What Are Pocket Communities?

Pocket communities go by a few definitions. Ross Chapin, an accomplished architect known for his work in creating community-centric spaces and home designs, states there must be a shared gathering space to come together. The other feature? There is a “rule of dozens”, essentially stating a gathering of homes eventually becomes too large before we no longer know our neighbors.

These communities dot the Minnesota landscape, tucked neatly away from prying eyes and built on a scale unlike what can be found in most major developments. The largest advantage of living in such a neighborhood? A sense of community rarely found in today’s housing landscape. Turnover is extremely low in these areas, and are usually scooped up quickly.

Why Live in a Pocket Community?

These segments of the market are especially effective at offering one specific lifestyle feature: community. Designed to give residents opportunities to come together and break bread, it is likely you will know each neighbor on a first-name basis. Going for an evening stroll may well lead to an impromptu BBQ.

Thanks to this familiarity with your neighbors, these areas are considered overwhelmingly safe by residents. Kids are often seen playing together from one yard to the next. The neighbors all look out for one another, and any stranger is quickly noted.

Community amenities are also frequent additions. Everything from walking trails to private parks contribute to the feeling of togetherness, allowing everyone to feel connected to one another. In some luxurious pockets, restaurants can be found nestled right into the neighborhood.

How Do Pocket Communities Impact My Home Value?

Generally speaking, a house in a pocket community will rate slightly higher than a similar home in a larger development. The tipping point is often availability — as with any home market, lower supply means higher prices. The biggest question is how “in demand” a specific community is. The more desirable the lifestyle offered, the greater the home values.

A common theme in the fringe second-ring suburbs and into the third ring of suburbs is acreage properties. The homes offer privacy while still providing a safe space for the homeowners.

So, where can I find a pocket community for myself?

Glad you asked! They are hard to find if you are going out for a Sunday cruise, as the street-level view may appear the same as any other neighborhood. I recommend working with a real estate company familiar with pocket neighborhoods and providing lifestyle guidance as part of their package. I myself couldn’t begin to tell you where these exist in South Minneapolis, but I know all about acreage pockets in Corcoran.

When I find pocket neighborhoods with unique offerings, I will often interview homeowners of that community to learn more about living there. What do they love about it and how has it improved their quality of life?

I take these results and sub-categorize the pockets. This way, when a client shares their desired lifestyle and amenities, I can take them straight to the source.

Examples of Pocket Communities around the Twin Cities

Acacia Hills, Corcoran

Just off Fletcher Lane, this 16-home community offers acreage homesites (never less than two acres) with executive homes. Turnover is extremely low, with less than one home sold a year on average over the past five years. If you desire room to roam and privacy between neighbors without sacrificing community, this is the place to get it.

Whispering Meadows, Shafer

On the other side of the cities and a stone’s throw to the Saint Croix River lies the town of Shafer. This community in particular stood out to me thanks to its shared recreational parcel. Seven acres in size and available for all thirteen residences, this is a phenomenal example of pocket community design. There has been an almost complete turnover in the past five years, with each property boasting three+ acres.

Shady Island, Shorewood

Love getting on the water? Shady Island is for you! Shorewood is one of the many tight-knit communities surrounding prestigious Lake Minnetonka. If you are lucky enough to live in one of these towns, you truly understand the value of a small-town vibe. Shady Island in particular offers a variety of shared spaces for homeowners and many architecturally distinct residences. Turnover here is comparatively light; five of the thirty total homes sold in the past five years.

Summit Station, Orono

Of all the pocket neighborhoods presented, this is the smallest. Smartly tucked between the Wayzata Country Club and Luce Line Trail, the opportunities for outdoor recreation are endless. A shared 3.7 acres of common space round out the impressive local features. Only one home has sold in the last five years, so if you want in you’ll want to be on the inside track.

Four different communities with different lifestyles. Something as simple as having acreage and a small number of homes can bond a group together; other times a formal homeowner’s association and all that comes with it define the community. Above all, remember how each offers a unique lifestyle shared by a small number of homes.

Have a favorite? Want to be the first to know about upcoming opportunities? Let us know and we will create a curated search just for you! After all, the best deals go to the prepared.