Villas versus Other homes

[Cheryl Barrios]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

[John41]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

We live in a CYV and there are only two rentals out of 99 homes.

Social life is good and everyone is invited to join in but there is no pressure to join.

Once a month there is a potluck dinner at a rec center with games/entertainment and chit chat.

Ladies have card games and golf once a week. There is also mixed men/ ladies golf.

There are tons of activities outside your villas that are listed in the Daily Sun newspaper.

We all look out for each other and help when asked. There is a real community feeling. I think you will be very happy.

[Cheryl Barrios]

Thank you! I wondered if he was trying to push me up in size and price. I appreciate the info.

[graciegirl]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

When we first decided to buy something here for snowbirding, we thought of a villa. We thought it would be easier to leave safely with the enclosed back yard and it was a little smaller than a designer. But after thinking more about it we changed our mind and bought a a 1900 square foot designer and I am glad we did. We enjoyed it very much until we decided to live here year around and then we sold it and bought something a little bigger for the three of us. We hated to leave our first neighborhood in Hadley but we now love our second one. I can't believe we have been in this home for ten years. I do so love living here. If you are ever lonely...stop by and have coffee with us. After the pandemic we will be eager for guests.

[mike1946]

Get a big double wide in County Club Hills ...mine is over 2,500 sq ft footprint inc screened car port over looking a golf course and similar would probably cost you in the region of $200k or less. All TV advantages with less $$$

[sdeikenberry]

We bought a CYV as snowbirds, and it fits our needs perfectly. When we moved here full time, we kept the CYV because we like the location, the low maintenance needed, and it's easy to take care of as we age. Could we afford a large home? Yes, but we don't want one. We do have some rentals but it's not a big deal. I think the realtor is trying to push you up.

[retiredguy123]

One thing to consider is that a villa neighborhood may have a lot of snowbirds. So, in the summer, it may feel like you are living on a vacant street town with nobody around. Some may like that, but I prefer to have full time neighbors.

[Travelingal702]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
I live in a Courtyard Villa and couldn't be happier. Yes, we have some snowbirds and renters, but the core of our residents are very happy and very cohesive. You won't regret buying a CYV. I think the agent is trying to up-sell you.

[brenda massey]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
i moved into a Villa in July. i live alone. I love my Villa. It is perfect and i love the neighborhood. may have lived her 15 years or more.

[tsmall22204]

Purchase what meets your needs and checkbook. I find the CV have small streets and small driveways. No matter where you go in TV people park on the street. This is not ileagl but causes problems on the smaller streets of CV.
Good luck

[DAIII]

Patio Villa.. vinyl siding - pressure wash is once a year (true low maintenance) and in the newer sections with a bond.. it carries the lowest bond fee.

[Alaska Butch]

My Mom lives on the old side. Orange Blossom Hills. Much less expensive. Most have their bond payed off. We are selling Moms home here but she has enjoyed years of living golf swimming etc.

[Best family]

Your agent probably doesn’t want to sell a villa. We live in a courtyard villa and have a wonderful neighborhood. We have friends that live on a street of homes and 3/4 of them are rentals.

[atcspaul]

Your realtor just wants to make a bigger commission. We have a villa and it is perfect. Hardly any grass to mow and just a few plants which leaves a lot of time to play golf and other things. We like our Villa

[GRACEALLEMAN]

We have been looking and saw the villas and walked around in them but they're pretty cheaply made, and if you want to smell smoke of your neighbor if they smoke cigarettes you can't change that, and if you want to hear dogs barking, yapping dogs, barking then live in the villas, because you're that close, and there's nothing that you can do about it. You're basically within several feet of your next door neighbor and whatever they decide to do, smoke cigarettes, talk on the phone loudly, whatever you have you are stuck and it's in prison kind of....

[jb4059]

We rented a villa before we bought. We were welcomed by our neighbors just as much when we were renting.
Several for sale in our area, St. Charles off of Bailey

[spachic]

My husband and I bought a villa in Fernandina in 2014 and loved it. We were not 55 yet. Our friends bought 8 houses down from us and live there full time. They have never had any problems with renters around them. The only downside to the villas is storage. Your realtor is mistaken in the information they gave you.

[banksupply]

We have a CYV and love it...for years we had a big house and now, it's great to only have to take care of a villa...great for 1-2 people and it's tight if we have family visit but renting another villa right across the street for a few nights has always been an option. Love the low maintenance. We are here 10 days a month and back where our kids live 20 days a month. For a single gal I think the villas are perfect! The only downfall is the garage is small. We have a really small car we keep here and a golf cart. That seems to fit just fine.

[Jerry Leinsing]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
I don't live in a villa but know people that do and they are very happy. If you are a socialite, then maybe a more conventional neighbor. I live in a permanent home on a street with 14 other houses in Section of Duneden off Hillsborough Trail. Less than half the houses are full time, a few are empty (some buy and are waiting to retire), a couple keep getting new owners often, a few are only here during the few winter and early spring months, some just after the winter holidays. We get to know the people around us but not much farther away unless you join clubs. Then you friends can be further away. In the past years, impromptu driveway parties used to help meet people. Now with COVID, many of us are hermits. You want comradery...and are full time...I'd say buy a small house. The most affordable, in my opinion, and the most manageable is a 1) house between houses and 2) not on a corner, 3) have a street behind with neighbors just like your street, 4) not on a 'water view' no matter what the view is, 5) away from the mail box centers and the rec areas because of the pickleball or pool noises. Get opinions but many on this Blog are not well informed and just arbitrarily make stuff up, even when they cite facts. You are doing good by double and triple checking.

