There are seven model homes from which to choose, with prices starting at $99,500 for "The Cottage," a 600 sq. ft., one bedroom, one bath dwelling with decorative dormer windows, a metal roof with a 50-year warranty, vinyl siding with a 50-year warranty, a landscaped lawn, covered front and back porches, recessed lighting, tiled floors, Berber carpet, French doors, bay windows, ceiling fans, an open kitchen and a step-in shower (but no garage).  Not bad for less than $100,000.    

The most expensive model is "The Country," priced at $259,500, with 3,000 sq. ft., three bedrooms, three and a half baths, a separate formal dining room, an eat-in kitchen, a study, a game room/bonus room and a porte-cochere.  There is even an in-ground fountain on the back patio.   Between "The Cottage" and "The Country" are five more models ranging in price from $129,500 to $199,500.    

Ten percent down is required to secure a lot and lock in a home price as this is a growing development, and all residences are custom-built, site-built homes, not manufactured homes.  Visit www.pickwickpinesresort.com for more information.  

HOA fees are approximately $1,800 annually ($150 per month) and include use of all facilities and upkeep of common grounds, which are extensive and spread across 160 acres.   There is also an annual membership fee of $300, and an additional $600 per year is optional for homeowners that would rather have the community take care of their lawn mowing and fertilizing.   Utilities are each homeowner's responsibility, but the rates are some of the lowest in the country.   Pets are allowed (but must be kept on leases).  

This is a private, gated development, and the amenities enjoyed by residents are impressive.  They include a 7,500 sq. ft. resort lodge (fireplace, dining area, grand piano and live entertainment on the weekends), a 14,000 sq. ft. activities center (gym, tanning beds, auditorium), 20' x 40' swimming pool, several smaller pools, tennis courts, boat storage, nature trails and well-lighted streets.   There are monthly potlucks, pancake breakfasts, holiday celebrations and more, all contributing to a welcoming sense of community.  

Pickwick Lake is just a mile away and beckons to people throughout the region.  Camping and water skiing are favorite activities, as is fishing (the lake is noted for its smallmouth bass and catfish).  A private marina is also in the works.  The nearby Tennessee River is known as a great fishing destination as well.   Shiloh National Military Park is a must for history buffs (Iuka itself was the site of a significant Civil War battle), and four nearby golf courses (within 20 miles), including the Shiloh Falls Golf Course (which hosts the annual St. Jude's Charity Golf Tournament), give retirees plenty of opportunities to hit the links. 

Iuka is safe, peaceful and has a cost of living 25% below the national average.  The surrounding area is pretty, with hills, woods and morning mist.  The closest city with a population of at least 50,000 is Jackson, Tennessee, 70 miles to the northwest.  Tupelo, Mississippi has about 35,000 people and is roughly 70 miles to the southwest.    Several small towns are within 10 to 20 miles of Iuka.

Summer temperatures are in the 80s and 90s; winter temperatures are in the 30s and 40s.  Average humidity is high, settling in around 70% in the afternoons, with 5 to 7 inches of rain per month.  Tornadoes occasionally occur.

Great Retirement Communities Newsletter is published daily and weekly by Webwerxx, Inc.,  2770 S. Elmira St., Denver, CO  80231. (303) 358-0512.  Copyright © 2006-2010.  All rights reserved.  No part of this electronic publication may be reproduced without the express written consent of Webwerxx, Inc.   Various attempts were made to verify the accuracy of the information contained in this report, but some information may have changed since publication.   Webwerxx, Inc. cannot be held responsible for information that has changed since this publication appeared online.    Please contact us at staff@greatretirementcommunities.com if you have questions or comments.  View our privacy policy.  We are not real estate agents.