Cause For Concern - Rentals in TV

[mulligan]

I have seen ads for weekly rentals in TV. Now I notice an inquiry about purchase by multiple families, and purchase by a LLC. I believe that if we don't get a grip on these issues, we will have properties occupied by people that don't have a vested interest in our community, don't stay long enough to learn the local "rules", and won't make any attempt to educate themselves prior to signing a lease. I don't know if sales can be somehow restricted, and the duration of rentals regulated, but IMHO, the time has come to find out. I don't believe sales to any entity other than a real person should be allowed (not trusts, or corporations), and rentals should be at least 90 days (the longer the better). I do not mean to cast aspersions in all renters, but as we all have seen, 1 rotten apple can create a barrel full.

[Walter123]

There will always be people that don't stay long enough to learn the rules. Heck, a lot of year round residents don't know the rules or don't care. We don't have any control as far as this issue goes. It is what it is.......part of living here. I've accepted it because this is where I want to live.

[redwitch]

Actually, two couples purchasing one home is not that uncommon here. It's been done several times. So far as I know, these couples are very much vested in maintaining their property and following the rules. They're also less likely to rent out their property since one couple or the other is frequently in residence.

As to corporations, trusts, etc. purchasing a property, I can't see the issues unless purchasing specifically for rental properties with the intent to do as little maintenance as possible. Of course, individuals purchasing with the same intent would be just as big of an issue. Many people set up trusts for tax and liability issues. These folks are just as likely to properly maintain their property as you or your next door neighbor.

So, should lifestyle visits be banned? Really see no difference between someone renting for a week to visit family here or someone taking a mini vacation and calling it a lifestyle visit. Most of these renters are excellent short-term renters. They're thrilled to be here, happy to visit their friends and families, more than willing to respect the rules here. While we're at it, guess we should shut down The Waterfront since people staying there are visiting for even shorter periods.

Like it or not, TV is going to have renters. Some long-term, some not. Some will maintain their rental as if it is their home, whether staying three days, three months or three years. Others will never maintain their property, whether owning, renting or living with family here.

Tis a very large brush with which you are tarring short-term renters and individuals purchasing their homes in ways in which you do not approve.

[Schaumburger]

I have rented several times in The Villages since 2011, each time in a different village to get a taste of what living in that part of The Villages is like as I would like make The Villages my home at some point in the future. My rentals have all been in the "slower" season for a week or two at a time, because I still work full-time. I would love to rent in TV for 3 months at a time, but I don't get that much vacation time. I don't know too many people who work full time who do get three months of vacation time, except perhaps teachers if they are not teaching summer school or working on a graduate degree in the summer.

All of the landlords I have rented from in TV (with the exception of one), were frogs who owned the rental home as investment income. The owners of the home I rented this past July are Canadians, so they only occupy their home in TV for 6 months of the year, and they try to find renters for their home in the "slower" season.

During the times I have rented in TV I have never driven while intoxicated, gotten intoxicated at a restaurant, bar or at one of the squares, bought or sold illegal drugs, destroyed anyone's property, gotten into a car or golf cart accident, thrown a wild party, or committed any crime. During the day/early evening I enjoy the beauty and activities of The Villages, and then I come back to the rental home at night, have a glass of wine, watch a little television, then go to bed. Gosh, I am one wild woman! :)

Just two cents from a wannabee who hopes to rent again in TV next summer, but it will be for a week or two unless I win the lottery. Maybe someday I will be your full-time neighbor in TV.

[quirky3]

Yes, there are some senior communities (I can give you one specific example) that regulate rentals - must be a minimum of 6 months or more. I don't know the logistics of their rental control process.

[tomwed]

Can I sell half my house to my brother and his spouse and have 4 names on my deed?

[gomoho]

I don't believe you will really see many investors coming into TV to buy rental property.
Because of the cost of property, the maintenance fees involved, and the seasonal nature of TV just doesn't make sense. Most rentals I am familiar with are seasonal residents or folks that have purchased a home with the intent of occupying themselves when they retire.

[nitehawk]

When i first came to tv multiple ownership was not allowed - now many people own many home and rent them -- now tv has lost it friendliest town appeal -- be careful multiple ownership does nothing but create a slumlord environment---- few if any multiple owners do anything to add to the value of there rentals except the minimum maintenance until the next rental - their are exceptions but few. yes this is america and everyone has a right to make money --- that how slums are created --be careful --

[Sandtrap328]

Can I sell half my house to my brother and his spouse and have 4 names on my deed?

Yes, you can. Be sure it is all done through a real estate attorney and recorded. Depending on circumstances, it may mess up a homestead ecemption - but the real estate attorney could advise on that aspect.

[alanmcdonald]

Don't lump all "non-individually named" owners together.

Our home is owned by our family trust as an estate planning matter but we have every intention of maintaining it as it is "our" home.

[TraceyMooreRN]

Yes, you can actually "sell" half your house to your brother and have 4 people on the deed and receive (4) green cards.

You can actually "sell" to just your brother for the deed and his wife will also get a "green card" because they are married. That is how it worked for a friend of mine- here in The Villages for a new construction home that was purchased.

[graciegirl]

When i first came to tv multiple ownership was not allowed - now many people own many home and rent them -- now tv has lost it friendliest town appeal -- be careful multiple ownership does nothing but create a slumlord environment---- few if any multiple owners do anything to add to the value of there rentals except the minimum maintenance until the next rental - their are exceptions but few. yes this is america and everyone has a right to make money --- that how slums are created --be careful --


I am very skeptical about this. You said you have friends who rent to chapter 8 and you have friends who rent as a time share?

I haven't run into any folks doing this here. Have any of the other posters???

I will now go to our old friend and the person who sold us two homes, Jim McLaughlin who is a sales agent for Villages and ask him if this is possible here.

I will be back.

[SrChops]

A week long rental by a corporation, sounds like a lifestyle review I went on in Aug.

[TraceyMooreRN]

I haven't head of anyone renting to Section 8, but I am not sure why it would not be possible. I was in Real Estate in Virginia, not once was the "location" of a home a concern for a approved home for Section 8. The conditions were set by the local Section 8 department, it was based on the condition of the home and inspections of the property.

[billethkid]

there are thousands of renters each year in TV without incident. There may be one in 10,000 homes with more than the usual ownership.

I do not think this is an issue for concern at any level what so ever.

Relax and enjoy the view!:)

[mulligan]

Yes, you can actually "sell" half your house to your brother and have 4 people on the deed and receive (4) green cards.

You can actually "sell" to just your brother for the deed and his wife will also get a "green card" because they are married. That is how it worked for a friend of mine- here in The Villages for a new construction home that was purchased.

Actually, the wife would get a blue card which signifies a non-owner resident.

[Sandtrap328]

Actually, the wife would get a blue card which signifies a non-owner resident.


If your name is on the deed then you get the green ID card. If you are not named on the deed but are a full-time resident in that house, you get the blue ID card. Same privileges on both cards but the blue one has to be re-certified annually to ensure you still live in that house.

