Want to buy in the Villages

[cats12470]

We just returned from looking at homes in the Villages... we looked with a Village rep (did not like her) and a CB rep.... very nice person... but here is our problem...
They seem to have the same floor plan 1392 sq. ft. in all areas... and yet the price is so different..... how can they charge so much for one over another??? Don't they use sq. ft. price when pricing a home?????
We looked at for sale by owner... WOW...they want as much as the ones listed and they are not paying realtor fees.... pricing just seems strange to us...
We want a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 2 car garage with golf cart garage... newer...not more than 5 yrs old.... we have found a couple under $160,000 and that is where we want to stay.... anyone know of any GOOD buys in this range?
Is it easy to get a job in the Villages? My husband wants to work on golf carts as a PART time job... 15-20 hrs. a week.... I would like to work in an office or as a host or something like that same amount of hours... do they just pay min wage?
We have not talked to anyone who does not love it.... so we are soooo looking forward to the move....just need the right house... if you know someone selling you can pass on our email address... cats12470@aol.com.. looking forward to our May visit....

[graciegirl]

We just returned from looking at homes in the Villages... we looked with a Village rep (did not like her) and a CB rep.... very nice person... but here is our problem...
They seem to have the same floor plan 1392 sq. ft. in all areas... and yet the price is so different..... how can they charge so much for one over another??? Don't they use sq. ft. price when pricing a home?????
We looked at for sale by owner... WOW...they want as much as the ones listed and they are not paying realtor fees.... pricing just seems strange to us...
We want a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 2 car garage with golf cart garage... newer...not more than 5 yrs old.... we have found a couple under $160,000 and that is where we want to stay.... anyone know of any GOOD buys in this range?
Is it easy to get a job in the Villages? My husband wants to work on golf carts as a PART time job... 15-20 hrs. a week.... I would like to work in an office or as a host or something like that same amount of hours... do they just pay min wage?
We have not talked to anyone who does not love it.... so we are soooo looking forward to the move....just need the right house... if you know someone selling you can pass on our email address... cats12470@aol.com.. looking forward to our May visit....

Welcome to you. I know you will love it here.

The real estate search here takes a bit of getting used to. The same size house is priced VERY differently depending on the view and whether it is an "interior" lot. (One that has the lanai facing another homes lanai). I was surprised that houses backing onto streets were considered a better lot. The new already built houses may or may not have washer and dryer and blinds included, ditto for stainless steel appliances and granite or corian countertops. You are right about the resales being about the same or sometimes more than the new homes. That is because that the bond is paid or partially paid and that they may have been purchased when the housing market was booming all across the U.S. and were priced higher at that time than the same model is now.

If you want to know what a person paid for a resale and when it was built and that home is in Sumter county, go to sumterpa.com and type in the address, but do NOT type in the second part of the street name, such as loop, circle, drive etc.

There are many choices here. I think they are well built homes and I have found them to cool and heat comfortably, so I think they are well insulated. They all have underground irrigation systems, garage door openers and insulated windows.

This is a very good place to gather information and get spirited opinions.

I hope that you will find a home here and be as happy as most of us are.

[redwitch]

Grsacie explained the hosue pricing differential quite well. It is a matter of location snd some amenities. But, since it is all TV, the location is the surroundings of the house -- view, lot size, kissing lanais .... Many of the FSBOs are overpriced. The homeowners (1) don't want to pay realtor fees, (2) have not priced according to the market but rather what they KNOW their home is worth or what they paid for it, (3) really didn't like what realtors were telling them the home would sell for, (4) the bond is totally or nearly totally reduced. A few FSBOs are priced right and you just have to get lucky. You're really better off going with a TV rep and an outside realtor.

As to jobs, the rate of pay is incredibly low. I don't know what a golf cart mechanic would make here, but I doubt it is much over minimum wage. If you're talking about being a host for a restaurant, you're talking well below minimum wage and a sharing of tips from the servers. Office jobs are rarely above $10.00 an hour and most are around $8.00. Most jobs are part-time so that employers don't have to offer benefits.

Good luck on your search. TV really is a wonderful place to live and offers a lot to anyone who is willing to go out and find it.

[FranS]

I love how informative these boards are. I read them every day and talk with husband on topic of moving to The Villages. I was curious however if anyone had visited Top of The World and what the differences are compared to each other? So far I see The Villages as where I want to be.

Thanks

[jaspal]

I went to sumpter.com. I can't find where to go once the page comes up.

Help...........

[graciegirl]

On the left are a series of catagories with a green background. Click on the first one, record search.

[Pturner]

Hi Cats,

Others have answered so well. Some additional points to consider:


To compare apples to apples, consider the total home price to be the purchase price + amount of outstanding bond.
Some resales might have upgrades that were not included in new homes or in lower-priced resales (e.g., pavers, attic stairs, appliances, window treatments, ceiling fans, etc.). Some resales are available fully or partially furnished and some even turnkey with linens, dishes, pots and pans, etc.
On resales, but not on new homes, the price of the home is negotiable and you are not likely to have to pay the asking price.
As others have said, location, view, size and privacy of lanai and other factors can affect the price.
Best of luck finding just what you are looking for. It can take some time. It's worth it. You will love TV!

[pzjay]

We just returned from looking at homes in the Villages... we looked with a Village rep (did not like her) and a CB rep.... very nice person... but here is our problem...
They seem to have the same floor plan 1392 sq. ft. in all areas... and yet the price is so different..... how can they charge so much for one over another??? Don't they use sq. ft. price when pricing a home?????
We looked at for sale by owner... WOW...they want as much as the ones listed and they are not paying realtor fees.... pricing just seems strange to us...
We want a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 2 car garage with golf cart garage... newer...not more than 5 yrs old.... we have found a couple under $160,000 and that is where we want to stay.... anyone know of any GOOD buys in this range?
Is it easy to get a job in the Villages? My husband wants to work on golf carts as a PART time job... 15-20 hrs. a week.... I would like to work in an office or as a host or something like that same amount of hours... do they just pay min wage?
We have not talked to anyone who does not love it.... so we are soooo looking forward to the move....just need the right house... if you know someone selling you can pass on our email address... cats12470@aol.com.. looking forward to our May visit....
We also are looking (well we're going to buy actually) and have been astounded at the cost of lots...some carry a premium of +!50M! Yikes! It's all in LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. Definitely affects price of homes.
We also spent some time at Top of The World and though you can get more property and privacy for less money, it cannot compare to The Villages. Our agent is Jim McLaughlin and he's the best! (Of course that's our personal opinion and by following TOTV, there are many more who are excellent.)
You just have to get used to the fact the pricing can take wild swings with location.
Good Luck with your search. I know we can't wait to move.:a040:

