Reviewed by: Patience Itson
These local couples age 55+ downsized their homes—how you can too
Reading time: 5 minutes
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When you hit your 50s, life begins a new chapter, with many adults rethinking what they need in a home. For many, downsizing is a great choice for reducing expenses, living simply and focusing on what truly matters.
We sat down with some residents of Overture Tributary, a unique 55+ community on Highway 280, to explore how downsizing gave them the freedom to live more active and social lives. Here’s what we learned.
About Overture Tributary
Overture Tributary is located across from The Summit and offers maintenance-free apartment home living focusing on creating a warm atmosphere with state-of-the-art amenities, classes and resident-led activities.
Perks of living in this 55+ community include:
- Living spaces designed for comfort + accommodations for mobility needs
- Resort-worthy amenities
- A colorful community of kind faces
- An exciting list of events + activities
The superstar behind Overture Tributary is event coordinator Dwan Christian, who plans jam-packed calendars of events, activities and meals for residents daily.
“I take as much input from residents as possible. If you look at our calendar, over half of the events are resident-led.
They might come to me and say they want to go to the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, but don’t have anyone to go with. So I’ll make a sign-up sheet available and have people volunteering to go and drive them there.”
Dwan Christian, Event Coordinator, Overture Tributary
Meet Overture Tributary residents Kay + Larry
Birmingham natives Kay and Larry first met in grammar school and this year, they’re getting ready to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary.
After living in their home for decades, Kay and Larry were tired of the constant upkeep—housework, mowing the lawn and cleaning. So, they decided to downsize their home.
Since moving into Overture Tributary, Larry says they have more time to pursue hobbies and truly enjoy life.
“We were the second or third folks to move in, and we never looked back. We’re glad we did it.
I like to fish and hike, and there’s a lake and mountains to walk in. Kay loves to play cards. We have conversations with people from all walks of life, from all parts of the country—it’s a great place to be.”
Larry Powell, Resident, Overture Tributary
Kay and Larry’s favorite part? There’s always something going on just steps from their door.
“It’s such a great place. We used to sit around and watch TV at night like most people do. We had good neighbors, but there wasn’t much association with them.
Here, there’s never a dull moment. We have a good time.”
Larry Powell, Resident, Overture Tributary
Meet Overture Tributary residents Deborah + John
For Deborah and John, who will celebrate their 50th anniversary this year, Overture Tributary is a perfect fit.
When the couple retired, they downsized and spent their golden years traveling and exploring over 60 countries together.
Things changed when John was diagnosed with a muscle disease that limited his mobility.
Overture Tributary provided a floor-level unit and accessible amenities to meet John’s needs, while allowing Deborah to continue her active lifestyle with tennis, golf and pickleball.
“The absolute best thing about living here is the people. These are the best neighbors we’ve ever had, and the employees are the greatest.
There’s always something fun going on. It’s resident-led, so if you want to have an event, all you have to do is put the wheels in motion and the staff will help make it happen.”
John Sellers, Resident, Overture Tributary
An extra special bonus for the couple was that Overture Tributary accommodated their two rescue golden retrievers by providing them with their own room next door.
“John started a Golden Retriever rescue in Alabama 15 years ago, so we have two Goldens who are rescues.
It was important to us to bring those dogs with us wherever we went. You know, Goldens aren’t little dogs, but the staff and all the other residents have welcomed them with open arms.”
Deborah Sellers, Resident, Overture Tributary
Join the vibrant community at Overture Tributary in Birmingham
Whether your parents are looking to downsize or you’re an empty-nester seeking a vibrant community, Overture Tributary provides a range of floor plans and pricing options to suit your needs.
- Address: 3171 US-280, Birmingham, AL 35243
- Office hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-6PM | Saturday 10AM-5PM | Sunday Noon-5PM
Visit the website for availability, virtual tours + details. Enjoy No Rent Until January + receive a cruise certificate with an approved lease and application*.
*Restrictions may apply. Contact the leasing office for more details
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