[JourneyOfLife]

There was some recent legislation passed in FL about short-term rentals. It has been very controversial in some communities.

Some background: Cities to be blocked from cracking down on short-term rentals - Sun Sentinel (http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2011-05-28/news/fl-short-term-rentals-20110528_1_short-term-rentals-vacation-rentals-mini-hotels)

It appears that legislation might have passed earlier this year to hand some control back to local communities.

About the recent legislation: Flagler Seeks, Flagler Wins: Bill Restoring Vacation-Rental Regulation Authority Passes House and Heads for Scott's Desk | FlaglerLive (http://flaglerlive.com/66071/short-term-rentals-victory/)

[TraceyMooreRN]

Actually, the wife would get a blue card which signifies a non-owner resident.

Unless the "rules" changed since 2010, the owner and "his wife" because they are married both get Green Cards--I know this for a fact, I have seen both deed and their cards.

[sunnyatlast]

No concerns about Section 8 in The Villages at this time. The website showing Section 8 rentals approved for the subsidy shows only a few in 32159 zip code area, and they are not in T.V. See link below and search by zip code.

As for concerns about too many homes not being owner-occupied, I'm not concerned. This is where actually living here and seeing in person the buyers and those who move in gives a better feel for how neighborhood occupancy goes. What we see over and over is that renting is often the surest path to buying and occupying in TV.

Some cities do put a cap on the number of homes that can be rentals, to address the concerns of the o.p. Here is an example from the heartland:

"Winona’s cap on rental housing won the blessing of the Minnesota Court of Appeals in a case that cities across the state are watching closely.

On Monday, the court upheld Winona’s ordinance limiting rentals to 30 percent of the properties on a block. The so-called “30 percent rule” was meant to ease parking woes and protect neighborhoods from being overtaken by rental units. But some homeowners challenged the cap, arguing that it’s unconstitutional for a city to restrict homeowners’ rights to rent and sell their properties……."

Court of Appeals upholds Winona's rental limits | Star Tribune (http://www.startribune.com/local/248031281.html)

Find Section 8 rentals by zip:
GoSection8.com - Section 8 Rental Housing & Apartments Listing Service for Landlords & Tenants (http://www.gosection8.com/Tenant/tn_Results.aspx?Address=32159&rent=&propertyTypeList=All%20Property%20Type&bedrooms=63&bathrooms=63&Accessible=False&radius=&pictures=False&pets=False&ac=False&coveredParking=False&MaxSqFt=0&MinSqFt=&keyword=)

[dbussone]

Unless the "rules" changed since 2010, the owner and "his wife" because they are married both get Green Cards--I know this for a fact, I have seen both deed and their cards.


I had breakfast with a friend this morning. He is not on the deed, his wife is. They both have green cards, but he has to "renew" it every 3 years and did that yesterday.

[dirtbanker]

I had breakfast with a friend this morning. He is not on the deed, his wife is. They both have green cards, but he has to "renew" it every 3 years and did that yesterday.

You and your friend should get tested for color blindness. :boxing2:The green cards do not expire, blue cards need to be renewed every three years at the district office. The green cards are issued to persons named on the deed or persons that represent the entity listed on the deed (trustees and in some instances grantors have been issued green cards) blue cards are permanent residents that are not recorded on the deed (girlfriend, etc).

[JoMar]

We just closed in August after renting for 4 years, month at a time, 3 months at a time...whatever the schedule would allow. Most likely we would not have moved here if we had not rented. Never had a slum lord for a landlord, never had an issue with other renters. And, if you restrict renters a bunch won't show up, which will reduce the revenues for the commercial properties which will cause them to leave and us to make up the revenue slack. Our lifestyle is a result of revenue, mess with that and you mess with what brought us here.

[dalecrenshaw]

Can I sell half my house to my brother and his spouse and have 4 names on my deed?

Yes, you can sell half of your house to your brother. My Mother was one of the original owners in the Villages. When she died, my two brothers and myself had the property put in our names. Since then, we have bought out one of the brothers, so now there are two of on the deed. My brother does not use the property at all. We use it about 4 months in the off season...because we love the Villages. We rent it for Jan/Feb/March to the same couple that has been coming for the last 12-13 years now...and they love it as it were their own. If I couldn't rent it for those 3 months, then we couldn't afford to keep it, since the expenses are pretty high (Utilities, homeowner's due, yard care, maintenance, upkeep, replacing things that break down like A/C, kitchen appliances, new carpeting every few years, replacing roof, painting interior and exterior, etc.
So, we welcome the rent and cherish our couple that rent it and take care of it as it were their own house. So, renters aren't a bad thing. Something for this poster to consider while making judgments.

[dillywho]

Don't lump all "non-individually named" owners together.

Our home is owned by our family trust as an estate planning matter but we have every intention of maintaining it as it is "our" home.
We are the same.

Our house is owned by our revokable trust for estate planning and other reasons. It is our property, occupied and maintained by us and for us. It has been that way for almost eleven years now and will remain so.

[dillywho]

I have seen ads for weekly rentals in TV. Now I notice an inquiry about purchase by multiple families, and purchase by a LLC. I believe that if we don't get a grip on these issues, we will have properties occupied by people that don't have a vested interest in our community, don't stay long enough to learn the local "rules", and won't make any attempt to educate themselves prior to signing a lease. I don't know if sales can be somehow restricted, and the duration of rentals regulated, but IMHO, the time has come to find out. I don't believe sales to any entity other than a real person should be allowed (not trusts, or corporations), and rentals should be at least 90 days (the longer the better). I do not mean to cast aspersions in all renters, but as we all have seen, 1 rotten apple can create a barrel full.

There are many reasons for short-term rentals. We own our home here and live here year-round. I rented a house on my block for my two sons and their wives for Thanksgiving (Wed - Sun). My grandson and his wife, baby, and dog will stay in our house with us. I am on the rental agreement and they have already paid me the full rental price. They will be my guests the same as they always are when they visit individually.

When we came here in Feb. 2004, people were buying multiple houses and reselling (flipping). The Developer then stepped in and put in the requirement that if you buy a house, you must live in it a minimum time (year, I think). Can't fault the Developer for protecting his own interests. After all, that's why he does what he does. He made all the initial investment, taking all the risks.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Lots of people purchase a home in a Trust...(we did) and you can not legally prevent that nor why would you. Further you will never limit rentals to 90 or more. That is up to the people who own the home but I think there is a restriction on short term rentals.

[sailor47]

A lot of worry about nothing. It's not really profitable to be a land lord here. At best you can get 4 months in the high season then it sits empty. 4 months will cover everyday expenses for the year but not major repair like AC, new roof, painting, carpet, etc...

In my neighborhood, which was built in 08 some people were renting there houses especially after they bought a second house to up grade. They thought it would be a good investment to keep the first house and rent it out. Within 3 years most sold the rental, usually to one of there renters. They got tired of just breaking even and the hassle. If you have an agent it really doesn't pay. They make money you don't.

Just my observation.

[rjm1cc]

Can I sell half my house to my brother and his spouse and have 4 names on my deed?
You should be able to do that.

