Quote:
Originally Posted by Robbb
I'm coming down from Minnesota the second week of January to look for a winter home. I have a meeting set up with Ira Miller, the real estate guy and with a representative from the villages for new homes, anyone else you would suggest I meet with while I am down here? Tks in advance.
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Some GREAT advice folks here have given about how VERY different real estate selling and agents are here compared to what you are probably used to. But I would add to that, expand your base of knowledge beyond agents and mortgage brokers, banks, even attorney's... anyone who has some skin in the game. But before talking (and definitely taking notes of WHO tells you what and on what date and time), explore the tax rates of the three counties that comprise The Villages. Do not listen to this or that agent who tells you, "oh, there's no difference in the utility rates among of the counties".. of course there is ! Each is served by different utility companies, some are for profit, others are cooperatives. Check the school tax rates of each, take a look at the HISTORY of county tax increases and how often they happen. Of course, many are not at all concerned about these things, and probably many on here will tell you to forget all that, just buy the place of your dreams. It all depends on what is important to you, if there is no question that increased expenses through out retirement are of no concern, than, that would be true, find your dream house and location and enjoy ! BUT.... regardless, buy a small notebook, KEEP it WITH YOU no matter who you talk to, and make notes ! You will be very happy you did that ......
