As you know, there are plenty of articles published in magazines covering the topic of where to retire, including relevant decision-making criteria and data. Bids for small construction projects around The Villages can vary by as much as 100%!! They waste water, can stain the walls of the house, blow mist onto the windows, etc. Readers have strong views about the huge retirement community that offers countless clubs and activities and is largely white and conservative. Are you buying a home or a lifestyle how do you plan to use your home? If you decide to purchase close to The Polo field dont forget the impact of the PA system sound carry. Before we get into the 50 Things you should think about before/after buying a home in The Villages, lets briefly explore your retirement location decision-making process. You may move to The Villages with multiple vehicles. Living in the Villages Florida provides a unique experience thats affordable with a hospital nearby, safety measurements for a protected community, and veterans services. You shouldnt trust someone who gives you a one sentence bid proposal, runs their jobs without supervision-planning-coordination resources, and acts defensively when asked questions about the bid scope, progress, or work quality. There are plenty of lessons learned from other communities, Europe, etc., as to how to properly mark traffic lanes PRIOR to entering the roundabouts. Ryan, The Villages demands a premium on the following lots or land: Based on the lot, type of home, demand, and location, the premium can be from a few thousand dollars to over $200,000. Forgive them for wanting to enjoy a little peace in their final years. Some are able to get a building project with minimal documentation and simply engineer-on-the-fly as they go. I believe that you will all concede . If you like the look of water and water feature sounds you may want to consider Lanai/Birdcage landscape and fountain options as an alternative. The regular waste is transported by truck all the way to a landfill in Georgia! With its golf courses, recreation, leisure activities, and more to keep seniors active all year round, the Villages makes its way as a must-see destination for those considering retirement. These folks often change homes to get something larger. The VHA is made up of resident members and volunteers, but often slants towards only pro-Developer positions to the exclusion of contrarian points of view. This protection is aimed at electrical/electronic appliances that could be exposed to high voltages coming in on the utility entrance cables (electrical, phone, cable). A Tampa Bay Times inquiry on the 38,000-member Facebook group, "The Villages Word of Mouth," was revealing. There are two healthcare facilities in the Villages that provide access to physics, specialists, emergency care, and hospitals: Fitness Facilities with exercise equipment or classes are available, where residents can hit the cardio or weight training machines. Confederate flags on cars, carts and homes, and worse, nazi flags in stores around The Villages. Many people actually have no idea what criteria to use in selecting the best retirement approach and often fall into a trial-and-error mode, some even moving through a variety of experiences multiple times before happening upon what turns out to be most appropriate for them. Depending on your circumstances and the type of home you buy, the premium may be worth it. The Villages management will not mandate masks for indoors; restaurants with young servers, pro shops employed by older people, recreation centers where activities are at full capacity. The political subdivision language in the Florida statutes has led to some conflicts with the tax exempt nature of the bonds used to build certain properties in The Villages theres lots of reading on this topic if you are so inclined. This size and scale wasnt accomplished by accident. Accept. You need to be aware of this severe weather reality as contrasted with where you last lived. Browse photos, see new properties, get open house info, and research neighborhoods on Trulia. If you buy a home with a neighbor backing directly up to you you may have considered the potential noise and privacy consequences of this arrangement. An idea some streets have latched onto is working at getting one or two primary lawn care services to perform their work on multiple homes all on the same day. Nothing like making a visit to decide for yourself. This review will go in-depth, covering every detail of what its like living in the Villages Florida. But, here goes. For many people, the enjoyment of all The Villages has to offer clearly outweighs the desire to be part of a more diverse and balanced community from a broad societal demographic perspective. Since they have 15 digit VIN numbers just like automobiles the insurance companies are generally unable to provide lower cost insurance options. While some may feel threatened, it is the commercial infrastructure of The Villages that should serve us well into the future if things deteriorate businesses will suffer; therefore, there is motivation to maintain and/or improve. THE VILLAGES is a federally registered trademark of Holding Company of The Villages, Inc. Did you know that we buy houses (fast and for cash)? Also, the many retention ponds around The Villages have greater or lesser amounts of circulation (most are interconnected with