Whats the point?

[jimbomaybe]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

[ficoguy]

Well its sure better here than in NJ - I can go to the gym ( off property, Not The Norm Crossfit ) and I don't have to share a table with the pigeons and seagulls while paying full price for cold food and a styrofoam dish....

[Jayhawk]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

What are all the things that are "no longer available" that you moved here for?

[Aloha1]

Patience, Grasshopper. All things will come back soon.

[Art cov]

Hang in there, this too shall pass. It’s a mess everywhere

[Stu from NYC]

What are all the things that are "no longer available" that you moved here for?

I will answer that one.

We were attracted by all the entertainment via clubs and all the concerts we could go to.

Happy to be here but greatly miss what we just started to take advantage when we moved here in Feb.

Planned to try my hand at pickleball and water polo but will wait until social distancing is done with.

Do find other things to occupy ourselves but do miss the above.

[vintageogauge]

We're all in the same boat, it's just as bad up north if not worse.

[njbchbum]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

Is life any better today where you moved from?

[dewilson58]

whats the point?


Your indecisive name says it all.

[GreySkies]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

I just moved into my 6-month furnished rental in TV while my house in West Palm Beach is renovated prior to selling. I am also a bit disappointed that COVID19 has changed the atmosphere somewhat, but the point is.... this may not be a “permanent” change. I am going to be positive and assume that things will eventually start to return to normal. When they do, I may purchase a home here or extend my lease another 6 months if I need more time to decide.

[Jayhawk]

I will answer that one.

We were attracted by all the entertainment via clubs and all the concerts we could go to.



Understand, but those few things are cancelled pretty much everywhere. So you have to ask yourself if what you DO HAVE available makes it worth being here. I know it does for me.

[raynan]

I think you're forgetting that we're all in the same boat not just here in The Villages but everywhere. Pray for a vaccine that will get us out of it. Try golf, you can play and self distance and be outside in the nice weather.

[mamamia54]

We're all in the same boat, it's just as bad up north if not worse.

Depends on where up north you are talking about. New York is doing very well.

[Gulfcoast]

We're a couple of years out from making the big move and by then things should be reopened. If not, Lord help us all. At any rate, the benefit to moving into TV now would be that things are quieter and you can probably get things like painting, decorating, landscaping done with less of a wait (this is just a guess). You can get acclimated to the area, get established with doctors/dentist before the crowds come back. I've see some neighborhood happenings on Youtube (including live music) so the town squares might not be too lively right now but you'll likely still run into some impromptu block parties and whatnot.

Things are reopening around the country. The perspective on this virus is changing now that more is known about it. I don't think it'll be long before things are back to normal. I remember someone predicting that it'll end as fast as it began....and I think there is some truth to that.

[JeanC]

Ha! We purchased a home in the middle of the pandemic. No regrets. Play golf daily. Swim. Water volleyball. Meeting people. Life is great!

[THUNDERCHIEF]

NOTHING ANY WHERE YOU GO IS THE SAME UNTIL WE HAVE REMOVED COVID19 FROM OUR LIFE. DID YOU EXPECT THE VILLAGES NOT TO BE AFFECTED BY COVID 19. ? whats your point?

[Rwirish]

Hoping more people decide to move out, way too crowded.

[Olsenfiber]

The COVID pandemic will pass, just like all previous pandemics. Enjoy TV surroundings and stay healthy and happy in the Florida weather as fall/winter roll in to the states up north!

[LoisR]

Wrong again. My NY insurance on my home and cars are far cheaper than in Florida. I pay the same taxes in Fl. as I do in NY. Florida schools are horrendous compared to any northern state. Medical care in Florida? Try it for yourself and see.

[raney3099]

Yes numbers are, but the NY normal doesn’t exist either. All our kids live in NYC and it’s very different as well. Restaurants, gatherings, shows all shut down. Only outside eating. So it’s everywhere people going through the same thing. Holidays, booking trips for next year non existent as well. Really can’t make plans for anything. We’re all in the same boat.

[Girlcopper]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?
And those things arent available anywhere right now. Your point?

[MandoMan]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

From NYTimes, “The Morning,” 1 Sep 2020
“ Here’s a jarring thought experiment: If the United States had done merely an average job of fighting the coronavirus — if the U.S. accounted for the same share of virus deaths as it did global population — how many fewer Americans would have died? The answer: about 145,000. That’s a large majority of the country’s 183,000 confirmed coronavirus-related deaths.

