08/03/2026
Master-planned 55+ communities offer incredible resort-style living, but buying into one is very different from a standard neighborhood. Before you start packing, here are 3 critical things you need to know:
1️⃣ The 80/20 Rule (You don’t always both have to be 55!): Did you know that not everyone in the home has to be 55? Under the federal Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), at least 80% of occupied units must have at least one resident who is 55 or older. This means that as long as one spouse meets the age requirement, the younger spouse can usually live there too.
2️⃣ Don't Just Look at the HOA Fee—Look at the Reserve Study: HOA fees in active adult communities typically range from $200 to $800 a month to cover all those amazing amenities like clubhouses, fitness centers, and pools. Because these high-use amenities depreciate quickly, it is crucial to review the HOA’s "Reserve Study" during escrow to make sure the community has enough funds to maintain them without hitting you with surprise assessments later.
3️⃣ The Grandkid & Rental Rules are Strict: Can the grandkids visit? Yes! But can they move in? Almost never. Most 55+ communities have strict CC&Rs that limit how long younger visitors can stay—often capping visits to 15 to 90 days per year. Additionally, if you plan to rent the home out eventually, be warned: many of these communities severely restrict or outright prohibit rentals to maintain their age-restricted status.
Buying in a 55+ community is an amazing lifestyle upgrade, but having an agent who understands the fine print is essential.
📲 Thinking about making the move to an active adult community in Southern California? DM me "RESORT" and I’ll send you my curated list of the best 55+ neighborhoods in our area!
