Ben PhilipThe Cottage at Willett Brook Retirement Community is a thoughtfully designed 55+ neighborhood located in the heart of Bridgton, Maine. This community offers residents a blend of affordable, energy-efficient housing with the convenience of low-maintenance living. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sebago Lakes region, it provides a peaceful yet active lifestyle for retirees who value comfort, sustainability, and community connection.
The Cottage at Willett Brook Retirement Community
Overview & Concept
The Cottages at Willett Brook is an age-55+ community offering single-family ranch-style homes tailored for easy, one-floor living. The homes are compact and eco-friendly, ranging from about 610 to 924 square feet. They are designed with energy efficiency in mind, featuring options like solar panels that bring heating and electricity costs down to around 400 dollars annually.
Developed by Main Eco Homes/Criterion Development, this community was created to meet the growing need for affordable, downsized, and sustainable living for active adults.
Homes & Construction
The homes come in different layouts and sizes:
- Initial models are around 610 to 640 square feet with practical floorplans that include a living/dining area with modern kitchen, one bedroom, and a flexible second room or den.
- Later models expand to about 924 square feet, offering two bedrooms, up to one and a half bathrooms, and optional attached garages.
The homes are built with efficient construction methods. They are well-insulated, use slab-on-grade foundations, and feature vaulted ceilings that make compact spaces feel larger. Available upgrades include solar photovoltaic systems, with a 3 kW array that can offset heating and cooling energy use dramatically.
Community Amenities & Lifestyle
The Cottages at Willett Brook is more than just homes; it’s a community with shared amenities and services.
- The central clubhouse is about 1,800 square feet and includes a multipurpose room, kitchen, library, and exercise room. It serves as a hub for socializing, fitness, and community events.
- Homeowners enjoy low-maintenance living since HOA fees cover lawn care, snow removal, irrigation, and internet/cable.
- Outdoor and communal extras include walking trails, community gardens, RV and boat storage, and golf-cart-friendly pathways.
- The community is pet-friendly and conveniently located near lakes, golf courses, downtown Bridgton, hospitals, shopping, and other amenities.
Location & Lifestyle Outlook
The community is situated in scenic Bridgton, Maine, within the Sebago Lakes region. It offers easy access to lakes like Long Lake and Highland Lake and is less than an hour’s drive from Portland via Route 302.
Residents enjoy proximity to essential services such as hospitals and supermarkets, as well as cultural life and regional attractions like ski areas and golf courses. This makes it ideal for retirees seeking both comfort and activity.
Pricing & Market Insights
Homes at The Cottages at Willett Brook are designed to be affordable while maintaining quality and sustainability.
- Smaller models (600–640 square feet) start around 130,000 dollars, while larger homes (about 900 square feet) begin near 165,000 dollars.
- Solar and upgrade packages add around 25,000 dollars, though they significantly reduce long-term energy costs.
- Resale values show steady appreciation, with smaller homes selling for about 231,500 dollars and larger 924 square foot homes selling between 302,800 and 316,000 dollars depending on layout and upgrades.
- HOA fees average about 205 dollars per month (roughly 615 dollars per quarter), covering community upkeep and services.
Summary
The Cottages at Willett Brook Retirement Community provides:
- Purpose-driven design with smart, compact homes built for downsizing without sacrificing quality.
- Sustainability and affordability through energy-efficient construction and optional solar systems.
- A vibrant senior living environment with social spaces, shared amenities, and low-maintenance lifestyles.
- Strong real estate value with homes appreciating well beyond their base price, making them a sound investment.
This community blends thoughtful design, sustainability, and social living, making it a compelling option for retirees seeking a simpler, engaging, and cost-effective lifestyle in Maine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is The Cottage at Willett Brook Retirement Community?
A. The Cottage at Willett Brook Retirement Community is an age-restricted, 55+ neighborhood featuring compact single-family homes. It was created to provide affordable downsized living with modern amenities and a supportive community environment.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. The community is designed to include around 60 to 70 homes in total, built in phases. Each home is carefully planned to maximize comfort while minimizing upkeep, offering residents both privacy and a close-knit neighborhood feel.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. The homes are primarily single-story cottages ranging from approximately 610 to 924 square feet. They feature one to two bedrooms, one to one-and-a-half bathrooms, and optional attached garages. Energy-efficient features, vaulted ceilings, and optional solar power systems are available to enhance comfort and reduce costs.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. The Cottage at Willett Brook includes an 1,800-square-foot clubhouse with a multipurpose room, kitchen, library, and exercise space. Residents also benefit from walking trails, community gardens, and RV/boat storage. HOA services cover lawn care, snow removal, and cable/internet, making for a stress-free lifestyle.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. While the community itself does not host formal educational programs, Bridgton and the surrounding areas provide adult education classes, workshops, and cultural events. Residents often take advantage of nearby libraries, local colleges, and community centers for lifelong learning opportunities.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. Residents have access to Bridgton Hospital, just minutes away, offering a range of medical services including emergency care. Additional healthcare providers and specialty clinics can be found in nearby towns and in Portland, which is less than an hour’s drive.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. Downtown Bridgton offers a variety of local shops, grocery stores, and restaurants. Larger retail options can be found in nearby North Windham and Portland. From casual cafes to fine dining, residents enjoy a wide range of culinary experiences.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. The community is close to Long Lake, Highland Lake, and Moose Pond, offering boating, fishing, and swimming. Skiing and snowboarding are popular at Shawnee Peak Ski Area. Golf courses, hiking trails, and seasonal festivals also provide plenty of options for recreation.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Residents can participate in various committees focused on social activities, gardening, fitness, or neighborhood events. These groups help strengthen community ties and give everyone a chance to contribute to shaping the lifestyle within The Cottage at Willett Brook.
Conclusion
The Cottage at Willett Brook Retirement Community combines affordability, comfort, and a strong sense of community in one of Maine’s most beautiful regions. With energy-efficient homes, convenient amenities, and access to healthcare, shopping, and recreation, it offers retirees a balanced lifestyle that emphasizes both relaxation and activity.