Neighborhood opions?

[EviesGP]

First, I apologize in advance, for this thread. I joined TOTV only a few months ago, but I have been overwhelmed(and impressed) with all the info and advice provided here. We are visiting TV for a week next month, in advance of retiring in early fall and returning. Definitely taking the advice to rent, while we look around. But with the enormity of TV areas and neighborhoods, I was hoping for some advice, to allow us to narrow our focus on a smaller group(s)? I did note a few threads on recommended areas, but I also recall one thread(gent?) that posted his opinion on some neighborhoods he did not recommend(for various reason), and I cannot find it? I don't want to offend anyone by asking for folks to make overt disparaging remarks, so I would accept any private msgs on same, as well? Regardless, this forum is an outstanding service. Thank you in advance, New Englander(soon to be TV).

[graciegirl]

Almost everyone thinks their village is the best, unless they brought their unhappiness with them.

Some people enjoy being with NEW arrivals here so they can all start together and it is true that New Villages have a lot more activities and gatherings at first.

There are those who are seeking the younger part of the population to hang out with. They aren't really any particular place nor are singles.

Decide whether you want a new home or a used one. They are about the same price. Decide what size home you want and how much money you want to spend on it.

It is really hard to make a serious mistake. And if you do, you can easily sell the home and move closer to friends, groceries, doctors, ...but wait...almost everywhere is close to that.

Welcome. You will surprise most of us if you don't love it here.

[Madelaine Amee]

First, I apologize in advance, for this thread. I joined TOTV only a few months ago, but I have been overwhelmed(and impressed) with all the info and advice provided here. We are visiting TV for a week next month, in advance of retiring in early fall and returning. Definitely taking the advice to rent, while we look around. But with the enormity of TV areas and neighborhoods, I was hoping for some advice, to allow us to narrow our focus on a smaller group(s)? I did note a few threads on recommended areas, but I also recall one thread(gent?) that posted his opinion on some neighborhoods he did not recommend(for various reason), and I cannot find it? I don't want to offend anyone by asking for folks to make overt disparaging remarks, so I would accept any private msgs on same, as well? Regardless, this forum is an outstanding service. Thank you in advance, New Englander(soon to be TV).

First do not apologize for posting here - it is an open forum and welcome.

I have only one suggestion and it refers to age. If you are a youthful retiree you could probably locate happily to just any village. However, if you do not want to travel too far to shop, eat out, doctors, dentists, hospitals and the Squares etc, then look in areas that are within easy reach of the necessities of every day living.

[fw102807]

The best way to decide is to visit all of the squares, Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood and decide which you like best and would like to be close to. Then you can look at the new developments south of here and see how you like it there. Also look at where the places you like to shop are located and decide how near you would like to be. That will help you narrow down the areas where you will want to look.

[EPutnam1863]

[QUOTE=EviesGP;1516437]First, I apologize in advance, fo I don't want to offend anyone by asking for folks to make overt disparaging remarks, so I would accept any private msgs on same, as well? Regardless, this forum is an outstanding service. Thank you in advance, New Englander(soon to be TV).[/QUOTE

Renting for a full year is the only way to make very sure you are making the right decision.

[EPutnam1863]

Also try to visit each recreation center (if they will let you in) and see how the others respond to you, a new face. One group literally told me I was not welcome because I was a new face.

[fw102807]

[QUOTE=EviesGP;1516437]First, I apologize in advance, fo I don't want to offend anyone by asking for folks to make overt disparaging remarks, so I would accept any private msgs on same, as well? Regardless, this forum is an outstanding service. Thank you in advance, New Englander(soon to be TV).[/QUOTE

Renting for a full year is the only way to make very sure you are making the right decision.

We came down for a preview week looked at all the squares talked to everyone we met and went to a bunch of open houses to see the different types. Went back up north bought a house that met our requirements and have been happy as clams ever since.

[Bogie Shooter]

Also try to visit each recreation center (if they will let you in) and see how the others respond to you, a new face. One group literally told me I was not welcome because I was a new face.

In 18 years I have never not been allowed to visit a rec center.