[graciegirl]

We also are looking (well we're going to buy actually) and have been astounded at the cost of lots...some carry a premium of +!50M! Yikes! It's all in LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. Definitely affects price of homes.
We also spent some time at Top of The World and though you can get more property and privacy for less money, it cannot compare to The Villages. Our agent is Jim McLaughlin and he's the best! (Of course that's our personal opinion and by following TOTV, there are many more who are excellent.)
You just have to get used to the fact the pricing can take wild swings with location.
Good Luck with your search. I know we can't wait to move.:a040:

Jim McLaughlin is a fine man. He helped us find our first house and now he is helping us find our second. Honest and reliable and kind and........past 60. (Grown up!):pepper2:

[Pturner]

Jim McLaughlin is a fine man. He helped us find our first house and now he is helping us find our second. Honest and reliable and kind and........past 60. (Grown up!):pepper2:

Now GG, don't be dissing us under 60s! We're nice too. Plus, you might hurt our feelings.:sad:

[784caroline]

Some like a close proximity to a town square....not just for the nightly entertainment but the other businesses and functlons the sqaures offer. A 15-20 minute golf cart ride may not feel like much in the spring or summer but in the winter when night comes at 5pm, or you when have a chill in the air (just ask the people who were in TV this past winter) ....... You will appreciate being close to the square.

If you are buying on a golf course (and paying the big bucks) just be certain you know where your house is situated in relation to the tee and golf paths. There are a number of un-happy people (most likely not golfers) who paid a premium for the back view on an executive course and were sorry afterwards when they could not use their back yards due to golf balls flying in the yard, banging into the house breaking windows or just people walking on to their property to retrieve balls. Just because you pay a premium does not mean you have privacy or the location is great!!!

[Russ_Boston]

I went to sumpter.com. I can't find where to go once the page comes up.

Help...........

First of all it is SUMTER not SUMPTER. :)

And you should find everything you need at this link: http://sumtergis.com/GIS/

Just put in actual address or just the street name and a list will come up. You can find year built, price paid, owner's name, satellite image, tax info etc.

[redwitch]

First of all it is SUMTER not SUMPTER. :)


So, what took you so long? Was waiting for you to jump on this. (Jaspal, don't take it personally -- it's one of Russ's pet peeves.)

[cats12470]

WOW... all your posts are wonderful.... we are so ready to move...I am a Realtor in SC...I just finished writing an offer from hell.... sorry... but this lady read EVERY word... (I had sent her a copy before so she could read it before she came, she did not)...THEN...she low balled the offer and I am not expecting the seller to even respond.... it was the worse offer I have ever written... and she wants to be under contract by Friday to get the $6500 tax credit....DUH....she had 7 family members come and check out the houses and she wanted to write 4 offers at once and take the best one.... we DON'T do that in SC.... I can't wait to retire....

Be kind to your Realtor.... we work hard....

the FSBO seems the most over priced to me in the Villages... and the outside listings seem higher than the inside listings.... but how do you get rid of an inside agent if you just don't "click".... they lock you in to a Realtor and that seems to be "it".... she does not even answer my emails... so makes me want to use outside agents... we did find an outside agent who is very nice... she helped us understand several things.... it was good to get the info... we stayed at the Waterfront INN...we are staying there again... nice hotel... the restaurant is not the best but you can walk everywhere... we are going to rent a cart this time.... thanks to you that gave your .2 cents about the working and the homes and everything... we can't thank you enough.... keep the posts coming... we will read them each night... Ann and Bob

[GypsySooners]

There is certainly something to be said for being actual residents in either The Villages, or as someone mentioned here, On Top Of the World.

But, the initial price and the HOA fees can be intimidating too. And, the HOA fees can go up so much.

We recently sold a home in an adult HOA community, (no need to mention which), because of the uncertainty of the cost of fees in the future. Hey, we recently totally retired! :)

In looking we found a housing addition within 10 miles to The Villages with brand new (bank owned) 3/2 with two car garages for well under half the prices of The Villages and no HOA fees.

Just something you might check into. Keep in mind though that you can enjoy the shopping and some of the activities, but not all.

[cats12470]

Think we have to be IN the Villages.... riding around on the golf cart with everyone else.... I think the Villages has some bank owned....but not sure how to find out.... we are still looking for a Villa with 2 car garage.... would be perfect for us.... know of any? I am sure we will find one... someone told us not to buy a Villa since we don't smoke... said people sit outside and smoke and it comes to your patio.... maybe we will get lucky and have non smoking neighbors...

[Bogie Shooter]

There is certainly something to be said for being actual residents in either The Villages, or as someone mentioned here, On Top Of the World.

But, the initial price and the HOA fees can be intimidating too. And, the HOA fees can go up so much.

We recently sold a home in an adult HOA community, (no need to mention which), because of the uncertainty of the cost of fees in the future. Hey, we recently totally retired! :)

In looking we found a housing addition within 10 miles to The Villages with brand new (bank owned) 3/2 with two car garages for well under half the prices of The Villages and no HOA fees.

Just something you might check into. Keep in mind though that you can enjoy the shopping and some of the activities, but not all.
What activities can you participate in?

[kfierle]

Think we have to be IN the Villages.... riding around on the golf cart with everyone else.... I think the Villages has some bank owned....but not sure how to find out.... we are still looking for a Villa with 2 car garage.... would be perfect for us.... know of any? I am sure we will find one... someone told us not to buy a Villa since we don't smoke... said people sit outside and smoke and it comes to your patio.... maybe we will get lucky and have non smoking neighbors...