“No other country looks as bad by this measure. The U.S. accounts for 4 percent of the world’s population, and for 22 percent of confirmed Covid-19 deaths. It is one of the many signs that . . . [it] . . . has done a poorer job of controlling the virus than dozens of other governments around the world.

“The specific numbers are only estimates, of course. They are based on virus statistics that are unavoidably incomplete. Most scientists believe the real U.S. death toll is higher than the official numbers indicate, and undercounting of deaths may be even greater in some other countries.”

[I don’t post this to blame anyone. I think our death rate is conditioned by a lot of factors that have to do with who and what we are, and we are different from other countries. I’m not sure anything we the people would have put up with would have helped all that much. There’s a balancing act between preventing sickness and death and avoiding the destruction of our economy and jobs. It’s fiendishly difficult. I do think closing down the entertainment and clubs spared us many deaths. If I have to self-quarantine, I’m grateful to be able to do it surrounded by beauty and with the ability to go for walks and drive around instead of being in an internment camp in a dormitory. Life could be so much worse. Even at the best of times, I wouldn’t want to live in the neighborhoods in New York and New Jersey that had the highest incidence of the virus. I don’t mind being a recluse.]

[Stu from NYC]

Wrong again. My NY insurance on my home and cars are far cheaper than in Florida. I pay the same taxes in Fl. as I do in NY. Florida schools are horrendous compared to any northern state. Medical care in Florida? Try it for yourself and see.

Exactly how much in Florida state income taxes are you now paying?

Do you have children living with you? If not why the concern about schools if it is just you living here.

Just here 6 months and friends gave us recommendations for physicians and so far very good choices.

[bowlingal]

water polo??

[Cranford61]

:coolsmiley::coolsmiley:Well its sure better here than in NJ - I can go to the gym ( off property, Not The Norm Crossfit ) and I don't have to share a table with the pigeons and seagulls while paying full price for cold food and a styrofoam dish....
Let’s see...NJ Turnpike/GSP tolls going up 30% this month. And there is a 10 cent tax increase per gallon of gas effective October 10

[banjobob]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?
The virus will be over soon and probably everything will be fully available again, Stay or leave your choice !

[woderfulwendy1]

We eat out.
We play pickleball.
We play water volleyball.
We go shopping.
We go out with friends.
If you are not doing any of these it's your choice. If you can't wait for the few other activities, go back to your old location I'm sure there is sooo much more for you to do there.

[coconutmama]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

This community is not perfect, as you can tell from the replies you received. “Friendliest Home Town” is just a marketing scheme. But please stay. Overall it is a great place to live.

Also, sometimes people forget that if all the new houses being built do not sell, the values on all our homes will go south. Yes, it is more crowded, but hopefully it is spread out enough to not matter in the long run. Bet when the rude posters came, the folks already here complained about them.

Welcome! “Live Long & Prosper”!!

[GaryKoca]

Come December through April, when it is below zero and snowing up North, you will be glad you are in The Villages and can get outside and walk, ride a bike, or just drive around in your golf cart. And things will eventually get better.

[JanetMM]

water polo??

Yes! You should see those horses swim!

[La lamy]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

"all the things that attracted (you) are no longer available". What were those? And are they available anywhere else at this point? I personally thinks there's still A LOT to enjoy.

[BAT777]

We moved here 5 years ago from New England knowing it was only a 2 day trip and or a 3 hour plane trip to see the family. Due to Covid we haven’t been able to travel and haven’t seen family in a year! We regret moving now🙄 i would rather deal with snow and cold weather at least to be with family.

[JanetMM]

Actually this would be a great time to acclimate yourself to driving those roundabouts before it gets so crowded. Welcome and stay healthy.

[Indiana Randy]

It's not just The Villages activities shut down, it's all over Florida and the nation. The shutdown/closing of activities will go away. NO, this isn't the new normal. There is no reason for you to not purchase a home in TV because of Covid19. The point is; Keep living your life

[Waddling Eagle]

It should be clear by now that those who are waiting for a day when Covid will cease to exist will be waiting forever. The risk will never return to zero. For rational people, however, a vaccine which you might have to take annually like a flu shot will allow a return to normal life.

The clubs are operating as well as they can under the circumstances. However, the lost businesses will not be returning. Some entertainers we used to see in the squares probably will never come back, and the developer seems determined to convert some facilities to apartments or offices. Country clubs which see little patronage are very vulnerable. The developer is not going to maintain money-losing ventures just because a few of us like them.

Facilities owned and run by the recreation centers are here to stay. But the squares will change over time to meet new demands. They are, after all, merely outdoor shopping malls. And shopping malls all over the country are struggling.