[caseycasebeer]

I bought my CYV in 2007 and absolutely love it!
Back then I had two more homes “out West,” and eventually tired of two thousand mile drives from TV to the other places. At this point in my Life simpler-is-better.
There are ‘rentals on both sides of me, and there has NEVER been a problem. Barking dogs have never been a problem, nor smoking, etc. Frankly, if there ever WAS a problem I’d probably take comfort in the fact the ‘renters’ will probably leave in a month or so, unlike a more permanent residential situation where a nasty neighbor (...I dislike that term) might be there until one of you dies!
I try to be a bit proactive, but not ‘pushy. When a new renter comes-in I often make a point of introducing myself to get things off to a good start. Being friendly and positive is Easy in The Villages!

[banjobob]

I think your agent was looking to upgrade his sales commission moving you into a more expensive home. Rentals are all over The Villages.My granddaughter rented a huge designer model with huge pool and birdcage for a week.

[CharlieRoy]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
I am selling my courtyard villa in Labelle North, if interested call 704-797-1703. It is a 3/2 Bonifay style.

[nick demis]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
What size are you scaling down from? Look up on "the villages" webb site than check out new homes and that models to decide which model fits your needs. Personally we feel safer without the fencing around 1/2 the yard so if we ever have a problem, there is a better chance that a neighbor will notice. We chose a designer. My suggestion is to come down for a short stay and get a feel for it.

[rjsantos592]

Come look at a beautiful cottage home for sale in the village of Pine Hills. 3216 Knowlton Ave. Quiet street on cul- da- sac.

[LucyP]

The realtor trying up sale for her benefit. New section had bonds. Stick to your guns. Many different area with Villas and be less maintenance . Being by yourself you don’t want to deal with extra yard work.

[RealJudy]

Whether you’re in a home or villa, you are minimally 10’ from your neighbor. Dogs can be heard from homes or villas. If you’re alone, you may feel less outdoor maintenance is better. There are homes and villas rented. Choose what you feel comfortable in for size and dollars.

[JanetMM]

I have lived in a courtyard villa for four years now. I do have a dog and always will have so I courtyard villa is fantastic for me. My sister lives in a house. The distance between her house and her neighbors is about the same as mine, kissing lanai’s and all that, but because of the courtyard walls I have privacy and she doesn’t. I can go out and sunbathe and she can’t. My neighborhood has very few rentals, about half of the villas are snowbirds in here for here full-time. I love my neighbors And there are many social activities here all year round. But hey, that’s just me. A lot depends on how the Villa you’re in is set up. Don’t rule them out just because of your realtor.

[Ealdrich]

Hi! ! We had exactly the same situation. We were only looking at patio villas and courtyard villas because we felt that it provided plenty of room. Our realtor also encouraged us to consider a ranch and we’re glad we did. The ranch was only a little more expensive than the villas we looked at and It allowed us to get a 2 car garage. When we were snowbirds, we didn’t really need the garage space but once we moved here full-time we found that we needed that storage space as we were used to a house with a basement. We also have a third bedroom that we love when the kids visit but many people use as a den or office. I would encourage you to at least look at some ranches before you make your decision and consider everything that you’ll want to have space for such as holiday decorations and bicycles. Also, if you have a larger car like we do, the two car garage allows room to get in and outmoded easily. Best of luck in your search!

[Syd2008]

Look at all size homes villages have to offer. Something for everyone. Disregard all these naysayers.
Loudest noises I have heard walking 3-4 miles a day are from homeowners pools. . Day or night.

Smoking? I did not realize only smokers lived in smaller homes. Wrong. We have friends who live in a designer home and neighbor rents. Smoking smelloutside goes a long way. Another had a neighbor build a large firepit. In the mornings they have soot on their lanai. Not to mention at times they cannot even sit out in their birdcage.

Always people willing to say negatives.

[JohnN]

My husband and I bought a villa in Fernandina in 2014 and loved it. We were not 55 yet. Our friends bought 8 houses down from us and live there full time. They have never had any problems with renters around them. The only downside to the villas is storage. Your realtor is mistaken in the information they gave you.

This reply is right on. We LOVE our villa. We prefer the privacy when in our backyard.
There are some snowbirds and renters, but there's also a strong core of full-time folks.
We downsized and I, personally, don't need nor want so much "stuff". My wife would have wanted a 2 or 2-1/2 car garage, but I don't miss it.
Our yard is landscaped nicely and has a rock bed - I gave my lawnmower to the landscapers and it was a great day!

Realtors will tell you anything and everything. Do what you think is best for you.
If you're not sure , rent for awhile.

I will say, we had a patio villa when here part-time. When we moved full-time, we bought a CBS courtyard villa and I think the CBS is much quieter and "feels" more solid than the frame home. Just my opinion. Best wishes.

[Mallory Square]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
I own and I am selling a Colony Villa. Please respond if you are interested.

[CALiz]

My husband and I downsized in 2020 moving to TheVillages Monarch Grove courtyard villa. Our Glenda Villas neighborhood is all new with everyone moving in this past year (we moved in Sept 2020). So maybe some seasonal, but most are to be year round residents. Being a new neighborhood everyone is new, and wanting to connect with each other. With a pandemic things have been "stand back" but overall finding everyone is friendly, respectful and supportive of each other. Our 3 bedroom villa is very comfortable. The lanai is small, but we are OK with that. When looking at houses, just beware of turnpike road noise and yellow street lights that may shine into your windows and yard at night. Hope this answers some of your questions.

[sharonl7340]

We love our patio villa. But a few things to consider is buying on an end lot where overflow parking is located; situation of the house (east, West, North, South facing); is the lanai just a screened in front porch or is it a room off to the side. Be discerning about its location.

Also we are full-time and most of the ones around us are owned by snowbirds or are leased. That means that most of the year we are the only ones here on our street but it also means we have plenty to choose from to rent for our kids when they visit.

[Lauranne]

I moved to a courtyard villa (from KC MO) in August. I love my neighbors. We're close knit like family, socializing often. There was only one rental house on my street but it is now sold. I don't agree with your agent. I downsized to a smaller home and it's wonderful. It's a 3 bedroom courtyard villa with lanai in back so there's plenty of room for kids to visit.

