The Villages Real estate sales people

[Hospes444]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

[MSchad]

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[Number 10 GI]

I would never purchase anything as expensive as a house without seeing it for myself. You are the one who dropped the ball, not the realtor. Due diligence!

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS. 2 closed when I wasn’t there , you have a year to have any problems corrected and I and most of people I know never had anything major, if the tax rate was going to be a deal breaker , maybe a less expensive home would have been a good idea . I never asked what the taxes were because Florida has so many different tax breaks that by the end of the year your bill is going to change for better anyway

[manaboutown]

Villages agents are NOT Realtors.

[dnobles]

Yes they are realtors, they just don’t belong to MLS

[Kilmacowen]

They are licenced by the state of Florida. Most, if not all, have worked for MLS previously. "Code of ethics" is a joke. All sales people work for their own benefit, no matter what business they are in. Does anyone think financial advisers work for your interest first?

[Stu from NYC]

Why would you buy a house if you do not have it inspected by outside inspector?

Taxes are taxes. Thought I knew all my costs but found a couple we were not aware of. Whose fault is that other than mine?

Realtors are sales people working for commission and what do you expect from them?

As Ronald Reagon said Trust but verify especially when dealing with sales people.

[graciegirl]

The OP sounds like someone who is mad he can't sell new houses.

Our favorite Villages Realtor is Jim McLaughlin. He sold us both houses here in The Villages and he himself is in his seventh Villages Home. He is a wonderful man, smart and kind and by his side is his sweet wife Patty. He showed us used homes when we began to think about our second home here that would make us year rounders, but we opted to build. He is dependable and ethical.

He is no longer our agent. He is our treasured friend. Look at his picture under M's.

Meet Our Amazing The Villages(R) Sales Representatives (https://www.thevillages.com/sales-reps/)

[asianthree]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

You bought a home without have a professional inspection? You didn’t go on the property tax web site to see what the taxes were and when and how many times the home had been purchased and the taxes for each year?

You may need to have one of your adult children, or your tax consultant to help you make major purchases from now on. You seem to have missed important decisions on your own, and need to blame someone Else

[dewilson58]

Oh Boy.

[vintageogauge]

In today's Daily Sun it is stated that The Villages Licensed Realestate Professionals sold 196 used homes in July. I don't know how many homes Licensed MLS Realestate Agents sold in The Villages for the month of July but there are 196 they didn't sell. I wonder how many complaints have been filed at the BBB regarding the truthfulness of both The Villages and MLS agents? I would guess not too many.

[davem4616]

IMHO this sounds like a little sour grapes on the part of the OP

The TV sales agent with dealt with had integrity, shared information and was ethical....however you also have to know how to ask the questions if you want the complete answer

[retiredguy123]

Yes they are realtors, they just don’t belong to MLS
The term "Realtor" is a designation awarded to certain people by the National Association of Realtors. The NAR is a private trade organization that is not a Government agency. Being a Realtor has nothing to do with being licensed by the state to sell real estate. But, the fact is that very few of the Villages agents are Realtors. However, many of them are licensed by the state of Florida to sell real estate. Being a Realtor and being a licensed real estate agent are two entirely different things.

[manaboutown]

The OP sounds like someone who is mad he can't sell new houses.

Our favorite Villages Realtor is Jim McLaughlin. He sold us both houses here in The Villages and he himself is in his seventh Villages Home. He is a wonderful man, smart and kind and by his side is his sweet wife Patty. He showed us used homes when we began to think about our second home here that would make us year rounders, but we opted to build. He is dependable and ethical.

He is no longer our agent. He is our treasured friend. Look at his picture under M's.

Meet Our Amazing The Villages(R) Sales Representatives (https://www.thevillages.com/sales-reps/)

This him? James McLaughlin - , Real Estate Agent - realtor.com(R) (https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/james-mclaughlin___2231211)
or him: Jim McLaughlin - Libertyville, IL Real Estate Agent - realtor.com(R) (https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/jim-mclaughlin_libertyville_il_1367382_565389426)

I could not find a Forida Realtor named Jim or James McLaughlin on an internet search, only a villages agent, but not a Realtor.

[jacksonbrown]

How long have you been a MLS realtor?

Selling real estate does not make one a realtor (https://www.dictionary.com/browse/realtor).

Just as selling from a MLS listing does not make one a real estate agent.