[JoMar]

First do not apologize for posting here - it is an open forum and welcome.

I have only one suggestion and it refers to age. If you are a youthful retiree you could probably locate happily to just any village. However, if you do not want to travel too far to shop, eat out, doctors, dentists, hospitals and the Squares etc, then look in areas that are within easy reach of the necessities of every day living.

But that changes every year and you have to define how far too far is. Everything is within reach from any part of The Villages and frankly, shopping, eating out, doctors, dentists, hospitals should not be what your life revolves around. There is a life here that enhances your well being that should make the medical stuff and shopping secondary however, I will conceded eating out is important but that is available everywhere and the best places are outside The Villages.

[stephenm52]

Here’s my side of the story we are snowbirds, this is our first time staying in TV. We wanted to try it on for size so to speak and are renting a very nice designer home My take on the Villages is this, we are in the Chatam area in the rental, we like it here but thought next year let’s rent in a different location. We took a few days and drove both by car and golf cart to various areas. After looking at some available rentals in other areas we decided to stay put and return next year to the same rental. We took a tour of Fenney and it did not appeal to us. My point is get a feel for different neighborhoods. Everyone tastes differ take the time, make your own decision. Knowing what we know now we would never buy or rent south of 466, we prefer the Villages closer to Rt 42, but that’s just our preference. Wishing you the best.

[Marathon Man]

Choosing a home and a neighborhood is a personal decision based on personal needs and wants. None of the villages are lacking in home sales (as far as I know) because they all appeal in their own way to many people. The best advice is to take the time to learn as much as you can, and then go from there. It's a big place for sure. And the fact that there are no "bad" areas make choosing all the more difficult, or perhaps all the more easy.

[eweissenbach]

A prime consideration for me is where the home is located in relation to the executive golf courses. If that is a major consideration for you take a look at a map of the courses. We rented in Hemingway for a number of years and had access to more than twenty execs within a fifteen minute cart ride. The preponderance of courses between 466 and 466A are located to the west of Canal St, with more in the southern end. South of 466A they are mostly in the north end just off Pinellas on the east of Morse and the west of Buena Vista. Good hunting.

[Frank&Gerri]

We too will be renting for a month next spring and planning on retiring for good to TV in 2019. We would appreciate any feedback from Villagers who are active, enjoy (executive level) golf and being involved in community. Thank you!

[justjim]

OP, you ask a very difficult question and one that is very easy to answer at the same time. Where to live in The Villages is such a personal decision that it’s next to impossible (difficult) to advise. On the other hand only you and your significant other (assuming there is one) can make an informed decision based upon your hobbies, wants and needs. I know that doesn’t help much. It is difficult to make a wrong decision that can’t be corrected very quickly. By that I mean, houses priced at market price sell very quickly in The Villages. We know because we missed a house or two because we waited three or four days,to make up our mind. That’s not the “normal” way you purchase a home elsewhere. I’m confident that you will sort it out. I will give you one piece of advice. Invest $5.00 in an up to date map of The Villages. I’m “old school” but I think you can see the big picture of The Villages by looking at the big picture. Enjoy and good luck.

[Carla B]

Also try to visit each recreation center (if they will let you in) and see how the others respond to you, a new face. One group literally told me I was not welcome because I was a new face.

Was that in The Villages or somewhere else?

[billethkid]

There will always be an isolated opinion about almost anything. So as other posters have so much as said....take the time to see for yourself.

Whether an area is better than another is all in the eye of the beholder. As GG said you really cannot make a serious mistake.

Make it a priority to get the house and property you want and that will pretty much sort out where you will wind up buying.

Good luck.

[Lottoguy]

Is this it? --->12 Buying Tips For THE VILLAGES in FLORIDA - YouTube (https://youtu.be/ogVfYukVRBg)

Or maybe this?--->THE BEST LOCATIONS IN THE VILLAGES - My Picks - YouTube (https://youtu.be/HtHWPFfNCKw)

[graciegirl]

Also try to visit each recreation center (if they will let you in) and see how the others respond to you, a new face. One group literally told me I was not welcome because I was a new face.