[JodyBraga]

I’ve had a ranch home, a designer home, a patio villa (rental) and I now live in a CY villa. My favorite home here by far. It’s an older established neighborhood and not many rentals or snowbirds at all.

[llaran]

are you only looking at New homes, you have to look with a Realtor to see others. do you know about the Bond , look at. sq ft. laundry in house or garage The new areas have their own problems, turnpike, prison noise, quarry blasting, flood plain,

[msilagy]

I would say that realtor is strictly giving you his opinion. I own 2 villas, rent one and live in one. I would say he is giving you a generalization, not a real fact. If you like villas, look at resales, and even take it a step further by speaking with neighbors to get their opinions in that area. Good luck!

[ronfaye33]

We live in a patio villa and like it. I believe we may have five or six rentals in our neighborhood but, it has not been a problem. It’s a good home for us.

[PugMom]

We have been looking and saw the villas and walked around in them but they're pretty cheaply made, and if you want to smell smoke of your neighbor if they smoke cigarettes you can't change that, and if you want to hear dogs barking, yapping dogs, barking then live in the villas, because you're that close, and there's nothing that you can do about it. You're basically within several feet of your next door neighbor and whatever they decide to do, smoke cigarettes, talk on the phone loudly, whatever you have you are stuck and it's in prison kind of....

they are NOT cheaply made. when the home was looked over by jeff asbach, his exact words were 'superior construction.' we lived here when no one else did. we watched them build & in no way are they cheap. we have full time neighbors & i even though most of us smoke, i cannot smell theirs. if this is a 'prison', it's the best, lol

[jbrown132]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

Lived in a CYV for the first 5 years we lived in TV. Never had a problem, a few of the people were snow birds and a great majority were year round residents. Bought a designer home and there are times I wish we were back in our CYV. Less maintenance, less cost and easier to keep up. I would not be afraid to buy one. If you have an idea as to which villa’s your looking at, take a drive through and talk to some of the neighbors. There are usually a few out doing something.

[kimgarwel12@gmail.com]

We also bought a patio villa. It afforded us the room we needed (3/2) plus a 2-car garage and a golf cart garage (both a must for my husband). We have both snowbird and full-time neighbors around us and couldn't be happier!! Yes, we're close to the neighbors, but as in all things, that dog barking, neighbors talking, etc., becomes "white noise" after a time and doesn't bother us. Most of the snowbird renters rent the same property every year, so when they do come back, they already know the neighbors and have friends. The only recommendation I would have with the patio villa is to make sure you get one with a screened patio/lanai to begin with as there are easement issues that prevent you from screening after the purchase. This wasn't disclosed to us when we bought our home and upon getting estimates to screen the patio now, we've found we can't because of the easement. Not a big deal necessarily and will save us a boatload of money in the long run, but it would have been nice to get it screened. We see many PVs with screened patios that were built that way to begin with, so I'm not sure how they skirted the easement issue. Maybe if TVs is doing it, it's okay. Whatever, we LOVE our home and our neighborhood, the low maintenance and the new friends we've made!! Good luck in your search!!

[dlebuis]

We live in a CV and love it. We do have some renters but we include them in our gatherings and it’s nice to get to know new people. I would not let that be a reason for not buying one.

[vintageogauge]

I think your agent was looking to upgrade his sales commission moving you into a more expensive home. Rentals are all over The Villages.My granddaughter rented a huge designer model with huge pool and birdcage for a week.

Moving to a cottage is by no means moving to a more expensive home. Courtyard Villas have a much higher end price than the cottage homes as do some of the patio villas.

[gwenhwalker@yahoo.com]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
I live in a patio villa in St James. Downsized from designer home in village of Hillsborough. I live alone and maybe we have 2 or 3 rentals. Majority are single female and we look out for each other. Best move for me. Didn't use all the space before and have plenty now. Each villa neighborhood is different. We have one for sale (not Villages salesperson) now due to a death. Fairhope Villas.

[dtennent]

Please take stock of your storage needs. Since there are no basements and any attic storage is very hot, you will find having a little extra space for storage is very helpful. Good Luck and welcome to The Villages!

[drstevens]

We live in a CYV and there are only two rentals out of 99 homes.
I have a 2B/2B courtyard villa in the best location in the Villages, near Mallory CC that I will sign with sales rep next week. I am moving to 3B/2B. If interested call me at 740-503-0086.
Bill

[drstevens]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
I have a 2B/2B courtyard villa in the best location in the Villages, near Mallory CC that I will sign with sales rep next week. I am moving to 3B/2B. If interested call me at 740-503-0086.

[bjp1673]

I think it depends where the villa is. When we lived in the village of Charlotte someone we meant was moving from their villa to a villa located in a different area because they had so many renters it was a big problem with parking, property upkeep and no one around after snowbird time.

[CBarrett]

We bought a new 2/2 patio villa and it was fine except it was a 1.5 stall garage and our car, golf cart and motorcycle wouldn't fit. So we sold it and built a 3/2 cottage. We are very happy with this home.

[toeser]

One thing to consider is that a villa neighborhood may have a lot of snowbirds. So, in the summer, it may feel like you are living on a vacant street town with nobody around. Some may like that, but I prefer to have full time neighbors.

Our neighborhood is all single-family homes mostly on a golf course. Probably 1/3rd of the residents are gone in the summer, so neighbors are not assured anywhere.

[martgary1955]

We would greatly suggest you look in the manufactured home area, as we did to downsize. We are in COUNTRY CLUB HILLS, across from SPANISH SPRINGS ln ORANGE BLOSSOM HILLS GOLF COURSE & absolutely love it! mgtorgy2@gmail.com

[candg1971peanut]

We have lived in a CYV for 9 years and have 80% of the same neighbors. We have a Villa Golf Group, have driveway parties, Holiday Street parties, take day strips together. We have a great neighborhood and don’t care to move anywhere else.

