Arizona Questions (Phoenix, Peoria, Sun City: HOA, home, buying)

[arizonalover]

We are a Canadian couple who will be in the Phoenix area this summer to look for a home to purchase. We will eventually spend 6 months in Arizona and 6 months back home. We are interested in the areas just north of Phoenix, and will be buying in a gated or non gated community. The communities I am interested in are Westbrook in Peoria, Marley Park, AZ Traditions, Sun Village in Surprise, Litchfield Park in GoodYear, Estrella Mountain Ranch, Sun City Festival in Buckeye, Sun City Grand, and Corte Bella near Peoria. Does anyone have any suggestions about the gated communities with too much policing. I don't mind it if it is gated, as long as it is not too restrictive. The other question I had was about the winter temperatures. Someone told me that Surprise is a little cool in the winter. We will be spending the winter months in Arizona, and would hope that the temperature is not too cool. I would appreciate any feedback from anyone familiar with the area.

[Hassayampa Slim]

I'll take the last question first... Surprise, having been out a ways from the Phoenix Metro Urban area has always been a little cooler, both in winter and summer. However, with all the developments, both residential and commercial, the difference is narrowing. But even before the growth, the difference was generally on five degrees or less.
As to restrictions in Gated communities (I assume you mean the HOA rules, which sometimes exist in non-gated also) this is very dependent on the individual. Generally the restrictions do promote a well cared for community, but there is a degree of freedom given up. If your in to vegetable gardening, or other outside hobbies, check the community rules to see if they are permitted. Make sure there is adequate resident and visitor parking, as vehicle restrictions are always a source of problems. Also, make sure it's an established community with stable ownership. Recently many communities are suffering from HOA dues collection problems, which can cause budget issues, curtailment of services, and disgruntled residents. It's a very individual preference thing, but check everything out in detail before buying. Good luck, and happy winters.