[Ashley from UK]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

Think yourself LUCKY. One of us bought a LOT, completed design in March returned to the UK and a week later President Trump closed the borders. Our house is built, we closed remotely in June. We can't wait to see it but won't be until at least January 2021... or 2022, or whenever Covid is over and the US borders re-open... Our dream is shattered and our house is now up for rent.

Oh and if that isn't depressing enough how about the fact that due to Covid the GBP:USD FX crashed in the period our house was built and we had to find an extra load of unbudgeted cash, all the cash for the furniture.... If we sold and walked today - now the FX has reversed we would be looking at a $ 50,000 LOSS {excluding sales costs!!!!)... not bad for 2 months of owning a home you can't see or use....

So don't moan, at least you are there, you have your health (I hope), You have fantastic walks, the golf courses are open, the pools are open, you are able to use the facilities covered by the amenity fees you are paying for (and the electric, and the taxes).... How much worse would you feel if you HAD bought, are writing out cheques but only able to see what your paying for when a friend emails you a photo... because that's where we are at the moment....

On a positive note, we are young, alive and healthy. Life will go on and one day the borders will re-open and we will be able to come out and live our dream.............:pray::pray::pray: ........................That's the point.....

[pemmett608]

Villa owners/snowbirds from Illinois. Activity is limited here as well. And while you can now eat inside, I'd just as soon eat outside. But that will end soon. Looking forward to returning to our Villa for the winter where even if activities are limited. . .you can be outdoors in the sunshine and not inside at home! Breathing fresh air. It took a while but outdoor pickle ball has come back and we play with friends. . .and expect to be able to do that in The Villages as well. We'd be happy to teach you the basics when there so you can start playing sooner rather than later. It is a naturally socially distanced game. This is a rough time, especially for young people. The virus. . .is no ones fault. it is an act of nature. And since The Villages is filled with seniors who are 'at risk' it makes sense to be the 'most' careful. We will get 'through' this as medical experience with the virus improves our response to it and then, TV will be back!

[LG999]

I am in NY. I have been mostly inside my house for FIVE months. No gym, no restaurants, no friends, no shopping, no subways so cant get into the city but the city is shut down too. I took the RR in and walked 35 blocks to my dr’s office. When I go out for supplies I have to wear a mask & gloves. When I go anywhere even the dr I have to wear madks & gloves. And there is the rdlentless “social distancing”. There are plenty of groceries but the line to get into Trader Joe is always too long for me to think about.
So I am inside my house except for my morning walk around my neighborhood & the expedition for supplies.
I see & talk to ppl once a week during a webX meeting. Other than that I see my husband, an occassional masked person while walking, masked nervous pple in the supermarket. The news is all about covid.
I had to be in TV in June. We always fly but this time we had to DRIVE from NY to FL! And back. Painful. At least I was able to go to the gym & my husband played golf while in TV. You have to realize — its not just TV that are affected. Its everywhere. Some places have riots on top of the virus. But medicines are coming out soon & things will return to normal.

[Mikee1]

[QUOTE=Choro&Swing;1826489]From NYTimes, “The Morning,” 1 Sep 2020
“ Here’s a jarring thought experiment: If the United States had done merely an average job of fighting the coronavirus — if the U.S. accounted for the same share of virus deaths as it did global population — how many fewer Americans would have died? The answer: about 145,000. That’s a large majority of the country’s 183,000 confirmed coronavirus-related deaths.

Has the NY Times read the articles yesterday about the CDC admitting they have miscoded deaths due to to Covid-19????
I believe they are now saying it is really around 10,000.
So, how does that make the US look???

[Kgcetm]

You probably wouldn’t like it here anyway! Be happy.

[stadalberts]

We agree, BETTER than NJ!! Gone from there lo'
these last 25 years.

[Darield]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

We have now been here just over 3 years. A lot is not available so I have switched to things that are still fun. I don't play golf but I love photography and had recently joined the birding group. I enjoy my time exploring new area with some of the birders. Many of the outdoor clubs are still meeting in small groups. I also spend time on my art as well as signing up for some online classes. We are all affected by this virus.

The entire US is affected. We just came back from a driving trip to Colorado for family matters and things are difficult there also. We had to cancel our fall vacation because the hotel said they were not allowed to take reservations from anyone that had flown in (really!) or anyone from Florida. So like many, we are staying positive that our new normal will include a lot more activity and socialization in the Villages. I am hoping that in 6 months things will look a lot better.

