55+ Buyers & Relocators
Tucson, AZ Real Estate Guide
Many people are trading snow boots for sandals and choosing Tucson for retirement or a fresh start. In fact, Arizona is consistently the second-most popular retirement destination in the country, attracting tens of thousands of new residents over 55 each year. What draws them? Tucson’s endless sunshine, scenic desert mountains, and friendly communities. Neighborhoods like Oro Valley or Catalina Foothills offer golf courses and spas, while active-adult communities (SaddleBrooke or Green Valley) cater to 55+ lifestyles. A key to a smooth relocation is having a realtor who understands your needs many of my relocating clients appreciate how I've made myself available for FaceTime walkthroughs so they could tour homes from afar, and even provided referrals for every local service.
Things to Think About.
- Use remote tours. If you’re buying from out of state, leverage technology. Your agent can walk through homes live via FaceTime or Zoom, giving you a real-time look at each room as if you were there. This approach lets you shortlist favorite properties without flying out for every showing. Later, you can fly in for just the final choice. As HomeLight notes, a trusted agent’s virtual tour is the next best thing when you “can’t walk through” a home yourself.
- Research neighborhoods. Tucson has diverse areas. Do you want a quiet retirement community, or a house near hospitals and culture downtown? Catalina Foothills has luxury with city views, Oro Valley is newer and family-friendly, and Ventana Canyon feels tucked into the mountains. Each has its perks (and price points). A local agent will explain differences and even have info on nearby amenities like healthcare facilities or community centers, so you can pick a place that fits your lifestyle.
- Plan community life. As you settle, look into clubs and activities. Tucson has hiking clubs, art classes, and community events year-round (thanks to ~350 days of sun!). Being active and social helps ease the move. Many clients love Tucson’s warm winters – one called the lifestyle “outdoor living with mountain views.” Knowing where to find senior centers or social groups can make your transition smoother. Your agent can often connect you with local groups or even introduce you to neighbors.
- Take advantage of tax perks. Good news for retirees Arizona doesn’t tax Social Security benefits or inheritances, which can stretch your retirement income further. Property taxes are also relatively low here (in fact among the lowest in the nation). Our relocator clients appreciate knowing these financial benefits upfront. Be sure to discuss with a tax advisor how Arizona’s rules apply to you.
- Get an all-in-one guide. Many firms (including ours) offer relocation guides to Tucson. They cover neighborhoods, health care, utilities and more, making your planning much easier. We’ll help coordinate inspectors, movers, and even local contractors just like we have for past clients. As one couple said, having an agent ready with referrals and clear communication meant “we never had to guess what was going on.”
Welcome Home!
Moving here can feel like an adventure. By using virtual tours, learning about the area, and tapping into Tucson’s community resources, your relocation will be both exciting and stress-free. My goal is to make you feel at home long before you unpack, just as I’ve done for dozens of 55+ clients who now love calling Tucson “home.”