I think you may have misunderstood. Sometimes especially during the high season, all chairs are filled. I noticed when reading your post that you have lived in many, many states, yet you don't own here, although in the past you have lived in other parts of Florida.

[queasy27]

I enjoy graphs and spreadsheets, so this won't be for everybody, but what I'd do is make a simple flowchart.

First question -- new home or resale. That answer will limit your search and steer you to the next question of importance to you, which might be price range. The following questions could be things like being close (and how close) to grocery stores, a town square, sports and activities such as golf/softball/bowling/sports pool/regional rec center, etc. Easy golf cart accessibility to other parts of The Villages may or may not be of importance. Once you have a list of preferred villages that meet your requirements, you can focus on specific house features such as model, lot, and bond.

If you have a physical map like justjim suggested, you can draw circles around the areas to get a good overview.

[Lottoguy]

The area north of 466 is a great place to live. Less hectic during the winter months. I like anything between Glenview CC and Nancy Lopez.

[graciegirl]

I enjoy graphs and spreadsheets, so this won't be for everybody, but what I'd do is make a simple flowchart.

First question -- new home or resale. That answer will limit your search and steer you to the next question of importance to you, which might be price range. The following questions could be things like being close (and how close) to grocery stores, a town square, sports and activities such as golf/softball/bowling/sports pool/regional rec center, etc. Easy golf cart accessibility to other parts of The Villages may or may not be of importance. Once you have a list of preferred villages that meet your requirements, you can focus on specific house features such as model, lot, and bond.

If you have a physical map like justjim suggested, you can draw circles around the areas to get a good overview.

MOST of the new homes are in Fenney right now.

We kept copious notes and decided to buy a used Villa when we came as snowbirds. We bought a new designer in Hadley. Enjoyed it thoroughly and built a new home again when we became frogs. I don't think the squares are the draw at all after a year or so, groceries and restaurants and golfcart accessibility is important. Golf courses and nice people are everywhere here.

[Sgroemm]

There are no bad places to live in the villages! Just define your own priorities and search three places: properties for sale by realty executives in the villages, MLS listings such as ERA Grizzard's site, and FSBO. Remember that there is not one convenient place where all available properties can be found. Start looking, its free and I looked for 2 years with no pressure from any agent. Once you start looking, you can define your priority list.
Resale of new?
Bond or Bond paid?
#bedrooms/#baths
grass or no grass
Courtyard or open yard
furnished turnkey or empty
proximity to the squares/golf/food store
carpet or no carpet
gas or electric
pool or neighborhood pool

Check the location of past sink holes, though it is no guarantee that they will continue to occur or not......it is good knowledge to have when buying a home.

[Barefoot]

Almost everyone thinks their village is the best, unless they brought their unhappiness with them.


... if you do not want to travel too far to shop, eat out, doctors, dentists, hospitals and the Squares etc, then look in areas that are within easy reach of the necessities of every day living.

I don't think the squares are the draw at all after a year or so, groceries and restaurants and golf cart accessibility is important. Golf courses and nice people are everywhere here.
:agree:

[njbchbum]

A couple of frequent complaints I read here are from folks who frustrate over the amount of traffic between their home and where they have to get to, be it groceries, club mtg, medical appt, golf, etc.

Another is that they moved into a neighborhood of apparent pre-retirees who do not live there year round; thus creating a rather empty neighborhood in all but 'the season' months.

And then there are the folks who would not dream of buying in any of the three original Villages because they are adverse to manufactured houses and old people! In fact...those Villages have become 'heritage' villages because of the younger folks inheriting the homes of their parents! The good news, too, is that the developer is gentrifying the area with the purchase and replacement of many of the early houses with brand new site built models. I doubt you can find a larger siized lot anywhere in the Villages! And there is a golf cart bridge over the hiway to get you where you need to go when you don't need the car! Exit any of the three original villages and the hiway is right there without winding thru a bunch of traffic clogged roads. Villages on the other side of the hiway off of Avenida Central, are also convenient to the hiway, shopping, etc.