I do not think there are may villas with 2 car garages. There is one for sale in Bonita with a 2 car garage. It is listed with The Villages and here is the link: http://www.thevillages.com/homes/vls/detail4.asp?vls=207314

I agree that being in The Villages is the place to be. I own a villa and have never had a problem with the neighbors smoking. Maybe I am just lucky.

[Pturner]

WOW... all your posts are wonderful.... we are so ready to move...I am a Realtor in SC...I just finished writing an offer from hell.... sorry... but this lady read EVERY word... (I had sent her a copy before so she could read it before she came, she did not)...THEN...she low balled the offer and I am not expecting the seller to even respond.... it was the worse offer I have ever written... and she wants to be under contract by Friday to get the $6500 tax credit....DUH....she had 7 family members come and check out the houses and she wanted to write 4 offers at once and take the best one.... we DON'T do that in SC.... I can't wait to retire....

Be kind to your Realtor.... we work hard....

the FSBO seems the most over priced to me in the Villages... and the outside listings seem higher than the inside listings.... but how do you get rid of an inside agent if you just don't "click".... they lock you in to a Realtor and that seems to be "it".... she does not even answer my emails... so makes me want to use outside agents... we did find an outside agent who is very nice... she helped us understand several things.... it was good to get the info... we stayed at the Waterfront INN...we are staying there again... nice hotel... the restaurant is not the best but you can walk everywhere... we are going to rent a cart this time.... thanks to you that gave your .2 cents about the working and the homes and everything... we can't thank you enough.... keep the posts coming... we will read them each night... Ann and Bob

Hi Cats,
The best bet when buying in TV is to use both a Villages Sales Agent and out outside Realtor since they don't share listings. Villas are a great choice, especially if you have a family dog. If a pet is not a factor and a two-car garage is really important, you might find a better value in a ranch or cottage home. Just some thoughts.

Best of luck in your search. I know you will love living in TV!

[cats12470]

We don't have dogs....BUT....we have 3 cats.... 2 Ragdolls and one tabby...they have never been outside (no claws) and we are thinking a Villa they could go out in the fresh air and play.... they are like our children... and we need the 2 car garage as my husband works on building dollhouses.... keep your eyes out for one.... again, don't really want to use a Villages Rep as we don't know how to get rid of the one they assigned to us...who is of no help to us.... so outside agent would be best.... love this group.... Night all

[Rag Bagger]

I think you said you have two cats. The restrictions may only allow two pets per home site depending on the location.

[cats12470]

We don't have a dog.... we have cats... inside.... no claws.... we was thinking with a Villa they might be able to be in the yard once in awhile....something they have never done....I am sure the trip down will be something else with them....but they will be ok once we get settled in.... we do need the two car garage for my husband to work on dollhouses.... he is soooooo good at this.. and loves doing it.... he has to be busy...
We did see the Villa that the Villages has listed but we don't like the agent they gave us.... so we can't deal with them..... she will not return our emails and we just ask a simple question..... we did find a good "outside" agent... she is keeping her eyes open for us.... we sure hope to find something soon and then hope our house sells soon here.... everyone say a little prayer... we want to be part of the Villages.....

We will be there May 15-18...YEA..... Ann and Bob... SC Via IN

[Russ_Boston]

We did see the Villa that the Villages has listed but we don't like the agent they gave us.... so we can't deal with them..... she will not return our emails and we just ask a simple question.....

Outside agent won't be able to sell you a Villages listed home (new or used). Try Pat White or Sandy Aiken. They always return my e-mail or call promptly.

[TrudyM]

[QUOTE=
We did see the Villa that the Villages has listed but we don't like the agent they gave us.... so we can't deal with them..... she will not return our emails and we just ask a simple question..... we did find a good "outside" agent... she is keeping her eyes open for us.... we sure hope to find something soon and then hope our house sells soon here.... everyone say a little prayer... we want to be part of the Villages.....

We will be there May 15-18...YEA..... Ann and Bob... SC Via IN[/QUOTE]

None of my business,but I wouldn't let a bad sales person limit my access to whats available. Couldn't you call the 1-800-245-1081 number and ask to speak to the sales manager. If they can't connect you ask for the persons name and number. I would tell that person of your expierience and request a change of sales rep. Tell them you will absolutly not purchase through that person. Maybe you could ask for one of the ones recomended by people on this site.

Just a thought. I feel when you are spending good money you should get service not the bums rush.

[BobKat1]

Good advice. No need to pass up a house that might be right for you because of an agent that isn't...

It's probably not uncommon for potential buyers to request a different agent...

[wharbison]

My wife and I will be visiting TV this summer. We are going to be looking to either rent initially or if we can find just what we are looking for to purchase in TV. What websites would you recommend we look at? It seems based on the posts in this thread that there are a variety of ways to find a home in TV (Inside, Outside, FISBO, etc).

Thank you!

Bill

[cats12470]

When I have called the Villages the lady that answers the phone said we have been "assigned" an agent... at any rate... it will all work out... we are going to look again with the "outside" agent and see if she finds what we are looking for... I gave her the Villages MLS number so she can "see" what we want... I KNOW she can't sell us that one...but I am sure there are plenty of Villas that will be for sale... it's the 2 car garage that we MUST have....

And your correct... we only have 2 cats... someone else told me that too.. I don't know why it would make a difference if they stay "inside"...but rules are rules and we are not looking to break the rules... that is why we like the Villages because they have the rules...

Again, if you hear of anyone with a Villa and 2 car garage send them our way.. not quit ready but hope to be soon...

See you all May 15.... this is my birthday present... going to the Villages... YEA.... my husband is the BEST.... Ann

[Russ_Boston]

When I have called the Villages the lady that answers the phone said we have been "assigned" an agent... at any rate... it will all work out... we are going to look again with the "outside" agent and see if she finds what we are looking for... I gave her the Villages MLS number so she can "see" what we want... I KNOW she can't sell us that one...but I am sure there are plenty of Villas that will be for sale... it's the 2 car garage that we MUST have....

