Single women now make up more than 22 percent of the new home buyers market and are increasing in numbers every day, according to the National Association of Realtors. Second only to traditional two-income families and nearly triple the rate of single men, single women now have more options than ever in new home designs tailored for their lives.

"When I decided to buy a home, the things that were important to me were that it be low maintenance and have manageable payments I could afford on one income," said Paula Alexander, a new homeowner at Lennar's Barrington at Providence community. Her Del Mar model is a 1,749-square-foot home with three bedrooms and two baths.

"Barrington is gated, which makes me feel safer," said Alexander, a law enforcement officer. "It's also close to shopping and both the 215 and 95 freeways, which make it convenient for my personal lifestyle."

Lennar's "Everything you want, everything you need" philosophy also factored into Alexander's home-buying experience, she said.

"The home came with all the appliances, including stainless- steel refrigerator, gas range, washer and dryer, prewiring for ceiling fans, cable TV and Internet as well as window coverings throughout," she said. "Those are things that would have taken time and money for me to do. Instead, it will be ready for me to move in and start living there immediately."

According to recent research by NAR and Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies, women's salaries are rising overall. This greater sense of financial independence makes it easier for single women to purchase and make payments on a home themselves rather than relying on a second household income. Among these independent women is new Lennar homeowner Doris Mo.

"I sold my house in San Francisco's Bay Area in 2006," said Mo, a flight attendant. "I wanted a bigger, better house. One that fit my busy lifestyle better. I have a beautiful home with a swimming pool and spa. It is definitely something I would never have had in San Francisco."

Mo's St. Tropez model at Clermont in Anthem Highlands is a 1,898-square-foot home with three bedrooms, 21/2 baths and a two-car garage.

Single women have unique needs in a new home and community, according to experts with the Joint Center for Housing Studies.

A 2006 report showed many specific needs of the demographic group. Among Lennar's designs for single women are features offering added security. Lighted walking paths, seen at the builder's Antelope neighborhood, and gated entrances give owners a sense of security.

"The gated community makes me feel more comfortable and secure," said Antelope homeowner Michele Thompson. The Texas transplant found that Lennar's attention to her need for convenience made Antelope a perfect choice for her new home.

"My new home consultant Norma Edwards spent the time to send photos, floor plans and site maps to me in Texas," she said. "That really made the difference for me and made me feel much more secure in buying the home from another state."

Edwards has worked for Lennar for four years.

"When working with someone like Michele, I always remember to put myself in their shoes. This is such an important decision for anyone, let alone a single woman. I want to make sure they are comfortable and confident with the decision they are making. There shouldn't be any pressure in buying a new home, and I strive to make the experience fun and exciting -- because it truly is."

For Luisa Soberano, a single mom who recently purchased her first home at Lennar's Walnut Grove neighborhood, working with the builder's sales agents made the difference between an overwhelming and a pleasant experience.

Soberano said her children are thrilled to have a home of their own with several nearby parks and recreation opportunities. Walnut Grove is located in North Las Vegas' Sierra Ranch master plan.

"We have put so much effort over the years into serving this very important customer group, from research and development to design to delivering on the promise of safety, security, convenience, and style," said Jeff Galindo, vice president of marketing and sales. "It's very satisfying to know that customers like Ms. Alexander, Ms. Mo and Ms. Thompson are so delighted not only with their Lennar homes but also with their overall home-buying experience."

For more information, call 877-205-0449 or visit Lennar.com.