NAU Parents: Buy a Condo or House Near Northern Arizona University

Instead of paying rent for four years, many parents buy a condo or small house near Northern Arizona University for their student, then rent out the extra bedrooms or sell after graduation. This page shows condos, townhomes, and houses for sale in the Old Town, University Meadows, University Heights, University Highlands, and University Terrace MLS areas around campus, updated automatically.

Getting around without a car

• Mountain Link, the direct bus route between Woodlands Village, campus, and downtown, is free for students with an NAU ID.

• Louie Line and Jacks Line campus shuttles, with real-time tracking.

• The Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) for walking and biking around town.

Around campus

• Downtown and the Southside district: Heritage Square, coffee shops, restaurants, and historic Route 66, just north of campus.

• On campus: the Walkup Skydome for Lumberjack games and events, and Cline Library.

• Everyday errands: groceries, pharmacies, and shopping along Milton Road and Butler Avenue.

• Weekends: Arizona Snowbowl, Buffalo Park, and Coconino National Forest trails.

• Condo or house? Condos and townhomes near campus usually mean less maintenance and an HOA that handles the exterior and snow. A small house gives more bedrooms to rent to roommates, plus a yard and garage.

• Can my student have roommates? Usually yes, but HOA rules and City of Flagstaff occupancy and rental rules apply, and some HOAs limit leasing. I read the CC&Rs before you write an offer.

• Who handles repairs and snow? I look at the HOA’s responsibilities, parking, and whether a local property manager makes sense, especially for out-of-state parents.

• What happens after graduation? You can sell to the next NAU family, keep it as a long-term rental, or hold it as an investment. I run those numbers with you before you buy.

• Insurance and taxes: ask your insurance agent about the right coverage when roommates pay rent, and your tax professional about how the rental income is treated.

I have personally bought 50+ houses and own Arizona rentals, so I look at every condo near campus as both a home for your student and an investment. Click Save Search to get new listings near NAU first, or call/text Michael Vallee at 480-848-5780 | Real Broker, LLC