Been there...done that! I visited the villages April 2016 viewed 11 CYV and 2 patio villas for sale. I decided the CYV was my choice. Headed back to NJ and continued to look online each day for a CYV that fit my wants/needs list. ERA Grizzard has an easy to use website that sends you properties that fit your budget and home style, daily. They are MLS and I also looked at new/used properties for sale by Realty Executives in the villages (these two don't share so you need to check both and FSBO) I did put bids on homes from NJ with the help of a combination of online photos, my agent who gladly went and looked at the property for me and a contingency of a professional property inspection (Boutwell Home Inspections, Ocala). I hit the jackpot with the 3rd property I bid on...and now I am glad the first two were snatched up by other buyers.
So, until I retire I manage the CYV from NJ with visits every couple months when I can vacation. No grass....I will say that is key! I pay someone to do weeds and trim the bushes because things grow and grow here (about $30 per month) My realtor has a key and checks for me if I request it (i.e., after Irma) and my neighbor across the street also keeps an eye out for me and will call me if needed. I shut the water in the house off, cover the sink and shower drains, leave the a/c on low and heat on low in the winter and have an alarm on (but it is not a necessity). You can monitor the utilities use by watching the bills monthly too, but a home watch would also assure you catch problems quickly. Most neighbors in TV are so helpful and friendly, you will make friends fast once you buy. You can introduce yourself and give them your phone number to call if they see a problem. During hurricane season you must bring in anything that the wind will pick up. This is so important if you will not be here. It can be done from afar, just cover all your bases and enlist the help of a few others.
|