[DruannB]

You represent the vast majority of us "renters" quite well. Thank you.

I have rented several times in The Villages since 2011, each time in a different village to get a taste of what living in that part of The Villages is like as I would like make The Villages my home at some point in the future. My rentals have all been in the "slower" season for a week or two at a time, because I still work full-time. I would love to rent in TV for 3 months at a time, but I don't get that much vacation time. I don't know too many people who work full time who do get three months of vacation time, except perhaps teachers if they are not teaching summer school or working on a graduate degree in the summer.

All of the landlords I have rented from in TV (with the exception of one), were frogs who owned the rental home as investment income. The owners of the home I rented this past July are Canadians, so they only occupy their home in TV for 6 months of the year, and they try to find renters for their home in the "slower" season.

During the times I have rented in TV I have never driven while intoxicated, gotten intoxicated at a restaurant, bar or at one of the squares, bought or sold illegal drugs, destroyed anyone's property, gotten into a car or golf cart accident, thrown a wild party, or committed any crime. During the day/early evening I enjoy the beauty and activities of The Villages, and then I come back to the rental home at night, have a glass of wine, watch a little television, then go to bed. Gosh, I am one wild woman! :)

Just two cents from a wannabee who hopes to rent again in TV next summer, but it will be for a week or two unless I win the lottery. Maybe someday I will be your full-time neighbor in TV.

[Bonanza]

Can I sell half my house to my brother and his spouse and have 4 names on my deed?

You don't have to "sell" your house to your brother and sister-in-law.

You can quit claim the property to all of those concerned and they are the names that will be on the deed.

You may want the details to be worked out with an attorney and have the information recorded so that everyone is protected.

[nitehawk]

Lots of people purchase a home in a Trust...(we did) and you can not legally prevent that nor why would you. Further you will never limit rentals to 90 or more. That is up to the people who own the home but I think there is a restriction on short term rentals.

Never say Never---- there are a lot of communities in florida that only allow 90 day rentals and no short turn rentals--

[asianthree]

Our first time that we came was in 2007 and rented a home for a week. That was in Caroline well-maintained and enjoyed our stay. Each time after that we rented for a longer period of time and then we finally bought our first house. If we would not of stayed in different villages we would not of known where we wanted to live permanently.

[Dbinac]

And remember. Corporations are people too.

[asianthree]

I would think that most people that live here at one time have rented before they bought their home. I just can't imagine someone pulling in walking in the sales office buying a house and then going love to live here. If one couldn't rent I actually think there would be less sales of homes. You need to find the experience here and I understand how wonderful TV can be

[Deseylou]

I find it hard to believe that a poster is worried about this place becoming like a slum

[Schaumburger]

I would think that most people that live here at one time have rented before they bought their home. I just can't imagine someone pulling in walking in the sales office buying a house and then going love to live here. If one couldn't rent I actually think there would be less sales of homes. You need to find the experience here and I understand how wonderful TV can be

:agree:

[Challenger]

Never say Never---- there are a lot of communities in florida that only allow 90 day rentals and no short turn rentals--

What authority would impose a limit on rental terms??

[TNLAKEPANDA]

What authority would impose a limit on rental terms??

None... they do not have that control. There are too many home owners here and they would have to do away with their "in house" rentals that you get at the sales office. The type of people who rent here for the winter months are not going to be a problem for the communities. Lets face it it's not cheap to rent in the Villages. :22yikes:

[The Mountaineer]

OK, let me give my experience, as someone who rented in The Villages in December for two weeks, as a trial run, and liked it so much that we are renting for three months in 2015, January through March.

Most of the responses have not supported the original posting, and I understand the OP's concerns. But it does sound a bit like: "Now that I'm inside the walls, let's lock the gates for everyone else."

I'm sure we're not the only ones testing the waters by renting first. We have friends in two villages that have shown us around in December, and will help us again in January.

The money that the renters spend at your restaurants, stores, etc. help keep those businesses out of the red, so it benefits the home owners. We live in a condo in Ohio and there are efforts to limit the number of condos that can be rented because it affected the loan rates for the condo owners.

We promise to be good neighbors, maybe even nicer than some of the home owners who live near you. We found The Villages to be the most unique place we have visited, and we've been to 52 countries and 43 states. You should take it as a compliment that we're coming down for three months this time because we want to savor The Villages experience more fully.

Stop by on Rainbow Drive off No. 5 green of Silver Lake Country Club and give us a friendly "howdy." We'll do the same. We're eager to come to the Villages, play golf, enjoy the music and entertainment, help with the volunteer work.

But this IS America. What standards would you use to determine who is worthy of renting -- yea, even worthy of buying -- in The Villages and who is not? Let's all be friends and good neighbors.

We're looking forward to it.

[mulligan]

First, the title of my thread was changed (by admin ??). I never said my concern was rentals per se. My concern is ownership. Yes, sales CAN be restricted to persons only. I lived in a south Florida community that did just that. They also required a minimum 90 day rental, with a background check done by an attorney paid for by the owner ($150). The renters also had to sign off on deed restrictions. By limiting ownership to real people only, the owners association had the ability to deal with the owners directly in case there was some sort of issue on the property, without the legal shield of a trust or a corporation of some type. My concern is not that we have renters in general (most that I have met are very nice people), but our ability to take control of an undesirable situation, should it arise. I believe as the developer approaches completion of new home construction, and relinquishes more and more control, this will become an issue.

[nitehawk]

This thread has been very informative -- i am now in the process of looking for rental homes to own and will rent to section 8 as they are year round rentals -- guarantee payment of rent -- i will keep you informed of my progress of getting the paperwork for section 8. If anyone can help - please do

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Florida is one of those states where the law goes out of it's way to protect the renter (even if they are not paying rent) and not the property owner! In TN if you don't pay your rent the sheriff will be knocking on your door to escort you out! TN is a conservative state. Enough said.

[slipcovers]

This thread has been very informative -- i am now in the process of looking for rental homes to own and will rent to section 8 as they are year round rentals -- guarantee payment of rent -- i will keep you informed of my progress of getting the paperwork for section 8. If anyone can help - please do

Applicants must be low income,and pay a portion of the rent. Inspections are very strict and done yearly. A couple would only qualify for a one bedroom. I think after you pay all the expenses, not including mortgage and upgrades, it is not a money maker. Again, they have to pay a portion of the rent. You may have a hard time getting them out if they don't pay.

[manaboutown]

This thread has been very informative -- i am now in the process of looking for rental homes to own and will rent to section 8 as they are year round rentals -- guarantee payment of rent -- i will keep you informed of my progress of getting the paperwork for section 8. If anyone can help - please do

You may want to start with buying the properties adjacent to your own home. That way your Section 8 rentals would be easier for you to manage - no need to commute several miles to unplug a jammed toilet or open the front door at 2:00 a.m. for an inebriated tenant who has "lost" his key.

[Sandtrap328]

I would have my doubts as to whether or not a house in The Villages would qualify as Section 8 housing. Perhaps some of the manufactured homes would qualify but not those in the brackets above $250,000. The clients could not pay enough rent before the subsidy would kick in.

