Geraldine doesn't say if they kept their old home in Michigan while they were in TV or bought a different one when they moved back.
If you are unsure how you will do pulling up roots and moving whole hog, I would suggest buying a 2nd home here if you can afford to have 2 homes. Lots of furnished ones available in TV or you can buy quite nice secondhand furniture here, or blend some old and some new. It is a worry and a hassle (to have 2 homes), but if you like where you are up north and are unsure about your move better to be sure before you sell it.
If you have real doubts, or haven't relocated before, might behoove you to buy at the lower price level in The Villages while you decide. Some will say to rent, and I think that's a great idea too, (while you're looking for the right villa/home for you) but I don't think you really get into the social scene and ownership thing unless you're in your own place. I, for one, just felt temporary and not truly happy when I'm renting.
Plus, it's always easier to sell at the lower end of the market if you decide it's not for you or if you decide TV IS for you, sell the place up north and move to bigger in TV (if you want - I've met many people here in TV who are fulltimers and who downsize)
Consider, though, if it's the house or the area or the family members/friends still there that you are attached to or all 3. Change is hard. Some things to think about (and maybe make a customized list for yourself):
- is your house up north (or wherever) suitable for your later years when perhaps you are unable to maintain a large lot in the country or a big house with upstairs bedrooms/basement laundry? Maybe you should consider selling the country/big house and buying smaller or a condo where you are now, thus freeing up some money to be a snowbird.
- Many of your friends may end up relocating in retirement to be closer to THEIR family or to get a lifestyle like here in TV. Are your children going to stay there permanently or are they possibly going to relocate for jobs or warm weather living in the future?
I'm sure others can add more things to consider. Moving back is hard too and might not be what you thought it was going to be.
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