[Quixote]

It's strictly personal taste. What's important to you might not be so to me, and vice versa. You really do need to spend time here exploring and getting the feel of different areas. I personally would not buy new construction; I prefer a resale where I might find improvements that I would want, a bond that's been paid off or paid down, a place where the landscaping, not only on the properties but in the area, are mature. Older homes when newly built included appliances, ceiling fans, window coverings (blinds or whatever), and more that we've been told are no longer included. And bonds are much higher in newer areas.

We are in an area known as the 'Lynnhaven Corridor,' consisting of five villages—Belvedere, Lynnhaven, Ashland, Bonnybrook, and Tall Trees—built around 2004 (as was Lake Sumter Landing). For us it's ideal, close to library, all manner of shopping and restaurants, three nearby supermarkets, banks, medical offices, by golf cart 15 minutes to LSL and 25 to Spanish Springs, and (important to us) sidewalks which don't exist north of 466. The improvements done by the previous owner by and large suited us; we didn't have to 'undo' anything significant, and the remaining bond was nominal. I think you'll find that most Villagers feel they live in the most ideal location; just remember that what's 'most ideal' to the next person may not be to you. Hope things work out as you wish them to!