One thing that "struck a nerve" (which is why I'm getting my dog in this fight) was the statement that younger people tend to buy new (even though the "young at heart" was added), or below 466. We looked in new Sanibel and saw lots of "not so young" owners. We loved everything on or East of Canal Street. Gosh folks, this is a retirement community. Age is a number, pure and simple. I have friends 15 years my junior who act like they are 100. In fact, my 27-year is actually in bed right now, 6:30 CDT, and he is between jobs. Also, don't think for a minute that the best friends, neighbors, golf buddies and dancing partners are below a certain age.
So please, don't continue this "separation of ages" flavor that seems to be painted here.
We settled on a pre-owned because of the corner lot, a beautiful oak tree in the front yard, bond paid, small pool completely enclosed in a birdcage, two car garage, etc., etc.. We move in a month and only met two neighbors before closing last week, but were more than welcomed to the neighborhood. Plus they have three socials a year, which we like. Not enough "togetherness" that someone knows what my PSA number is!
Finally, the one thing that makes TV special is we all came (or are coming) from somewhere else. Being welcomed, even as one week visitors, was one of the things that made us fall in love with TV. I don't buy "you won't be as accepted moving into an established neighborhood" that some shared on other threads. Opinions folks, that is all we are giving here is our personal preference and our opinion!
Not trying to ruffle feathers here, but want newbies to this forum to understand they need to pick out a village based on their needs, finances and priorities. Don't base those decisions on just a few posts on TOTV. We picked our home because it is five minutes to either square (1 need), my favorite golf courses are on or just off Morse Blvd (2nd need), and saved us $40K (always a need). . . OH YEAH. . . DW loved it!
OK. . . my dog is "back on the porch". Time for a "five-o'clock" (bourbon and branch water) and put my boogie shoes on!
Good luck on whatever choice you make. You picked TV, so that is a wise choice!