[pattytracey]

Love our villa

[Mallory Square]

There is a single woman on both sides and across the street. Villa is furnished.

[Nell57]

We have been looking and saw the villas and walked around in them but they're pretty cheaply made, and if you want to smell smoke of your neighbor if they smoke cigarettes you can't change that, and if you want to hear dogs barking, yapping dogs, barking then live in the villas, because you're that close, and there's nothing that you can do about it. You're basically within several feet of your next door neighbor and whatever they decide to do, smoke cigarettes, talk on the phone loudly, whatever you have you are stuck and it's in prison kind of....

But to be fair, I owned a designer home with exactly the same problems. Our lanai viewed four other neighboring lanais. We saw them, heard them, knew what was going on in their lives. Even landscaping only somewhat minimized the problems.
So go with the home design that appeals to you.
Just remember to work with two realtors, if you are considering a pre-owned home.
Villagers Agents will want to sell you a new property in the new section. They will not show you any properties listed by MLS.
MLS Realtors cannot show you any properties listed by The Villages.
The two systems are totally independent of each other.
Good luck! Lots of decisions, it’s worth it

[Roron123]

I live in a Villa 3/2/2 and all my neighbors are “owners” no renters a few are snowbirds but the best place to live in ever! How much are you willing to pay? I have a Bungalow Villa with water views for sale! Go on realtor.com and look at 3752 E Torch Lake Dr, The Villages

[bdescalzi]

Get a new Realtor!

[JerseyGurl]

I’m alone and rented various models over 5 winters. When it came time to seriously look snd purchase I decided to look strictly for a villa for same reasons much you stated. After Ayers of looking I stumbled on a 2b/2b ranch I knew was the right size for me. Be opened minded abt all options. Btw I don’t agree that most villas are purchased for rental investments. Good luck

[Rsenholzi]

I live in a large courtyard villa- over 2200 sq ft. If you want one that size purchase a corner lot. Many are smaller. I purchased mine 4 years ago and the neighborhood remained stable until COVID. There were 5 rentals out of 50. The homeowners were about 60% snowbirds and came down winters. A few of those would rent theirs out for a month or two. The renters were older and only 1 house was a problem house. That was so because they had many people staying there and a lot of cars, so they were parking in the overflow parking lot taking spaces away from visitors. When they left, another owner had 2 golf carts and 2 trucks. They put their carts in the garage and put their trucks in the visitors lot. This seems to be the only problem we have had here in the 4 years I have been here. One or 2 people will park their cars in the street but that is rare. We have a very cohesive villa area where just about everyone knows everyone else. We get together monthly and include the renters so many of the renters come back yearly so we feel like they are just snowbirds. A good percentage of villas are snowbirds so the area is quiet in the summer but that happens even in designers. I can tell you there is much more privacy in the villas. You can sit in your backyard and not see anyone at all. Yes, there are dogs and once in a while you will hear them but most people are respectful of their neighbors. I only had one neighbor who wasn’t in 4 years. With COVID , we had a big turnover. Families in about 10 homes moved out. Most went to move closer to their families. One moved out of the villages so their family could move in with them. 1 or 2 wanted a bigger home because they had someone move in with them. 1 or 2 were a renter and bought their own home. The people that bought did so as a permanent home. So the renter population actually went down. I suggest you rent for a month at different times during the year and in different areas. Rent a villa and a designer. I found when I rented a designer, I felt like the people were in my backyard and there was absolutely no privacy. You literally could talk out of your screen to your neighbor and when you had company you felt like they could listen in on your conversation. I don’t feel that happening in my villa strictly because the walls block your neighbors . I suggest you stay away from the patio villas because they have no walls and you have the same problem. The other thing is check with neighbors in the area you plan to move into. Every neighborhood was different as to welcoming new people. Established neighborhoods were harder to break into where the newer neighborhoods wanted to make friends. Good luck in your search

[Debbraham]

We live in a courtyard villa and love it. Private and secure. There are maybe 5 villas in our neighborhood that are rentals but I feel like we all know each other more since we live so close to each other and feel more like a private community.....lots of neighborhood driveway parties and get togethers. Courtyard villas are usually a little larger than cottage. Any questions feel free to message me.

[TandHSTAR@AOL.com]

Agree. Buy what you can afford. For a single person a Villa is perfect
Actually I have married riends who.love their Villa. Don't let the agent talk you into something you will be unhappy in. Look around and see how many Villas both court yard and patio villas are built you will see they are very popular. Easy maintenance. So far as dogs barking. Smoke from cigars/cigarettes. Listening to people on.phone , etc. You can experience those no matter where you live
Good luck but stick to what you can afford and how much work you want to put into your home. Or can afford to hire someone.

[LMBNY]

Hi -- This is the about the third time I've seen mention that St. James has many single women. This has great appeal to me. I'm spending the month of July in TV, planning to buy in about a year. Wanted to really explore neighborhoods and wondered if women / those on the younger side gravitated to a particular location. I'll be 59 when I make the move and the one thing that scares me is leaving my girlfriends here!

[Debbraham]

Be sure to also check the difference in taxes...south of 44 and south of 466A and east of Morse tend to be higher. Also cost of bonds! Be sure to talk to realtor outside of the villages realty...get different answers many times!

[Dlbonivich]

We have been looking and saw the villas and walked around in them but they're pretty cheaply made, and if you want to smell smoke of your neighbor if they smoke cigarettes you can't change that, and if you want to hear dogs barking, yapping dogs, barking then live in the villas, because you're that close, and there's nothing that you can do about it. You're basically within several feet of your next door neighbor and whatever they decide to do, smoke cigarettes, talk on the phone loudly, whatever you have you are stuck and it's in prison kind of....

