Boomers look for luxury and efficiency

PRINCETON, N.J. - Shea Homes, one of the nation's largest builders, believes Baby Boomers are looking for communities that make an environmental difference.

Last month, Shea announced the opening of Victoria Gardens, an "active lifestyle," or retirement, development sandwiched between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Fla.

The homes were advertised as having a carbon footprint that is 20 to 30 percent less than that of a typical household.

Billed as eco-friendly and energy-wise, the homes feature solar attic fans, green-fiber recycled insulation, motion-sensor triggered lighting, energy-efficient windows and appliances and garages with electric-vehicle charging stations.

Shea says it has focused on small, incremental green features that will add up to important energy savings.