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Old 01-18-2024, 07:43 PM
margaretmattson margaretmattson is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GoRedSox! View Post
I generally agree with all of this. I think one thing that is not mentioned enough about the "frontier," though, is that for folks where finances are a consideration, the homes in Newell, Lake Denham and Dabney do have higher costs. Not only are the bond amounts higher, but so is the bond interest rate. There are many average homes down there where the bond approaches $3,000 a year. Add to that Leesburg/Lake County taxes which are higher and higher mortgage interest rates, and the monthly costs may be more than typical Villages buyers have been comfortable paying. Obviously if someone is a cash buyer and a few thousand dollars a year is not a deal-breaker, this won't apply, but it certainly applies to some.
Why pay higher monthly expenses when you do not have to? No matter your income, I think that is what buyers are looking at. Five or ten years from now, you may be happy you avoided the higher bonds, taxes, and interest rates. Investment markets change dramatically. Your spouse may die or need expensive medical attention. Your income now may not be the same years down the road. A few hundred dollars per month may make a difference.

I know a widowed man whose monthly expenses are small. Instead of buying a new car or home, he tips extremely well, pays for groceries when he sees a single mom in line, picks up restaurant tabs, and gives to local charities. It places a smile on his face each time. Extra monthly income does make a difference.

Last edited by margaretmattson; 01-18-2024 at 08:27 PM.