[Pturner]

Originally Posted by harbor53

I will be divorced this spring.

My wife is buying me out our home - I expect to clear 160,000 to 164,000.

I am currently 57 years old and will turn 58 in May.

I expect to retire in 1/2012. My pension - after federal taxes and health insurance will be 3850/month. Investments will provide another 450 - 500/month. This will total 4300 - more or less per month.

I would like to put at least 100,000 down on a pre-owned home and use the balance for furnishings and unexpected expenses. I expect my mortgage to be in the range of $350 - $400/month (30/fixed).

Can I find a solid home in the Villages given these financial constraints? If so - any advice on how to achieve this would be appreciated.

I will come to the Villages to visit in March. If I retire in January - what's the best plan to purchase a home so I don't have to camp out while looking???

You are all so kind - given my current situation, any kindness is much appreciated. Over the past 6 years - life has been hard. I have lost any reservation related to accepting advice.

I'm not a golfer - but, am willing to learn. I have performed music and taken photographs for money and may wish to pursue this.

Access to cutting edge technology is important. I am a good teacher and can help others adapt.

I love to swim and long for taking nature photographs. I excel at portraits - brides like me.

I have been known to tease gators and have had to run off in utter shame while chased by a really annoyed reptile.

I am rather rootless at this moment...any advice or encouragement will be valued.

Lord, I want to find a home - a place to lay my head - could The Villages be it?

I want to find new friends and would love to find a final love. I am extremely silly and occasionally extremely smart. I certainly am the annoying artist.

Any advice you can offer would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Gary

Hi Gary,
I am sorry to hear you are going through a difficult time. It sounds like you are doing the right things in terms of planning and figuring out a budget. Remember to add any remaining bond to the cost of a home in TV.

If you are outgoing, you should have no problem meeting people and enjoying your retirement life in TV. Red, as always, gave you great advice.