Babcock Ranch Bridge View from the park trial

Family and Friendships Flourish at Babcock Ranch: Meet Kathy and John Houck

Friday, June 13, 2025

Babcock Ranch has a unique way of bringing people together—whether through friendly neighbors or shared community values. For Kathy and John Houck, moving to America’s first solar-powered town in 2019 has not only enriched their lives with new connections but also brought their family closer than ever. After two decades in the Fort Myers Beach area, they found a welcoming community at Babcock Ranch.
Houck and Habig families at Babcock Ranch

Discovering Community Spirit

Kathy and John’s journey to Babcock Ranch wasn’t an immediate decision. Initially, their visits to the area were casual, but over time, they realized that Babcock Ranch’s emphasis on sustainability, paired with the genuine camaraderie of its residents made it the perfect place for them. Kathy shares, “The friendliness here is really a draw. You can meet as many people as you want.”

What stood out to them was the sense of connection — not just between neighbors, but within the multigenerational community. Kathy adds, “There’s a lot of energy, more than other communities. We found the energy level and multigenerational feel attractive.”

In fact, it wasn’t long before Kathy and John’s daughter, Jaime Habing, and her family decided to make the move too. After a holiday visit to Babcock Ranch, Jaime, her husband Andy, and their two children relocated from Ohio. Kathy explains, “Of all the places we lived before, Babcock Ranch was the only one they said, ‘We could move here.’”

The Power of Multigenerational Living

One of the defining features of life at Babcock Ranch is its ability to bring people of all ages together. For the Houcks, multigenerational living has become one of the community’s most appealing aspects. Their grandsons, Jameson and Finn, are actively involved in Babcock High School’s athletic programs, playing multiple varsity sports. Andy, a teacher at the school, coaches the Trailblazers’ high school football, cross country, and track and field teams. As volunteers and passionate supporters, the family has integrated deeply into the Babcock Ranch community.

Jaime, a nurse at Lee Health, was also drawn to the sustainability and community-focused environment at Babcock Ranch. The school’s commitment to project-based learning was especially impactful, as it inspired the grandsons to build solar-powered cellphone chargers, which were donated to Ukraine.

Group Fitness Classes at Babcock Ranch

An Active and Fulfilled Lifestyle

Since moving to Babcock Ranch, Kathy and John have embraced an active lifestyle. Whether it’s fitness classes at WellWay in Founders Square, attending Food Truck Fridays, or enjoying the natural beauty on walks with their dog, Barley, the Houcks stay connected with their neighbors and the environment.

Kathy plays bridge with friends every week, participates in painting classes with local artist Linda Lucas, and enjoys cake-crafting classes with Janette Dulaney, a resident who appeared on Food Network’s “Cake Wars.” John, an avid golfer, enjoys frequenting Babcock National with friends, staying fit while connecting with the community.

The family-friendly atmosphere also extends to their growing participation in local events. Kathy shares, “If you want something to do, there’s all these activities. If you want to be busy, you don’t lack options. Being busy keeps you young.”

food trucks at babcock ranch new | Babcock Ranch

Signs of Growth

The Houcks have witnessed Babcock Ranch’s growth firsthand. When they first arrived, Slater’s was the only place to meet new people. Now, with stores opening at The Shoppes at Yellow Pine, Kathy is excited about the new shopping, dining, and entertainment options that will continue to enhance the community’s vibrant social fabric. “We’re getting more and more options every day,” she says.

The Shoppes at Yellow Pine is a major addition to the community, bringing restaurants and retail outlets that will create even more opportunities for social engagement.

Bike Trails at Babcock Ranch

A Sustainable Community for All Ages

For the Houcks, Babcock Ranch has not only enhanced their social lives but also deepened their understanding of sustainability. Since their move, they’ve even switched to an electric car, furthering their commitment to a greener lifestyle. “Babcock Ranch helped us become more aware of sustainability,” Kathy says. “The community does a nice job of encouraging residents in the right direction.”

The environmentally conscious design of Babcock Ranch encourages residents to make choices that benefit both their lifestyle and the planet. From solar power to energy-efficient homes, the Houcks have embraced the community’s dedication to eco-friendly living.

John and Kathy Houck Babcock Ranch | Babcock Ranch

Making Lasting Connections

What stands out the most for Kathy and John is the sense of community that defines Babcock Ranch. “The friendliness here is really a draw,” Kathy says. “You can meet as many people as you want” Whether through the local farmers market, sports events, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Babcock Ranch fosters an atmosphere where relationships thrive.

For Kathy, John, and their family, Babcock Ranch has become much more than just a place to live. It’s where they’ve found connection, purpose, and belonging.

Experience the Babcock Ranch Lifestyle

Babcock Ranch is a place where sustainability meets community, and new friendships are just waiting to be made. Discover your new lifestyle and find new friends at Babcock Ranch, where a variety of neighborhoods offer single-family homes, townhomes, villas, coach homes, and active adult 55+ living.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy starter home or an expansive estate, there’s a home for everyone, with prices ranging from the upper $200,000s to more than $4 million. Quick move-in homes are currently available, providing immediate closing for those ready to make the move today. For those interested in more flexible living, renters can also enjoy Babcock Ranch’s award-winning lifestyle with single-family homes and apartment options available in town.

If you’re looking for a home in a thriving, family-friendly environment that prioritizes wellness and connection, Babcock Ranch might be the perfect place for you. Start your journey toward a fulfilling life where nature, sustainability, and connection come together.