Sundance II Homeowners Association

 Quorum Article - June 2001

Sundance II HOA occupies some 20 acres in the northern part of Palm Springs on the west side of N. Ave Caballeros. It has an interesting history.

Sundance was built in 1985. It started out as a resort retreat developed by the Murchison family, the then owners of the Dallas Cowboys. It then became a time-share operation, which failed and had to be auctioned off. The third time being the charm, it is now a thriving and successful homeowner association. However, the concierge desk that still exists in the Sundance clubhouse evidences the resort and timeshare origins of this development.

There are 60 duplex villas at Sundance in three different models ranging from approximately 1,740 to 2,000 square feet, with either 2 or 3 bedrooms. Most units have a central atrium and all feature extra large master bedrooms, attached double garages, vaulted ceilings, and wet bars. However, what makes the Sundance villas special is that all have their own pool and spa in private, walled rear yards. During the past 12 months Sundance units have sold from $190,000 to $287,000, depending on size, condition and upgrades.

Sundance is a walled and gated community.  The clubhouse is about 5,000 square feet. In addition to the manager’s office, it contains full catering facilities including a kitchen, wet bar, and dining tables. It also houses a handball court and a small but well-equipped gym. The outdoor patio/sitting area is close by 2 lighted tennis courts. Even though each condo has its own private pool, the common area facilities include 2 large pool and spa sets. And an unusual feature inherited from the resort and timeshare days is that each common area pool and spa is complete with sauna.

Arlene Springer is the on site manager for Sundance. She has worked directly for the association on a part time basis for eight years. Covenant Management handles the bookkeeping and prepares the financial statements. Arlene assists the association’s 5-member board of directors, which acts as its own committees. 

With only three units per acre, there is a relatively large expanse of greenbelt. Greenview Landscape is responsible for its maintenance. Aqua Medic maintains the common area pools and spas. Association dues are $380 per month, and include water and trash collection as well as the typical common area expenses.

Sundance is at that age in an association’s life when long-term maintenance issues come to the fore. The Board and management are well on top of this challenge. During the past several years new roofs were installed on all units, the roads were resurfaced and virtually all of the mechanical systems have been replaced or refurbished. Last year the entire property was repainted.

As Jim Morrison, a long-time resident and President of the HOA stated: “Sundance is a special place. Where else could you find a condo that offers total privacy as well as acres of enclosed land where you can stroll around admiring the beauty of the mountains while your dog runs in safety?”