Most cv are as expensive as a cottage homes, some are as expensive as a designer home. My only draw back on the cv is the smaller garage. Be sure you are good with that. I usually sell someone a cv then they realize the garage is just to small and they move up to a house. Andrea Bonivich, Sellstate Superior Realty

[Susanorn]

We have a 3/2 for sale with poured wall concrete and glass enclosed lanai. Close to adult pool and soon golf cart accessible to shopping. Please contact me if interested. Thanks

[Red Rose]

There is an adorable house for sale by owner at 317 Society Hill Circle in the Village of Mallory. Not too big and not too small. It's stucco and has a wall behind it. If interested, let me know and I will get the phone number for you.

[Red Rose]

There is an adorable house for sale by owner at 317 Society Hill Circle in the Village of Mallory. Not too big and not too small. It's stucco and has a wall behind it. If interested, let me know and I will get the phone number for you.

[John41]

We have been looking and saw the villas and walked around in them but they're pretty cheaply made, and if you want to smell smoke of your neighbor if they smoke cigarettes you can't change that, and if you want to hear dogs barking, yapping dogs, barking then live in the villas, because you're that close, and there's nothing that you can do about it. You're basically within several feet of your next door neighbor and whatever they decide to do, smoke cigarettes, talk on the phone loudly, whatever you have you are stuck and it's in prison kind of....

All villas meet the Miami Dade building code the strictest in the nation. Our villas are very quiet and have privacy walls.

[John_W]

I purchased a new CYV in 2011 in Tamarind Grove off St. Charles. I have been a fulltime resident ever since purchase and so have 11 of the 13 villas on my street are fulltime since the beginning. We have 2 snowbirds and none of the villas have ever been rented. You have more turnover from deaths and people moving to a bigger homes. Of the 13 villas on my street, four owners have died. Three have moved, two went to bigger homes, both in Sanibel, another went to a bigger home outside TV in Lakeside Landing. I think you'll find more rentals in the older patio villas. At the time I purchased my CYV in 2011 the average price on my street was $200K. I could of purchased a new patio villa in Buttonwood for $135K at the same time. Today the same patio villa resale is going for about $200K to $220K. They were a good investment for many.

[DaisyDE]

I've never heard that there is a limit of 25% of homes having the ability to rent. Who would possibly monitor that? The more rentals, the higher the likelihood that TVs will sell more houses, as many come to rent and get a feel for the place and then decide to look for their forever home. There are a handful of villa rentals and snowbirds in my community. These are all older couples, not 20 yr old partiers. They are as respectful as everyone else. When snowbird season is over it's quieter, but that also means less people at the Squares, restaurants etc. I believe your realtor was trying to upset you. I'd drop him like a hot potato. I bought a new villa and heard none of that from my agent.

[lindaelane]

I have lived in the Courtyard Villa for 4 years. I do not know of any renters in our neighborhood. It is very quiet. Even if there were renters - and again I know of none - it would be quiet You asked if things are difficult in any way because people are "transient". Not for me. I enjoy the "crowded season" and the "quieter season".

You won't have the problems that come with stereotypical "rental neighborhoods" here because nothing here is a stereotypical "rental neighborhood". The Villages is mostly composed of persons who may be "renting" but who are able to buy - They may even own a home elsewhere or be renting until they find and make ready the home they will own here.

[Dilligas]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
Snowbirds are not your reason for decisions. Villas and free standing home neighborhoods all have snowbirds and full time residents. Renters are in all sizes of Villages' homes. Pick the home size you will be comfortable in, with the features you will enjoy (view, large lot, large patio/lanai, pool, closeness to amenities, etc). Villas have closed in lots with walls or fences. Some of the newer cottages, and a few newer designer, also have enclosed yards. Villas offer the maintenance free aspects should you travel a lot.

[sallyg]

We live in a villa in Marsh Bend. There are a couple of rentals but there have been zero problems for the neighborhood. You can find some good buys too. Good luck.

[Dilligas]

Snowbirds are not your reason for decisions. Villas and free standing home neighborhoods all have snowbirds and full time residents. Renters are in all sizes of Villages' homes. Pick the home size you will be comfortable in, with the features you will enjoy (view, large lot, large patio/lanai, pool, closeness to amenities, etc). Villas have closed in lots with walls or fences. Some of the newer cottages, and a few newer designer, also have enclosed yards. Villas offer the maintenance free aspects should you travel a lot.
I would also ask for a different villages sales agent who gives you all the facts and not opinions.

[Burgy]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
Definitely compact and less maintenance. Good and bad well mentioned by others. I always thought they may be hot eg] hotter in the summer due to walls and more concrete and buildings close together

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

We also bought a patio villa. It afforded us the room we needed (3/2) plus a 2-car garage and a golf cart garage (both a must for my husband). We have both snowbird and full-time neighbors around us and couldn't be happier!! Yes, we're close to the neighbors, but as in all things, that dog barking, neighbors talking, etc., becomes "white noise" after a time and doesn't bother us. Most of the snowbird renters rent the same property every year, so when they do come back, they already know the neighbors and have friends. The only recommendation I would have with the patio villa is to make sure you get one with a screened patio/lanai to begin with as there are easement issues that prevent you from screening after the purchase. This wasn't disclosed to us when we bought our home and upon getting estimates to screen the patio now, we've found we can't because of the easement. Not a big deal necessarily and will save us a boatload of money in the long run, but it would have been nice to get it screened. We see many PVs with screened patios that were built that way to begin with, so I'm not sure how they skirted the easement issue. Maybe if TVs is doing it, it's okay. Whatever, we LOVE our home and our neighborhood, the low maintenance and the new friends we've made!! Good luck in your search!! is a 3/2 with 3 car garage and golf garage

[ts12755]

I've lived in a Courtyard Villa neighborhood for 5 years. No problem here. We usually get a few snowbirds, out of 104 CV homes.

