Where to Retire November/December 2005

Discoveries Compiled by Elizabeth Armstrong

Imagine driving up your street toward your home and activating the lights, garage door, security system and blinds all with the click of a button. It's the latest in smart-home technology being introduced in southwestern Utah's SunRiver St. George, the first-ever Honeywell Platinum Community, which features a state-of-the-art, fiber-optic cable network.

"When you walk into your home, it comes alive. It does everything automatically," says Darcy Stewart, managing partner of SunRiver St. George. "The lights turn on, the garage door opens, the blinds open to where you like them and the television turns on to your favorite program. And, when you leave, the thermostat sets itself and the security system becomes activated."

SunRiver St. George launched its new high-tech homes in September. In conjunction with Honeywell, the community has created a technology that allows homeowners to connect the security system, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems, lighting and home fixtures through structured wiring. SunRiver St. George is the first community in the country that has brought all of these Components together, Stewart says.

Developers are integrating this technology into homes to create a truly connected community for active adults age 55 and older. Residents now have the ability to communicate with one another via an Intranet, where they can sign up for activities at the recreation center by computer. They can even attend the next homeowners association meeting from their living room. Through the controls of the home touch panel or a personal computer, they can cast their vote from the comfort of their own home. And, what if you can't make it to your aerobics class at the community center? Don't worry because all neighborhood activities are broadcast on residents' televisions.

"The benefit is the lifestyle," Stewart says. "Not only do the (residents) have activities, but they're connected."

SunRiver St. George, featured as one of our 100 Best MasterPlanned Communities in the July/August '05 issue, offers structured wiring as a standard in all of its homes. Buyers have the option of upgrading their home with three packages, starting from $8,000. The basic package enables you to control the security, lighting and HVAC systems. Other high-end upgrades can include a flat-screen TV and video equipment.