[DangeloInspections]

This is a great question and one I get asked often.

Basically, there are pros and cons to both. I will attempt to share them here.

Wood frame/Vinyl sided home;

Typically has more insulation and R- Value in the walls.
Less thermal mass.
Interior square footage may be higher due to a 4.5 inch wall.
Easier to remodel, change walls, windows, etc.
"Gives a little" in a wind which may mean less damage.
Does not require exterior painting.

Does need exterior cleaning usually 2x per year.
Siding is easily damaged by landscapers, etc.
Siding can fade and "chalk" after time and may need replacing after 25-30 years.

A wood frame home would have a higher concern for termites, easily prevented by a good and maintained termite treatment.

Concrete Block/Stucco home;

More thermal mass, perhaps quieter. Thermal mass may contribute to interior thermal gain or loss during weather extremes.

Prone to vertical and step cracking. These cracks need to be sealed by using a stucco caulk and paint touch up. Home MAY need painting every 8 years or so. Recently better more flexible paints have been developed that may last longer.

More difficult to remodel, change walls, windows, etc.

Typically has a lower R-value insulation in the walls.

Perhaps more difficult to hang items on exterior walls due to furring strips.

In a hurricane, the main issue is the roof to wall attachment. This is what ruins a home during a storm. In a concrete block home straps are embedded in the block and wrap around the trusses. In a wood frame home clips are nailed to the top plate and trusses. BOTH work equally well.

I'm told that in The Villages a wood frame home typically costs about 10k less.

It really comes down to personal preference. As you well know, both sell well here.

Hope that helps!

Frank D.