Active-Adult Ownership Checklist

Eligibility

Ask the association:

• Current age and occupancy policy, in writing.
• How ownership differs from residency.
• Guest and visiting-family rules.

Costs

Request:

• Dues by home type.
• Transfer and capital fees.
• Separate club or golf costs.

Maintenance

Clarify:

• What exterior work dues cover.
• Whether coverage differs by home type.

Resale

Understand:

• Required resale documents and timelines.
• Any association approval steps.

Using This Checklist

Bring a printed copy and ask the association or management company to answer in writing, citing the governing document where possible. Answers given verbally by a sales representative are not a substitute for the recorded documents. Where an answer depends on your personal circumstances, consult a qualified attorney.

Background reading: Active-Adult Living explains how age-restricted rules generally work, Sun City Carolina Lakes applies them to one community, and HOA amenities and separate memberships covers the club side. For taxes as a primary residence, see the property-tax guide.

Using This Checklist

Print this page or keep it open while you read the association's documents. For each item, note where the answer comes from — the declaration, bylaws, rules, budget, or a club agreement — and ask the association to confirm anything unclear in writing. Bring it to showings and to your attorney or agent.

Pair it with our active-adult living guide for background on 55+ rules and with HOA amenities and separate memberships for the club and amenity questions. If you are researching Sun City Carolina Lakes, start with its community guide, then return here.

After You Buy

If the home will be your primary residence, apply for the legal-residence assessment described in the property-tax guide. Confirm utilities by address with Utilities & Services. For downsizing projects, see renovations and interior design.