept them close to their children, grandchildren and doctors. Patsy, 68, a retired high school English teacher, talked about their two-bedroom home.
Q: Why did you decide to buy?
A: Wayne gets around fine right now, but looking toward the future, we knew we wanted a place with lower upkeep. We downsized in 2003 when we retired, but the yard work would become too much as we age. We also wanted to stay close to our children in Atlanta.
Q: How did you find this home?
A: We started driving around and looking at homes about three years ago but found properties that were too far away or didn't suit our needs. Then we saw the variety of single-family homes and villas at Brookhaven, which had a huge living room and dining area, space for an office, nice kitchen with plenty of storage and a porch. We liked the sidewalks in the neighborhood and the walking trail, clubhouse and amenities. People seemed to be out and about in the neighborhood.
Q: How was the closing?
A: One thing we learned was that we had to be flexible with the timeline. We didn't want to sell our house and move somewhere else before getting this one. Sandy Epstein (with Engel & Volkers Buckhead Atlanta) helped us to coordinate the buying and selling so we didn't need another place.
Q: What have you added so far?
A: It's fascinating to see the same floor plan and how everyone has customized the different options here. We wanted to make the house more accessible and put two rails going up the stairs in front. Most of our traditional furniture fit well here, and I had a family heirloom secretary desk painted black for the living room. Outside, we put up bird feeders to draw birds from the community garden right across from our porch.
Q: What’s the lifestyle of the community?
A: We've lived in Atlanta for many years but are amazed how many friends we've made here in a short time. Before we actually moved in, we were invited to lunches, dinners and trivia. Wayne walks every day, and people always stop and talk to him.
Q: What advice do you have for senior buyers?
A: Make sure you're close to good medical facilities, especially as you're aging, but don't forget to think about shopping, entertainment and an active adult community.
At a Glance
Wayne and Patsy Huey's home, built in 2014, has three bedrooms, three bathrooms and 2,500 square feet. Brookhaven at Johns Creek, by Jim Chapman Communities, ranges from the mid $300,000s to high $400,000s.
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