[Joanerin]

Advice
Find out what the third generation developers own and can sell.
Talk to Hacienda homeowner residents that experienced a loss during this summer when less owners were around. They have the ACC in their pocket.

[talleyjm]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

Develop a grateful heart. Count your blessings. You are living in a paradise. Glass half empty attitude in life will kill you. I feel sorry for you.

[talleyjm]

[QUOTE=BAT777;1826517]We moved here 5 years ago from New England knowing it was only a 2 day trip and or a 3 hour plane trip to see the family. Due to Covid we haven’t been able to travel and haven’t seen family in a year! We regret moving now🙄 i would rather deal with snow and cold weather at least to be with family.[/QUOTE

And why haven’t you been able to travel? Maybe you need to do some critical thinking to figure out how you can get together?

[DecaturFargo]

No different than anywhere else. You can play golf, tennis, pickleball. You can ride around in golf cart. Eat lunch and finner out. We have it better than most.

[gammonj]

We're all in the same boat, it's just as bad up north if not worse.

I understand what you mean...however...We are not in the same boat. We are in the same storm. It's all about how you handle your own boat that matters.

[sooziesoul]

And would you like to eat outside in NY in December or January?????

[walterray1]

Wrong again. My NY insurance on my home and cars are far cheaper than in Florida. I pay the same taxes in Fl. as I do in NY. Florida schools are horrendous compared to any northern state. Medical care in Florida? Try it for yourself and see.

I find your assertion that taxes in Florida are the same as NY to be unlikely. No income tax here and property taxes are much lower.

[rde3036]

Learn how to play pickelball and go have some fun!!

[Marshaw]

It's not the new normal. It is no different than where you came from. when the restrictions are lifted you'll be fine.

[Astron]

[QUOTE=Choro&Swing;1826489]From NYTimes, “The Morning,” 1 Sep 2020
“ Here’s a jarring thought experiment: If the United States had done merely an average job of fighting the coronavirus — if the U.S. accounted for the same share of virus deaths as it did global population — how many fewer Americans would have died? The answer: about 145,000. That’s a large majority of the country’s 183,000 confirmed coronavirus-related deaths.

Has the NY Times read the articles yesterday about the CDC admitting they have miscoded deaths due to to Covid-19????
I believe they are now saying it is really around 10,000.
So, how does that make the US look???
You are spreading false information about the severity of the pandemic. If anything the count of COVID19 related deaths is far higher than the CDC reports.
CDC Hasn't 'Reduced' COVID-19 Death Toll - FactCheck.org (https://www.factcheck.org/2020/05/cdc-hasnt-reduced-covid-19-death-toll/)

[justjim]

OP, welcome to The Villages. First, we are blessed not having caught the coronavirus. Second, the same with my immediate family. We have friends and other relatives that have not been as lucky. What they tell me getting the coronavirus is not pleasant and you can be dealing with effects weeks and even months later. Now is a good time to try some outdoor activities you never thought to try before. Hiking, biking, golfing, swimming, golfing (take some lessons) or just some serious walking. Oh, yes get yourself a golf cart and go carting throughout The Villages as you can see and do a lot in a golf cart here that you can’t do anywhere else in the world. If you never had a convertible, treat yourself to one and join one of the many car clubs in The Villages. In short, think outside the box and consider this time during this pandemic as an opportunity to do different “things” rather than the same ol, same ol Don’t sit around feeling “down” because you can’t do what you have done before, rather do something you never done before. Life is short, and it’s not permanent so dance while the music is still playing.

[Donb0975]

With all we have wondering what attracted you to move to TV that is now not available??

[Yucatan2]

In reply to Chloro’s NYTimes report, about half of the 145000 deaths took place in New York , New Jersey, Mass,. Pennsylvania, Michigan and Connecticut. Just over 77000 deaths in those 6 states. Many of which were nursing home deaths. Granted most of those took place earlier in the pandemic, so maybe we’ve learned how to keep it out of nursing homes better.

[PugMom]

Wrong again. My NY insurance on my home and cars are far cheaper than in Florida. I pay the same taxes in Fl. as I do in NY. Florida schools are horrendous compared to any northern state. Medical care in Florida? Try it for yourself and see.

sorry, i came from up there, nothing you are saying is true-- you pay 12 grand in property taxes here?? no way..you pay 250.00 for taxes on your car up there?? (may have increased since i lefty, & prob did.) another no way, no car tax here. so please tell me what's exactly on your mind since none of which you posted is true. and SCHOOLS BETTER IN NYC?? :1rotfl::1rotfl: sorry again, nothing doing'

[Jacob85]

Nothing is the same anywhere! If you evaluate a place during a pandemic it’s not going to be like normal and you are going to miss out on a lot later.