[eschiavo]

Villas remind me of Army Barracks living. 😂

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

One important thing to consider, that we didn't even think about the first couple years we visited as guests/on vacation:

How many vehicles will you have, when you get here? You need a place to put them all. If you have one car, one golf cart, a courtyard villa would accommodate that just fine, no problems at all.

If you get a second golf cart, one of your vehicles will need to stay in the driveway. Which is fine, but still do-able.

If each of you has a car, and you have two golf carts, then trying to get 2 in the garage and 2 in the driveway will become a huge ongoing inconvenience.

We have a carport and a golf cart garage, but we use the garage for our lawnmower and other tools (electric trimmer, rakes and shovels, air compressor, etc.) We have an extra long double-driveway, so we can have all 4 vehicles in the driveway and still be able to take any of them out to the road without having to move another one out of the way.

One car + one golf cart = you don't have to rule out any options at all.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

No idea why I quoted my last post. Hit the wrong button. Here's what THIS post is trying to say:

Something I loved about courtyard villas, was I didn't have to mow the lawn if we lived in one. I wouldn't need a lawn at all, I could make the back part one big huge patio with planters if I wanted to, and put a rock garden in the front.

But with privacy comes 8-foot concrete walls, which made me feel closed in and claustrophobic. That was why we eventually ruled it out even though the idea of a CYV was so attractive at first.

The patio villas were awesome, really liked the layouts and we needed a smaller-sized home and that was perfect as well. The downsize to those were the shorter driveways, and at the time where we were looking, lack of shrubbery in the back yards so all you saw was a whole block of grass and up-close-and-personal view of Mrs. Smith in her nightgown on the back lanai. It just lacked in the aesthetics to me.

[Cranford61]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.
Had a neighbor who rented out his Designer house. I HATED it! Each renter brought his up north friends to visit and party. One monthly renter had four different couple friends from up north stay with him for a week. Like a flop house. Thankfully he sold out and moved back to Chicago.

[larcha]

There are rentals everywhere. Neighborhoods change over time. What is important is the quality and cost of living wherever you choose. We have a <1,500 sqft designer house in CDD 4 and love it.

[Ornamentlady]

We purchased our Villa because we it was easier when we dog sat our kid’s large dogs.
But the biggest advantage to us is that Villa communities seem to have more of a neighborhood feel- we have group activities which singles can easily fit into.

[Cheryl Barrios]

Thank you for sharing your experience. After I'm down there, I will contact you.

[rmd2]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

I do agree with your realtor. I lived in three villas here before I bought my 3 bedroom ranch house. There is definitely more "come and go" in a villa neighborhood with renters and seasonal residents. I prefer a more stable neighborhood. When it comes to new friends, however, I have found most of my friends through activities at the rec centers and other shared interest activities.

[Joorn59]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

If you’re by yourself a villa advantage is the lanai in the front. Gives a neighborhood more of a social feel. There’s always a conversation breaking out.
Consider Emmalee Villages in Mallory. Lots of full timers here

[oldtimes]

One important thing to consider, that we didn't even think about the first couple years we visited as guests/on vacation:

How many vehicles will you have, when you get here? You need a place to put them all. If you have one car, one golf cart, a courtyard villa would accommodate that just fine, no problems at all.

If you get a second golf cart, one of your vehicles will need to stay in the driveway. Which is fine, but still do-able.

If each of you has a car, and you have two golf carts, then trying to get 2 in the garage and 2 in the driveway will become a huge ongoing inconvenience.

We have a carport and a golf cart garage, but we use the garage for our lawnmower and other tools (electric trimmer, rakes and shovels, air compressor, etc.) We have an extra long double-driveway, so we can have all 4 vehicles in the driveway and still be able to take any of them out to the road without having to move another one out of the way.

One car + one golf cart = you don't have to rule out any options at all.

There are some CYV that have 2 car garage, usually the corner lots. There are also many that have grass. We have a CYV and wouldn’t want anything else even though we could afford much more. Even though our neighborhood is very friendly I love my walls.

[vintageogauge]

There is a single woman on both sides and across the street. Villa is furnished.

All you need now is a single man looking for a Villa.

[vintageogauge]

One important thing to consider, that we didn't even think about the first couple years we visited as guests/on vacation:

How many vehicles will you have, when you get here? You need a place to put them all. If you have one car, one golf cart, a courtyard villa would accommodate that just fine, no problems at all.

If you get a second golf cart, one of your vehicles will need to stay in the driveway. Which is fine, but still do-able.

If each of you has a car, and you have two golf carts, then trying to get 2 in the garage and 2 in the driveway will become a huge ongoing inconvenience.

We have a carport and a golf cart garage, but we use the garage for our lawnmower and other tools (electric trimmer, rakes and shovels, air compressor, etc.) We have an extra long double-driveway, so we can have all 4 vehicles in the driveway and still be able to take any of them out to the road without having to move another one out of the way.

One car + one golf cart = you don't have to rule out any options at all.

Lots of Patio Villas now being built with full size 2-car garages that will hold one car and 2 golf cars, you can also now have golf car garages in addition to the full garage. Still, most people have stuff stored in at least part of their garage and end up parking in their driveways.

[mikeritz53]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

Seems like he had his/her own agenda. I am Realtor here and I am not aware of any difference in homes and more Rentals due to the style of location of the property.

[rogerk]

Lived in a Courtyard Villa for over 15 years and loved it and the neighborhood. True there can be more turnover and some renters but not as many as in Patio Villas.

Strongly recommend using a Sales Representative directly from The Villages. There is a reason they sell more pre-owned homes than all outside realtors combined.

[Cheryl Barrios]

What part of KCMO are you from?

