A Housing Question

[williep]

Can anyone tell me the differences in the various types of houses? For instance, what is the difference between villas and homes? Are the villas like modular homes or Double Wides? The price ranges seem to greatly overlap between the various models and types. Why are there so many models. Also is it better to buy a used home that the bond has already been paid on?
I am doing a lifestyle visit in a couple of weeks and am trying to do my homework, but I am completely confused by the home choices.
Any advice and information is really appreciated.
Bill from Blackstone, MA

[chuckinca]

Villas are not modular homes or double wides. They are site built of wood frame with aluminum siding or concrete block with stucco coating. They have fenced in back yards, that most of the other types of homes do not, and are a favorite of people with dogs because of the rear fencing.

You pays your money and you takes your choice - lots of choices, do your homework. It is a good idea to rent for a few months to get a good idea of what you really want. New homes are being built in the southern areas of TV only - the other areas are built out but have many resale homes for sale.

(there are modular homes/double wides in the "historic" area East of Hwy 441 - no fences tho)


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[katezbox]

Go to The Villages website and look at homes. Start with new homes and look over the floor plans and model tours. Get an idea of what you like and what you can afford. Some of the villas and homes have the same floor plan (for example a Grantham villa is the same as a Camden designer).

They go to the resales and look in that price range. As far as the bond goes - do a search - there have been numerous discussions on this. Keep in mind that the decision is individual - what works for one person may not be the right decision for another.

[Ooper]

One basic difference I have found between models is the amount of customization and design changes when you order a home. Very little with villas on up to pretty much anything possible with premier homes.

[vitacr]

[FONT="Comic Sans MS"]I speak from 24 yrs of realtor experience - I retired from TV 3 yrs ago.

DIFFERNCES IN HOMES:
The main differences are square footage and whether you want a 1.5 car garage or more. Most villas come with the 1.5 car (.5 for your golfcart), and have very little "guest" parking. There are "patio villas" - 1 or 2 bedroom and are wood frame with "vinyl" siding (they all look alike, face front and have a white picket fence in the front. The "courtyard" villas face on an angle. They can be woodframe or cement/stucco. They are alittle larger 2 & 3 bdrm but most still have a 1.5 garage and little guest parking.

The next level is the "ranch" model - alittle more square feet - approx 1300 - several models to choose from with either a 1.5, 2-car or more garage. No fences are allowed and location is important for privacy.

The next level is the "designer" series - more square feet - fancier appointments - approx 1500-2000 sf - can be wood frame or stucco - again location is important for privacy.

The final level is the "premier" series - the largest we offer - 2000+ sf - big bucks - these are all stucco homes - all Premier areas are distinctive - they have "double" street lights.

I HIGHLY recommend comparing pre-owned to new. With the main focus on NO or Little BOND. Many pre-owned are still considered new and save in many ways.............fans, window treatments, bond, landscaping, gutters, irrigation systems, even some with furniture (turn-key). The bonds on new construction can easily reach over 30K. Do ask your salesperson to explain it in depth (and also the impact fees). If you need a good, honest, trustworthy salesperson - ask for The Twins (June & Jean). They'll give you the straight scoop.

It is recommended to rent for 6 months before you commit. The homes available are always vast and you need the time to investigate leisurly. This community is huge and can be overwhelming. You cannot see it properly in 3or 5 days. Please take your time.................

I sincerely wish you luck!

[jinker]

what are "impact fees"?