How Reed's Crossing helps residents stay healthy

In today's fast-paced world, finding a place where you can relax, recharge, and thrive is essential. Your home isn't just a shelter; it's a sanctuary. And the community that surrounds it can significantly impact your health and well-being. 

“There is no question that the pandemic…greatly elevated the understanding of wellness and its many aspects—healthy eating, movement, mental wellness, sleep, nature, and social connections,” Ophelia Yeung, a senior research fellow with the Global Wellness Institute, recently told Forbes. “Home is often the largest investment for a household, so it makes sense that it is also an investment in health.” 

In a 2024 survey by the National Association of Realtors, the majority of homebuyers reported they expect to live in their home for 15 years or more. That’s a long time to be in a place that may not support your health goals! So, if you’re in the market for a new home, here are four questions to ask before signing on the dotted line.

Is this home healthfully & sustainably designed for my future? 

As placemakers in South Hillsboro, we know the importance of creating spaces not just for today, but for generations to come—and we believe that communities are made stronger when we consider the full health of a home.

For most homebuyers, the top perks of a sustainable home are lower costs and healthier living conditions. Here at Reed’s Crossing, every home is built to Earth Advantage Silver or equivalent certification, meeting strict green building standards in five different categories including energy efficiency, indoor air quality, resource efficiency, environmental responsibility, and water conservation. From inside to outside, the homebuilders create streamlined living spaces that are designed to balance responsible home design with a connection to nature.

“For us, all of the builders at Reed’s Crossing being energy efficient was a big draw to the community. It made that initial decision of ‘Where do we want to live?’ easier. But my favorite part about living here is being able to step out my front door and be less than a minute away from green spaces where my wife, dog, and I can easily walk and see our neighbors along the way.” — Ian, resident since 2020

Does this neighborhood offer opportunities to get outside easily? 

Who doesn’t love a park? Oregonians sure do, which is why Reed’s Crossing was planned to include so many of them right here in the community. Countless studies have shown that being outdoors can increase activity, improve sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mindfulness, all of which benefit both physical and mental health.

But there’s a lot more than just parks here, with over 80 acres of planned open space—four times the required amount. You can go for a walk or run on the 50 miles of well-lit paths that wind throughout the neighborhood. Or go climbing in the boulder garden in Reed’s Crossing Park, improving balance and hand-eye coordination. Or recharge with a good book under a 200-year-old oak in Tamarack Park. Or toss a ball with your furry friend and forget the stresses of the day in the dog park. Or get your hands dirty and commune with nature in the community garden. Even just a little time spent outdoors can have incredible rejuvenating effects on the mind, body, and spirit.

“Between all of the walking paths and the wellness center, we are able to find many ways to keep active without having to get into the car and drive. We also love that we can go on a walk around the neighborhood in the evening and see our friends out walking, too!” — Eleanor, resident since 2020

Does this home include space to bolster my health? 

When shopping for a new home, be sure to look for a place where you can build a ritual, reinforcing the idea of consistent wellness. Homes with flex space have become increasingly popular since the pandemic, and you can’t deny the luxurious feeling that comes with having a dedicated spot for your yoga, weight lifting, aerobics, or meditation practice. 

Most every home for sale in Reed’s Crossing includes flex space, and many feature a flex room on the ground floor, so you can keep workout time separate from sleeping or relaxing time. In a place like the PNW, you’ll appreciate your home gym even more when the days get colder and the rain starts to fall!

“I work from home, but when I need to disconnect I can exercise or go for walks. It does wonders for your physical and mental health to be able to disconnect from the screen for a bit.” — Janki, resident since 2021

Will it be easy to connect with my neighbors if I want to?

Being part of a nurturing community can broaden your horizons and worldview, making you feel like you’re part of something bigger. Around the globe, social connection and support have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting overall health and well-being.

A quick peek at Reed’s Crossing on social media will show you posts about impromptu wine nights, folks leaving flowers for a new neighbor, block-party potlucks, and more. And that’s on top of the HOA-sponsored events designed for all homeowners in the community, like movies in the park or celebrations of popular holidays and cultural events. From resident clubs to spontaneous gatherings, the people at Reed’s Crossing love their neighbors—and it shows!

“It's easy to meet new people at Reed’s Crossing… It's easy to spark up a conversation about pets, kids on the playground, or upcoming events in the neighborhood. Folks around here are really friendly.” — Brian, resident since 2021

Interested in living healthier in South Hillsboro? Take a virtual tour, come by for a visit, or sneak a peek at what’s in store for the future.