And, working for Villages Real Estate certainly doesn't qualify one to use the trademarked term REALTOR®, with or without the ®.

[Laker14]

On resales, do most of the real estate professionals selling properties in TV charge the same sales commission, regardless of whether they are MLS, or The Villages Real Estate?
What is it typically?

[retiredguy123]

It's negotiable. I think the maximum commission you would pay would be 6 percent. But, I think it is easier to negotiate a lower commission with an MLS agant than with a Villages agent.

[Mrprez]

Realtor is a trade association name. It is not a legal term that defines one who sells real estate. The two legal terms are broker and agent. It is my understanding that all TV sales people are at least agents. I don't think it is possible to legally sell real estate in exchange for a commission without being an agent or a broker. An agent must work for or be associated with a broker. They cannot sell real estate by themselves.

[retiredguy123]

Realtor is a trade association name. It is not a legal term that defines one who sells real estate. The two legal terms are broker and agent. It is my understanding that all TV sales people are at least agents. I don't think it is possible to legally sell real estate in exchange for a commission without being an agent or a broker. An agent must work for or be associated with a broker. They cannot sell real estate by themselves.
Correct. I think The Villages may have some sales people who are not licensed agents. They can work for a salary or an hourly wage, but their compensation cannot be based on a percentage of the sales price. Only licensed agents can receive a commission based income.

[graciegirl]

This him? James McLaughlin - , Real Estate Agent - realtor.com(R) (https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/james-mclaughlin___2231211)
or him: Jim McLaughlin - Libertyville, IL Real Estate Agent - realtor.com(R) (https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/jim-mclaughlin_libertyville_il_1367382_565389426)

I could not find a Forida Realtor named Jim or James McLaughlin on an internet search, only a villages agent, but not a Realtor.

We have discussed this before. Apparently this is important to you.

I think realtor with a capital R is just a capitalized name for someone who sells real estate.

Jim has sold real estate in the Eastern State where he was born. He sells real estate here and he is allowed to sell new homes in The Villages and the realtors you talk of, from MLS, cannot sell new homes in The Villages. Jim can also sell used homes in The Villages. Jim has had to hire a helper he is so busy.

[manaboutown]

We have discussed this before. Apparently this is important to you.

I think realtor with a capital R is just a capitalized name for someone who sells real estate.

Jim has sold real estate in the Eastern State where he was born. He sells real estate here and he is allowed to sell new homes in The Villages and the realtors you talk of, from MLS, cannot sell new homes in The Villages. Jim can also sell used homes in The Villages. Jim has had to hire a helper he is so busy.

Realtor is a trademark, not a generic term for a licensed real estate agent or broker.

"The term REALTOR® is not only a trademark owned by NAR and protected by federal law, it's a valuable membership benefit that distinguishes members from other real estate licensees.May 17, 2017"

Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the REALTOR(R) Trademarks | www.nar.realtor (https://www.nar.realtor/logos-and-trademark-rules/top-5-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-realtor-trademarks)

[Number 10 GI]

Seems like some people think a real estate agent must also be an investment counselor, tax expert, and a housing inspector.

[Mrprez]

Correct. I think The Villages may have some sales people who are not licensed agents. They can work for a salary or an hourly wage, but their compensation cannot be based on a percentage of the sales price. Only licensed agents can receive a commission based income.

That may be. TV says on their website that they are all licensed. I made sure that mine was a licensed sales agent.

[EdFNJ]

When you look at the taxes of a RESALE home they are based on what that owner paid for it. Our taxes doubled because the original owner was protected by the "Florida Save Our Homes" CAP over the previous 9 years based on what HE paid for it. We start that over based on our price. Our agent said the taxes were $900 when we asked, which was true, but they turned out to be $1800 when we closed based on OUR purchase price not the first/previous owner. Even at 2X 1 year was equal to 1 1/2 months up north so no complaints.

[Cobh521]

Yes they are realtors, they just don’t belong to MLS

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[Mrprez]

They are not Realtors® They have a license but they do not belong to the National Association of Realtors® and they do not take the code of ethics courses.

You need a course to learn how to be ethical? Sad.

[mrfixit]

[quo//////te

[Cobh521]

You need a course to learn how to be ethical? Sad.
////

[Mrprez]

****

[Stu from NYC]

Seems like some people think a real estate agent must also be an investment counselor, tax expert, and a housing inspector.

Very often they will tell the buyer how well this house has been built and what great shape the appliances are in.

