Exterior Dwelling changes in Sun City Grand-Get approval!

Sun City Grand back patio

Having recently moved into Sun City Grand, I have had a bit of a focus on what you can and cannot do when it comes to your dwelling. While out riding my bike, I pay attention to what other homeowners have done to their dwellings. I must say that some of the changes are beautiful and have given me quite a few ideas of my own.

Having said that…

All changes to the exterior of a dwelling in Sun City Grand must have Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval before construction or installation. There of course is an application that must be completed and submitted to ARC.

The application is detailed and must be complete to be accepted. You can find this application at this link: http://www.grandinfo.com/ddocc/appendix_b.pdf

Homeowners that don’t following this process will undoubtedly be in violation if any changes were made to the dwelling without following procedure. If there is a violation an application must be submitted to ARC for approval. The owner has a 30 day period to make corrections. After the 30 day period, Standards will re-inspect the dwelling. If corrections haven’t been made a letter is sent to the homeowner. There are fines which are based on what the violation is of $100-$1000. The home owner may have their membership suspended if not rectified.

During the escrow/inspection period the Standards Department will check that the proper amount of shrubs and/or trees is planted. They will also make note of any changes to the dwelling and compare that to their records. If they find something that doesn’t meet the residential design guidelines or find that no application(s) were submitted for changes to the exterior of the dwelling, the homeowner will be asked to submit an application and correct those items in violation. Any violations found by Standards will be disclosed to the Title Company, homeowner and buyers.

In the case of a home in escrow, the same process applies. However the time period is usually less than 30 days. Standards will re-inspect and then fax the title company involved with the transaction when the dwelling is in compliance and has been approved.
If the home changes hands the new owner has 30 days to correct the changes themselves if they (the seller and buyer) agree to it, otherwise it is the current owners responsibility.

A current transaction that I am involved with had issues that needed correcting before close of escrow. Some of these items were costly to the seller and quite honestly unexpected expenses that needed to come out of their pocket. There was a lesson learned by all in this situation, get approval!

I encourage individuals to check into the procedures and guidelines of Sun City Grand before making changes to their dwelling. I encourage buyers to make sure they are aware of these as well.

Sun City Grand is a beautiful community for a reason; Community Management Association, CC&R’s, guidelines, rules, regulations and residents that care. I don’t know about you, but I’m happy we have these in place. It’s part of why I and many others live here and why others seek to live here too.

Josée