We have quite a few of those, too, but I've heard the crazy neighbor issues get even thornier with just one other HOA member.
We are leaning toward just buying a smaller home. There aren't too many one level homes here, and I'm good with that. If I need to move again when I'm 85, well, my kids can deal with that...
There is an over 55 community about 3 miles from here, in Acton. Detached patio homes, with a great floor plan (our neighbors moved to one with the same design in Sudbury). I have sworn I would not move to one an age restricted community, and what's worse, it's on a golf course, not my kind of people. But, it's detached, has a 2 car garage, and a basement that can be finished. Bedroom on main floor, one upstairs, and a huge loft that could be an exercise space. Also, a study and full dining room and eat in kitchen, along with great room. The price is right, but they are almost sold out. I just can't get myself to move this year.