And that is why before purchasing a home everyone should hire an inspector.

[kstew43]

in order to be called a Realtor...you must join your county Realtors Association which also allows you to access the MLS... A real estate sales agent......The villages agents..... do not need to join a board, they work for the developer, hence, they are not Realtors...

[kstew43]

We have discussed this before. Apparently this is important to you.

I think realtor with a capital R is just a capitalized name for someone who sells real estate.

Jim has sold real estate in the Eastern State where he was born. He sells real estate here and he is allowed to sell new homes in The Villages and the realtors you talk of, from MLS, cannot sell new homes in The Villages. Jim can also sell used homes in The Villages. Jim has had to hire a helper he is so busy.

But Jim can only work for one, Builder or Broker, so Jim can ONLY sell the villages homes....

[kstew43]

When you look at the taxes of a RESALE home they are based on what that owner paid for it. Our taxes doubled because the original owner was protected by the "Florida Save Our Homes" CAP over the previous 9 years based on what HE paid for it. We start that over based on our price. Our agent said the taxes were $900 when we asked, which was true, but they turned out to be $1800 when we closed based on OUR purchase price not the first/previous owner. Even at 2X 1 year was equal to 1 1/2 months up north so no complaints.

There is a thing in Florida called Portability. If you already owned a home in Florida, and transfer your homestead exemption to your new home. you subtract the market value of your old home from its assessed value and that figure is now portability. subtract that number from the sale price of your new home.... and you now have a lower taxed assessed value on your new home, plus subtract homestead and wah la......your tax rate is a lot less there your neighbor from out of state.

Not everyone buyer knows this information, but your Realtor should tell you this. Its simple paperwork.... Check it out on Sumter/Lake county tax site.

[Mrprez]

in order to be called a Realtor...you must join your county Realtors Association which also allows you to access the MLS... A real estate sales agent......The villages agents..... do not need to join a board, they work for the developer, hence, they are not Realtors...

In order to be called a realtor you must join the NAR and take some classes. It is not a legal requirement nor does it make a realtor better than anyone else. Stop looking down at other people who choose to work for TV.

[kstew43]

In order to be called a realtor you must join the NAR and take some classes. It is not a legal requirement nor does it make a realtor better than anyone else. Stop looking down at other people who choose to work for TV.

I never look down on anyone......Its just the difference between working for a Builder or a Broker office. I'm retired and could not care less who sells what......and sales agents also have to be licensed and take courses every 2 years to maintain their license VLS and MLS.

[Ladygolfer93]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

Absolutely true, personal experience ! Not just true of villages agents, no agent is as concerned about YOU as YOU are, not even if the agent is your own relative. Good advice above. Make sure you educate yourself completely and in great detail about "inspectors" and "inspections", these are also definitely not looking out for your best interests even though you will definitely be the one paying. The best experience I have ever had was hiring my own "inspector" (not a bank, agent, or state recommended one) who was an extremely skilled community college instructor in building trades. He was NOT "state licensed", was someone with incredible knowledge and rather than calling himself an inspector, he had no "skin in the game" and for a fee would go over every aspect of construction WITH the perspective buyer. My horrific experiences with "inspectors" in two different states in addition to Florida were all the same, they definitely DID NOT allow the perspective buyer to accompany them. I unknowingly parked my car and watched one $400 inspector I had "hired". He never removed any type of ladder from his vehicle, yet I later received a "report" that included a thorough inspection of the gutters and roof ! After four expensive and very fraudulent home inspections, I am more leery of them than I am of used car sales people who only sell the used vehicles of the little old ladies who only drive to church on Sunday !

[Art cov]

(1) only hire high octane agents.(2) don’t use cousins or whoever unless they sell lots of houses! 10 houses a year? not with my major investment! I don’t want an agent that sells for a hobby, they must be in the top 5 around the area or one with lots of motivation that’s a big impact and thriving to be num 1. (3) negotiate! 6 percent is there goal but I have never paid that! Also in my experience an all star champion realtor will make you money. Lots of lazy ones out there that just want listings and don’t mind letting everyone else do the selling. I could say a lot but will move on. Remember this is usually the greatest asset a person has, don’t leave a bunch of money on the table or in someone else’s pocket. (4) you have one chance to make a first impression. You want to knock it out of the park! Have the neatest, cleanest, most perfect place around. Curb appeal! Fix everything that is needed. Fixer uppers are buyers deals. I personally hire a inspector when I plan to sell because they find a lot of things that need attention. Then when buyers hire inspector it should be a piece of cake. I have had the inspector fix little things when he was doing his job. (5) be truthful n do it right. Inside/outside to be in move in ready I could say a lot more but I hope this helps someone

[Skunky1]

The agents in the Villages,Florida sales office are not Realtors!

