Frequently Asked Questions
For more information about Open Circle Communities, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions after reading through our list, please contact us. Visit our glossary for definitions of some frequently used terms.
- What is different for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people as we age?
- Who will live in an Open Circle community?
- Why would I choose to live in a community that is predominately lesbians and gay men?
- Will Open Circle Communities be inclusive of our allies?
- Where will Open Circle Communities be located?
- When will this community be built?
- Who is creating this community?
- What size condominiums and attached homes are planned?
- What will it cost to live in this community?
- Would I buy or rent my home?
- Once I move in, will I be able to sell my home if needed?
- What kind of services will be provided?
- What is "Aging in Place"?
- Will this community be accessible for persons with disabilities?
- Can I bring my pets to this community?
- Who will manage the services provided by Open Circle Communities?
- How can I keep up with the progress of Open Circle's work?
- Are there other communities like this already in existence?
- When will more details be available?
- Who can I talk to about my interest in this community?
1. What is different for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people as we age?
Research reveals that LGBT individuals are less likely to have strong family support systems in place and to have relatives to care for us as we age. We are more likely to live alone and not have adult children. Because discrimination and harassment still exist, we are less likely to access health care, housing, or social services. When we do use such services to meet our needs, we often first have to cope with others' homophobia or ignorance.
Open Circle Communities offers a positive alternative, an environment where our families of choice are celebrated, our partnerships are respected (with or without a marriage license!) and our community can thrive. All service providers will be knowledgeable about and sensitive to our issues. And there will be access to the information and resources needed to secure the rights to make legally binding decisions about our healthcare and our lives.
2. Who will live in an Open Circle community?
Open Circle Communities intends to design 55+ communities. This means that for 80% of the homes in the community at least one person must be 55 years old; in 20% of the homes there is no age restriction. Our communities will thrive on diversity and the inclusion of our straight allies and lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, and transgender individuals. We welcome singles, couples, friends, family and pets. Note that in a residence for two or more adults, only one person needs to be aged 55 or over.
3. Why would I choose to live in a community that is predominately lesbians and gay men?
There are still many active adult and retirement communities that do not welcome lesbians and gay men, bisexuals or transgender individuals. Open Circle Communities offers an environment where you can be comfortable with who you are and your relationships will be recognized and celebrated. Respectful health care will be provided by medical personnel who are knowledgeable of and sensitive to the LGBT community. The community will celebrate diversity, welcoming our straight friends and allies to live among us.
4. Will Open Circle Communities be inclusive of our allies?
Yes. We believe diversity makes a strong community. Many progressive straight people want to live in communities with others who share their interests. Many LGBT individuals will live their later years with those they love best – often a straight sibling or friend, and some LGBT individuals may bring their aging parents with them to an Open Circle Community.
5. Where will Open Circle Communities be located?
As we explain in the letter on our home page, we are now in a “holding pattern” and currently do not have a site for the first Open Circle development.
6. When will this community be built?
As we explain in the letter on our home page, we are now in a “holding pattern” and currently do not have a timeline for the first Open Circle development. If you'd like to stay informed regarding our progress, sign up for our periodic email updates.
7. Who is creating this community?
The two founding partners of Open Circle have experience in senior housing and services, real estate development, management, and business, and are LGBT activists. They have engaged a seasoned team of developers, marketers, architects, engineers, investors, lawyers, and other appropriate professionals to create this project.
8. What size condominiums and attached homes are planned?
The configuration of homes will be determined by the site. We will offer several floor plans, including one, two, and three bedroom options, ranging from 850 to 1750 square feet.
9. What will it cost to live in this community?
The cost will be approximately the same as living in another planned development, though Open Circle will be more service-enriched than other options. As with other residential condominium developments there will be a monthly homeowner's fee and fees for any personalized services you may select.
10. Would I buy or rent my home?
Open Circle Communities will be designed as a primary residence community and residents will own their homes. There may be a limited number of homes available for rental to individuals who make this their primary year round residence. With either option you pay a monthly homeowner’s fee.
11. Once I move in, will I be able to sell my home if needed?
Of course. If you purchased your home, you may resell it. We anticipate having a waiting list of eager buyers as this will likely be the only community of this kind on the East Coast.
12. What kind of services will be provided?
Your community services will include on-site health care, home maintenance, housekeeping, 24-hour security, cultural and athletic events, social and recreational activities, fitness programs, catered meals and bistro dining, transportation, and an off-leash dog park. Most important, everyone interacting with our community will have training that assures kindness and celebrates the lifestyles and overall culture of caring in a LGBT community.
"Aging in place" is a term to describe a living situation where a variety of services are provided directly in your home or community. This offers individuals the opportunity to stay in one place even as their needs for health care or other personal assistance may change.
14. Will the communities be accessible for persons with disabilities?
Yes, all homes will be designed to maximize accessibility, using Universal Design standards to enhance ease of living for people of all ages and abilities.
15. Can I bring my pets to this community?
Pets are welcome. And for those of you who are allergic to animals, please know we will give you consideration in all the common areas.
16. Who will manage the services provided by Open Circle Communities?
Open Circle will provide experienced operations and health care experts to manage our communities. All employees will be trained in cultural awareness that celebrates the lives of LGBT people.
17. How can I keep up with the progress of Open Circle's work?
To keep up with our progress and to get the latest news, sign up for Open Circle's email updates or please contact us.
18. Are there other communities like this already in existence?
There are several residential communities that are predominately lesbian and gay in Florida, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Arizona. These communities are the forerunners for resort and retirement projects that may be planned in California, and other locations. We are pleased to be a part of an emerging market responding to a very real need. The distinguishing characteristic for Open Circle Communities is our provision of health care services that allow aging in place.
19. When will more details be available?
There are details on this web site – please browse around! Specific price parameters, further details on financing, pictures of the site, architectural renderings and more will be provided as the information becomes available. We encourage you to sign up for our News and Updates.20. Who can I talk to about my interest in this community?
Please contact us!
Visit our glossary for definitions of some frequently used terms.