And your correct... we only have 2 cats... someone else told me that too.. I don't know why it would make a difference if they stay "inside"...but rules are rules and we are not looking to break the rules... that is why we like the Villages because they have the rules...

Again, if you hear of anyone with a Villa and 2 car garage send them our way.. not quit ready but hope to be soon...

See you all May 15.... this is my birthday present... going to the Villages... YEA.... my husband is the BEST.... Ann

Two car garage on a villa is about the rarest house to find in TV. Good Luck.

[Bogie Shooter]

There is certainly something to be said for being actual residents in either The Villages, or as someone mentioned here, On Top Of the World.

But, the initial price and the HOA fees can be intimidating too. And, the HOA fees can go up so much.

We recently sold a home in an adult HOA community, (no need to mention which), because of the uncertainty of the cost of fees in the future. Hey, we recently totally retired! :)

In looking we found a housing addition within 10 miles to The Villages with brand new (bank owned) 3/2 with two car garages for well under half the prices of The Villages and no HOA fees.

Just something you might check into. Keep in mind though that you can enjoy the shopping and some of the activities, but not all.
Still wondering what activities that you say you can enjoy????

[cats12470]

We do understand there are not many of this kind of Villa...but then we only want to buy one.... :) we would not rule out other things... it's just our "want" in a home...

I have a friend that is thinking of buying a home for a rental until they retire.. do homes rent well in the Villages? We are meeting for lunch Thur and this is one of the things he ask about... he and his wife have visited the Villages and love it like us....but they won't retire for a few years....

I really love this site....

[TrudyM]

We do understand there are not many of this kind of Villa...but then we only want to buy one.... :) we would not rule out other things... it's just our "want" in a home...

I have a friend that is thinking of buying a home for a rental until they retire.. do homes rent well in the Villages? We are meeting for lunch Thur and this is one of the things he ask about... he and his wife have visited the Villages and love it like us....but they won't retire for a few years....

I really love this site....

Someone who is acctually doing this might have a better answer. However I took the research from the people on this site and crunched the numbers as we thought we might do that also. However when I ran the numbers it is kind of a crap shoot in my opinion.

If you look at the three main rental sites for TV you will note that all get rented for Jan Feb March but many are not rented for the rest of the year. We came up with expenses of 750 to 1200 a month depending on the property and cost of a person to look after the property. At $3200 for three months gauranteed $9600 it is a wash and does not include the cost of a mortgage or lost income from the money invested. Even at $160,000 at 3% ( a conservitive figure) that is $4,800 or $3,200 after tax.

Just my rough numbers may not be accurate.

[cats12470]

YEA.... we got a new Villages agent.... they even answer our emails now...

Really looking forward to our visit starting the 15th....just hope our house sells here.....

Ann and Bob in SC

[cats12470]

We have looked and looked and have decided we want a CYV with 2 car garage.... that is what meets our needs... so we will hold out until we find one.... nice to finally make a decision.... we have our Realtor on the hunt... we have to find a newer pre-owned with some upgrades already in .... YEA

[redwitch]

Being a cat owner and a cat lover, I've got to say I would never let my cats outside even in a CYV unless I could harness/lead train them. It is too easy for them to jump a fence IMO. Cats LOVE lanais. They really are the cat's meow for them. They get to see the world, even chase a anole or two that manages to sneak in and are safe from all predators and getting lost. And, if you can lead train them, it won't matter what kind of house you have, anyway -- they'll be safe regardless of a wall or not.

[cats12470]

Our cats are 14 and 6.... no claws.... but in good health.... we think the only thing will get to do is the lanai.... we would be sick if we lost one over the wall.... they are very active cats in the house.... and they would love to change critters on the lanai... if we get a fly in the house... it's not for long... good kitties.....

[Army Guy]

Cat, you will find that even though 2 car CYVs are rare there is typically at least one in every CYV neighborhood. That one in Bonita that is for sale is right around the corner from us and is a jem. Even though pre-owned it looks like a model inside and out. They didn't even hang ANY pictures so the walls are still perfect. The yard is really nice also, big enough to put a pool AND spa. It backs up to a a wall with Designers on the other side so good rear view. Also it sits just off the main traffic road on the short dead end that CYV areas have. I know it is preiced high, but may be worth a look. We checked it out several weeks ago when they had an open house.
We have never smelled smoke in our CYV lanai or back-yard and our neighbors wife smokes. So don't know who told you that.

Army Guy

[cats12470]

Thanks... we are planning to check out the Villas with 2 car garages next week..... the one your talking about really does look nice.... it does seem overpriced without furniture or finished lanai.... but we are going to look... we know they have new ones in the $150's range with 2 car... Amalia I think... we will make a decision.... we wake up everyday wanting to be in the Villages so we know this is the right decision for us....
I''ll be 65 on the 14th.... so ready to retire.... YEA.... thanks for all your comments....Ann and Bob in SC

[Army Guy]

Cats, really it is not overpriced for a concrete CYV, if you check the tax records, the median for our CYV neighboorhood, which is called Anita Villas is actually in the 190,000s - 210,000. We paid $174,485 for ours, 2/2, corner lot, and it had a $20,000 discount on it cause it was the last CYV in that development, plus it was at the bottom of the housing crash. So it was really priced at 194,000, New.
The other thing is Bonita is a highly desirable Village in that when TV is built out with the land presently owned, it will be dead center of the whole development. Something to think about.

Army Guy

[Donna2]

Army Guy,

The Bonita CYV is that new or pre-owned? I can't seem to find it. Do you have a link?

Thank you

[Donna2]

Never mind, I think I found it on the Villages pre-owned site. If that is the one that is $190,00, I think that is fair.

[Army Guy]

It is pre-owned, but it was not used much at all, so it really still is new. Like I said, didn't even see a nail in the walls during Open House. Let me see, it was listed on the TV Pre-owned site.

Army Guy

[Army Guy]

Donna, thought it was 189,000 but 190 sounds right. I thought it was very fair. I am surprised it has not sold yet cause concrete CYVs are in very short supply right now. The Open House we went to was in Feb.

Army Guy

[Donna2]

Donna, thought it was 189,000 but 190 sounds right. I thought it was very fair. I am surprised it has not sold yet cause concrete CYVs are in very short supply right now. The Open House we went to was in Feb.

