First and foremost the Phoenix metropolitan area encompasses over 500 square miles and there are dozens of golf course communities.Location, location, location... you have heard it said before. The very first thing you need to do is make a decision, what region of town do you want to reside.

Price range ought to be the next item considered. A number of golf communities in the Phoenix vicinity offer single family or patio homes for less than $100,000. Other communities are in the $150,000 to $250,000 range with a few of the more resort areas at $250,000 and more.

The next item on the list to decide is what amenities you want your community to have. An example could be is a gated community important? Is a guarded entry important? Other considerations could be a community pool, spa, tennis courts, restaurant(s), banquet facilities, bike/jogging paths, etc. Remember the more amenities the more your monthly HOA dues will run, which is also a essential aspect not to be ignored when purchasing in a Phoenix golf community. Monthly HOA charges can run from $60 a month to over $300 per month in some of the more exclusive areas.

The next consideration would be do you want to buy in a multi-generational development or a 55+ community? In a 55+ community at least one of the owners needs to be 55 years of age or more. A trend that has developed over the last 10 years is the multi-generational planned development. Builders and developers, after years of building 55+ age restricted communities thought the proposal of a multi-generational population would be desirable to a more varied population. This also needs to be considered when doing your research.

Last but not least do you want a townhome, patio home, single family detached or condo? Is being on a golf course lot crucial to you? As far as parking goes do you want a 2 car (or bigger) garage, 1 car garage or carport? Some homes even have small garage bays built specially for a golf cart. What about back yard pool, how many bedrooms, bathrooms and how much square footage will you need?

Bottom line is ask yourself the crucial questions above and do your investigation and due diligence first. Start with the big picture and continually narrow your search from area, too community and then to what type of residence. Using this approach will make getting your Phoenix golf home a lot more relaxed and definitely much less frustrating. Of course using a specialist that has familiarity of the areas and developments you are looking at will also prove to be invaluable.