[brick010207]

CY Villa North of 466 best choice. Nice part of CY Villas is the privacy they offer, low maintenance, and pretty inexpensive utility costs..Neighborhoods are established, services are all around and accessible, low or nonexistent Bond. Some rentals but more than 1/2 are permanent or part-time residents. Springdale, Briar Meadow, Woodbury have several options . 2Br2BA but 3BR are available at reasonable prices. Other locations in this area are equally receptive

[4557Spahr]

There are quite few 2/2 small houses in DelMar location for sale. Many updated and reasonably priced. Easy to maintain. We love it.

[Bergie]

Perhaps the realty person was just interested in selling you a more expensive home!

[DiveGCM]

Hello Cheryl.
We live in a Designer Home and it is our second one here. It is nothing fancy but is is a 3 bedroom 2 bath with lots of room. It is a stucco design, which I prefer as our first home here was Vinyl sided, and the extra room is great for family. Kitchens are bigger and there are 2 dining areas. We have used an realtor not associated with the Villages developer and have been very happy. They have helped us find the best price and are not pushy in any way. If you want to go that route then contact Jack Wilson at Sellstate Realty. His number is 978-998-9803. It is a husband and wife team and they will guide you through the buying and closing process while getting you the most reasonable people to deal with. The Villages use their own closing with much higher fees. Jack and Maurene will stay with you stay with you until you move in to your new home not just when your contract is signed. We have used them twice and know many others who have. You have nothing to loose by giving them a show. Another great Realtor is Cissie Smith at 352-391-0884. She is most hard working and will not let you down.
I hope that this helps you out. This is our second home here and we love it !!! Good luck in your search.

[Syd2008]

On only one sight. Villageshomes4rent there is over 20 pages of designer homes for rent. No matter where you go or style house you may have renters next door or in the area.
Take your time. Rent a smaller home and see what you think if you have the time.
There are many designer homes that have hedges right up against lanai for privacy.

[Idaholady]

I rented a CYV while I looked for a home and it was absolutely great except for two things. As a single person I felt it was too private. I rarely saw anyone. And I also need a 3 be place so I can have a guest room and an office. I bought a stand alone home in Hadley and so far it suits me.

[Cheryl Barrios]

If you have time will you message me with the information! Thank you!!!

[Roncin]

Hello. We have a cottage home for sale in Dunedin. We have wonderful neighbors. Let me know if you are interested.

[Roncin]

Don't know how to do that. Can somebody help?

[Roncin]

If you have time will you message me with the information! Thank you!!!

My phone number is 217/691-0471. Text me yours and I'll send pictures.

[PoolBrews]

We have been looking and saw the villas and walked around in them but they're pretty cheaply made, and if you want to smell smoke of your neighbor if they smoke cigarettes you can't change that, and if you want to hear dogs barking, yapping dogs, barking then live in the villas, because you're that close, and there's nothing that you can do about it. You're basically within several feet of your next door neighbor and whatever they decide to do, smoke cigarettes, talk on the phone loudly, whatever you have you are stuck and it's in prison kind of....

I don't understand this post at all. Most villas have poured concrete walls - so they are far stronger and hurricane proof than the standard stick wall homes. The homes are no closer together than non villa homes, but the wall helps to reduce noise and any smells when compared to non-villa homes - and in addition, I never have to look directly into my neighbors home - the privacy is great! You obviously have not lived in both.

[Cheryl Barrios]

Thank you. Can you message me the address and any information, please?

[Pat2015]

From what I’ve noticed lots of part -timers and renters in the villas. You could buy a small house 1400 or so Sq. Ft in a neighborhood where people live there all year. The cost should be about the same, and there should be more people around to socialize with.

[gpkk_2000]

We purchased a 2Bd 2 Bath Home that backs up to 4 CYVs giving us privacy and a decent yard. We sat down before meeting with a realtor and made our list of "Must haves". We got more than we bargained for. Best of all was garage size, it is HUGE. Keep in mind that space, CYV's for the most part the garage is very small - no room for toys.

We also have 1 rental that is extremely welled cared for. The landlords put in more work than some owner occupied. Not having friendly neighbors, or those that different interest is not a problem. We have made many many friends all over the Villages.

Try any club according to your interest. We golf 3X a week, play shuffleboard, petanque, samba, cards, Mexican Train, and a marble based/card board game.

While you are new you may need to reach out (maybe over your comfort level) but the effort is well worth it. Don't be shy about posting on TTY or Nextdoor for like minded individuals. In no time you will find your "dance card" all filled up.

If you would like, save my number and call when you are settled.

Pam & Greg Maroney
651.208.1008

[Villagesgal]

Buy what makes you happy. There are pros and cons to everything. Landscapers are cheap, so don't worry about lawn care, 45.00 a month. There are rentals on every street. If you're looking at an established neighborhood go back and knock on neighbors doors and ask what the street/neighborhood is like, most will be honest with you. Then find a home that you like and buy it. You live inside the house, neighbors come and go.
You'll love it here once you move in. Welcome home.

[Sherrilee]

Don’t listen to her— she’s trying to sell a home— I live in a courtyard villa - not many rentals but have snow birds. One neighbor rents to doctor for jan and feb. all people who we have met are wonderful even for short time here. Still in contact with a renter from Canada. Courtyard villas are wonderful don’t let any renters or new faces stop you - we’re here In Bonita full time

[John_W]

...I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

Have you taken a Lifestyle Visit? If you haven't, have you considered doing so? You arrange it through TV and can stay from 4 to 14 days and it's $99 to $149 a day depending on the season and living most likely in a courtyard villa (CYV). I took one in 2011 for 7 days and I got to know my way around TV fairly quickly. The villa neighborhood will have others on a LSV so you won't get the feel of a real neighborhood, but you can see if you like a courtyard villa. Here's a link to the site to make arrangements.