Army Guy

You are right about the $189,000. I always round it up to even numbers. We are very interested but cannot understand it being on the market that long.
Do they ever make a 3 bedroom with 2 car garage CYV. Or would that be the rarest of the rare? LOL

[Army Guy]

Donna, you are correct. The way the lots are done for CYVs, a 3 bed with 2 car would not fit. Even on a corner. The 2/2 with 2 is it.
I think the reason it has stayed on the market is, people what new. But like I said, it is perfect inside and out. If you didn't see the clothes in the closet, you would think it was a TV model home.
Plus most don't understand about the Bonita location.

Army Guy

[BobKat1]

Do other homes on that side of the street have the same short retaining wall with the fence on top of it? Not sure, but maybe that deters buyers?

[Army Guy]

Bob, yes you are correct, has block wall about 3 ft and then white vinyl fence on top. I actually think it looks very nice, but you may be correct.
But with that lot the actual "back yard" is very small maybe just 5-6 ft. That lot is mostly side yard, and is very big, as I said you could easily put a pool and spa and still have plently of patio around it.

Army Guy

[Donna2]

Donna, you are correct. The way the lots are done for CYVs, a 3 bed with 2 car would not fit. Even on a corner. The 2/2 with 2 is it.
I think the reason it has stayed on the market is, people what new. But like I said, it is perfect inside and out. If you didn't see the clothes in the closet, you would think it was a TV model home.
Plus most don't understand about the Bonita location.

Army Guy

Not even a corner, huh? Too bad. I think that the price might be too high for a two bedroom. If that was a 3 bedroom with 2 car garage, I would buy it site unseen. My significant other requests a 2 car garage.:ohdear:

[Army Guy]

Donna, no on a corner they usually angle them in, so the width is not there for it. As I said for a "concrete" 2/2 with the 2 car garage that is about right using ours as a guide, and we don't have the 2 car garage, have the corner lot.

Army Guy

[ncr2482]

If you are talking about the Savannah series villa on Violet St....FYI the present owners paid $189.2K in 2009.

[Donna2]

If you are talking about the Savannah series villa on Violet St....FYI the present owners paid $189.2K in 2009.

Now that I have given it some thought, I does sound like a good deal.

[Army Guy]

I knew that price seemed fair.

Army Guy

[Russ_Boston]

http://www.thevillages.com/homes/vls/detail4.asp?vls=207314

[Vinny]

None of my business,but I wouldn't let a bad sales person limit my access to whats available. Couldn't you call the 1-800-245-1081 number and ask to speak to the sales manager. If they can't connect you ask for the persons name and number. I would tell that person of your expierience and request a change of sales rep. Tell them you will absolutly not purchase through that person. Maybe you could ask for one of the ones recomended by people on this site.

Just a thought. I feel when you are spending good money you should get service not the bums rush.

I changed reps simply by emailing the TV general sales email address and asking for one. I know others who called as you suggested. No one will risk losing a sale by insisting that you use a particular sales person. It is just a matter of being assertive and not afraid of hurting anyone's feelings.

[BobKat1]

I changed reps simply by emailing the TV general sales email address and asking for one. I know others who called as you suggested. No one will risk losing a sale by insisting that you use a particular sales person. It is just a matter of being assertive and not afraid of hurting anyone's feelings.

I agree. Changing reps is something that is probably done frequently in TV for a varriety of reasons and wouldn't be too difficult..

[cats12470]

We did get changed.... we are happy.... we meet our new Rep. this Monday... yea....

[cats12470]

In looking at homes in the Villages... we notice some homes have a new roof and they don't seem that old.... how long does a roof last? Don't they come with a 25 yr. warranty? How about Heat/A/C units? How long do they last.. we are torn between a pre-owned and new....a lot of the pre-owned don't have a bond.... sounds good....but are we getting a lot of repairs with these older homes? Any comments would be helpful....Thanks in advance....

[Army Guy]

Cats, roofs can last as long as 20-25, but some sooner, it just depends. Usually most will tell you to replace at about 15 to not push the 20-25. Heat Pumps usually also about 12-15. They cost presently ball park $4000 to replace.

Army Guy

[cats12470]

We are going to be down this week-end and would like to rent a golf cart.. but staying at the Waterfront Inn.... is it possible to rent one and not have a place to plug it in? Or do they rent gas ones? Is it safe to leave them in the parking lot overnight? Any suggestions? thanks in advance

[Russ_Boston]

I think they rent mostly gas. At least that's what I had from them. I don't think there would be any issues with parking in the Waterfront Inn's lot.

[laryb]

We are going to be down this week-end and would like to rent a golf cart.. but staying at the Waterfront Inn.... is it possible to rent one and not have a place to plug it in? Or do they rent gas ones? Is it safe to leave them in the parking lot overnight? Any suggestions? thanks in advance
Cats, We rented a gas cart from Villages Cart when we came down to buy our home in April and stayed at the Waterfront Inn. Parked it right in front for 3 days with no problems. You might want to check with this company, "GRANDPA'S AND GRANDMA'S VILLAGE BUGGIES, good reviews on TOTV and have better rates
http://www.grandpaandgrandmasvillagebuggies.com/

[bike42]

... we notice some homes have a new roof and they don't seem that old....

Owens-Corning identified a problem in some of their shingles and those roofs are being replaced at no charge. I don't know how many areas are affected but know for sure about some CYVs in Virginia Trace.

[cats12470]

Thanks for the tip.... I sent them an email... love this site.... Ann and Bob

[cats12470]

Just returned from our May trip.... we had a new Villages rep... he was GREAT.... we are so looking for a Getaway or At Ease a year or two old... they want 80+ days to build us one.... so a resale will work best for us... we saw one Getaway..... really nice but $13,000 more than building and it did not come with all we could get for less.... I know they want to pay their expences but $13,000 is a lot of money.... oh well... we are looking and will find it I am sure.... we had a great time.... saw Chubby Checker... GREAT show...can't wait to be part of the Villages....

