Can someone under 55 buy in a 55 plus community?

Sometimes. Communities must keep at least 80 percent of occupied units with a resident 55 or older; how they handle the rest is set by their own rules. Ask the association.

Can my grandchildren stay with me in a 55 plus community?

Usually as guests for limited periods set by the rules. Read the community's guest policy.

Are 55 plus cooperatives harder to finance?

Often, because you buy shares rather than real estate and fewer lenders make cooperative loans. Consult a mortgage lender early.

Buying in a 55 Plus Community in Florida

Reviewed by Tyson E. Sam, Founder and Broker of Record, BreakThru Realty, Florida License 3565210

Published November 1, 2026

The Short Answer

A 55 plus community is allowed to limit residents by age under the federal and Florida fair housing exemptions for housing for older persons, as long as at least 80 percent of occupied units have a resident 55 or older and the community follows its age verification rules. Before you buy, read who may live there, who may visit and for how long, and what the community approval requires.

The Age Rules

Communities that qualify as housing for older persons must have at least 80 percent of occupied units with at least one resident 55 or older, publish and follow policies showing that intent, and verify ages. Each community sets its own rules for the remaining units, younger spouses, caregivers and how long children and grandchildren may stay. Read them before you buy.

Condo, HOA, Cooperative or Land Lease

A 55 plus community can be a condominium, a homeowners association, a cooperative or a manufactured home community on leased land, and each works differently. In a cooperative you buy shares, not real estate, and financing is limited. In a land lease community you own the home but rent the lot, and the lot rent can rise. Know which one you are buying.

Approval and Costs

Most communities approve each buyer with an application and often an interview. Ask for the dues, what they include, the reserves, any special assessments and any club or recreation fees, and add them to your monthly budget.

Resale and Rental Rules

Age restrictions narrow the pool of future buyers and renters, and many communities limit leasing. That can affect how quickly a home sells later; ask what recent sales in the community took.

Location, Services and the Years Ahead

Think ten years out. Check the drive to your doctors and the nearest hospital, whether the community runs transportation, how the clubhouse and activities are funded, and whether the home has a step free entry and a ground floor bedroom. A community whose amenities you will use is worth its dues; one whose amenities you will not use is a cost.

See the Homes for Sale

Talk It Through With a Broker

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