Open for Business. Property sales office opens in Administration building. Promoted in Washington Star newspaper, large crowds of prospective homebuyers enjoy coffee and petit fours, browse floor plans, carpet and drapery selections, and tour model homes.

Moving Day. Residential construction begins. First buyers move into Maryland Mutual, settling in townhomes on Gleneagles Drive. Education & Recreation Department organized. Golf course opens.

Design Innovations. Development of Mutuals 9 and 10 brings about new designs, introducing one-story “villas”—duplex homes offering two-car garages, patios, and fireplace option. Previous home styles were apartments and townhomes.

Largest Mutual Established. Maryland Mutuals 1-4 are combined and incorporated as Montgomery Mutual. The cooperative is the largest mutual with nearly 900 homes spread across 65 acres.

Self-Governance. Leisure World Community Corporation (LWCC), a resident-led voting body, is established. Wholly responsible for governance and operations of community, entity name is changed from community council to board of directors in 2006.

First High Rises. Construction begins on The Greens, a four-building complex overlooking golf course. First high-rises in community are marketed to prospective buyers in New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia helping to diversify resident population.

Resort-Style Amenities. Clubhouse II is constructed to provide more recreational and meeting space for growing number of residents. Clubhouse includes auditorium, indoor pools, ceramics studio, and bowling alley later transformed into fitness center.

Tribute to Founder. Named for Leisure World founder Ross W. Cortese, development of Villa Cortese begins. Four mid-rise buildings are sited near Clubhouse I. Final building completed in 2013 is last residential property constructed in the community.

Single-Family Homes. Construction of The Regency, a neighborhood of single-family homes, gets underway. Traditional, brick front residences add to broad selection of homes and price points offered in community.

Value Added. Facilities Enhancement Plan (FEP) is approved by board of directors. Renovation and construction projects invest in community amenities, improving spaces where residents dine, dance, and work out.

Golden Anniversary. 50th anniversary celebration marks milestone, recognizing the enduring value and beauty of our community and signaling a new era as the community continues to evolve, welcoming new generations of residents.