What does the luxury homebuyer have in common with an inexpensive home shopper? Value. Since the real estate bubble burst, buyers from millionaires to civil servants all expect a good value. And, they also desire the milder winter weather in the South. Value means something different to each person—a lot of it depends on your [...]

An almost primitive connection draws people to water_to the lakes, rivers and oceans. Maybe part of that reason is that, biologically speaking, human beings are about 70 percent water. Aesthetically speaking, however, who can resist the calming effect of watching the gentle ripples lap at the shore. The power of water to wash away concerns [...]

1. Just Breathe. Slow down, close your eyes, clear your mind and take at least five deep breaths. It’s amazing what a difference just a few relaxing moments can make.
2. Appreciate Your Surroundings. Observe something beautiful in nature—the ocean, a bird chirping, the subtle movement of the leaves in a tree, a sunrise or a [...]

Visions of sun-drenched white-sand beaches permeate thoughts of Florida. Millions flock to Florida each year for vacation or retirement. So many, in fact, that it has changed the perception of Florida into a concrete jungle with congested freeways and beaches. However, you can still experience the Florida of yesteryear in Florida’s “Nature Coast.”
In 1867, World [...]

In the midst of one of the worst economies the U.S. has seen, how could it be one of the best times to build a new custom home?
People are finding that retiring and building a new home brings enjoyment and hope for a new, wonderful life. Taxes and cost of living will continue to rise [...]

Although retirement was more than ten years away, six years ago Vincent and Darylee Buszko decided they just couldn’t retire in New Jersey. Cold weather and the busy, never-stop atmosphere of the Northeast prompted their decision to attend a Live South Real Estate Show. Their search had begun. They attended two real estate shows and [...]

In the midst of a recession, people are finding that retiring and building a new home brings enjoyment and hope for a new, wonderful life ahead. Here, two couples reveal just how they found the new communities that they have come to call home.
First Family in the Vineyards
Jim and Nancy Mecure had lived in the [...]

Finding the perfect place may at times feel akin to searching for the Holy Grail. Still, a few fortunate women appear to have found their personal Nirvana amidst the rolling hills and babbling brooks of middle Tennessee.
A Simpler Life
Fifty-two-year-old Caroline Cox could have chosen anywhere in the U.S. to live, but something about Long Branch [...]

Glowing reds, oranges and yellows blanket the city with more Art Deco architecture than any other in Southeast. Fall color hunters are in luck, as this should be one of the most vibrant autumns in years.

Do you feel young and vivacious or maybe not so vibrant anymore? We want to know how you feel. Ideal Living Magazine is researching an upcoming article for our fall issue and we need your input!