As far as moving into an established neighborhood if that is where the home of your dreams winds up...have no fear...hand out invitations to a come as you are and bring your own chair intro party and you will be the latest social butterfly of the street!

Here's hpoing you have a fun house hunting experience! (PS folks in the original villages are not likely to file complaints if you choose to adorn your property with any variety of lawn ornaments lolol).

[jebartle]

If you will be spending first year in box stores (lowes or home depot) or are a bowling fan, look in spanish springs area. If you want a shorter trip to Orlando and Mouse-land, look to brownwood.
If you like lake-view in town, check out Sumter Landing.

[USA2Elsewhere]

How can a new face not be welcome since people move or die?????? Makes no sense. And if the community grows, if there aren't new faces, the community will empty out eventually.

[billethkid]

The Villages is like a well designed theatre....there is not a bad seat in the house.

Re-stating much of what has been said......when you find the house you want, the village chosen and it's peoples will be the best experience you have had to date...regardless where in The Villages, you will not go wrong.....all personal opinions offered aside as they are justly prejudiced.

[Spikearoni]

There are no bad places to live in the villages! Just define your own priorities and search three places: properties for sale by realty executives in the villages, MLS listings such as ERA Grizzard's site, and FSBO. Remember that there is not one convenient place where all available properties can be found. Start looking, its free and I looked for 2 years with no pressure from any agent. Once you start looking, you can define your priority list.
Resale of new?
Bond or Bond paid?
#bedrooms/#baths
grass or no grass
Courtyard or open yard
furnished turnkey or empty
proximity to the squares/golf/food store
carpet or no carpet
gas or electric
pool or neighborhood pool

Check the location of past sink holes, though it is no guarantee that they will continue to occur or not......it is good knowledge to have when buying a home.

How does one go about checking the location of past sink holes?

[graciegirl]

How does one go about checking the location of past sink holes?

Google sinkhole map of Florida.

[jricciuto]

Our home is in the Spanish Springs area, in the Village of Delmar. It is in the best location. By golf cart you can reach Lowes, Walmart, Aldi's, Winn Dixie and Publix.
We are on the 2nd tee of the Chula Vista Golf Course. If you plan a return visit in the fall, our home is available September and October and you can view all details on VillagersHomes4Rent.com .. Property#5160.
Our property is not for sale, but it is in such a great location that I have had interest from 2 of my renters to purchase it.
It would be a great way for you to check out the neighborhood and the great neighbors.
If you are interested, please contact Jean 585 694 3279 by phone or text or email: jricciuto@rochester.rr.com

[spring_chicken]

While renting, decide which activities you think you will be most involved in. If you think you are going to play softball 3 days a week, you probably don't want to be at the very south end (very few games are played at Soaring Eagle) as 90% of the softball is played at Buffalo Glen and Saddlebrook. Same with bowling, only 2 bowling locations and both are up north. Platform tennis? You'd want to be closer to the central or southern areas. Archery? North...
I know people who have literally moved just because they got tired of traveling 30 minutes to get to activities that they participate in several times a week.

[Sgroemm]

How does one go about checking the location of past sink holes?

There was a great map posted on TOTV, just search for it.

[graciegirl]

There was a great map posted on TOTV, just search for it.

IMHO there is a strong possibility that where a sinkhole has been repaired that place is equal or better than other locations.

Sinkholes fall under the "you never know" classification if you ask the real experts.

[Mickster38]

ARe theyre any other villages communities in southern Florida? or does anyone know of nice parks or condo complexes that have the community atmosphere in southern Florida?

[Henryk]

I enjoy graphs and spreadsheets, so this won't be for everybody, but what I'd do is make a simple flowchart.

First question -- new home or resale. That answer will limit your search and steer you to the next question of importance to you, which might be price range. The following questions could be things like being close (and how close) to grocery stores, a town square, sports and activities such as golf/softball/bowling/sports pool/regional rec center, etc. Easy golf cart accessibility to other parts of The Villages may or may not be of importance. Once you have a list of preferred villages that meet your requirements, you can focus on specific house features such as model, lot, and bond.

