[Villager Dude]

First Beware of these items

West facing outdoor areas like a lanai are unusable in the hot summer afternoons.

If gas cooking is important get to know where it is available. Only in some locations North of 466A.

Know what your bond costs

Know what county your property is in and get to know their financial situation.

Decide what you are going to do once you get here. Squares, golf, etc. Location is so very important and the Center part of The Villages is in demand.

Make sure you understand what it costs to live here. Know your budget before you come.

If you come here and have to work you will be disappointed in the pay offered for most jobs.

We purchased in 2010, rented it for 2 years, prior to moving here full time. There was a major shortage of long term rentals . We were lucky. Things have changed. I would research this carefully before you assume it will be easy to rent your place out. Seems like 3 BR 2 BA placed 1500 to 1800 rent for $1500-$1600 per month. Someone else may have more current figures.

One advantage of buying and not renting is you can come down and visit more often if you want to furnish it.. You may be able to buy a houseful of furniture form someone that bought a furnished hose and wanted to bring their own.

Hope this helps but take all the necessary time to think this thru.