[affordlux]

I am looking at homes in the villages and often see NO BOND or BOND PAID or BOND NOT PAID. I am from NJ and I am unfamiliar with dealing with BONDS when purchasing a home. What is it?

[tjwarzel]

Thanks for the info. My wife and I are coming down shortly to hopefully make a purchase. We find everyones posts on this subject great. Please give us useful info

[TrudyM]

Just returned from our May trip.... we had a new Villages rep... he was GREAT.... we are so looking for a Getaway or At Ease a year or two old... they want 80+ days to build us one.... so a resale will work best for us... we saw one Getaway..... really nice but $13,000 more than building and it did not come with all we could get for less.... I know they want to pay their expences but $13,000 is a lot of money.... oh well... we are looking and will find it I am sure.... we had a great time.... saw Chubby Checker... GREAT show...can't wait to be part of the Villages....

IMHO - If the home is not being sold new construction from the developer I believe you are free to make an offer. Get the price of new construction on a similar lot including closing costs and bond. Then offer that amount or whatever you are comfortable with to the seller of the one you like. Include your anaylsis with the offer, the worst they could do is say no or maybe explain the value of theirs in their counter offer.

[cats12470]

Good advice... we are able to look up and see what they paid for their home thanks to this site.... the one we are looking at now is in Marion Cty... easy to see when they closed etc....we hope to go back next month for our 3 rd look and be able to put an offer on one.... we are ready.... love this site... your all so helpful..... Ann and Bob in SC

[cats12470]

Anyone know of someone in a Villa with a pool that wants to sell? We are looking for that very thing.... we saw one but think it's really overpriced... if you hear of anyone please give them our email address: cats12470@aol.com wish we could be already moved.... but we know it's going to take time....

[kentucky blue]

We came down for a 4 day visit, and realized something right away.The FSBO's have NO idea what is the true value of their property , there must be oil or gold under their homes to price them the way they do. Looks like the properties listed by the Village or MLS are in the real world and are priced at the current market values, and not some pie in the sky approach. If you want to REALLY sell your homes...........................................GE T REAL, this is not Disney's Fantasy Land.

[cats12470]

Your right... we found the same thing.... we looked at FSBO and they did not have anything or as much to offer as the ones listed by Realtors...the Villages and ourside Realtors know what they are doing.... YEA.... good to hear we are not the only ones who think this..... good luck in your search...

[Debfrommaine]

We just moved here, after nearly seven years of planning. Yes, we, too, were a bit surprised at the price of housing and found new construction somewhat more reasonable than re-sale; couldn't really escape the bonds. We have been very pleased with our Villager realtor and her assistant - on the ball and ready to answer our endless questions.

I would suggest that if you aren't partial to your furniture (paying the high price of moving it here, too) sell it all and buy gently used. We did this and have had a terrific response from The Villagers who no longer need this or that, and we furnished our home in about two days with gorgeous, second hand furniture at half the price or less of new. It was an exhausting but truly fun experience.

Talk about acts of kindness, too - we were at the pool last week and mentioned we had to have a piece of furniture picked up. One of our fellow Villagers, whom we did not know, kindly offered his truck and strength - and we had the furniture at the house within an hour - we hope we can repay this act of kindness to others in some way. Thank you, Richard!!

[linandvin]

We are two couples, headed to the Villages on Memorial Day weekend. One couple is seriously looking and we are looking to see if it is for us. Can you tell me what activities or places we should definitely hit this weekend? Is there anything special going on?

[kentucky blue]

Reading the message boards before my visit mid May, i was amazed that people actually buy on their first visit.After looking at over 30 homes, with Village saleperson,FSBO, and MLS , i almost had my first home in TV.I'm soooooooooooooooooooooo glad i did not buy, and am now back home going through all the information and knowledge i acquired. I can now make a better decision when i go back in August.Still can't get over the pricing by FSBO Villagers:loco:

[swrinfla]

linandvin:

Most important, especially if you have even the most remote connection with the military is the Memorial Day ceremonies at the Veterans Memorial Park right near Spanish Springs Town Square and La Hacienda Recreation Center. 10:00am sharp, Monday, 31 May. Always very well done, seldom more than an hour.

SWR
:beer3:

[cats12470]

So good to read your posts.... we are so ready if we can get things done on the "moving" end.... so many ends to tie up etc.... we go from wanting a Villa to a home... we want to get away from the yard work and the maintance to keep it up.... the expense of having it sprayed and replacing things when they die etc.... so that is why the Villa... the Villa is not as big as we would like... and the other thing is the garage... guess we will make a decision soon... so many nice people in the Villages we just can't wait to get there and meet new friends.... someone sent me a note saying they heard nightmare stories about keeping the maintance of your neighbors etc..... we have never heard anything like this... they said it was written in their contracts..... anyone else know what this is all about?

[Pturner]

So good to read your posts.... we are so ready if we can get things done on the "moving" end.... so many ends to tie up etc.... we go from wanting a Villa to a home... we want to get away from the yard work and the maintance to keep it up.... the expense of having it sprayed and replacing things when they die etc.... so that is why the Villa... the Villa is not as big as we would like... and the other thing is the garage... guess we will make a decision soon... so many nice people in the Villages we just can't wait to get there and meet new friends.... someone sent me a note saying they heard nightmare stories about keeping the maintance of your neighbors etc..... we have never heard anything like this... they said it was written in their contracts..... anyone else know what this is all about?

Hi Cats, I didn't understand your question about keeping the maintenance of your neighbors. Could you elaborate on what you heard? Thanks.

[graciegirl]

So good to read your posts.... we are so ready if we can get things done on the "moving" end.... so many ends to tie up etc.... we go from wanting a Villa to a home... we want to get away from the yard work and the maintance to keep it up.... the expense of having it sprayed and replacing things when they die etc.... so that is why the Villa... the Villa is not as big as we would like... and the other thing is the garage... guess we will make a decision soon... so many nice people in the Villages we just can't wait to get there and meet new friends.... someone sent me a note saying they heard nightmare stories about keeping the maintance of your neighbors etc..... we have never heard anything like this... they said it was written in their contracts..... anyone else know what this is all about?