If you have a physical map like justjim suggested, you can draw circles around the areas to get a good overview.

Oh, boy. Are you a programmer? :icon_wink:

[graciegirl]

ARe theyre any other villages communities in southern Florida? or does anyone know of nice parks or condo complexes that have the community atmosphere in southern Florida?

No.

[Henryk]

MOST of the new homes are in Fenney right now.

We kept copious notes and decided to buy a used Villa when we came as snowbirds. We bought a new designer in Hadley. Enjoyed it thoroughly and built a new home again when we became frogs. I don't think the squares are the draw at all after a year or so, groceries and restaurants and golfcart accessibility is important. Golf courses and nice people are everywhere here.

Gracie, dear, I didn't know you lived in Hadley. I'm on Grovewood. Where was your house?

[graciegirl]

Gracie, dear, I didn't know you lived in Hadley. I'm on Grovewood. Where was your house?

We lived just behind the shuffleboard courts at Odell. Here is our old sign;

[Henryk]

We lived on Havana just behind the shuffleboard courts at Odell. Here is our old sign;

Goodness, that's just around the corner from us!

[Carla B]

ARe theyre any other villages communities in southern Florida? or does anyone know of nice parks or condo complexes that have the community atmosphere in southern Florida?

No, there isn't anything like The Villages in South Florida, at least Southeast Florida. They have to build up, not out, so lots of high rise condos.

[EviesGP]

stephenm52. Can I ask, what is your draw to that area up north? I ask because there are many affordable options up there, but not many people seem to be drawn there? We just spent last week there, and purposely drove up there, as we have a rental in that area this fall, as we look for a place to buy. You're welcome to respond or msg me, but I'd be really interested in your opinion. Thanks.

[kstew43]

ARe theyre any other villages communities in southern Florida? or does anyone know of nice parks or condo complexes that have the community atmosphere in southern Florida?

The are many 55= communities in South Florida. Century Village.....is the biggest and rivals the villages with condos and is located in Ft lauderdale, West Palm and Pembroke Pines. 4 condo complexes in 3 cities.

There are also many smaller condo 55+ communities, in Hollywood, Pembroke pines and Dania Beach as well as Hallendale, Miami and The Keys. As Well as maufactured homes and smaller older style florida home communities that are 55+

They are all mainly Golf communities, they are very well maintained and much less expensive than the Villages. But not cart communities, and that sometimes makes the difference. But take it from me having lived in south florida for the past 20 years, the weather is much better down there, but alas Disney is up here, so here we stay.

[charmed59]

Right now, if you want to live a full golf cart lifestyle, the northern areas are really the only way. There are golf accessible department stores, Hardware stores, furniture stores, and everything stores at the shopping areas on the west side of Buena Vista at 466 (Buffalo Ridge area) and up near Spanish Springs. There are theatres that pull in touring entertainment at the Sharon in Spanish Springs and the Savannah on Buena Vista and El Camino. The is a smaller theatre for local talent plays in the neighborhood just north of 466 off of Morse, and, of course dinner shows at Katie Belles.

However, if you are willing to drive for those occasional things, there is golf, grocery stores, pickle ball, banks, healthcare and rec centers everywhere. (Or soon to be everywhere.)

As someone above mentioned, find out what your favorite activities would be and pick a neighborhood close by. I’ve bought and lived in two pre-owned homes here in established neighborhoods in the Villages, and neighbors in both Villages are very welcoming and inclusive.

[mschrief]

Do all areas have the same level of activities? I am exploring and have been for a couple of years.

My main interest would have a nice pool area, not just a lap pool.

Making a trip next month.

Any responses very welcomed!

[fw102807]

Do all areas have the same level of activities? I am exploring and have been for a couple of years.

My main interest would have a nice pool area, not just a lap pool.

Making a trip next month.

Any responses very welcomed!

I have tried to describe The Villages to friends and family and sent links and videos but I get the same amazed reaction every time they actually get here and see it. My friend had totally made up her mind that she wasn't going to like it and when she came to visit she was blown away.