Buyer Guide · Active Adult Living
Active adult living, with the real numbers.
The West Valley holds the deepest concentration of 55+ communities in Arizona. The lifestyle is easy to love. The fees, age rules, and resale realities are what separate a good decision from an expensive one.
What 55+ actually means
Communities marketed as active adult or 55+ typically operate under the federal Housing for Older Persons exemption, which allows age restrictions when at least 80% of occupied units have at least one resident 55 or older. Age rules vary by community, so verify the specific occupancy requirements before you commit.
The fee picture
Every active adult community has an HOA, and many add a Community Facilities District (CFD) assessment. Together they can add hundreds of dollars a month on top of your mortgage, taxes, and insurance. Ask for the current dues, the CFD amount, reserve fund health, and any pending special assessments.
Questions to ask before you buy
- What is the age-occupancy requirement, and does the community meet the federal 55+ housing exemption?
- What are the HOA dues, and what do they cover? Is there a CFD assessment on top?
- What is the state of the reserve fund, and are any special assessments pending?
- Are golf and club memberships included or extra?
- What are the resale restrictions, rental rules, and guest policies?
- How close are the medical, shopping, and airport access you will actually use?