Owners could not break even on that investment.

A landlord does not normally do the day to day chores like unstopping a clogged toilet and certainly would never do a chore like unlock a door for a drunk tenant. Chances are the tenant would not even know the landlord.

[rubicon]

What authority would impose a limit on rental terms??

This is a very interesting question

[TraceyMooreRN]

I would have my doubts as to whether or not a house in The Villages would qualify as Section 8 housing. Perhaps some of the manufactured homes would qualify but not those in the brackets above $250,000. The clients could not pay enough rent before the subsidy would kick in.

Owners could not break even on that investment.

A landlord does not normally do the day to day chores like unstopping a clogged toilet and certainly would never do a chore like unlock a door for a drunk tenant. Chances are the tenant would not even know the landlord.

Section 8 isn't the value of the house that is being advertised for rent. It is the monthly rent. Again, In Virginia our Real Estate Company owned multiple homes for Section 8 housing. The rent ranged from 750.00 month to 1400.00 month...no problem with having even the brand new homes put in the Section 8 pool.

I myself choose not to rent out our duplexes in Virginia through the program-due to constant inspections and turn over with tenant issues. However, for those in need it is a great problem--

As far as the Blue/Green card- simply call Sales Office for confirmation on the deed/spouse rules.

[mulligan]

This thread has been very informative -- i am now in the process of looking for rental homes to own and will rent to section 8 as they are year round rentals -- guarantee payment of rent -- i will keep you informed of my progress of getting the paperwork for section 8. If anyone can help - please do

I really hope this is an attempt at humor.

[kittygilchrist]

This thread has been very informative -- i am now in the process of looking for rental homes to own and will rent to section 8 as they are year round rentals -- guarantee payment of rent -- i will keep you informed of my progress of getting the paperwork for section 8. If anyone can help - please do

I can tell you that renters will call you to change a light bulb, fail to report water damage in progress, keep a nasty house, bring excessive family members to live there violating policy, possibly engage in illegal activities, be unstable in employment, and need to be evicted more often than general population.

The rent you receive is subject to change based on bureaucratic whim, or change in renter's situation. No one can tell you exactly what the rules are for the amt of rent.
Hope that helps. I thought it sounded great too. Be sure to get a carry permit if you intend to create a section 8 neighborhood.

[OBXNana]

I have seen ads for weekly rentals in TV. Now I notice an inquiry about purchase by multiple families, and purchase by a LLC. I believe that if we don't get a grip on these issues, we will have properties occupied by people that don't have a vested interest in our community, don't stay long enough to learn the local "rules", and won't make any attempt to educate themselves prior to signing a lease. I don't know if sales can be somehow restricted, and the duration of rentals regulated, but IMHO, the time has come to find out. I don't believe sales to any entity other than a real person should be allowed (not trusts, or corporations), and rentals should be at least 90 days (the longer the better). I do not mean to cast aspersions in all renters, but as we all have seen, 1 rotten apple can create a barrel full.

We settled 2/14. We set up the villa in mid March. We advertised on **** and the house has been rented steadily since that time. We plan to retire in a couple years, wanted a specific lot, and decided to use the property as a rental. We have had rental property in a beach area and are not new to the game.

We have had guests in The Village house for a month, 3 weeks, a week at a time, and in one case 3 nights. 100% of the guests renting less than a month were looking for property in The Villages (two have since purchased), were attending a birthday/anniversary family event for a parent/grand parent that resides in The Villages, and in the case of 3 nights a family member living in The Villages passed away.

We spent a week in July in the villa and were pleasantly surprised how well taken care of the villa was. We have a home watch that oversees things and they obviously were doing their job. We arrived this past Sunday at the Orlando Airport. The guests that left in the morning (were here for a week looking at property to retire in 6 months) left and the home watch could not clean before we arrived. Many thoughts went through my mind other than I'm tired, a clean freak, and I think I want to go back to PA. When we opened the door I held my breath. We had weekly rentals (13 different couples/groups) since July 4th week, the house had not been checked by the home watch after the last guest left, and the house was immaculate. The forks and spoons were still stacked in even piles in the silverware drawer. The beds made with clean sheets and the final set of sheets had been washed ready to go into the dryer. We leave very specific instructions and our expectations were met and exceeded.

We arrived ready to touch up paint and deep clean after 7 months of rentals getting ready for the winter rentals. Instead we attended Good Golf School, took a golf lesson, had the heat pump serviced, did some landscaping, and tomorrow the stairs going to above the garage gets installed. We will do the touch up painting while the steps are being installed and a deep clean is not needed.

We drove around many, many areas the last couple days to see first hand the houses in The Villages. In our travels of many miles enjoying the scenery the pride of ownership is quite apparent. Those who rent out their houses are not slum lords and those renting are not necessarily depreciating the value of the property.

Please don't lump all renters or people who rent their property into one category or another. One of the worse property's we have seen is next door and they are here year round.

[Schaumburger]

We settled 2/14. We set up the villa in mid March. We advertised on **** and the house has been rented steadily since that time. We plan to retire in a couple years, wanted a specific lot, and decided to use the property as a rental. We have had rental property in a beach area and are not new to the game.

We have had guests in The Village house for a month, 3 weeks, a week at a time, and in one case 3 nights. 100% of the guests renting less than a month were looking for property in The Villages (two have since purchased), were attending a birthday/anniversary family event for a parent/grand parent that resides in The Villages, and in the case of 3 nights a family member living in The Villages passed away.

We spent a week in July in the villa and were pleasantly surprised how well taken care of the villa was. We have a home watch that oversees things and they obviously were doing their job. We arrived this past Sunday at the Orlando Airport. The guests that left in the morning (were here for a week looking at property to retire in 6 months) left and the home watch could not clean before we arrived. Many thoughts went through my mind other than I'm tired, a clean freak, and I think I want to go back to PA. When we opened the door I held my breath. We had weekly rentals (13 different couples/groups) since July 4th week, the house had not been checked by the home watch after the last guest left, and the house was immaculate. The forks and spoons were still stacked in even piles in the silverware drawer. The beds made with clean sheets and the final set of sheets had been washed ready to go into the dryer. We leave very specific instructions and our expectations were met and exceeded.

We arrived ready to touch up paint and deep clean after 7 months of rentals getting ready for the winter rentals. Instead we attended Good Golf School, took a golf lesson, had the heat pump serviced, did some landscaping, and tomorrow the stairs going to above the garage gets installed. We will do the touch up painting while the steps are being installed and a deep clean is not needed.

We drove around many, many areas the last couple days to see first hand the houses in The Villages. In our travels of many miles enjoying the scenery the pride of ownership is quite apparent. Those who rent out their houses are not slum lords and those renting are not necessarily depreciating the value of the property.

Please don't lump all renters or people who rent their property into one category or another. One of the worse property's we have seen is next door and they are here year round.

:agree:

If a landlord in TV asked me to undergo a background check and pay the background check fee before I rented his/her home, I would be glad to do so and to pay the background check fee. I would also be happy to read and sign any deed restrictions in order to rent in TV.