others in ways that allow for level control and optimum irrigation storage). (created by THE Villages Florida Newcomers subscribe here). There are three movies theaters at the Villages: The Villages Polo Club is fast-paced entertainment for residents to watch, as polo players provide exciting, heart-pumping action. However, The Villages continued to grow in every way possible throughout this crisis. They can become unstable at high speeds when sudden maneuvers are required. There is a weekly farmers market, Strawberry Festival, and Sleepy Holloween.. The best time to get this going is when the street is new because once homeowners go their own way it will be nearly impossible to get individuals to change their favorite lawn care service habits. THE VILLAGES, Fla.Florida Gov. Chances are, once you complete one of these projects you will find that quiet time on the Lanai may exceed the awake time spent indoors. Share knowledge and skills with residents and learn different sports or hobbies. Interesting language. While its easy to say that cars always have the right-of-way thats like saying the same relative to bicycles, pedestrians, motor scooters, etc. That task is the responsibility of each establishment and is being accomplished. And, read through the 50 Things topics a few times concurrent with the decision-making process that will unfold as you truly experience The Villages for an extended period of time. Plantation shutters, blinds or various fabric window treatments? Remember, they act as sellers agents, not buyers agents. Its amenities, fancy food, nightlife, and activities allow residents and visitors to have fun all day without a dull moment. A new study done in October 2020 suggests that rising sea levels may threaten the value of homes near the water. When homes along the street start to accumulate residents it is very important to engage in social opportunities and support organizational efforts like the formation of golf groups, book clubs, Flamingo parties, card groups, etc. Typically if you carried a mortgage on your lot/home, you were simply paying principle and interest over say a 15 or 30 year time period. On my block there are very diverse political opinions, but our first priority is to be good neighbors to each other. the covenants and restrictions are too restrictive. Im scared of what will happen when The Villages is built out will it deteriorate like other planned communities Ive heard about? I resent the Developer (too successful, makes too much money, individuals cant have a say in how things are run, too dictatorial, etc). Most of the businesses seem to lead back to the Developer in some way, surely this cant be right? I dont like that the Country Clubs dont function like the Country Club where I used to live (they are simply separate commercially operated golf course and restaurant operations, not social organizations benefiting the residents/members). I dont play golf so why do I want to live in The Villages? Surely we can get some minor changes made to our new home during construction? Some stories are told about little side deals between buyers and subs on the jobsite, but often the subs are chastised by The Villages/general contractor builder if they find out this is occurring. Maybe you feel it necessary to simply hang some blinds for privacy and light control. Will you get a break on your homeowners insurance? If you use an electrical contractor, shop around and ask some leading questions. The Villages focuses on keeping residents active and social, with everything they need throughout the community. . About the Author:Kris Lippi is the owner of ISoldMyHouse.com, the broker of Get LISTED Realty and an official member of the Forbes Real Estate Council. Stash your filing cabinet in a closet for your paper records. Costs can be $200 to $500, maybe more, depending on an individual budget for dining out. You may very well chose to forgo the cost of an LPS system, but everyone should install surge protection. Resales are as common as new sales, with two options available: Its best to do both options to see everything available because you may only see 60% of whats available through the developer. Our Homeowner Association(s) is not like the one you had where you last lived. Theres a rule-of-thumb; never downsize more than 50%, and even this sort of change can be too much for some. They decided to buy a large home because they had cash out of their prior home sale, they wanted to have room to entertain, they wanted to have plenty of space for the kids and grandkids, or, some wont necessarily admit it, but they wanted the prestige of a larger home. If you truly want to enjoy your Lanai space you may want to consider a range of improvement options. In particular, the Villages are infamous for their golf courses and golf carts, where residents enjoy state-of-the-art facilities. Many people pick up on this dynamic and it biases them towards buying a new home rather than a resale. There are an array of things to do in the Villages, such as: There is entertainment for residents all year round, featuring performing arts, movies, and theater. At least you have the rich and ever-changing demographic of The Villages to work with something you may not have if you choose some other retirement location option. Note that some people have taken out home equity loans to pay off the bond, and then deduct the home equity interest