❄️ Skip the Snow Shoveling: Why The Knolls at Stony Brook Is the Smartest Move You’ll Make in 2026

If you’ve ever found yourself bundled up with a shovel in hand, wondering why you still live in a house that feels like more work than joy — you’re not alone. Each year, more North Shore homeowners are trading in snow blowers and roof rakes for a life of freedom, comfort, and community at The Knolls at Stony Brook, one of Long Island’s most desirable 55+ communities.

This year, instead of dreading another icy driveway, imagine sipping your morning coffee while someone else handles the shoveling.

That’s life at The Knolls.

🌸 About The Knolls at Stony Brook

Built in 1981, The Knolls is a charming active adult community on Long Island’s North Shore that perfectly blends privacy and connection. Every home here is a ranch-style unit, thoughtfully attached in small groupings that create a neighborhood feel without sacrificing tranquility.

There are three main models:

• Beech – 1,842 sq ft

• Aspen – 1,773 sq ft

• Dogwood – 906 sq ft

Each unit offers single-level living, central air conditioning, and electric heat. Many also feature private patios and lush green space, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors — when it’s not 20 degrees out!

Home prices in 2026 typically range from $450,000 to $650,000, depending on condition and updates.

💧 Maintenance-Free, Weather-Proof Living

The Knolls is all about living smarter, not harder. While homeowners in traditional single-family houses are worrying about ice dams and snowplows, residents here are free to relax knowing everything is taken care of.

Your monthly HOA fee covers:

• Lawn care and landscaping

• Snow removal (yes, even your driveway!)

• Exterior upkeep

• Common area maintenance

• Pool and clubhouse operations

That means no winter stress, no back-breaking shoveling, and no calling contractors when your roof or siding need repairs. It’s peace of mind built into your monthly routine.

As one resident put it: “Moving here felt like lifting a weight off our shoulders — literally and figuratively.”

🏊‍♀️ Amenities That Make Every Day Enjoyable

When you’re not relaxing at home, you’ll have plenty of ways to stay active and social. The Knolls features:

• Cozy clubhouse with lounge and social spaces

• Heated outdoor pool for summer enjoyment

• Bocce and shuffleboard courts

• Bingo, bridge, and community events year-round

The community is pet-friendly, and the HOA ensures that shared spaces stay beautiful — so you can spend more time enjoying life and less time managing it.

📍 Perfectly Located on the North Shore

Convenience is one of The Knolls’ greatest strengths. The community is close to everything you could possibly need:

• 🏥 Stony Brook University Hospital and local medical offices

• 🛍️ Smith Haven Mall, Marshalls, and Burlington for shopping

• ☕ Local coffee spots and restaurants for weekend brunch

• 📚 Emma S. Clark Memorial Library — one of Long Island’s most beloved libraries

• 🙏 Nearby places of worship and senior centers in both Stony Brook and Setauket

It’s an easy, connected lifestyle — with all the best parts of the North Shore just minutes away.

💬 Real Stories from Homeowners Who Downsized

“I couldn’t be happier with the experience of working with Shaughnessy to sell my home. She made a stressful process feel seamless and even enjoyable. Selling after 40 years was emotional, but she made it easy.”
— Renate H., Selden, NY

“Shaughnessy is amazing! She really listens, cares, and guided us through selling our mom’s home. It was overwhelming, but she made it manageable.”
— Barbara W., West Babylon, NY

“Shaughnessy went above and beyond to sell our home and help us relocate. Her attention to detail and kindness made all the difference.”
— Joan N., Medford, NY

These stories remind us that downsizing isn’t just about moving — it’s about finding peace, comfort, and community again.

📘 Ready to Ditch the Snow Shovel?

If 2026 is the year you decide you’re done with winter worries, start your transition with my free guide —
👉 Downsizing with Dignity — a compassionate, practical resource that helps you plan your move with confidence and ease.

🏆 Why Work With Me

With 12+ years of experience, $200M+ in closed sales, and 180+ five-star reviews, I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners make this same transition — from overwhelmed to overjoyed.

As a North Shore REALTOR® and longtime Stony Brook local, I understand the emotional and logistical sides of downsizing. My mission is simple:
Work hard. Be kind. Deliver results.

🌷 Make 2026 the Year You Lighten Your Load

If you’re ready to trade snow boots for slippers and responsibility for relaxation, The Knolls at Stony Brook might be the perfect place to start fresh.

📘 Download my free guide: Downsizing with Dignity
📲 Or contact me today to talk about buying or selling in The Knolls or other 55+ communities across Suffolk County.

Shaughnessy Dusling, REALTOR® | Real Broker | Serving Suffolk & Nassau Counties
Top 500 Agents on Long Island | Trusted North Shore Real Estate Expert | Best REALTOR® for Downsizing in Stony Brook, NY