[jacksonbrown]

In order to be called a realtor you must join the NAR and take some classes. It is not a legal requirement nor does it make a realtor better than anyone else. Stop looking down at other people who choose to work for TV.

Nor do I "look down" on anyone. However, prospective home buyers need to know the difference. And the consequences potentially ARE HUGE. It's the legal difference between contracting with a "sellers" agent, or a "buyers" agent. The difference could cost a buyer thousands, post sale.

[egmcaninch]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

How sad to have so little trust in someone who works with you on such an important decision! I trusted my Villages realtor 100% and did my own due diligence. I chose to do both

[tsmall22204]

Why blame others for your failures. If you don't handle business, it will handle you.

[Pillowtalk]

No, they are not “Realtors”. They do no belong to the National Board of Realtors. Realtors (who work through MLS are offered education) and MA has an arbitration board for agent’s that hear complaints by the public and have the power to suspend or remove their license for violations. The Villages salespeople are just that, sales people, not “Realtors’.

[jonathanb]

You must be licensed by the state you live in to sell real estate. The only difference between a REALTOR and a Licensed Real Estate Representative for Properties of The Villages is the Realtor designation and the $600+/- they had to pay for it. REALTOR IS A DESIGNATION NOT A LICENSE. I know I was a REALTOR in Pa and a LICENSED REAL ESTATE REPRESENTATIVE for Properties of The Villages now retired. As far as ethical sales people go it is your duty to interview them and see who you work well with. All real estate sales people are independent contractors and work differently.

[Pamelah]

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What do those lines //// mean ??????

[Pbthrockm@msn.com]

Great advise. Also be aware there are CCD fees known as a Bond. There maybe be additional taxes especially in new developments and also area maintenance fees. With all these costs taxes and fees can nearly double. Be prepared go to tax web site and retrieve what the current owner paid. But also keep in mind as a new owner you will be taxed on your purchase price.

[jbrown132]

They are licenced by the state of Florida. Most, if not all, have worked for MLS previously. "Code of ethics" is a joke. All sales people work for their own benefit, no matter what business they are in. Does anyone think financial advisers work for your interest first?

Just untrue. I was a sales person for over forty years. I sold a very technical product. I would tell the customer what the product would and would not do. People’s lives depended on it. If I lied to that customer or distorted the facts in any way and my boss or CEO found out about it I would have been fired on the spot and walked out the door.

[wilkinson]

Why would you waste 6% commission 7 times???

[daca55]

Totally agree!!!

[dewilson58]

What do those lines //// mean ??????




someone wanted to delete their comment, but you have to have a minimum three key-stokes

[Beyond The Wall]

I found the opposite to be the case. Our agent, Judy Dressendorfer , was forth coming on EVERY DETAIL about cost, conditions, options for inspections, whether the taxes were homestead amounts, etc. use a recommended agent

[Scorpyo]

Maybe I'm missing something or I'm just ignorant but why are so people concerned whether the person showing you a house is a sales person, sales agent, real estate agent or real estate broker? Why are you arguing whether or not they're licensed by the state?
Who cares? Their job is exactly the same, namely get you to buy (or sell) a house so they can make a commission. Yeah, the Villages sales organization doesn't go on MLS and conversely the outside Real Estate companies don't go on the Villages site. So if you want MLS go to Remax. If you want to be listed on the Villages site, go through them. The sales representative, no matter whom they work for, will try to close the deal so they make money. The smart ones will do so ethically. They are the ones that list and sell the most homes and make the most money because of referrals. I've heard some very positive statements about the sales persons that worked with some of you on buying or selling your home. I will probably be buying a larger home in the not too distant future. You can rest assured I will be keeping those names for future reference. And, quite frankly, I couldn't care less (yesterday's post) whether they're licensed by the state or not. I just want them to, at least, seem to have my best interests at heart.

[vitacr]

NO, They are not "REALTORS" - they are "sales representatives" - big difference. They are not required to divulge all knowledge on a property, like a REALTOR. There are many differences.