I didn't understand the bit about the neighbors either. On the subject of size and maintenance, we have a Camellia, almost 2000 sq. ft. but the lot is small and the lawn cost per month is a little over fifty dollars, for cutting, weeding and trimming. So if you yard is small it really doesn't cost a lot to maintain it.

[cats12470]

I will try and find the email that "someone" sent me about the area maintance you need to do....it was "strange"....but wanted to see if anyone knew what these people are talking about.... I opened it on my phone so I will search for it.... I'm glad no one knows what I am talking about.... seems to me someone might be angry with the Villages about something.... no one can please us all.. I just want to move to the Villages... we love it.... hope to be in a home by end of Summer..... cats

[cats12470]

We can't seem to find a home with any sq. ft. for the price we want to spend in the Villages.... Del Webb seems to have more sq. ft. for the money... anyone know anything about that area? I think it's about 5 miles from the Villages....we so want to be in the Villages but bond really raises our payment.... hope it's ok to ask about another area here.... I figure you people know more than anyone about all of this.... such a big decision.... Thanks in advance...

[bike42]

I'm sure Del Webb has its fans, as do Stonecrest, Harbor Hills and all the rest -- but being NEAR The Villages is no substitute for being IN The Villages. If the bond is a big issue for you, check on pre-owned homes in Lake County that have no bond, or other listings that have bond paid off or a very low balance.

[Russ_Boston]

If you're concerned about bond why not look at used. In the older sections many resales have bonds paid off or very low balance. I'm not familiar with the Del Webb property.

[graciegirl]

We can't seem to find a home with any sq. ft. for the price we want to spend in the Villages.... Del Webb seems to have more sq. ft. for the money... anyone know anything about that area? I think it's about 5 miles from the Villages....we so want to be in the Villages but bond really raises our payment.... hope it's ok to ask about another area here.... I figure you people know more than anyone about all of this.... such a big decision.... Thanks in advance...

Cats. I think that you will need to see the other areas so you can decide for yourself. I know we could have had a bigger house somewhere near, but it doesn't have the LIFESTYLE. Yes, you can come to the squares, and eat at the restaurants but the rest of it is not available.

Look it all over and then decide and I hope you will be very happy no matter what you choose.:pepper2:

[cats12470]

You are all so helpful.... I have to agree about living IN the Villages... my husband is so concerned about the bond.... so I am trying to see how to handle that..... and your right.... "looking" at other areas just might be the trick... thanks again.... your all great....LOVE LOVE LOVE this site...

[getdul981]

When I talked to someone at Citizens First Wholesale Mortgage, I asked if the bond could be put into the monthly mortgage payment and paid annually out of the escrow account. He assured me that it could as could the insurance. This is much like how we do taxes and insurance here in VA. You might mention this to your husband. It's not like you have to pay the entire bond all at once.

[ssmith]

Cats, not to be a party pooper ...but I would go to the Search at the top .of this forum..there has been other posts about Del Webb and see what they say... One that stands out to me was someone's post that their parents bought near the villages...Maybe Stonecrest tho..of course for the bigger home and 8 months later sold so they could be in the Villages. That ended up costing them in the long run...with Realtors and all... I know it is not for everybody being in the Villages. It is about the Lifestyle...often not about the house. Most of the fun is what you can do and not about staying at home. Just a few more thoughts on the matter. Happy hunting!!!

[kentucky blue]

TV is all about Lifestyle, sooooooooooooooooooooo much going on ,with a core of terrific people.BUT anybody who attempts to dismiss the bond, is just kidding themselves.It's a very real expense that should be considered in any offer you make. To pay 7% interest in these times in this market, is almost usury, and for 30 years, it's basically an all interest payment.Just do your homework and you'll find the home of your dreams in TV, with a bond you can live with, or better yet, no bond at all..:smiley:

[BobKat1]

We can't seem to find a home with any sq. ft. for the price we want to spend in the Villages.... Del Webb seems to have more sq. ft. for the money... anyone know anything about that area? I think it's about 5 miles from the Villages....we so want to be in the Villages but bond really raises our payment.... hope it's ok to ask about another area here.... I figure you people know more than anyone about all of this.... such a big decision.... Thanks in advance...

cats, when we were doing our research I stumbled on a couple of forums that focused on some of the communities in the area. They weren't anywhere as active as TOTV, but you can get feel for the people and the pros and cons of the community.

A Google search might help to find them, it's been a while and I didn't save any information on them.

[graciegirl]

I have THIS to say about the pesky bond. If you just kinda think of it as part of the price of the house it is easier to swallow. For instance, I think you can buy a Camellia for about 230K and add about 20K for the bond. You can either pay it off when you buy or pay it yearly. We were advised to pay it yearly because YES, you will sell that house and buy again because you will know a little better about wanting A. A bigger house, B A smaller house, C on water, D, not on water etc. etc. It is easier to move in TV, people do it all of the time.

Now Just think that your new, or used Camellia costs 250K and get on with it. Add more money for a view, or privacy, subtract if you want a smaller house and add if you want a bigger house. It doesn't matter a whole lot or not at all in price if the house is north or south of 466. The older houses have things added to them that you may or may not like.

If you are a nice person who likes to sit and have a glass of wine and laugh until your sides ache, please move close to us G's. We live in Hadley with a lot, but not all, of wonderful people.

[Pturner]

I have THIS to say about the pesky bond. If you just kinda think of it as part of the price of the house it is easier to swallow. For instance, I think you can buy a Camellia for about 230K and add about 20K for the bond. You can either pay it off when you buy or pay it yearly. We were advised to pay it yearly because YES, you will sell that house and buy again because you will know a little better about wanting A. A bigger house, B A smaller house, C on water, D, not on water etc. etc. It is easier to move in TV, people do it all of the time.

Now Just think that your new, or used Camellia costs 250K and get on with it. Add more money for a view, or privacy, subtract if you want a smaller house and add if you want a bigger house. It doesn't matter a whole lot or not at all in price if the house is north or south of 466. The older houses have things added to them that you may or may not like.

If you are a nice person who likes to sit and have a glass of wine and laugh until your sides ache, please move close to us G's. We live in Hadley with a lot, but not all, of wonderful people.

