In Arizona, homes very close to or even touching golf courses are among the most sought-after properties in the state. Living near a golf course provides numerous benefits, including quick access to the links and breathtaking views of verdant, well-landscaped courses. Whether you're looking to purchase a home to live in full time or are just looking for a wintertime escape, Arizona real estate offers plenty of golf properties from which to choose--from condos to sprawling estates.

Home-Buying Criteria

Before scouting Arizona neighborhoods near golf courses, consider what you're looking for in a home. Ask yourself questions to determine your home-buying needs and wants. Where in Arizona would you like to live? If you have children, do you prefer any school districts over others? How much space are you looking for in a home? Are you looking for a home with a large backyard you can landscape, or would you like a property that requires little upkeep on your part, such as a condo? Are you looking for a newly built home or are you interested in an older home in an established neighborhood? Thinking about the answers to these questions and more will help you target your home search.

Finding Arizona Golf Neighborhoods

After you've decided what you're looking for in a golf home, start researching properties. Searching the Internet is a great, low-pressure way to find preliminary information about golf neighborhoods and homes. Websites such as GolfCourseRealty.com allow you to search for apartments, condos and homes for sale near golf courses within a specified radius of a zip code. They also provide pictures, descriptions and realtor contact information for properties. If you have your eyes set on a specific area or neighborhood, find a realtor that specializes in real estate in that area. Make sure to let him know your home-buying criteria and that you're interested in golf properties.

Other Considerations

After you've found a few golf neighborhoods that interest you, further pare down your search by researching neighborhoods. If one of the homes you are considering would be part of a homeowners' association, get a copy of the organization's rules and regulations to make sure you would be comfortable living in that community. If finding a neighborhood that is quiet and safe is important to you, look at area crime statistics. If you can, talk to any potential neighbors about what they like and don't like about living in the neighborhood. Even if you are just looking for a short-term residence, make sure you are familiar and comfortable with all aspects of the neighborhood, not just its greens.

Source:

GolfCourseRealty.com: Arizona Golf Communities

GolfersGuideLiving.com: Arizona Golf Communities