[graciegirl]

Yesterday, on my way to Orange Blossom Garden for lunch, in the historic section, I saw a new shiny panel van that said something like "Rent in the Villages."

[Topspinmo]

Resales; who are we kidding, anybody can buy them and as many as they want. Age, Kids, location has nothing to do with it. It's about the money and what will stop them after they brought from living in the house! You got the sawbucks, you can have it. :popcorn:

Over heard this straight from the horses mouth. 30 something year old's with kids brought two houses (probably with daddy's money). Renting them out, stays with parents several times year has all the amenities us poor old retiree's have. SO the rules never do apply when profit can be made. That's the ugly truth in the so called 55 and over community.:popcorn:

[onslowe]

I maybe wrong but I think the underlying, unspoken problem is the 'habitual transient tenant.' People who have been evicted for non-payment or lease violations. Am I being a bit elitist? Some of you will readily say so. Am I talking about economic class restrictions? Yes, I guess I am.

I, and the vast majority of us, worked very hard to be able to own a home in TV. It is natural and reasonable to wish to protect our often largest investment.

A more pertinent safeguard system might require proof of one's existing permanent residence back in our state or province - not home ownership necessarily - deeds, leases, etc.

As to those unable to produce such, have a required submission of previous rentals or ownership in the past three years, with written consent of the applicant for landlord inquiry with previous ones.

I hasten to add that I am not in any way seeking to impede family trusts or other estate planning devices. I am talking about rentals to individuals. The short term rental which has been a tradition here would not be curtailed at all by an added requirement of proof of out of Villages permanent residence.

A very real problem though, does exist in trying to answer the wise question above - Who or what agency will promulgate these post deed restrictions on one's property use?




I know there are all sorts of problems that can be pointed out to me, but please remember this is a single post, not a legislative draft, nor a complete answer. So point out the shortcomings without personal attacks please.

[sunnyatlast]

I would have my doubts as to whether or not a house in The Villages would qualify as Section 8 housing. Perhaps some of the manufactured homes would qualify but not those in the brackets above $250,000. The clients could not pay enough rent before the subsidy would kick in.

Owners could not break even on that investment.

A landlord does not normally do the day to day chores like unstopping a clogged toilet and certainly would never do a chore like unlock a door for a drunk tenant. Chances are the tenant would not even know the landlord.

Think again. In other places, literal mansions have been designated Section 8 because of the large number of bedrooms that are needed for a family, as stated in the last paragraph of this article:

Large gated South Florida homes rented by Section 8 tenants - Sun Sentinel (http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2012-09-13/news/fl-high-hud-rentals-20120907_1_judith-aigen-white-neighbors-neighborhoods)

One thing that helps is the rule here saying that no children under age 19 can live in TV, despite the federal allowance for up to 20% of residents can be under 55.

.

[Carla B]

What authority would impose a limit on rental terms??

An interesting question. Florida condo law allows associations, through their documents, to limit rentals.

The Villages doesn't have a governing Homeowners Assn. We have a different form of government (CDD). Would it have authority to regulate rentals?

[Laurie2]

Can I sell half my house to my brother and his spouse and have 4 names on my deed?


If you are serious about this, do a little homework first. I think that if an owner is sued for some reason, the house could be fair game. This could be a lot bigger version of being penny-wise but pound-foolish.

I realize it's a financial risk vs. benefit thing. (I guess you now know where I stand on this one.)

But I am not a lawyer. Maybe Florida protects the house in a lawsuit. I don't know. But somebody who is truly thinking about this needs legal advice -- up-front.

[Vladimir]

Rental units in moderation is good but beyond a certain rentals to ownership ratio it does become bad. I'm sure most can point to neighborhoods where mostly rentals becomes a problem. I would love to know what the ratio is in TV.

[john1953]

It would be nice to have a party animal like you living next door to me."smiling"

[wereback]

We moved here from south Fl. most of the better developments have strict rental agreements not less than 90 days nor more than 3 rentals per year. It keeps the area very stable and facilities are not overrun by I don't care people. Short term rentals are my largest concern for our long term way of life Sorry for all the toes I'm stepping on weekly rentals only bring long term decay.

[dirtbanker]

Yesterday, on my way to Orange Blossom Garden for lunch, in the historic section, I saw a new shiny panel van that said something like "Rent in the Villages."

I would be more concerned if it said "Rent to Own in The Villages" or "Bad Credit - No Problem in the Villages":a040:

[dirtbanker]

Resales; who are we kidding, anybody can buy them and as many as they want. Age, Kids, location has nothing to do with it. It's about the money and what will stop them after they brought from living in the house! You got the sawbucks, you can have it. :popcorn:

Over heard this straight from the horses mouth. 30 something year old's with kids brought two houses (probably with daddy's money). Renting them out, stays with parents several times year has all the amenities us poor old retiree's have. SO the rules never do apply when profit can be made. That's the ugly truth in the so called 55 and over community.:popcorn:

A lot of this post makes me chuckle...
A person can only buy as many resales as they can afford!
Resales are subject to the same rules with regard to nobody under the age of 19 can reside on the premise.
Yes, the developer and the real estate companies are doing it for the money. They are working to earn money to support themselves and for retirement (most people do aspire to retire someday and realize they will need money) few get up early in the morning and go to work because they are bored.
If someone's dad bought them a house; what a nice thing to be able to do for your son or daughter (I guess some might think it would be better to help them after your gone or leave it to a complete stranger as opposed your children...) "Daddy" worked for his money and can do with it how he wants just as we all can do with ours.
I have not seen many poor retires here in the Villages, there are a lot cheaper places to retire and there are a lot cheaper places to rent.
By the way; things have changed with regard to what a 30 year old can accomplish financially today, verses lets say a 30 year old in 1970's...

[kcrazorbackfan]

There will always be people that don't stay long enough to learn the rules. Heck, a lot of year round residents don't know the rules or don't care. We don't have any control as far as this issue goes. It is what it is.......part of living here. I've accepted it because this is where I want to live.

.....i.e. navigating roundabouts, running stop signs, sanding fairway/tee box divots, repairing ball marks, picking up dog poop, etc. etc.

[graciegirl]

A lot of this post makes me chuckle...
A person can only buy as many resales as they can afford!
Resales are subject to the same rules with regard to nobody under the age of 19 can reside on the premise.
Yes, the developer and the real estate companies are doing it for the money. They are working to earn money to support themselves and for retirement (most people do aspire to retire someday and realize they will need money) few get up early in the morning and go to work because they are bored.
If someone's dad bought them a house; what a nice thing to be able to do for your son or daughter (I guess some might think it would be better to help them after your gone or leave it to a complete stranger as opposed your children...) "Daddy" worked for his money and can do with it how he wants just as we all can do with ours.
I have not seen many poor retires here in the Villages, there are a lot cheaper places to retire and there are a lot cheaper places to rent.
By the way; things have changed with regard to what a 30 year old can accomplish financially today, verses lets say a 30 year old in 1970's...