[Art cov]

WOW! It’s amazing I’m sure many are in bad and sad times but things don’t look so bad when we see what others are going through. CHEER UP FOLKS! Take a deep breath and be thankful!

[CarrieOn]

Even where u sold and moved here from ..things are cancelled,..I started my house finding journey in TV Jan.2...bought a home on 2/14 ..FLEW in TO TV Friday the 13th, (closing 3/20) when Covid hit..Everything shut down the day I got here..we showed up decked in green for the st Patty’s Parade ..and it was cancelled..all schools were closed..stay home order invoked..
I backed out of my closing.because I was in freaked out mode..not knowing what the future held..I still had a home to sell..and the Covid future looked bleak..so I lost my $10,000.ernest $$..because I was one week too early for the now Covid clause in the contract..I have since bought a home just last Thursday,even knowing all that I enjoyed in the Town Squares prior to Covid is still not available..in my eyes..TV is the beautiful place I want to Live..and will patiently wait for the environment to be safe for all again..I’ll have the rest of my Life to soak up All TV has to offer..I have no problem amusing myself..here..I move in 9/28.. happy to be a villager!!

[Byte1]

From NYTimes, “The Morning,” 1 Sep 2020
“ Here’s a jarring thought experiment: If the United States had done merely an average job of fighting the coronavirus — if the U.S. accounted for the same share of virus deaths as it did global population — how many fewer Americans would have died? The answer: about 145,000. That’s a large majority of the country’s 183,000 confirmed coronavirus-related deaths.

“No other country looks as bad by this measure. The U.S. accounts for 4 percent of the world’s population, and for 22 percent of confirmed Covid-19 deaths. It is one of the many signs that . . . [it] . . . has done a poorer job of controlling the virus than dozens of other governments around the world.

“The specific numbers are only estimates, of course. They are based on virus statistics that are unavoidably incomplete. Most scientists believe the real U.S. death toll is higher than the official numbers indicate, and undercounting of deaths may be even greater in some other countries.”

[I don’t post this to blame anyone. I think our death rate is conditioned by a lot of factors that have to do with who and what we are, and we are different from other countries. I’m not sure anything we the people would have put up with would have helped all that much. There’s a balancing act between preventing sickness and death and avoiding the destruction of our economy and jobs. It’s fiendishly difficult. I do think closing down the entertainment and clubs spared us many deaths. If I have to self-quarantine, I’m grateful to be able to do it surrounded by beauty and with the ability to go for walks and drive around instead of being in an internment camp in a dormitory. Life could be so much worse. Even at the best of times, I wouldn’t want to live in the neighborhoods in New York and New Jersey that had the highest incidence of the virus. I don’t mind being a recluse.]

You have to take into consideration HOW we report virus deaths as compared to other countries. The CDC recently stated that ONLY 6% of the virus deaths were solely based on death by virus only. The rest of the deaths averaged at least two contributing diseases where the deceased would or could have died anyway. We know something is obviously hokey when they report a kid in his twenties that died in a motorcycle accident as it being a Covid-19 death.

This will be over soon, probably the day after the election.

As to anyone attempting to compare The Villages with NY, I have one question for them. If Florida is sooo bad, why is it that the majority of seniors that have retired to Florida are from New York?

COVID-19 is receding, or appears to be. If not for the continuous rain, I would be out there almost every morning, playing Pickleball or golf. I have no problem shopping because the lines are short right now. All the paranoid (careful) folks that stay home make it much easier to shop and get better pickings when it comes to fruits, veggies and meat. Life in The Villages is GREAT and the less traffic and less noise and activity make it even nicer.

I would be interested in what the stats of the overall deceased count as compared to previous years without the virus. I wonder if the overall count is that far off from any other year.

[Mfrench]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?
The shutdowns May be gone soon since the CDC just reported that only 9,000 covid Deaths, out of the 170,000 national cases reported, were actually directly attributed to covid! It’s worth moving here. You’ll love it! Once the election is over, maybe opponents will start talking to each other again🙄

[rde3036]

Sorry, your bias is showing. Schools in NY are no better than Florida. I lived in NY until 2012 and the unions have ruined the school system.

Since Fl does not have an income tax, how can you possibly be paying the same taxes as when you were in NY?

I paid 17,000 in income/property taxes in NY in 2012. In Florida I paid 3300 in property taxes.

