The community has 2,000 homes situated on 800-acres and features a formal, gated entrance, walking trails, a 28,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, two restaurants, an aquatic center and an Arthur Hills-designed, 18-hole championship golf course.  Single-family and town homes are currently for sale.  Prices have dropped significantly and now start at $199,990 (existing properties), down from $258,400.   This price will purchase 1,400 sq. ft., 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and some nice standard features.  The top-of-the-line home is priced at $403,000 and comes with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a 2-car garage and 2,400 square feet.  Visit www.heritageshores.com for more information.

With the Atlantic Ocean and several major cities so close, there is plenty to do in this area, but there is also much to do on-grounds.  The huge clubhouse includes a grand ballroom, a lounge, fine and casual dining, billiards, a card room, a woodworking shop, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a fully equipped fitness center.   Membership is included with a home purchase.   There is a full-time activities director to provide recreational opportunities, organized activities and other events for those who are so inclined.

The local climate is temperate and humid, with the normal daily mean temperature roughly 54°F and ranging from 31°F in January to 76°F  in July.   The average annual precipitation is about 42 inches, 21 inches of which are snowfall.   The sun shines about 55% of the time.

Delaware is worth a look for retirement because of its low tax rates.  It has no state, personal property or inventory taxes, very low local real property taxes and no state or local general sales taxes.   While real estate prices may be higher, in some cases, than the national average, the overall tax rate is lower, making the overall cost-of-living in Delaware about average.  It is, however, less expensive to live here than in most other northeastern states.