again talk to your tax advisor. I know some people that bought their new home with the expectation that they would spend very little money after moving in, with the exception of maybe window treatments and a few new furnishings. Most people I know who live here want to enjoy the rest of their life peaceably and without drama. Love the Villages.I have been there twice for a few days each time.Sadly,I do not have the income to buy the house worth moving to Florida.But,I will wait till the housing market takes a down turn.I presently,live in Northeast Ohio in a very friendly and up scale neighbor.My house cost me under $200,000.The viability score for my neighborhood in Ohio ranked 92.The Villages was ranked 79. Now, the community is being featured in a newly released documentary called Some Kind of Heaven. But there have been prior allegations of a wild swingers scene loaded with booze and drugs. Yes, they may be better than the ones in Texas, but they are not comparable to Hawaii or the Caribbean beaches in any way. Areas are packed with residents on an evening or nightly basis, enjoying entertainment and company. You can see how the list can grow and grow. Be patient when change doesnt happen overnight. Its really best if newcomers think this through carefully. Maybe there is the appearance of a herd mentality and folks are getting a bit scared of the phenomena? Some are literally amazed at the tremendous job the Developer (this term is an umbrella term used to refer to the various family members, numerous associated companies and relationships, and the staff of The Villages organization) has done in creating our community. If The Villages loses its appeal and deteriorates, then the Developers family (and friends) will suffer. It always makes me conscious of being alive and appreciative of each and every day. 1 / 21. A few people have their home expectations calibrated to this level, or they dont feel the need to spend more money to alter or personalize their home. However, if you do begin to pay a premium, there is no guarantee you will recoup the premium cost. . Im a Democrat, have lived in Florida for almost 36 years, and I love Florida. Dont assume that you will always be able to stay inside and avoid these and other noises. After six years homeowner representatives are elected to CDD boards. Some folks come down with multiple cars, trucks, SUVs, etc and then fail to purchase a home with enough garage space, then they park the extra vehicles in the driveway or on the street. The energy used to heat and cool your home is a function of the average temperature in your home compared to the average temperatures outside. A better way to go is to have a dedicated drip system. The largest retirement community in Florida is billed as a playground for seniors, but according to some residents, it's not all that meets the eye. make a list of your own questions before you come for a LIFESTYLE VISIT. We are very positive we hope to rent 3-4 month before we buy a home and become a permanent resident. On the golf course they feel that falling out or being thrown out of a cart in the event the cart were to roll over is safer than the alternative. Learn all about the #1 55 place with the retirement lifestyle you've been searching for right here in The Villages, Florida. Where To Get Free Moving Boxes? Their power is somewhat limited however and generally falls to budget management only. If you were to move down a checklist that emphasized affordability, low crime rates, good weather, super clean and organized common areas, lots of active adult amenities, and a nearly infinite opportunity to meet people and make new friends, then you would be hard pressed to find a clearer alternative than The Villages. The lake provides challenging areas as it shapes the hole, forming a peninsula. With over 80 recreation centers catering to indoor and outdoor activities, residents enjoy an active lifestyle with various family fun, social clubs, or educational events. A pool does offer an aesthetic benefit, especially with an integral water feature. The Villages is unique, especially in its scale. No golf cart rallies, no late-night bacchanals. It is assumed that you have already been to The Villages and you are probably amazed at what youve experienced. New Roof, new Pavers in driveway, freshly painted outside. Corrective actions may be taken to assure this doesnt happen. This doesnt mean that cars should push aside the golf carts or force them to stop abruptly. To many, coming to Florida means you have to have a pool. Seriously!! She's seen a lot come through the center and changes like the new food donation drive . The CDD form of government has a long term viewpoint, good annual budgeting processes, and a reasonable way for property owners to be involved. But, dont immediately feel like you need to stop into the sales office and start looking at houses with the intent to buy. You may be familiar with a homeowner association where you last lived. Those individuals with strong feelings not in the norm will need to thoughtfully evaluate what this will mean to them if they move here. There is an MVP Athletics Club at Spanish Springs Town Square and Brownwood Paddock Square for residents who want more advanced workouts. Dont just assume that your landscape maintenance contractor will be able to keep your yard looking great based on a bad edging approach. All within a friendly