[PennBF]

Have a relative who was a Realestate Broker in both North Carolina and Florida. She pointed out the difference between the rules of each state. The one serious difference was the rule governing what had to be identified regarding the home by the sales agent to the buyer. It goes back to "Buyer Beware". Get your own inspector and ensure you identify the problems before you sign a contract. If you have a Realestate agent regarding a home you may be selling in another state you may want them to take a look at the Contract for the Village home and ask them for their opinion? I think it is wonderful that some becomes friends with they Agent but they are in it for profit and friendship may be a byproduct of their primary responsibility which is to sell houses. Always go back to Rule #1 which is Buyer Beware. :ohdear:

[joedi]

Don’t trust the village real estate people, they do not follow ethics like professional realtors do. The are told to lie cheat or steal to make sale. These homes are put together with glue and cheap material BE CAREFUL!

[chrissy2231]

They are not licensed & can'[t show MLS. The best realtor is Ken Weber (352) 396-0789 Mobile

(352) 259-4900 Home office ERA Grizzard. I bought the 3rd house he showed me. My friend bought the 5th she was shown.

[Dlbonivich]

It is a reminder to do ethical things in your daily business. I am a Realtor. I think there are good sales agents and there are good Realtors and you need both when you buy in the Villages. It is someone who takes time to give you the best service.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

On resales, do most of the real estate professionals selling properties in TV charge the same sales commission, regardless of whether they are MLS, or The Villages Real Estate?
What is it typically?
But if you buy a new or preowned home from them you get 1% back on the price of new home

[greenflash245]

they are in the game for themselves.just don't trust them.

[greenflash245]

a rare commodity she is

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Maybe I'm missing something or I'm just ignorant but why are so people concerned whether the person showing you a house is a sales person, sales agent, real estate agent or real estate broker? Why are you arguing whether or not they're licensed by the state?
Who cares? Their job is exactly the same, namely get you to buy (or sell) a house so they can make a commission. Yeah, the Villages sales organization doesn't go on MLS and conversely the outside Real Estate companies don't go on the Villages site. So if you want MLS go to Remax. If you want to be listed on the Villages site, go through them. The sales representative, no matter whom they work for, will try to close the deal so they make money. The smart ones will do so ethically. They are the ones that list and sell the most homes and make the most money because of referrals. I've heard some very positive statements about the sales persons that worked with some of you on buying or selling your home. I will probably be buying a larger home in the not too distant future. You can rest assured I will be keeping those names for future reference. And, quite frankly, I couldn't care less (yesterday's post) whether they're licensed by the state or not. I just want them to, at least, seem to have my best interests at heart.
Speaks WISDOM THANKYOU

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

don’t trust the village real estate people, they do not follow ethics like professional realtors do. The are told to lie cheat or steal to make sale. These homes are put together with glue and cheap material be careful! where ?????

[donfey]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

The Villages real estate agents are licensed to buy/sell property in Florida, just like those who work for brokers use use MLS. And, just like any other cross-section of humanity, there are good ones and not-so-good ones. There are good, honorable people and, only a few we hope, some not so.

When looking to buy in The Villages we used both The Villages agents and "outside" agents. Both were very helpful to us, but The Villages agent, we felt, went above and beyond for us. We got the right guy, in out opinion - Michael Veri.

Good luck, especially if you expect someone else to do your research for you.

[Debbraham]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

Village people are agents not realtors...realtors must sign and commit to a standard of practice and truthfulness and can be sued for lying and lose their license. Agents (village people) are not held to the same standards and follow what the owners tell them to say and do.

[KRM0614]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.
They have meetings every week on their dialogue they don’t care they just need the sale there is no ethics or morals ! It took a year to fix the defects they lied said it was a new spec house not true it was a year old and it was the most expensive mistake of my life. They don’t use MLS because they don’t want to pay for the fee.

[newgirl]

They are NOT realtors! They work for the developer

[newgirl]

No, if you are a Realtor by law you have to be trained and live up to mls standards. If they worked for the mls as a realtor they could not do or say what they get away with now. When I was looking I was beyond shocked at how things are done here, even title companies do things that they would have on the low end fined $10.000 to shut down. It is scary buying in Florida from a legal standpoint.

[graciegirl]

Village people are agents not realtors...realtors must sign and commit to a standard of practice and truthfulness and can be sued for lying and lose their license. Agents (village people) are not held to the same standards and follow what the owners tell them to say and do.