Excellent thoughts.

[drdodge]

I have a 2 bedroom courtyard villa and it is for sale and I would sell it to the first person or anybody who has the money to buy it and is willing,

[wayne keiser]

Why would I ,as a full time resident owner who also owns a rental, not want to keep both of my properties well maintained. Future values are determined to a great degree,based on current market conditions as well as the condition of the home and the property on which is sets. I feel it is a far reach to think that we will be faced with slum lords in a community like TV. I believe our time could be better spent than worring about this matter as a either a current or future problem.

[Greg Nelson]

For one, we are very good renters...my wife does cabin rentals in Minnesota during the summer (cabinconnect.) She is a broker and a former teacher. Every place we rent gets the utmost of care...TV included.

[asianthree]

Resales; who are we kidding, anybody can buy them and as many as they want. Age, Kids, location has nothing to do with it. It's about the money and what will stop them after they brought from living in the house! You got the sawbucks, you can have it. :popcorn:

Over heard this straight from the horses mouth. 30 something year old's with kids brought two houses (probably with daddy's money). Renting them out, stays with parents several times year has all the amenities us poor old retiree's have. SO the rules never do apply when profit can be made. That's the ugly truth in the so called 55 and over community.:popcorn:

I am proud of the fact that all of my 30 something children can afford to buy a home in the villages. With their own money not mine. And no they are not bringing children with them. They only have furry children.

[sdeikenberry]

Renting is likely the way MOST of us got involved in TV to begin with. I'm pretty sure there are covenants attached to each lot that prohibit renting for a certain length of time (1 year), which discourages large scale rental companies for buying in here. I find it oddly funny full timer's complain about the the renters, but were probably renters themselves in the beginning, and that since NOBODY is actually FROM T.V., what gives any of us the right to wish someone else wasn't here?

[Greg Nelson]

Renting is likely the way MOST of us got involved in TV to begin with. I'm pretty sure there are covenants attached to each lot that prohibit renting for a certain length of time (1 year), which discourages large scale rental companies for buying in here. I find it oddly funny full timer's complain about the the renters, but were probably renters themselves in the beginning, and that since NOBODY is actually FROM T.V., what gives any of us the right to wish someone else wasn't here? Ditto..well said! It seems common that all 5 locations we've rented in Florida this winter have had an 'attitude' about renters. We always leave any location better than when we arrived.

[bagboy]

We moved here from south Fl. most of the better developments have strict rental agreements not less than 90 days nor more than 3 rentals per year. It keeps the area very stable and facilities are not overrun by I don't care people. Short term rentals are my largest concern for our long term way of life Sorry for all the toes I'm stepping on weekly rentals only bring long term decay.

Every guest of The Villages in the Lifestyle Preview program is a short term renter. I would think that includes most of us. Seems like it has worked out just fine.

[karostay]

I have seen ads for weekly rentals in TV. Now I notice an inquiry about purchase by multiple families, and purchase by a LLC. I believe that if we don't get a grip on these issues, we will have properties occupied by people that don't have a vested interest in our community, don't stay long enough to learn the local "rules", and won't make any attempt to educate themselves prior to signing a lease. I don't know if sales can be somehow restricted, and the duration of rentals regulated, but IMHO, the time has come to find out. I don't believe sales to any entity other than a real person should be allowed (not trusts, or corporations), and rentals should be at least 90 days (the longer the better). I do not mean to cast aspersions in all renters, but as we all have seen, 1 rotten apple can create a barrel full.

Before buying did you rent or do the Villages lifestyle preview ?
see no differance

[big guy]

We own 2 homes in The Villages.....both are in a family trust. We live in one and rent the other. We have improved the rental property so that it has become the neatest and cleanest looking property on the street. When I am there I pick up paper and pull weeds in common areas. We are not absentee landlords and all of our renters have been lovely people who have expressed an interest in The Villages. I expect a large percentage of the properties would be vacant if only allowed to rent 3 months of the year. We have never rented for only 1 week but we do rent for two weeks in the summer. If you are seeing real estate transactions being bought in trusts or LLCs, it's probably a couple like us who have everything in a trust so that our heirs won't have to go through probate. We are an LLC to limit liabity......we would be crazy to do business any other way.

[justjim]

We have a small beach condo in Cocoa Beach. Our complex has a minimum 3 month rental Convenant and this works well for the HOA and also snowbirds. Most of the Condo's up and down the coast have similar restrications. This really makes sense to me. There is a waiting list for rentals.

[Sandtrap328]

We own 2 homes in The Villages.....both are in a family trust. We live in one and rent the other. We have improved the rental property so that it has become the neatest and cleanest looking property on the street. When I am there I pick up paper and pull weeds in common areas. We are not absentee landlords and all of our renters have been lovely people who have expressed an interest in The Villages. I expect a large percentage of the properties would be vacant if only allowed to rent 3 months of the year. We have never rented for only 1 week but we do rent for two weeks in the summer. If you are seeing real estate transactions being bought in trusts or LLCs, it's probably a couple like us who have everything in a trust so that our heirs won't have to go through probate. We are an LLC to limit liabity......we would be crazy to do business any other way.

Just curious - do short term renters (2-4 weeks) have restrictions on children under 19 like owners must comply?

[graciegirl]

I worry too about the folks who are trying to locate a complete stranger on this forum to rent long term WITH. I watch Judge Judy and that doesn't seem to ever work out well.

Good morning. I am who I am. We all are. I love the debates on this forum.

[Indydealmaker]

Just curious - do short term renters (2-4 weeks) have restrictions on children under 19 like owners must comply?

The age restrictions are for residents, not owners. A baby could own property in The Villages.

[justjim]

A couple of years ago I "bumped" into a couple who had 26 rentals in TV. Yep, that's what the guy told me. All of them they said were in the "older sections" of TV. Some he rented out for a few days or a week. His words. Owning rentals was a full-time business to this couple and their son.

I often thought about that conversation. I sure wouldn't want to live next door to a "motel". Would any of us who call TV their home?

No more new homes built in TV will be IMHO a "game changer". A conversation for another thread. As months go by, more and more Villages will be the "older section".

[graciegirl]

A couple of years ago I "bumped" into a couple who had 26 rentals in TV. Yep, that's what the guy told me. All of them they said were in the "older sections" of TV. Some he rented out for a few days or a week. His words. Owning rentals was a full-time business to this couple and their son.

I often thought about that conversation. I sure wouldn't want to live next door to a "motel". Would any of us who call TV their home?

No more new homes built in TV will be IMHO a "game changer". A conversation for another thread. As months go by, more and more Villages will be the "older section".


You are so right.

[deestatham]

Well, I certainly understand all these points of view. Everyone seems to have the same objective - to maintain the quality of The Villages and I humbly agree. My husband and I are moving to TV in September (if our house sells!!). We are going to rent for a year before deciding if we want to buy or continue to rent. We are renting a furnished house and so grateful that this option is available. Will probably maintain the house even BETTER then we do our very own because we appreciate it so much. This option gives newcomers the chance to explore and decide the best option for them. And if we have friends who want to visit, they can rent a house of their own and have their own privacy which is wonderful. I just hope that Villagers always have this much concern for TV. This is what keeps TV a quality place to live. Looking forward to become a Villager myself in the near future.

