Here are also a few things to consider when buying either new or pre-owned.
Is privacy important? If so, the lot you select plays an important part in your home selection. If you like a more private home, one that does not back up to another, you may want to focus your search based on that. There are several different lot options available.
The first is a golf course, pond or wooded lot. These lots are going to be the most expensive.
Then there are lots which back up to streets. You have a bit of privacy in some of these lots, depending again on the lot and street you back up to and how you landscape it. There will always be traffic, however, usually by 7:00pm or so, it is very quiet.
Your third option is a home with a kissing lanai (kissing meaning two houses which back up to each other, lanai meaning covered, screened porch). Again, depending on location, I would say these are the most non-private lots (those that are in close proximity to each other), as you can usually hear what your neighbors are saying if they are on their lanai and having a conversation.
There are also lots which will back up to a wall. These homes will give you privacy but again, there are usually villas on the other side of the wall and conversations can be heard.
You will also have to decide if you want a frame home with siding or a concrete block home. Block homes again are a little more expensive.
Your interior style is also something to consider. Garage size is a biggie for the men. There are 2 car garages, 2 car and a golf cart and then in the premier homes, you can get even bigger garages, depending on your lot size of course. Don't think you can purchase a home with a 2 car garage and add one on, it usually does not work that way. Also, when talking garage size, remember we have no basements for storage so .... the garage seems to be the catch all space. Most homes do have attics over the garage but you will be limited to what can be placed in that space due to the summer heat.
In regards to location, if you are on the younger age of The Villages, it seems the southern end, around 466A is comprised of younger aged residents, let say in comparison to the northern portion of The Villages, up by Spanish Springs. Its just geography, as The Villages started in the north section and has grown to its south.
With that said, and I live in the southern area, for the most part at this time, all your larger stores; Kohl's, Belks, Best Buys, etc... are all in the northern area. The southern area is in need of shopping options. As long as you own a car, its not a big deal, as there are back roads that you can take and be to the mecca of shopping in about 15/20 minutes.
I hope this has been helpful. It is confusing the first time you come to The Villages. The roads are not marked north and south. Buy a map of The Villages. They are $5.00 and will be a life saver.
If you want anymore info, feel free to PM me. I'd be happy to answer any of your questions.
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