I like the Villages Agents better. They never hound you or pressure you and perhaps even their standards are higher. Jim McLaughlin is a very nice man. A good person. A decent soul with good common sense and he frequently says; "I don't know Gracie. You will hear it the same time I do".

He doesn't have to do anything. People are lined up to buy new homes and used here. The real estate market is up 9% over last year. We bought in Bridgeport at Laurel Valley when it took a few hours until the view lots were sold out. When we bought in Hadley we saw a house we loved and it was off the market and I thought they were trying to fox us. Nope. We bought the one next to it and in the house we missed out on, there lived who became our treasured friends, Norman and Ruthie. I painted a large painting of an Egret in her memory and it hangs in the front hall of this house.

I miss you Ruthie and your beautiful face at my door saying; "Come on Gracie, let's go shop for accessories. She said it so "Chicago".

[rrb48310]

Why would you buy a house if you do not have it inspected by outside inspector?

Taxes are taxes. Thought I knew all my costs but found a couple we were not aware of. Whose fault is that other than mine?

Realtors are sales people working for commission and what do you expect from them?

As Ronald Reagon said Trust but verify especially when dealing with sales people.


“inspected by outside inspector”. I’ve had been involved in two inspections done by two different inspectors on The Villages list and they both have missed things, some minor some not.

So true, Trust but Verify.

[ChaRobPhe]

I am planning on selling my home in the Villages and unsure as to whether I should list with a Villages Realtor or go to one of the real estate companies outside of the Villages.
Your thoughts and suggestions appreciated.

[retiredguy123]

No, if you are a Realtor by law you have to be trained and live up to mls standards. If they worked for the mls as a realtor they could not do or say what they get away with now. When I was looking I was beyond shocked at how things are done here, even title companies do things that they would have on the low end fined $10.000 to shut down. It is scary buying in Florida from a legal standpoint.
Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors, a private trade association. The Multiple Listing Service is a private database. Neither of these organizations make or enforce any laws.

In Florida, you must be a licensed real estate agent to sell houses, and you must comply with Florida laws. But, you don't need to be a Realtor or an MLS member to be a licensed agent.

[Roron123]

I am realtor with MLS and we tend to have more information at our fingertips than those Associates with the Villages (Builder).

[Laker14]

My friends bought a place in TV last winter and they used two agents. One was from one of the MLS companies, and the other was from The Villages. They did this so they could see the houses they were interested in whether they were listed through the MLS, or TV. They wound up buying a house that was listed through TV, but they were equally happy with both agents. It just turned out that the house they wanted was listed that way. They were pleased with the way they were treated.

[jklfairwin]

I don't believe this is true of all realtors or all businesspersons. But it is true that "greed is good" has been adopted by far too many over the last 40 years and that "buyer beware" is much more appropriate now than it was 40 years ago.

[Marty94]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

My realtor/Villages sales agent was Chris Hallmark. He is just amazing and extremely knowledgeable. He has been selling homes in TV for many years. (His license information is provided below.) And even though my home was fairly new, I still paid for an inspection as termites are fairly prevalent in the south and I really didn’t want to walk up on the roof to check for weather damage or loose shingles. Chris set that up and the cost was reasonable.

Concerning exemptions, I wouldn’t expect a realtor to know this as that’s getting into tax law. You can easily look up tax information though on the county’s website. Prior to moving to Florida, I did my own due diligence and looked up what I needed to do to apply as I am also a veteran and many states have additional property tax exemptions (Florida among the most generous toward veterans).

Real Estate Broker or Sales HALLMARK, CHRISTOPHER PA Primary SL700267
Sales Associate Current, Active

[retiredguy123]

My realtor/Villages sales agent was Chris Hallmark. He is just amazing and extremely knowledgeable. He has been selling homes in TV for many years. (His license information is provided below.) And even though my home was fairly new, I still paid for an inspection as termites are fairly prevalent in the south and I really didn’t want to walk up on the roof to check for weather damage or loose shingles. Chris set that up and the cost was reasonable.

Concerning exemptions, I wouldn’t expect a realtor to know this as that’s getting into tax law. You can easily look up tax information though on the county’s website. Prior to moving to Florida, I did my own due diligence and looked up what I needed to do to apply as I am also a veteran and many states have additional property tax exemptions (Florida among the most generous toward veterans).