[Tom M]

What are all the things that are "no longer available" that you moved here for?

I was looking forward to:
- Music and dancing in the squares
- Bridge and clubs in the rec centers

[Tom M]

And those things arent available anywhere right now. Your point?

I think the point is that you pay a premium to buy a home in the Villages but it's worth it because of all the extras. If the extras aren't there now, then is the premium price worth it?

Patience will be the key along with a hope that most of these attractions will return in time. It would be a true shame if things change permanently.

[jimhurtt@twc.com]

Wonderful. Just wonderful.

[davem4616]

Wrong again. My NY insurance on my home and cars are far cheaper than in Florida. I pay the same taxes in Fl. as I do in NY. Florida schools are horrendous compared to any northern state. Medical care in Florida? Try it for yourself and see.

shop around for your home and auto insurance...we did and we lowered our premiums by over half what we had been paying in FL (and kept the exact same coverage)

[starflyte1]

And those things arent available anywhere right now. Your point?

My point is that those of you that are against the squares are probably part of a couple.

Many of us singles(widows,etc.) moved here because of nightly entertainment at the squares. It is a place you can go alone and have a pleasant time listening to the music and watching people.

It is way past time to open the squares. 6 months is too long to be closed. Rec centers too, but mostly miss the squares.

[KRM0614]

Don’t waste time or money there are nicer places then you won’t be stuck in a house with a 30 yr bond and other places have golf activities and the place is in the process of changing their revenue model. They are smart enough to know they need to attract younger people bringing in long term new higher income as the older residents die off.

Look at other options smaller amount of residents and deep dive into due diligence. Don’t believe the sales people here.

[OhioBuckeye]

Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

I wouldn’t write them off to quick. Things are bad everywhere. We no longer live in TV but it was for completely different reason why we moved. Where we live now it’s 10 to 15 times bigger than TV, we live in Dallas/Ft. Worth with 2 to 3 million people & believe me TV have more thing open & to do than we do, even if we weren’t having a virus epidemic. You better rethink it & believe someone that’s lived there. Wait until things get better & then revisit TV & I bet you’ll change your mind. TV is a Disneyland for retirees. But things could change after the election! But I don’t dare voice my opinion because TV don’t like my opinions!

[Worldseries27]

You'll be missed.

[ficoguy]

Reruns of Lawrence Welk remind me of town squares

[Mikef99]

it's been six months and still no entertainment and the recreation centers have very little. The people . I used to think were friendly I now hear ordering people around under the "covid rules". Example the Seabreeze pool is closed Sept 6th all day and Sept 8th half a day? I guess TV will follow do what they want...noone can question...I remember fondly the music at the squares over six months ago

[pcacace]

We closed in March, then the virus started. Pickkeball opened up and other outdoors sports. Now play Pickleball, beach tennis and water volleyball. We will join some clubs in the fall when then figure out the social distancing. There is music at S Springs many evenings at the corner restaurants that can be heard so one can sit or dance at the square. Sometimes it almost feels normal again. 😊

[Shawn714]

Ugh. NJ is the worst. Just realized we are charged an UEZ tax on top of our sales tax in certain areas. 😳. Indoor dining for the businesses that managed to survive opens at 25% on Friday. Murphy’s power trip.

[tedquick]

We're all in the same boat, it's just as bad up north if not worse.

I think it's actually worse "up north". I came back to the mid-west because the medical facilities here are superior to TV and my wife has both a heart and a lung issue. As silly as this sounds in TV we could jump on our cart anytime we wanted to merely go for a ride and "blow the stink off" or meet friends in an open area and have a socially distanced picnic. I love it where I am I just felt more freedom in TV.

[Byte1]

The Villages is not for everyone. I can live anywhere and have lived all over the world. I moved here for my wife, so she could enjoy her retirement with folks her age. I make the most of where ever I happen to live. Those that come on here complaining about living here, apparently do not know that even though this is a bubble, there are no fences to keep you in. If they tell you that there are other places that are better, ask them why they do not live there instead of here.
Like I said, I moved here so my wife could get out of the woods and socialize. She loves being around people and I can take them or leave them. Makes no difference. But, do not let them tell you that folks are not friendly here. I notice that when I first came here. Every stranger was ready to volunteer their experience and suggestions to me. Seems like they could tell that I was new right from the beginning. I have never seen so many helpful and charitable people in one location. Neighbors watch out for each other here. Not necessarily busybodies but caring and giving folks. You would think that they all go to the same church or something.
Rarely do you see an unkempt home/yard. If it is overgrown then it is either a rental that is late in being maintained or a deserted home where someone recently dies and no one has taken responsibility for it. Rarely.
Things are already starting to get better after the pandemic's original threat. It won't be long before we all get back to normal. Buying now is probably a good deal, as there is probably slim pickings when it comes to new buyers seeking a home. Not my bailiwick so I don't know.
There are very few folks that are not happy here. Those that are not happy here have probably never been happy anywhere.

