Traverse City, Michigan is one of a handful of cities across the country that is ahead of the curve with regard to the livable communities trend. AARP of Michigan has joined with the city of Traverse City in the Traverse City Livable Communities Initiative. Traverse City was chosen because of its existing senior-friendliness – including an airport with no steps, a health delivery system that draws patients and providers from surrounding counties, and a public transportation system that goes out of its way to accommodate older people. The Traverse City Chamber of Commerce is creating a senior-sensitive marketplace, working with local business leaders to attract more shoppers into downtown Traverse City.

The first project to be completed by the Initiative was an upgrade of four existing homes in Traverse City. The work on these Michgan homes was completed by a group of volunteers called the "Tuesday Toolmen." These volunteers reach out to seniors in the community in need of home repair and then complete those repairs for residents at little or no cost.

AARP of Michigan also recently surveyed AARP members age 50 and over who are homeowners in the greater Traverse City area on the topic of home modification. The majority of the individuals who responded to the survey believe their home is comfortable and safe. Many do not think that in 10 to 20 years, however, their home will be suitable for them. They will need to make home modifications.

What does this mean to Macomb County real estate? Look to see changes in Macomb County real estate, no doubt. Our type of homes, convenience to hospitals, safety features etc. are going to be more and more important to the future of Macomb County real estate trends. You heard it here first!

"Traverse City is one of the only communities in the nation to have completed a community assessment based upon AARP’s Livable Communities Assessment Guidebook," Anita Salustro, Associate State Director for Livable Communities for AARP Michigan, said. "Traverse City is working to make the changes suggested in the survey. The progress Traverse City has made recently earned the city a spot on the "watch list" of Best Places to Live and Retire in AARP The Magazine."