[VILLAGER 2011]

I have seen ads for weekly rentals in TV. Now I notice an inquiry about purchase by multiple families, and purchase by a LLC. I believe that if we don't get a grip on these issues, we will have properties occupied by people that don't have a vested interest in our community, don't stay long enough to learn the local "rules", and won't make any attempt to educate themselves prior to signing a lease. I don't know if sales can be somehow restricted, and the duration of rentals regulated, but IMHO, the time has come to find out. I don't believe sales to any entity other than a real person should be allowed (not trusts, or corporations), and rentals should be at least 90 days (the longer the better). I do not mean to cast aspersions in all renters, but as we all have seen, 1 rotten apple can create a barrel full.
re: Rentals. It is what it is...

Folowing the death of Gary Morse it is now a new day in the villages. The kids have every right to run the show as they see fit and profit is not a dirty word.

The vision of the growth of the villages tempered with an altruistic attitude made the villages of today. The Villages of tomorrow will be one of uncontrolled expansion with many small kingdoms created by business entrepreneurs e.g., (the four country clubs and scooples owned by one such entrepreneur) . Another is the monoply of Cal's barber shops. etc. There will be many more to come. Learn to accept it. It is the free market at work.

[graciegirl]

re: Rentals. It is what it is...

Folowing the death of Gary Morse it is now a new day in the villages. The kids have every right to run the show as they see fit and profit is not a dirty word.

The vision of the growth of the villages tempered with an altruistic attitude made the villages of today. The Villages of tomorrow will be one of uncontrolled expansion with many small kingdoms created by business entrepreneurs e.g., (the four country clubs and scooples owned by one such entrepreneur) . Another is the monoply of Cal's barber shops. etc. There will be many more to come. Learn to accept it. It is the free market at work.


Huh???????

The people who have had success here are the one's interested in expanding. Cals and the four restaurants who rent the country club buildings are an example of that. They waited a long time before anyone was willing to rent the Orange Blossom Garden restaurant space.


Perhaps I missed your point. Why would you think Jennifer, Mark and Tracy would do anything different than their father? They aren't stupid.

[asianthree]

re: Rentals. It is what it is...

Folowing the death of Gary Morse it is now a new day in the villages. The kids have every right to run the show as they see fit and profit is not a dirty word.

The vision of the growth of the villages tempered with an altruistic attitude made the villages of today. The Villages of tomorrow will be one of uncontrolled expansion with many small kingdoms created by business entrepreneurs e.g., (the four country clubs and scooples owned by one such entrepreneur) . Another is the monoply of Cal's barber shops. etc. There will be many more to come. Learn to accept it. It is the free market at work.

Since we are running out of room I don't see anyway to become uncontrolled

[Licismom]

Wouldn't it be helpful to have laws that hold the homeowners responsible for problems caused by their renters? I know several areas in Florida and elsewhere have laws like that. Responsible owners are going to insure that their tenants clearly understand the rules. However, there are bad apples that just want the money. Since all they understand is money, stiff penalties would hit them where they live. Also, I'm seeing some stories on the various media that report on TV that list the residence as the TV but the age is well below the 55 and older I understood was the minimum age for here. Why is that?

[Mikeod]

Wouldn't it be helpful to have laws that hold the homeowners responsible for problems caused by their renters? I know several areas in Florida and elsewhere have laws like that. Responsible owners are going to insure that their tenants clearly understand the rules. However, there are bad apples that just want the money. Since all they understand is money, stiff penalties would hit them where they live. Also, I'm seeing some stories on the various media that report on TV that list the residence as the TV but the age is well below the 55 and older I understood was the minimum age for here. Why is that?
80% have to be 55 or older. The other 20% can be younger. Also, adult children (over 19) can reside with parent(s) and would be considered residents of TV.

[njbchbum]

Wouldn't it be helpful to have laws that hold the homeowners responsible for problems caused by their renters? I know several areas in Florida and elsewhere have laws like that. Responsible owners are going to insure that their tenants clearly understand the rules. snipped

Would you be willing to identify the 'areas in Florida and elsewhere' as well as the laws they have that hold homeowners liable for the actions of renters? I'd like to look into that. Would also like to know how those 'responsible owners' make sure their tenants adhere to the rules they 'clearly understand'. Thanks

[Greg Nelson]

Kinda like that here in River Wilderness. First visitor we had was the compliance officer. No vehicles can be left in the driveway. Overnight guests need all sorts of stuff. Owner has to initiate etc. Very restrictive and gated with 24/7 guards..They will soon vote on a 2 month minimum rental period. Some homes in here are up in the millions. Our rental has a nice pool. About 900 homes here. But selling has dropped off due to a LOT of reasonable new homes being built close by...

[Akmoorfamily]

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Many folk would not own houses if they could not rent them. Doesn't everyone have a revokable trust? (mild joke) but a lot do and everything we own is in the trust for legal reasons. LLC's are often just peoples small businesses and they but thru them for various reasons. Every snowbird helps carry your freight on amenities and taxes without being here and enjoying their property full time, same can be said for their renters. My mother had a place that had all those rules, couldn't rent out at all there etc. I was once thriving and now is dead. Folks who couldn't come full time and couldn't rent left. My mother died and i sold the property, January 2014, for half what she bought it for in 1996. I am just one vote but I think the Villages works pretty well under the current rules, maybe if someone wants to show me some examples of problems?..Otherwise I am suspicious of anyone who wants lots of controls when i can see no problem.

[sunnyatlast]

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Many folk would not own houses if they could not rent them. Doesn't everyone have a revokable trust? (mild joke) but a lot do and everything we own is in the trust for legal reasons. LLC's are often just peoples small businesses and they but thru them for various reasons. Every snowbird helps carry your freight on amenities and taxes without being here and enjoying their property full time, same can be said for their renters. My mother had a place that had all those rules, couldn't rent out at all there etc. It was once thriving and now is dead. Folks who couldn't come full time and couldn't rent left. My mother died and i sold the property, January 2014, for half what she bought it for in 1996. I am just one vote but I think the Villages works pretty well under the current rules, maybe if someone wants to show me some examples of problems?..Otherwise I am suspicious of anyone who wants lots of controls when i can see no problem.

Very well stated. Be suspicious when a vocal complainer here wants the gates closed to newcomers, snowbirds, renters, guests, the wind blowing from the east, and anyone under the age of 90. That type is too dumb to realize they're wishing for slow death by lack of buyers not yet ready for the nursing home.

[asianthree]

Wouldn't it be helpful to have laws that hold the homeowners responsible for problems caused by their renters? I know several areas in Florida and elsewhere have laws like that. Responsible owners are going to insure that their tenants clearly understand the rules. However, there are bad apples that just want the money. Since all they understand is money, stiff penalties would hit them where they live. Also, I'm seeing some stories on the various media that report on TV that list the residence as the TV but the age is well below the 55 and older I understood was the minimum age for here. Why is that?

