[tommy steam]

Originally Posted by Geewiz

I close on the 30th and I'm really excited. These tidbits might be of help to newbies.

1. When getting a Realtor (and you'll want one from TV and MLS)....send them e-mails detailing what you are looking for. A person on TOTV sent me her "want" list - which I modified. I had extensive e-mail exchanges with my TV Realtor who challenged me on "is this a want or a deal-breaker”. I was totally sure I was going pre-owned....I ended up buying new and it was the first home I looked at. I never do things like this...but, Gary from TV totally figured out what I wanted and found it (a CYV 3/2 with a $7g builder incentive). So , instead of keeping money to re-roof or update the AC - I've got cash for a big birdcage and hot tub.
2. One of the advantages of buying new is that it is possible to get sinkhole insurance – which folks say is worth it. Heck if I know...but for the cost of a meal...I'm getting it.
3. Whether you move most of your money into Citizens or not....opening a checking account there makes life easier...unless you are fond of driving to get cashier's checks...plus now, I've got Chase really paranoid about keeping my business. I love it when “too big to fail” gets nervous.
4. Whole home surge protectors seem to make sense and they only cost a couple buck a month with an unlimited warranty or you can buy your own for $347..but, the warranty is only 10 years.
5. I don't know if Appliance Direct offers the best deals...but, the guy on the ads is a winner and I'll probably get my washer and dryer from them...unless someone comes up with a good reason not to.
6. People are really nice here. Ignore differences in age, origin, economic class and politics...this place is filled with folks who have figured out that kindness, connections, and fun are the keys to a great retirement.
7. Still, it's not a nirvana....there are some jackasses...ignore them.
8. Check out the prices from MCO to London, the Keys, Nola, NYC and the islands.....you're retired...fly in the offseason...you're retired....good theater in London and NYC is a great short adventure.


Last, Anthony Sciacchitano from Citizen's Mortgage and Gary Lazdowski from TV are the bomb. Good guys.

Best of luck to those considering a move here. Remember – no one has all the answers. This is just sharing my experience. Do what's best for you and listen to lots of folks.

Cheers!

thanks for the information..Tommy