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Old 11-03-2014, 10:26 AM
Gpsma Gpsma is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by redwitch View Post
Since he bought a new home, no "fluff." There probably was a premium on the lot that they discounted to close out that area. TV does not negotiate price on new homes. They may offer discounts or other goodies at times but don't hold your breath waiting to get one.

Advantages to new: All your neighbors are new, too, and, thus, more likely to do things together in the beginning; no one has lived in your home; you can put upgrades into your mortgage. Disadvantages: you have to pay for a full bond; you have to pay for all upgrades one way or another; your neighborhood will look pretty barren until all the landscaping grows up.

Advantages to preowned: Some or all of your bond will be prepaid; the house may have all or many of the upgrades you want; the neighborhood will look prettier since trees and landscaping have had time to grow. Disadvantages: neighborhood is established, possibly making it a little more difficult to make friends; you'll pay about the same as you would for a new home; repairs will probably come a little quicker than they would in a new home.

Either way, you really can't lose. TV is a great place to live, as you've already discovered.
The Pros and Cons of New Vs Used were just what I thought.

Interesting point about making friends. My brother moved into a new home about three years ago. The neighbors were all very interested in making friends and attended socials, events and gatherings together.
That was three years ago and the dynamic has changed. Some neighbors don't like each other anymore, some have naturally made other friends and the good feelings have ebbed somewhat. I guess it is natural.

I thank everyone for their replies. My fiancée and I will be down again in the winter to begin kicking the tires so to speak. I still am not 100% convinced (after about 5 visits to TV) that it is the place for me. I see many plusses to the Villages but also cringe at the sameness of the homes, the "Disneyland" feel, and HOA style ownership (very few in my area).