Nope law states 20% can be under 55

[asianthree]

And how do you know who is a renter. Is there a sign stamped on their forehead. My parents stay at my house and they don't pay rent. Take care of the house, trim my rosebushes ( wish they didn't) and know how to drive the roundabouts. Course the parties I hear are way out of control.

[Licismom]

Thanks so much for the explanation re: under 55. Who is in control of regulating the %age?

[asianthree]

Thanks so much for the explanation re: under 55. Who is in control of regulating the %age?

When our son was looking at houses he was told TV was well under the 20%. Did not tell him where the stats came from. He is 46 wife is 48

[Licismom]

Several people have responded to the question about how other areas have handled the problems that few irresponsible renters can cause. Marco Island on the SW coast is extremely expensive to rent during season with the rates per WEEK frequently exceeding the rates per month in TV. There are private homes, hotels and condos. The condos and hotels are not really a problem as they have their own rules and 24 hour enforcement backed up by police and the Sheriff's department. Most private owners very responsible as are their tenants. However, it only takes one rotten apple... and unfortunately there are a few. Tenants rent for 6 people then bring another 6 or more. They throw loud parties, park on lawns, fail to follow the rules and generally disrespect the homeowners in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, the repeat owner abusers are now forcing the local government to step in. Planning Board (http://www.marcoislandflorida.com/story/news/local/marco-island/2014/12/11/planning-boards-property-rental-ordinance-heads-to-marco-city-council/20241501/) I sure hope this doesn't have to occur in TV.

[john2]

why are renters allowed to have yearly rentals with children and owners can have children only 30 days?

[redwitch]

why are renters allowed to have yearly rentals with children and owners can have children only 30 days?

They're not. If they have children under 19, you can report them and they'll be forced to move along.

[downeaster]

80% have to be 55 or older. The other 20% can be younger. Also, adult children (over 19) can reside with parent(s) and would be considered residents of TV.

Nope law states 20% can be under 55

Wouldn't it be helpful to have laws that hold the homeowners responsible for problems caused by their renters? I know several areas in Florida and elsewhere have laws like that. Responsible owners are going to insure that their tenants clearly understand the rules. However, there are bad apples that just want the money. Since all they understand is money, stiff penalties would hit them where they live. Also, I'm seeing some stories on the various media that report on TV that list the residence as the TV but the age is well below the 55 and older I understood was the minimum age for here. Why is that?

Here is the law:

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/PLAW-104publ76/pdf/PLAW-104publ76.pdf

[kstew43]

there is one suggestion on a way to tell who is a owner and who is a renter....

in my process of buying the state of florida,"one house at a time".... and with my slight real estate knowledge,

if you look at the tax records for the county the home is located in.....the tax records will tell you the address of the taxed property....and a billing address.

if the two address's are not the same then....that means.....either they probably have renters or they leave the home empty part of the year, because the bills are sent to the main home or investment company who owns the property. or of course forclosed..the bank.

[asianthree]

there is one suggestion on a way to tell who is a owner and who is a renter....

in my process of buying the state of florida,"one house at a time".... and with my slight real estate knowledge,

if you look at the tax records for the county the home is located in.....the tax records will tell you the address of the taxed property....and a billing address.

if the two address's are not the same then....that means.....either they probably have renters or they leave the home empty part of the year, because the bills are sent to the main home or investment company who owns the property. or of course forclosed..the bank.

Or one spouse lives in one state while the other enjoys retirement in TV.

[kstew43]

Would you be willing to identify the 'areas in Florida and elsewhere' as well as the laws they have that hold homeowners liable for the actions of renters? I'd like to look into that. Would also like to know how those 'responsible owners' make sure their tenants adhere to the rules they 'clearly understand'. Thanks

.

In regards to tenants, you can run a credit and get references, but unless your truely gifted....you can never know what your tenants will or won't do and how they behave until there in. we have been very lucky, but we do have a contract that explains if you screw up, and we are charged for your issues...in regards to the home, if we have to pay....we will bill you..the tenants.

this happens all the time in our rentals in tally......if the renters leave there garbage on the deck, the HOA sends us a nasty gram...we call it....and naturally i am on the phone with the tenant letting him know.....fix the problem.

In florida tenants rights are to the extreme, on the tenants favor, in my opinion and once there in, it takes a lot to get them out...

In regards to land owner taking responsibilty...for the renters....thats a given....The HOA or in the villages "the powers that be" would naturally blame the homeowner......the fines charged for discrepancies would go to the homeowners not the renters....The HOA doesnt know who you rented to...usually....they just know theres a problem and the homeowner must take care of it....

[dirtbanker]

there is one suggestion on a way to tell who is a owner and who is a renter....

in my process of buying the state of florida,"one house at a time".... and with my slight real estate knowledge,

if you look at the tax records for the county the home is located in.....the tax records will tell you the address of the taxed property....and a billing address.

if the two address's are not the same then....that means.....either they probably have renters or they leave the home empty part of the year, because the bills are sent to the main home or investment company who owns the property. or of course forclosed..the bank.

Or, they live there, have a trust, and the trust's mailing address is their accountant's office...

[kstew43]

Or, they live there, have a trust, and the trust's mailing address is their accountant's office...

lots of possibilities......i just brought up the common ways I knew....

My mother has her home in a trust so it will be eaiser to settle if she passes, and she still gets the tax bill delivered to her? so what do I know

[Packer Fan]

When our son was looking at houses he was told TV was well under the 20%. Did not tell him where the stats came from. He is 46 wife is 48

I bought at 51, they told me that they did not worry too much, currently under 55 owners are less than 8%.

My two cents on rentals - I just read 10 pages, and a lot of it is misinformation. My experience is renters pay all up front, are wonderful people, and leave the place clean and nice. Most people start as renters. The renters here are not "normal" renters - they are the kind of people who can write a check for $12000 for the season - sometimes half of it a year ahead of time - and not even think much about it. We are talking Hardworking, well of professionals, businessmen, etc. They have been successful in life, and want to enjoy themselves. They understand the value of the first class place that is the villages. They are not going to botch it up.

Just my 2 cents.
Ed

[Greg Nelson]

Well put Ed! And my wife is a cheese head!

[MaryRDH]

yes

[big guy]

Just curious - do short term renters (2-4 weeks) have restrictions on children under 19 like owners must comply?

None of our renters have had anyone under the age of 19 but I don't get your point.

[OBXNana]

We have had several one week rentals with family's having children under 19. In each case, they were visiting family members that live in The Villages. It was 3 or 4 generations all getting together in The Villages to celebrate a birthday, wedding, or holiday. We haven't had a single inquiry from a family with children that weren't visiting a Village resident.

Back to Sandtrap328, are we violating The Villages restrictions if we have guests with children under 19 for a few weeks in a row, but are different family's? This thought never entered my mind. I may also be over thinking.

On another note, not once did we have any issues with excessive cleaning or damage when younger people were in the villa. Their relatives live in The Villages and that may make a difference.