[JanetMM]

Think yourself LUCKY. One of us bought a LOT, completed design in March returned to the UK and a week later President Trump closed the borders. Our house is built, we closed remotely in June. We can't wait to see it but won't be until at least January 2021... or 2022, or whenever Covid is over and the US borders re-open... Our dream is shattered and our house is now up for rent.

Oh and if that isn't depressing enough how about the fact that due to Covid the GBP:USD FX crashed in the period our house was built and we had to find an extra load of unbudgeted cash, all the cash for the furniture.... If we sold and walked today - now the FX has reversed we would be looking at a $ 50,000 LOSS {excluding sales costs!!!!)... not bad for 2 months of owning a home you can't see or use....

So don't moan, at least you are there, you have your health (I hope), You have fantastic walks, the golf courses are open, the pools are open, you are able to use the facilities covered by the amenity fees you are paying for (and the electric, and the taxes).... How much worse would you feel if you HAD bought, are writing out cheques but only able to see what your paying for when a friend emails you a photo... because that's where we are at the moment....

On a positive note, we are young, alive and healthy. Life will go on and one day the borders will re-open and we will be able to come out and live our dream.............:pray::pray::pray: ........................That's the point.....

So sorry for all of the horrible experiences you have had. But I do think you will enjoy living here when you do get here. Stay safe and healthy.

[Lindsyburnsy]

At least NJ has a diverse and wonderful choice in restaurants that serve the most delicious food. There’s that. Well its sure better here than in NJ - I can go to the gym ( off property, Not The Norm Crossfit ) and I don't have to share a table with the pigeons and seagulls while paying full price for cold food and a styrofoam dish....

[Mary Windsor]

The weather must be better than being north, and we have lovely walks and bicycle paths.
We’re also fairly new here, so we’re using this time to explore different areas of the state, and enjoying lazy days with picnics in quiet coves.
This situation won’t last forever, so enjoy the slower pace of life while it lasts.

[Ruggiero56]

While the amenities, etc. attract people to TV (me too), it’s really about making new friends. The Villages is primarily about the people and neighbors. Amenities will be back; in the meantime, meet your neighbors and make new friends, while wearing a mask and practicing social distancing, of course. Best wishes - and welcome.

[Ashley from UK]

Thanks Janet and our thoughts exactly. I set up a closed Facebook page for Chitty Chatty residents where my home is located and through that met so many wonderful people which has just heightened our desire to come on out. This will end, things will open and we will be able to come out and enjoy the dream.

As they say 'the best things come to those that wait'.

Stay positive, happy and healthy and enjoy life, set backs are merely oart of the journey and learning experience that make the end destination so much more enjoyable.

[Ashley from UK]

Even where u sold and moved here from ..things are cancelled,..I started my house finding journey in TV Jan.2...bought a home on 2/14 ..FLEW in TO TV Friday the 13th, (closing 3/20) when Covid hit..Everything shut down the day I got here..we showed up decked in green for the st Patty’s Parade ..and it was cancelled..all schools were closed..stay home order invoked..
I backed out of my closing.because I was in freaked out mode..not knowing what the future held..I still had a home to sell..and the Covid future looked bleak..so I lost my $10,000.ernest $$..because I was one week too early for the now Covid clause in the contract..I have since bought a home just last Thursday,even knowing all that I enjoyed in the Town Squares prior to Covid is still not available..in my eyes..TV is the beautiful place I want to Live..and will patiently wait for the environment to be safe for all again..I’ll have the rest of my Life to soak up All TV has to offer..I have no problem amusing myself..here..I move in 9/28.. happy to be a villager!!

With hindsight perhaps we should have done the same as we completed our design meeting on 3/6 returning to the UK on 3/8, and the borders closing on 3/18. We would at least have saved $ 40,000 on the FX, plus another $12k +++ paying the taxes, amenity fees, electric, water, lawn care etc. on a home that we are not allowed to visit as we are not allowed to enter the US, if we had put off our purchase until Covid was over.... So those that complain about not wanting to go to TV from up north should count themselves lucky - at least they have the choice whether to go or not. We WANT to come to TV, but are not allowed to.

