Colchester Commons

Colchester Commons is a highly regarded, age-restricted manufactured home community located in the historic and scenic town of Colchester, Connecticut. Established over 30 years ago, this independent adult community offers a distinctive living experience for those aged 55 and older who seek a balance of privacy, community connection, and a maintenance-free lifestyle. Unlike many traditional mobile home parks, Colchester Commons is a corporate-owned and self-managed entity, meaning the residents themselves play a vital role in the governance and preservation of their neighborhood. This unique structure fosters a deep sense of pride and a close-knit atmosphere that is palpable from the moment you drive through the entrance.

The community is designed as a tranquil village of simple, elegant homes nestled within a picturesque country setting in New London County. For Connecticut residents looking to downsize without sacrificing quality of life, Colchester Commons provides a perfect solution. The neighborhood is comprised of approximately 95 homes, each situated on level, well-manicured lots that provide plenty of space for gardening or relaxing outdoors. The emphasis here is on "active independence," allowing residents to enjoy their private residences while having access to communal amenities and a social network of peers who share similar life stages and interests.

Location and accessibility are key components of the appeal at Colchester Commons. Situated at 17 Colchester Commons (near Lebanon Avenue), the park is conveniently positioned between the major hubs of Hartford and the Connecticut shoreline. Residents benefit from the rural charm of a small New England town while remaining just minutes away from essential modern conveniences. The site is designed to be inclusive and accessible, featuring infrastructure that accommodates various mobility needs to ensure all residents can navigate the community safely and comfortably.

• Strategically located near Route 16 and Route 2 for easy commuting to Hartford, Norwich, and Middletown.
• Proximity to the historic Colchester Town Green, which hosts farmers markets and community events.
• Minutes away from local shopping centers, pharmacies, and medical facilities.
• Wheelchair accessible entrance and dedicated parking areas to support residents with mobility challenges.
• Located near recreational gems like Day Pond State Park and the Salmon River State Forest for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Close to local dining favorites, including regional landmarks and quiet coffee shops.

The services offered at Colchester Commons are comprehensive and intended to alleviate the typical burdens of homeownership. Because the community is self-managed by the Colchester Commons Management Corporation, the monthly association fees are reinvested directly into the community’s infrastructure and resident services. This model ensures that the water supply, septic systems, and common grounds are maintained to a high standard, providing residents with peace of mind and predictable monthly costs. The focus is on creating a "hassle-free" environment where the heavy lifting of property management is handled by the association.

• Comprehensive lawn care, including weekly mowing and seasonal leaf removal.
• Reliable snow removal for community roads and common areas during the winter months.
• Weekly trash and recycling pickup services provided to all households.
• Private, well-based water system that is monitored daily for quality and safety.
• Maintenance and scheduled pumping of septic systems (typically every three years).
• On-site business office with dedicated staff to assist with community inquiries and management.
• Gated and secure storage area specifically for residents' RVs and campers.

Features and highlights of the community extend beyond the practical services to include lifestyle amenities that encourage social interaction and physical activity. The clubhouse serves as the central hub for the neighborhood, providing a space for gatherings, movie nights, and community meetings. During the warmer months, the in-ground pool is a popular destination for relaxation and exercise. The architectural style of the homes, often featuring open floor plans and modern updates like central air and enclosed porches, ensures that the living spaces are as comfortable as the grounds are beautiful.

• Spacious clubhouse featuring a great room, full kitchen, and a community library.
• Professional-grade in-ground swimming pool with a surrounding patio for summer enjoyment.
• On-site pool room and billiards area for indoor recreation.
• Tennis courts and shuffleboard areas for staying active and social.
• Pet-friendly environment allowing up to two pets per household, subject to park rules.
• Beautifully landscaped common areas and an outdoor garden for all residents to enjoy.
• A unique "share-purchase" ownership model that ensures every resident is a stakeholder in the corporation.

Contact Information:

• Address: 17 Colchester Cmns, Colchester, CT 06415, USA
• Phone: (860) 537-3421
• Office Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Choosing Colchester Commons is worth it for the sense of security and community that only a resident-managed park can provide. In the Connecticut real estate market, finding a 55+ community that combines affordability with such a high level of self-governance is rare. It is worth choosing because it offers the stability of a long-established neighborhood (30+ years) with the modern amenities required for a comfortable retirement. The "share" system not only keeps the community self-sufficient but also ensures that those who live there have a direct voice in how their neighborhood is run.

Furthermore, the town of Colchester itself is a major draw. As a certified Community Wildlife Habitat with excellent local services and a historically rural feel, it provides a peaceful backdrop for senior living. Residents at Colchester Commons aren't just buying a home; they are joining a private, quiet neighborhood where "low-maintenance" actually means having the time to enjoy the pool, the clubhouse, and the nearby state forests. For those seeking a safe, stable, and friendly environment in New London County, Colchester Commons is a standout choice that truly feels like home.