55+ Community Living Guide

Age-restricted communities are designed specifically for active adults aged 55 and older:

Age Restrictions: To qualify as a 55+ community, at least 80% of homes must have one resident who is 55 or older. Some communities require all residents to be 55+, while others allow a percentage of residents aged 45-54.

Community Types in Santa Clarita: - Active Adult Communities: Larger developments with extensive amenities, social programs, and activities - 55+ Neighborhoods: Smaller sections within larger master-planned communities - Manufactured Home Communities: More affordable options with monthly space rent - Condominium/Townhome Communities: Lock-and-leave convenience with minimal maintenance

What Makes Them Different: - Age restrictions create quieter, more mature environments - Amenities and activities designed for active adults - Often single-story or elevator-equipped buildings - HOAs typically handle exterior maintenance - Social calendars with events, clubs, and classes - Enhanced security and gated access in many communities

Age-restricted communities offer unique advantages for active adults:

Low-Maintenance Lifestyle: HOAs typically handle landscaping, exterior maintenance, and common area upkeep. Spend your time enjoying life rather than maintaining a property.

Resort-Style Amenities: Many Santa Clarita 55+ communities feature: - Clubhouses with event spaces and gathering areas - Swimming pools and spas - Fitness centers with age-appropriate equipment - Golf courses or putting greens - Tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball courts - Walking trails and parks - Arts and crafts studios - Library and computer centers

Social Opportunities: Built-in social networks with neighbors in similar life stages. Participate in clubs, classes, group trips, holiday celebrations, and regular social events.

Safety & Security: Many communities offer gated access, security patrols, and emergency response systems. The active, involved nature of residents creates natural neighborhood watch.

Financial Predictability: HOA fees cover many services, making monthly costs more predictable. No surprise expenses for exterior repairs or landscaping.

Downsizing Benefits: Move from a large family home to a right-sized space that's easier to maintain, heat, cool, and navigate as you age.

Age-Appropriate Design: Homes often include wider doorways, fewer stairs, accessible showers, and lever-style door handles—features that increase comfort and safety.

Santa Clarita offers several established and new 55+ communities:

Active Adult Neighborhoods:

Valencia Summit: Established community in Valencia with single-family homes, clubhouse, pool, and activities. Homes typically range from $650,000-$900,000.

Mountaingate: Gated community with custom homes in a hillside setting. Larger lots and premium pricing ($800,000-$1.5M+).

The Preserve: Newer active adult community with modern amenities and contemporary home designs.

Manufactured Home Communities:

Valencia Meadows: Affordable option with space rent model. Well-maintained community with clubhouse and activities. Homes from $200,000-$400,000 plus monthly space rent.

Golden Valley Ranch: Established manufactured home community with mountain views and community amenities.

Coming Soon & In Development: Santa Clarita continues to see new 55+ developments, particularly in the Valencia and Castaic areas, as demand for active adult housing grows.

Location Considerations: - Proximity to healthcare facilities (Henry Mayo Hospital, medical offices) - Access to shopping and services (Valencia Town Center, Westfield Mall) - Entertainment options (Performing Arts Center, restaurants) - Easy freeway access for visiting family - Cultural amenities (libraries, museums, community centers)

Evaluate these factors before choosing a 55+ community:

HOA Fees & What's Included: Monthly fees typically range from $200-$600+ depending on amenities. Understand exactly what's covered: - Landscaping and exterior maintenance - Amenity access and upkeep - Security services - Master insurance (you still need personal coverage) - Trash/recycling services - Water/sewer (sometimes)

HOA Financial Health: Review: - Reserve funds for future capital improvements - History of special assessments - Planned fee increases - Deferred maintenance issues

Age Verification Requirements: Communities require proof of age for all occupants. Understand: - Exact age requirements (some allow 45+, others strictly 55+) - Guest stay limitations - Restrictions on adult children visiting or staying

Resale Restrictions: Some communities have rules about selling, including: - Age verification for buyers - HOA approval processes - Listing and showing restrictions - Transfer fees

Future Needs: Consider aging-in-place potential: - Is the home single-story or does it have elevator access? - Can doorways accommodate wheelchairs if needed? - Are bathrooms accessible and modifiable? - Is the community near medical facilities? - What happens if you need assisted living in the future?

Lifestyle Fit: Visit multiple times at different hours: - Attend a social event or club meeting - Talk to current residents about their experiences - Evaluate activity level—too quiet or too busy? - Assess whether the social culture fits your personality - Review the activity calendar for interests that match yours

Purchasing in a 55+ community has unique steps:

1. Pre-Qualification & Age Verification - Get pre-approved for financing - Prepare documents proving age (driver's license, birth certificate) - Understand any occupancy restrictions

2. Community Research - Tour multiple communities in Santa Clarita - Review CC&Rs and HOA documents carefully - Analyze HOA budgets and reserve funds - Talk to residents about their experience

3. Make an Offer - Standard offer process similar to other homes - May need to include age qualification addendum - Some communities require HOA approval before or after offer

4. Due Diligence - Standard home inspection - Thorough review of HOA documents - Verify all amenity access and rules - Understand maintenance responsibilities

5. HOA Application - Complete application process - Submit age verification documents - Pay application and transfer fees - Wait for HOA approval (usually formality if age-qualified)

6. Closing - Standard closing process - Additional HOA transfer fees (typically $200-$500) - Receive amenity access cards/keys

Financing Considerations: - Some lenders have restrictions on manufactured home communities - High HOA fees may affect debt-to-income ratios - FHA/VA loans may have additional requirements for 55+ communities - Consider shorter loan terms if you're already retired

Successfully transitioning to 55+ community living:

Downsizing Tips: - Start decluttering early—donate, sell, or gift items you won't need - Measure your new space and plan furniture placement - Digitize photos and documents to reduce physical storage needs - Keep only items you use regularly or truly love - Consider a storage unit temporarily if you're not ready to part with everything

Getting Involved: - Introduce yourself to neighbors - Attend community events and social gatherings - Join clubs or start new ones based on your interests - Volunteer for community committees or leadership roles - Use amenities regularly—you're paying for them

Maintaining Independence: - Stay physically active using community fitness facilities - Keep your mind sharp with classes and social interaction - Build a support network of neighbors and friends - Plan for future transportation needs as driving becomes challenging - Know your healthcare options and nearby facilities

Family Considerations: - Understand guest policies for children and grandchildren - Plan visits around community rules (some restrict length of stays) - Have honest conversations with family about your decision - Include family in the process if they're involved in your care

Santa Clarita Advantages: - Mild climate year-round allows outdoor activities - Excellent healthcare at Henry Mayo Hospital - Lower cost of living than coastal California - Cultural activities and entertainment options - Close enough to Los Angeles for occasional visits - Safe community with low crime rates