And for those that say Covid is a problem in every state.. look to the rest of the world. It is not just a US problem its a world problem. The UK is in a total mess. People book holidays to Europe, only to then be told while they are away that the borders are closing and that they must self quarantine for 14 days... I mentioned the UK is a mess... our Government opened pandora's box, let and released the genie from the bottle in an attempt to save the economy... but has wrecked it in the process.... We face a nuclear winter of tax rises to repay the monumental debt the UK government has run up, this may have serious impact on when we can retire if we now have to pay more taxes - which are already way above what you guys and girls are paying. Office workers have found that they don't need to waste time commuting, Starbucks is moaning they no longer sell as many coffees! But we are going through an industrial revolution, commuting and homeworking is the next area to be hit (retail as we know is replaced by Amazon, cinemas by TV, Cable by Netflix).... And I would be in TV now working from home if I had the choice and not in London.... My 800 hours a year of commuting time that I wasted could be better spent on the golf course, in the pools or running the many lovely well kept paths.

TV has so much to offer, and when this is over I for one plan on making the very most of it.

[Rosebud1949]

We are older, and some are wiser, so we are, or should be safer folk, and in a "bubble" We can go out (with safe distancing), to play Pickleball and Tennis, go for a swim, a walk, or a cart or bike ride. We can walk, see wildlife, get a take away, shop, get groceries. Yes there are restrictions on the night life and town square gatherings, and bars. But we dont have riots, shootings, lootings, demonstrations peaceful or otherwise. We can sit in our yard and talk to neighbors and friends. That is better than nothing for us. We have not had our homes burned by fires, or washed away by floods and storms. I think we have a good deal.... why dont you !!!



Visited the Villages two years ago on a "life style weekend" enjoyed myself and decided to move here. After planing ,prepping and selling my home I did so,,, enter COVID19,, now I am here and all the things that attracted me no longer are available, if this is the new normal I am glad I haven't purchased a new residence,, whats the point?

[joseppe]

I will answer that one.

We were attracted by all the entertainment via clubs and all the concerts we could go to.

Happy to be here but greatly miss what we just started to take advantage when we moved here in Feb.

Planned to try my hand at pickleball and water polo but will wait until social distancing is done with.

Do find other things to occupy ourselves but do miss the above.


The point is that you can't do any of those things elsewhere either. IF things return to normal you'll be able to do those things here. If this IS the new normal it probably still beats the availability of activities of anywhere else. BUT you have to decide whether you've found somewhere Better than The Villages.

[Schaumburger]

Wrong again. My NY insurance on my home and cars are far cheaper than in Florida. I pay the same taxes in Fl. as I do in NY. Florida schools are horrendous compared to any northern state. Medical care in Florida? Try it for yourself and see.

How many Villagers have children in elementary, middle or high school since no one under the age of 19 can live in The Villages?

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Think yourself LUCKY. One of us bought a LOT, completed design in March returned to the UK and a week later President Trump closed the borders. Our house is built, we closed remotely in June. We can't wait to see it but won't be until at least January 2021... or 2022, or whenever Covid is over and the US borders re-open... Our dream is shattered and our house is now up for rent.

Oh and if that isn't depressing enough how about the fact that due to Covid the GBP:USD FX crashed in the period our house was built and we had to find an extra load of unbudgeted cash, all the cash for the furniture.... If we sold and walked today - now the FX has reversed we would be looking at a $ 50,000 LOSS {excluding sales costs!!!!)... not bad for 2 months of owning a home you can't see or use....

So don't moan, at least you are there, you have your health (I hope), You have fantastic walks, the golf courses are open, the pools are open, you are able to use the facilities covered by the amenity fees you are paying for (and the electric, and the taxes).... How much worse would you feel if you HAD bought, are writing out cheques but only able to see what your paying for when a friend emails you a photo... because that's where we are at the moment....

On a positive note, we are young, alive and healthy. Life will go on and one day the borders will re-open and we will be able to come out and live our dream.............:pray::pray::pray: ........................That's the point.....

That friends is the definition of "the future is uncertain, and sometimes more uncertain than other times"

Ashley,

WE Love the UK and both wife and my ancestors arrived here in the 1630s or so from Lincolnshire and Yorkshire. At work I have colleagues waiting to relocate here as well. I do believe that the vaccine will not be the reason that borders open, but pandemics have a life expectancy of 2-3 years, but with modern medicine and knowledge, maybe 18 more months. . . please know there are "revolutionary expats" hoping for your trip to be sooner than later!

Coachk and sportsguy