55yr old on disability wishing to re-locate to phoenix area (Mesa: HOA fees, condos)

[a55sled]

I'm 55,and recently awarded Social Security Disability. I live in the Sacramento area of California,but feel it will be too expensive for me to remain. I lived in Glendale, Az. from 1973 - 1974 while going to a vocational school. I am exploring the idea of moving back to the Phoenix area as it is a bit cheaper for housing. I would like to know which areas to flat out avoid as far as crime and Gangs are concerned.And which areas are close to restaurants,shopping,and medical facilities. My kids are grown,and on their own,so I don't care about schools.I think maybe a 55+ community might be best.I have an old High School friend that lives in East Mesa,and is quite happy with that area. Anybody have suggestions?

[backhome13]

I have a Friend that is living in the surprise area and it is next to sun city (55 living). He says it is pretty nice n quiet. I am getting ready to go back in the next month or so myself. I was there a couple of years ago loved it. I came back to Maryland to settle some private matter when the housing bubble busted and kept me here longer than i wanted dealing with finances. Got everything squared away and now i am beginning the house and job hunt.

[altus2006]

One thing about the Sun City area is that there are houses ranging from the mid 40's up. It is a good way to get into something that you can afford and be in a nice, safe area with tons of things to do.

If I were on a limited budget, I would look there first because it has much to offer and there are no gangs. It is a beautiful, well taken care of area.

Maybe someone will post the HOA fees for Sun City. I do not live there and do not know what those fees are.

altus2006

[AZJoeD]

Sun City, like a lot of over 55 communities, has the advantage of low property taxes because they do not pay school taxes. HOA fees vary among the communities and type of property. In Sun City Single Family homes do not require HOA fees, duplexes and condos will but fees will depend on the amount of service (building maintenance, roof maintenance, water, landscaping, etc.) the HOA provides.

In the east valley, Dreamland Villa and Sun Lakes provide a similar living environment and cost structure.

These communities were designed for retirees and are safe and affordable.

[KatrynS]

Originally Posted by AZJoeD

Sun City, like a lot of over 55 communities, has the advantage of low property taxes because they do not pay school taxes. HOA fees vary among the communities and type of property. In Sun City Single Family homes do not require HOA fees, duplexes and condos will but fees will depend on the amount of service (building maintenance, roof maintenance, water, landscaping, etc.) the HOA provides.

In the east valley, Dreamland Villa and Sun Lakes provide a similar living environment and cost structure.

These communities were designed for retirees and are safe and affordable.

On taxes: only if the community is fully incorporated (it's own city), otherwise you'll still be paying taxes for schools (because you are in a city that DOES have schools even if your subdivision does not). I know Sun City West doesn't pay school taxes (is incorporated), but I don't think Sun City Grand is, so you can't assume. Definitely check into that if you are looking at a 55+ community as it is a significant fixed cost. A lot of the homes are older (1970s), so factor that in as well. There are a lot of communities, both 55+ and traditional, to consider.

[Zippyman]

Originally Posted by KatrynS

On taxes: only if the community is fully incorporated (it's own city), otherwise you'll still be paying taxes for schools (because you are in a city that DOES have schools even if your subdivision does not). I know Sun City West doesn't pay school taxes (is incorporated), but I don't think Sun City Grand is, so you can't assume. Definitely check into that if you are looking at a 55+ community as it is a significant fixed cost.

I wouldn't limit myself to just 55+ communities just for property tax reasons - property taxes are very reasonable all over the valley, especially when compared to CA taxes.

The disadvantage to sun city is that there really is only one road in - bell. At certain times of the day, it's busy and slow.