Affordability seems to be a word that is often bantered about when discussing assessments, PIF fees, golf fees and guest fees. Exactly who defines what is affordable and what standards do they use? I am not trying to open pandora's box or stir the pot but would rather offer up a working definition for readers to shoot holes in. So here goes: Affordable or affordability as far as RCSC is concerned means to offer the same or similar recreational opportunities at a more attractive price than others seeking to compete for customers in their target market. Viewed in this light, affordable is a relative term and is based on market rates charged by competitors. It is not based on any one individual's financial position. It is also influenced by the socio-economic circumstances of the community's target market. Who are the people RCSC is trying to attract and retain and what can they afford? Admittedly, this may sound heartless when considering that some current customers (community members) are facing financial and physical difficulties. But, to develop a market strategy based on the lowest common denominator will surely result in Sun City becoming a low-income housing project. As many know, I have been advocating for retaining the services of an experienced urban planner to help RCSC find their way. The first question any urban planner is going to ask is what the current demographics of the community is and what the future demographics should be to assure the community remans vibrant and active. I would be very interested to hear your views on this affordability thesis.
Yes I can't say I agree with that! I would argue that affordability is, in fact, based on each individual's financial position. As affordable as Sun City is, we have about 10% who can hardly afford to live here! Is it relative that the cost to live in Sun City West is twice as much as living in Sun City? Sun City West provides fewer amenities than Sun City but it costs more to live there? What's relative about that? What am I missing?
When comparing amenities, I found this description about Mission Royale, located in Casa Grande. They continue to add to their community, forecasting 1292 total units to be added. They tout: “Residents enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle thanks to the Mission Royale HOA, which takes care of grounds maintenance. With more free time, homeowners can participate in community activities. A variety of clubs and interest groups provide the opportunity to live a socially active lifestyle. Homeowners gather on a regular basis to meet with others interested in crafts, sports, and arts. Some popular clubs include bunco, hiking, table tennis, fishing, beading, and more.” “Mission Royale is near multiple parks and green spaces, such as Pearl Park, North Mountain Park, Desert Botanical Garden, and Dave White Regional Park.” When talking about offering similar opportunities to market to, I believe we should be also looking at what other opportunities are being offered in nearby cities. The cost of homes in Mission Royale is much more affordable than comparable communities in Maricopa County. When exploring sites such as Realtor.com, it’s quite possible to find resale homes priced very competitive to those in Sun City West for style of home, design, square footage and construction. If looking to compare this community to Sun City, in my opinion, we don’t have the same amenities to offer. We can’t advertise green spaces, or space for small groups to meet with others to enjoy sports or arts. We do have clubs, but most require membership to attend, and most have limited times available to participate in my opinion. The cost of membership varies depending upon which neighborhood a person buys into. Some are gated, making them more expensive than those that aren’t. Average price for the fees are $132 per month. This is for a 1450 square foot house, 2/2 with 2 car garage and an asking price of $312k. In my opinion, the amenities offered are not exactly apple to apples. The homes are newer and have better curb appeal, and the lot size varies, but most seem to be around 6000 square feet. The cost comparison makes Mission Royale appear more expensive, but the amenities offered are those being sought in today’s market. How can we compete if we aren’t being competitive? If the market deems these are the things today’s buyers want, are we prepared to move in a different direction to meet the demand or are we going to rely on what we currently offer? Just trying to offer a glimpse of what the competition looks like and what it costs.
