[Joanne the Head Doc]

I have sold my home up north and will be traveling to The Villages to buy a home. I will be a year-round resident.

I watch Skip’s videos on UTube constantly, so if you’re seeing this post, Skip, I have a question for you.

I am widowed and an avid golfer, bowler and sports enthusiast. An important part of retirement is meeting new friends. In choosing a home, it is important that I don’t find myself “abandoned” during the summer months. I have heard that the smaller villas are occupied by snowbirds, while the larger homes are more likely to house year-round residents. My home up north is very large, so I plan to downsize considerably and buy a resale no larger than 1,400 square feet.

I have a realtor down there, but I would like to hear your thoughts on where I should look so I have neighbors during the summer. I hate crowds as much as you do and enjoy my peace and quiet. On the other hand, I am no hermit either. I have been known to grab a microphone and sing karaoke, so I am an outgoing person, but not a “bar fly.”

My brother is a Villager and he will teach me golf cart safety, but I also plan to attend the seminar on this topic. I have heard the horrible stories of people getting killed because they didn’t know the laws.

I do not want to be in an overly crowded neighborhood. I need room to breathe. On the other hand, having a neighbor or two to talk to is important. Do you have any thoughts? You seem to know everything there is to know about living down there.

I welcome responses from other Villagers as well. Thanking you all in advance.

Joanne