One of the most common questions I hear from buyers looking at The Villages® and other 55+ communities is:
“Can my grandkids live with me?”
The answer is: it depends on the community.
Many grandparents today play a major role in helping raise their grandchildren. Some provide occasional care, while others have grandchildren living with them full-time. If you’re considering a move to a 55+ community, it’s important to understand the age restrictions before you buy.
Understanding the 55+ Rules
Most active adult communities operate under the federal Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA). Under these guidelines, at least 80% of the occupied homes in the community must have at least one resident who is 55 years of age or older.
Many buyers hear about the “80/20 Rule” and assume that means younger family members can automatically live in the community. That’s not necessarily true.
While federal law provides flexibility, each community’s governing documents, HOA, or community association determines its own residency and guest policies. Some communities are very accommodating, while others have strict limitations.
Can Grandchildren Visit?
In most 55+ communities, grandchildren can absolutely visit.
However, many communities place limits on:
- How long grandchildren can stay
- How many consecutive days they can visit
- Use of recreational amenities
- Pool access and supervision requirements
- Guest registration requirements
- Golf cart and vehicle usage
- Participation in community activities
Every community is different, so it’s important to review the specific rules before purchasing a home.
Can Grandchildren Live There Full-Time?
This is where things become more complicated.
Some 55+ communities allow exceptions for certain situations. Others may permit younger residents if the community remains compliant with federal occupancy requirements. However, many communities prohibit minors from being permanent residents altogether.
If you are currently raising a grandchild or anticipate that becoming a possibility in the future, this should be discussed before making an offer on a home.
I’ve seen buyers fall in love with a property only to discover later that the community’s rules don’t fit their family’s needs.
What About Adult Children?
Adult children are often treated differently than minor children.
Many 55+ communities allow adult children to reside with a parent, especially when one resident in the home meets the age requirement. Some communities have minimum age requirements for additional occupants, while others may impose occupancy limits.
Again, there is no universal rule. The governing documents of the specific community always control.
The Villages® and Other Florida 55+ Communities
Here in Central Florida, every age-restricted community has its own set of rules.
The Villages®, Del Webb communities, Stonecrest, Spruce Creek, Arlington Ridge, and many others each have unique governing documents regarding guests, grandchildren, and occupancy requirements.
Before purchasing, I always recommend reviewing:
- Community Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs)
- HOA documents
- Community residency requirements
- Guest policies
- Amenity usage rules
A little homework upfront can prevent major headaches later.
My Advice
If there is even a small chance that a grandchild or younger family member may need to live with you in the future, make that part of your home search from day one.
The home itself may be perfect, but the community rules are just as important.
After helping buyers and sellers in The Villages® and surrounding 55+ communities for more than 20 years, I’ve learned that every family’s situation is different. The key is finding a community that fits both your lifestyle today and your family’s needs tomorrow.
If you’re considering a move to a 55+ community and have questions about age restrictions, grandchildren, or residency requirements, I’d be happy to help you navigate the options and find the right fit.