Gracie the Sage strikes the perfect chord again!

[kentucky blue]

I have THIS to say about the pesky bond. If you just kinda think of it as part of the price of the house it is easier to swallow. For instance, I think you can buy a Camellia for about 230K and add about 20K for the bond. You can either pay it off when you buy or pay it yearly. We were advised to pay it yearly because YES, you will sell that house and buy again because you will know a little better about wanting A. A bigger house, B A smaller house, C on water, D, not on water etc. etc. It is easier to move in TV, people do it all of the time.

Now Just think that your new, or used Camellia costs 250K and get on with it. Add more money for a view, or privacy, subtract if you want a smaller house and add if you want a bigger house. It doesn't matter a whole lot or not at all in price if the house is north or south of 466. The older houses have things added to them that you may or may not like.
.
Gracie, that's a good way to price homes in TV. In my area, if you go to a real estate auction and are the final bidder, at say $300,000, you must pay a buyers premiun of 10%.The house actually cost you $330,000, i HATE those buyers premiuns.Art auctions really kill you with their commission rates, but it's the same principle, final bid price is not your final cost.The contract price of your home in TV is not the final price , add the bond to get the REAL price of your home .

[laryb]

I have THIS to say about the pesky bond. If you just kinda think of it as part of the price of the house it is easier to swallow. For instance, I think you can buy a Camellia for about 230K and add about 20K for the bond. You can either pay it off when you buy or pay it yearly. We were advised to pay it yearly because YES, you will sell that house and buy again because you will know a little better about wanting A. A bigger house, B A smaller house, C on water, D, not on water etc. etc. It is easier to move in TV, people do it all of the time.

Now Just think that your new, or used Camellia costs 250K and get on with it. Add more money for a view, or privacy, subtract if you want a smaller house and add if you want a bigger house. It doesn't matter a whole lot or not at all in price if the house is north or south of 466. The older houses have things added to them that you may or may not like.

If you are a nice person who likes to sit and have a glass of wine and laugh until your sides ache, please move close to us G's. We live in Hadley with a lot, but not all, of wonderful people.

Well, as usual, you hit the nail on the head Gracie!! When we signed for our house last month, we used your reasoning. If we decide to move one day, we sell it with the remaining bond. I'm sure there will be someone who will be willing to take on the balance and use the same justification we did. If we stay in the same house, (probably will, there for the lifestyle first, house second) then we'll probably pay it off. And although we're not close to you, we'll be in Buttonwood, and we are wonderful people the majority of the time who would love to meet you when we hopefully move down full time next year.:wave: I'll try to avoid you on the days I'm not being wonderful!!:evil6:

[kfierle]

I have THIS to say about the pesky bond. If you just kinda think of it as part of the price of the house it is easier to swallow. For instance, I think you can buy a Camellia for about 230K and add about 20K for the bond. You can either pay it off when you buy or pay it yearly. We were advised to pay it yearly because YES, you will sell that house and buy again because you will know a little better about wanting A. A bigger house, B A smaller house, C on water, D, not on water etc. etc. It is easier to move in TV, people do it all of the time.

Now Just think that your new, or used Camellia costs 250K and get on with it. Add more money for a view, or privacy, subtract if you want a smaller house and add if you want a bigger house. It doesn't matter a whole lot or not at all in price if the house is north or south of 466. The older houses have things added to them that you may or may not like.

If you are a nice person who likes to sit and have a glass of wine and laugh until your sides ache, please move close to us G's. We live in Hadley with a lot, but not all, of wonderful people.

Gracie, that is the thought process I had when I bought my place. I wasn't sure what type of home I wanted so I looked at every type. I also was told that the bond was tied to the density of the neighborhood. I ended up buying a courtyard villa and the bond was about $10,000 less than the smaller designer home I was considering.

If I decide to sell and purchase something else in The Villages, the new owner of my villa will have to worry about the remaining bond balance.

I would never let the bond keep me from the lifestyle The Villages has to offer.

Right now I get to visit my villa about once a year to enjoy the place. I am heading down the beginning of August and can't wait!

I would love to have a glass of wine with you, Gracie, since I consider myself a very pleasant person. I know you will not be in The Villages in August but I hope to meet you at some point.

[cats12470]

Gracie,
WOW... how can we pass this up???!!!!!! I understand about the bond... just don't like it.... we are going to come back down June 19, 20 and 21st and look "again".... I feel like I drive my Realtor crazy.....but we just can't make a quick decision... (by the way, I am a Realtor in SC).... I am sure we will make a decision soon.... just a BIG decision for us.....a 2 car garage is a MUST for us as my husband builds dollhouses.... BEAUTIFUL dollhouses.... I do hear people move around in the Villages.... we went to see Chubby Checker and people were talking to others about moving around the corner to a bigger house and another moved to get closer to 466A.... lots of reasons.... thanks again for all your comments.... I know we will LOVE living near you all...

[swrinfla]

May I throw in a little more to puzzle over?

If you buy in Harbor Hills (which is a beautiful place, by the way), you'll have to do all of your shopping, doctor visits, movie-going, etc., by automobile!!!!! Over time the 5-6 miles from HH to the shops along US27/441 and back will add up. Buy in TV and you can probably get to anything you want and need just using a few minutes of your golf carts electricity! :pepper2:

Same would be true of Del Webb, Spruce Creek South, Stonecrest, etc.

Just a thought!

SWR
:beer3:

[Indy-Guy]

I would estimate that if I had a dollar for eveytime the word bond has shown up on Talk of The Villages I could pay my bond off and take a nice cruise.

I also would like to add that with the over 30,000 homes that have been sold in The Villages with a bond I don't know of anyone who has said they purchased in The Villages because they liked the idea of the bond.

That being said over 30,000 people have gotten past the bond and purchased. We can't all be crazy.

[mulligan]

Unless i'm missing something , which seems to happen more and more as time goes by, the bond is simply a way for the developer to finance infrastructure without using his own money up front. In most developments this money would be factored into the cost of the lots. The system seems to wok pretty well at TV. IMHO