Sun Lakes

Chandler, AZ

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$506,250 (June 2025)
Median Home Price
Moderate (most errands require a car, but internal paths and golf carts are common)
Walkability Score
No public or private schools within Sun Lakes; not a family-oriented community. Nearby Chandler schools are highly rated but not relevant for most residents.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Located south of Chandler, Sun Lakes is bordered by Riggs Road to the north, Hunt Highway to the south, Alma School Road to the west, and Dobson Road to the east. It is a master-planned community comprised of five country club neighborhoods: Oakwood, Ironwood, Palo Verde, Cottonwood, and Sun Lakes Country Club.

Zip Codes

8524885249

Market Data Summary

Price Range$425,000–$600,000+ (most homes)
Price per Sq Ft$266 (June 2025)
Inventory LevelsModerate; turnover is steady but new construction is limited due to built-out nature of the community.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family detachedPatio homesVillas

Architectural Styles

SouthwesternRanchContemporary (in Oakwood)

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes0.15–0.25 acres; some larger lots in Oakwood and Palo Verde
Home Age RangeBuilt between late 1970s and early 2000s; Oakwood has the newest homes (late 1990s–early 2000s)
Construction QualityGenerally high, with well-maintained exteriors and common areas; many homes have been updated or remodeled.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Population ~14,000. Predominantly 55+ active adults; diversity is moderate. Most residents are retirees or semi-retired professionals.

Community Vibe

Friendly, social, and supportive. Strong sense of community with frequent events, clubs, and activities. Described as 'adult Disneyland.'

Typical Residents

  • Retirees
  • Snowbirds
  • Active adults (55+)

Family Friendly

Not designed for families with children; primarily age-restricted (55+). No public schools within the community.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Multiple golf courses
  • Pickleball and tennis courts
  • Heated pools and spas
  • Fitness centers
  • Walking/biking trails
  • Clubhouses with event spaces

Dining Options

  • On-site restaurants and bars (country clubs)
  • Nearby Chandler dining (within 10 minutes)

Shopping Centers

  • Fry’s Marketplace
  • Sprouts Farmers Market
  • Chandler Fashion Center (15 min drive)

Local Businesses

  • Golf pro shops
  • On-site cafes and bars
  • Hair salons
  • Fitness centers

Education & Schools

No public or private schools within Sun Lakes; not a family-oriented community. Nearby Chandler schools are highly rated but not relevant for most residents.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

    Middle Schools

      High Schools

        Private Schools

          Transportation & Accessibility

          Transit & Roads

          Public Transit

          • Limited Valley Metro bus service nearby; not within community

          Major Roads

          • Riggs Road
          • Alma School Road
          • Dobson Road
          • Hunt Highway

          Commute & Walkability

          Commute Times20–30 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport; 10–15 minutes to downtown Chandler; 30–40 minutes to downtown Phoenix.
          WalkabilityInternal walkability is good for recreation; errands typically require a car or golf cart.
          ParkingAmple parking; most homes have 2-car garages and driveway space. Guest parking available at clubhouses.

          Marketing Intelligence

          Target Buyer Types

          • Retirees (55+)
          • Snowbirds
          • Active adults relocating from colder climates

          Key Selling Points

          • Resort-style amenities
          • Active social calendar
          • Gated security
          • Golf and recreation
          • Low-maintenance living

          Pricing Considerations

          Homes with modern updates and golf/lake views command premium pricing. Original-condition homes may require price adjustments.

          Common Objections & Response Strategies

          Objection: No public schools or family amenities

          Response Strategy:

          Emphasize the active adult lifestyle and community focus; not intended for families with children.

          Objection: Older home stock in some areas

          Response Strategy:

          Highlight remodeled properties and the opportunity for buyers to customize homes to their tastes.

          Objection: HOA fees and restrictions

          Response Strategy:

          Detail the value provided by HOA (security, amenities, maintenance) and compare to similar communities.

          Objection: Limited walkability to off-site shopping/dining

          Response Strategy:

          Stress internal walkability, golf cart accessibility, and proximity to Chandler amenities.

          Investment Insights

          Investment Potential

          Appreciation Potential

          Moderate; steady appreciation due to limited new supply and strong retiree demand. Not a high-growth area but stable.

          Rental Demand

          Consistent, especially for seasonal (winter) rentals. High demand from snowbirds and short-term retirees.

          Buyer Competition

          Moderate; neutral market with balanced buyer and seller activity.

          Best For

          • Retirees
          • Snowbirds
          • Active adults seeking community lifestyle

          Potential Concerns

          • Limited appeal for families or younger buyers
          • HOA fees and restrictions
          • Older home stock in some phases

          Professional Recommendations

          1

          Emphasize lifestyle and amenities in all marketing materials.

          2

          Host community tours and highlight clubhouses, pools, and golf courses.

          3

          Network with out-of-state agents and retirement relocation specialists.

          4

          Stay informed on HOA updates and amenity improvements.

          5

          Advise buyers on seasonal trends and best times to purchase or rent.

          6

          Prepare for common objections regarding age restrictions and HOA fees.

          Competitive Analysis

          Comparable Markets

          • Leisure World (Mesa)
          • Trilogy at Power Ranch (Gilbert)
          • Province (Maricopa)

          Market Positioning

          Premier 55+ active adult community in Chandler with resort-style amenities and strong resale value.

          Competitive Advantages

          • Established community with mature landscaping
          • Multiple country clubs and amenities
          • Strong social culture

          Price Comparison

          Generally more affordable than Trilogy at Power Ranch, but higher than older 55+ communities in Mesa.

          Investment Metrics

          3.5%–4.5% for seasonal rentals (2025)
          Cap Rates
          4%–5% annualized for furnished short-term rentals
          Rental Yields
          ~19–21 (reflects strong owner-occupancy and moderate rental demand)
          Price-to-Rent
          Positive for well-priced, updated homes rented seasonally; limited for long-term rentals due to HOA fees.
          Cash Flow
          2%–3% annual appreciation expected, driven by retiree demand and limited new supply.
          Appreciation

          Buyer Journey Insights

          First-Time Buyers

          Rare; most buyers are experienced homeowners seeking retirement or second homes.

          Move-Up Buyers

          Common among those relocating from smaller or older homes in the region; often seeking more amenities or newer construction (Oakwood).

          Downsizers

          Very common; buyers moving from larger family homes to low-maintenance, single-level living.

          Investors

          Attracted to seasonal rental potential; must factor in HOA rules and age restrictions.

          Relocators

          Frequent, especially from Midwest and Pacific Northwest; value community, climate, and amenities.

          This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

          Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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