UPDATE: A mother and daughter duo, Tracy Smith and Clair Mattig-Smith, have made headlines by choosing to stay in California rather than relocating to Texas, thanks to the discovery of the new community, Silverwood, in Hesperia. This decision, made just as they were preparing for a significant life change, highlights the growing trend of affordable, multigenerational living in California.
The Smiths had initially planned to move to Texas for its perceived affordability and community spirit. However, after visiting Silverwood, they fell in love with the neighborhood’s amenities and commitment to fostering neighborly interactions. Silverwood, which is located about 15 minutes from their previous home in Apple Valley, offers parks, hiking trails, and a unique requirement for residents to sign a “kindness pledge.”
Tracy, 67, and Clair, 42, both widows, decided to consolidate their living arrangements a few years ago and initially aimed for Texas. “I didn’t want my mom to be alone,” Clair shared, emphasizing the importance of family. Their search was reignited earlier this year when Clair learned about Silverwood’s grand opening through social media and local news.
“We knew right away that Silverwood would be a really nice place to live,” Tracy said after touring the property. The Smiths were captivated by the community’s aesthetics and amenities, prompting them to tour 21 available home models during their visit in April. They quickly committed to purchasing a spacious 6-bedroom, 3-bathroom home, boasting 2,800 square feet, for a final price of $642,000 after upgrades.
While they acknowledged the potential for more space at a lower price in Texas, Tracy stated, “Silverwood is 100% the only reason we decided to stay in the state.” The pair signed their purchase papers on October 27 and plan to move in the following day.
Silverwood is designed with intentional community living in mind. Residents will enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including parks and hiking trails, fostering camaraderie and neighborly interactions. “They’re doing so many things to enhance residents’ lifestyles,” Tracy noted, emphasizing the early community-building efforts already in place.
Even before moving in, the Smiths have engaged in community-building activities, including a recent neighbor get-together that promoted social bonds among future residents. Clair described the atmosphere: “Kids were running around playing with their parents, there were families and older couples. It was so lovely.”
The community’s “kindness pledge” aims to establish a positive living environment, something Clair believes is essential in today’s society. “I think Silverwood’s intentional sense of community will eliminate a lot of the negativity,” she asserted.
As the Smiths prepare for this new chapter, they are excited about the benefits of multigenerational living. Tracy expressed her desire to contribute meaningfully to their household, while Clair appreciates the support her mother provides in managing daily life. “At my age, I want to be useful,” Tracy added.
This compelling story of familial bonds and community spirit resonates amid the broader context of shifting housing trends in California. As affordable options become increasingly scarce, Silverwood’s model may serve as an inspiration for others seeking a nurturing and supportive environment.
Residents are already looking forward to future developments within Silverwood, including plans for schools and a shopping center. As the Smiths embark on this new adventure, they exemplify the power of community in shaping personal decisions and lifestyles.
Follow the Smiths’ journey as they settle into Silverwood, a beacon of hope for families seeking connection in today’s fast-paced world.
