Hi Ken!
I have attached a link to one of the better articles I have read, titled "50 Things To Think About Before Buying A Home In The Villages". Good food for thought!
50 Things to Think About Before Buying a Home in The Villages
In our case, we made a five year plan too. When we thought that build-out was two years away. LOL. We had a five year plan, bought our dream house, perfect in every way. Rented it, went home, and then wondered how fast can we get down to The Villages ourselves.
We did a good look at our finances and then became the occupants of our home about 1.5 years from purchase. After living in our perfect house, we added an addition (expanded the outdoor lanai, added a summer kitchen, and another bathroom (we have a pool). At least we had a lot that was buildable on three sides, but we didn't know we needed that when we bought.
So plan, plan, plan and be flexible, as you will find that once you are here, things might change! But you will never go wrong living in this wonderful place!!!