Real Estate Broker or Sales HALLMARK, CHRISTOPHER PA Primary SL700267
Sales Associate Current, Active
I agree that Chris Hallmark is an excellent real estate agent. However, as far as I know, he is not a "Realtor". In fact, I have looked up many of the best agents who work for The Villages, and almost none of them are "Realtors".

[New Adventures]

They are licenced by the state of Florida. Most, if not all, have worked for MLS previously. "Code of ethics" is a joke. All sales people work for their own benefit, no matter what business they are in. Does anyone think financial advisers work for your interest first?

Actually, financial advisers made it possible for my husband and I to be able to move here. As for The Villages salespeople, I had some that were not too interested in my needs and I quickly moved on to another that found us a home that was exactly what we wanted.

Sure, there are some questionable people out there and it's our own responsibility to check on their references before we dive into anything that will consume a large amount of your money. But don't drop the hammer on those that are good people who look out for your interests. They are out there!

[manaboutown]

My first Villages agent steered me to new houses and evaded showing me even one preowned home after repeated requests. He also dodged around my questions about the infamous "bond". He professed not to know how much it was on any of the few spec homes he bothered to show me. I found him disingenuous at best. Then to top it off he told me to drive myself around and if I saw a home I wanted to see to let him know. Thanks, but no thanks. I would not do all the work that a real estate agent does to earn a commission so he could get handed a commission for doing next to nothing.

Several Villagers have told me that homes they listed to sell with Villages agents were not shown or effectively marketed and took a long time to sell. That may or not be common. I do not know. From what I have been told Villages agents are more financially motivated to sell new homes.

As an aside, I am following what is happening with the renegade agents who left the developer"s "employ" and have started their own real estate company in violation of a covenant not to compete they signed with the developer. Since real estate agents are typically independent contractors and not employees it will be interesting to see how this shakes out. From following the legal happenings I have gained some knowledge on how behind the curtain the developer actually runs its sales organization. I find it quite amusing that its sales agents have to memorize a spiel they are to give on every corner of a square as they walk customers around it. They must demonstrate to a supervisor they have their presentation nailed down pat as they walk with the supervisor around the square until they get it right. For some reason I found that quite funny. BTW I did not get the walk or the spiel. My agent must have been selling so prolifically he had not the time nor the need. Perhaps he had become exempt. He did confide to me he had eaten in the executive dining room and flown on at least one of the developer's jets so he was a hotshot salesman of new homes who had been recognized and honored by the developer.

As others have posted anyone looking to buy in The Villages needs both a VLS agent and an MLS Realtor in order to see all the preowned homes for sale; one requires a VLS agent for new homes. IMHO finding the right agents is paramount.

[yankygrl]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.
Most are not realtors, they are sales reps, working for the developer and not you the client..if someone says different they are lying.

[Marathon Man]

BEWARE
Those looking to buy a property from a Villages realtor; do your due diligence and don't trust the realtors to be forthcoming with important information
Those who are looking to buy a home without inspecting it themselves, or having a trusted friend take a look, you might be surprised at the cosmetic condition when you arrive for the closing.
Make certain to call the tax office in whatever county you are purchasing in. DONT trust the realtor to tell you whether or not the tax rate reflects "Homestead" discount...even if you ask.
These realtors are not looking out for you.
It's unfortunate that so many homes are listed in the Villages and are not a MLS.

Four posts four complaints.

As for this one: How can anyone reach retirement age and not know how to buy a house?

[ficoguy]

I think my guy was just a sales representative. He had to call a Villages real estate agent to do the paperwork. He basically took us around the villages, and then when it came time to buy he pretty much went from the front to the back seat.

[Dilligas]

Why do ya'll do this same post all the time. It sound like some MLS agents jealous of Villages agents. The answer here is simple.....1) In every profession there are good and bad people, and the title after their name does not change that. 2) If you want to move to TV, you either have to have a Villages agent or a non villages agent. You will see more listings on The Villages website versus MLS, because more homes are sold by The Villages. There are some Villages agents that cooperate with MLS agents and vice versa, but they can not sell the other group's listings. On TV listings, you will only have homes that are in The Villages and have the amenities that TV offers. In the MLS, you will see homes in The Villages (with TV amenities) and home not in The Villages but just outside. Some of the neighboring areas refer their location with names that include the word Village, but are not part of TV. You get what you pay for.....