environment that makes the Villages a destination every retiree should consider if they are considering moving to Florida. Others want frequent pruning and bed weed maintenance. Maybe someday it will? How much should I budget for projects after the closing? Villagers devote many hours to volunteering in local hospitals, hospice, schools, libraries, food pantries, animal shelters and more. It isn't exactly newsworthy that Joy Obade, a 72-year-old resident of The Villages, Fla., has decided to move back to New Jersey. The Villages Schools. Get one or two laptops, iPads, iPhones, etc. On a lot of our courses there are buffer areas that are actually non-golf course property. Besides the potential of a neighbor playing their music too loud, dont forget about the music originating from the Town Squares or the occasional Country Club outside event (luckily most Country Clubs are respectful and understand the negative impact of loud music on their residential neighbors and dont allow, or at least severely restrict outside music). It would be nice if these less than optimum operational practices, systems, or procedures could be improved to your satisfaction. As vehicles turn, the headlights sweep the houses in their path. If your a Democrat who cares about people n the planet n your childrens futures! So, some people actually like the upgrade options offered by The Villages, dont want the mess and inconvenience of the retrofit project(s) after the closing, or are just fearful of managing all of the coordination, time delay, and contractor hassles after the fact. NEW 33 HRS AGO. If lightning strikes your home it could very easily catch on fire and burn. Actually Rob it appears You may be the one who needs some anger management. Or, if you are able to actually ferret out the actual incremental cost of the offered contract upgrades you may find that you can actually remove/replace the carpet, tile, flooring, cabinets, appliances, countertops, etc. We have been looking at the villages for 3 years nows. Either of these home choices are fine. This is one of the first questions you may ask yourself once you made the decision to buy. Not only do the golf carts add an extra dimension of difficulty, but there is such a blend of driving styles, and not to be offensive here, but sometimes older drivers are a bit inattentive, are overly or under cautious, drive too slow, have slower reaction times, or simply make bad choices due to eyesight, hearing, mental alertness, etc. There is no other 55+ retirement community anywhere in the world that come close to providing this. The less the internal/external averages differ over time the lower the utility bill. It disguises a . Required fields are marked *. Also, larger more explanatory signage well ahead of the point where a lane change can be safety executed needs to be in place. Take for example the situation where our golf cart lanes are striped off on the side of the main thoroughfares throughout The Villages. Lets face it; the homes in The Villages are pretty basic and offer little in the way of personality. Prices range from mid $200,000s to $600,000 or more. Dining expense depends on the individual and frequency. Over 115,000 residents live in The Villages. Our garbage collection is contracted by The Developer to a private company in a sort of open-book negotiated arrangement. EVERYTHING is controlled. Be sure to take advantage of the various informational sessions that explain the somewhat complex government arrangement in place in The Villages. In your short visit, you saw only the surface of what the Villages can be. Customers like them, the landscape nurseries push them at popular prices, or possibly it is just a case of poor professionalism on the part of the landscape contractors. No one is forced to move here by any government agency. All in all, you need to drive very, very defensively when living in The Villages. The only thing my community has in common with the Villages is that we are an active 55-plus community. One way to think about it is to think of some small family-owned business youve dealt with in that past that started to grow and get big. Most homeowners dont pursue it due to cost, aesthetics, dont want the roofing integrity to be compromised, or feel that if their home were to catch on fire from a lighting strike that their homeowner policy is there to help them with the repair/rebuild cost. Its a shame to see some folks come to The Villages and never leave their house, or maybe only go outside to walk the dog and carry out the garbage. thats the nicest way I can put it. Thanks, are all relevant considerations. Be aware that home specs and option packages continue to change in response to buyers needs, and The Villages policies. This may be worth considering even though you initially may feel that part of the reason to move to Florida is to enjoy the outdoors. It plays over 6,800 yards and has 18-holes. It wont be perfect, and some homeowners will prefer to do their own, and if the service quality wanes without correction, the idea can fall apart. Note with appliances you may be able to do some change-outs/upgrades if you do this after closing but prior to using the appliances check this out with the appliance supplier for your particular home. Villages loses its appeal and deteriorates, then the Developers family ( and friends ) will.! 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