Moving to Sun City from out of state: 2026 guide
A step-by-step plan for buying a Sun City home from another state, from your first video tour to getting your keys.
Check the age rule first
Sun City is an age-restricted community. Under the Sun City Home Owners Association (SCHOA) deed restrictions, at least one person living in each home must be 55 or older.
People under 19 can stay in a home for up to 90 days in any 12-month period, so visits from grandchildren are fine, but they cannot live there full time.
SCHOA may ask residents for a sworn age affidavit. If you are buying with someone under 55, confirm how the rule applies to your household with SCHOA before you make an offer.
Buying from a distance, step by step
- Set your budget. Get pre-approved with a lender you choose, so you know your price range before you shop.
- Tell me what matters. Single level, a pool, near a rec center, a smaller yard. I narrow the search to homes that fit.
- Tour by video. I walk each home on a live video call and point out what photos miss, like the roof, the street and the neighbors.
- Make an offer. Offers and contracts can be signed electronically. I explain each fee in writing before you sign.
- Inspect the home. You choose the inspector. You can join the inspection by video and get the report by email.
- Close and get your keys. Ask the title company about remote or mail-away signing. After closing, contact RCSC to set up your member cards.
Fees to plan for when you buy (2026)
- RCSC annual assessment: $680 a year per property
- RCSC Preservation and Improvement Fee: $4,000, plus a $500 transfer fee, when ownership changes
- SCHOA document fee: $300, usually paid by the seller
- SCHOA CC&R enforcement fee: $300, usually paid by the buyer
Who pays what
The purchase contract sets who pays each fee at closing. I go over every one with you before you sign, so nothing at closing is a surprise.
SCHOA membership itself is voluntary, at $25 a year. RCSC membership and its annual assessment come with the property.
What comes with a Sun City home
8 recreation centers
Run by the Recreation Centers of Sun City (RCSC) for members across the community.
8 golf courses
Also run by RCSC, spread across the community.
124 chartered clubs
Clubs for hobbies, sports and crafts, and a quick way to meet neighbors after you move.
Please note: fees, age rules and deed restrictions can change at any time. The details on this page were last checked in October 2026. Confirm current amounts and rules with SCHOA and RCSC before you buy. This page is general information, not legal advice. Sources: SCHOA CC&Rs and 2026 fee schedule (suncityhoa.org), RCSC 2026 fee sheet (revised Jan 28, 2026) and suncityaz.org.
Plan your move
Tell me when you’d like to move and what you’re looking for. I’ll set up a search and a first round of video tours.
See what is for sale
Browse every active Sun City listing, updated from the MLS.
Mike Vasquez, REALTOR®
Barrett Real Estate. Arizona real estate license SA631240000. Questions about this guide? Call or text (602) 698-7355, or read more about Mike.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a Sun City home without visiting first?
Yes. Many buyers tour by live video, join the inspection by video and sign remotely. Some visit once before closing, and that is up to you.
Can my grandchildren visit?
Yes. Under the deed restrictions, people under 19 can stay for up to 90 days in any 12-month period.
Do I have to join SCHOA?
No. SCHOA membership is voluntary. RCSC membership and its annual assessment come with every Sun City property.
Who pays the fees at closing?
The purchase contract sets who pays each one. I go over them with you before you sign.