The Villages Lifestyle Preview Plan (https://www.thevillages.com/lifestyle-preview-plan/)

While you're on a visit, you can contact a Villages agent or go to open houses on your own and see the differences. Patio Villas, Courtyard Villas, Cottages and Designer Homes. This what you'll probably be staying in, a fairly new CYV near Brownwood Square.

https://image.thevillages.com/api/ulikey/S969.112.jpg?w=648&h=400

[12Vernon]

I love having the privacy with courtyard wall and having a dog. Also, with 120 homes in our Greenbriar villas of Briar Meadow South neighborhood we have more social activities arranged. Neighbors look out for each other's safety and concern.

[JSR22]

We moved here positive that we wanted a CYV because of our dogs. We rented to make sure of location before purchasing. I am so happy we rented. I hated that every window I looked out of I saw a wall except for a small kitchen window over the sink. It was claustrophobic to me. We landed up buying a good size designer on a 9800 sq ft lot. Added a pool and bird cage and the dogs have plenty of room to run around. We have privacy landscaping and can not see any lanais. Love my home.

[yankygrl]

If you have time will you message me with the information! Thank you!!!
I have a patio villa for sale in buttonwood. Turn key. Great area mostly full time residents

[Cheryl Barrios]

Thank you. I have done a Lifestyle visit and loved it. Except getting lost, it was a fantastic visit. I found several homes I liked but not the just right one. I will though! Thank you.

[Rrgolf]

Homefinder - The Villages(R) Homes and Villas for Sale (https://www.thevillages.com/homefinder/#/S189.189)

[Nevermore]

Purchase what meets your needs and checkbook. I find the CV have small streets and small driveways. No matter where you go in TV people park on the street. This is not ileagl but causes problems on the smaller streets of CV.
Good luck

You will have a one car garage and if you get a golf cart that can also fit in there. People park in their driveways. There is an area for guest parking. You are not supposed to park on the street.
I like the villa because 1) we have dogs and 2) privacy.

Wherever you move, just go introduce yourself to your neighbors.
There are some snowbirds but I like the quiet.

Good luck in winding your new home

[Fredster]

We have been looking and saw the villas and walked around in them but they're pretty cheaply made, and if you want to smell smoke of your neighbor if they smoke cigarettes you can't change that, and if you want to hear dogs barking, yapping dogs, barking then live in the villas, because you're that close, and there's nothing that you can do about it. You're basically within several feet of your next door neighbor and whatever they decide to do, smoke cigarettes, talk on the phone loudly, whatever you have you are stuck and it's in prison kind of....

Obviously you’ve never lived in a Villa,
because what you imagined it would be like,
just isn’t so!

[judithamorrison]

I am looking for a home in TV. I am downsizing and would like a smaller home so I have mostly looked at villas. I was told by an agent the other day that villas are very frequently bought to lease/rent and as a result those who live in those communities year-round struggle with the frequent new faces and the issues that come with renters - even though it was clarified at the renters are over 55 and are not typical families. I was also told that no more than 25% in the smaller villas can be leased out. It was recommended that I look at a cottage instead. Do any of you live in villas? Is it "difficult" in any way to live there because people in the villas near you are transient? I will be living by myself, but I suspect that my family will want to visit me more there because it's TV in Florida instead of Kansas City. Any home-buying suggestions are welcome also.

My 2/2 ranch home is only 1100 sq ft with a 1 1/2 car garage. Are you looking at villa's for a maintenance free yard?

[Garywt]

We live in a Villa. We are not there much but neighbors on both sides are there all the time. If you do not want to be bothered you can go days or weeks without seeing anyone. The side of our house that has windows faces a solid wall of our neighbors and the back yard is fenced in with a 6 foot wall. Totally private. We looked a designer homes first but are extremely happy with our Villa. Very easy to keep clean and do maintenance on.

[debntom]

We've lived in our CYV for 4 years and loving it. The Villa next door is a rental and stays vacant mostly. I've never had a problem with any of the tenants. There are less than 90 homes in our little neighborhood. It is always clean, quiet, and best of all filled with friendly people who are kept informed with a neighborhood newsletter, meetings and social events. We had 3 criteria to be met when we moved here. Home must be built of cement blocks (because of hurricanes), must have a pool, and low maintenance yard with fence for dog(had walls). Our home met all three and its 20 years old so it came with bonuses: the bond was paid, it had a new roof with wind mitigation and new ac, gutters and downspouts and no carpet or grass to cut!!
Don't let your real estate person talk you into a property. Know what you want and stick to your wants and needs until they find it! The perfect property is waiting just for you.:welcome:

[dxfla]

Hello I am from KC also
Have lived in villa for 20 years, there are renters but also people just move around so not really different

[TravelswithD&K]

My husband and I moved to The Villages one year ago. We bought a 2 bedroom 2 bath courtyard villa and we love it. We love the floor plan because it has a large walk-in pantry and a walk-in shower in the master bedroom. We have no use for a third bedroom (that would have cost an extra $40k) and after a year, we still have no use for one. Don't let anyone decide which house you want. Only you know what you want and can live with.

[Mike Shebel]

We love our Courtyard Villai Mission Hills. Ours is 1802 sq ft. Plus 2 car garage and lanai. No maintenance yard.

We are so happy here. We have lovely neighbors, great social activity, 10 min. By golf cart to Spanish Springs, 3 min to Lake Sumter by golf cart.

Love it!!

[ficoguy]

A lot of villas are rented out as Air BnB. Party times are in your future

[Spsmith444]

We have a CYV and are snowbirds from KC. Only one Villa around us is a rental. Had a couple small issues but owner addressed issues immediately to keep us all content. Our neighbors keep and eye (as well as technology) on our house when we’re back up North. No regrets at all. CYV works great for us. SS

[NatureBoy]

take day strips together.
That's what the walls around the CYVs are for! :duck:

Seriously, though. There are many different types of houses in TV. Asking around how people like what they live in is part of the process. Remember that your real estate agent is out to make money. They may be very nice, and helpful, and all that, but at the end of the day, they need to make sales, and have inventory to move. You are a means to that end.

[Pricey]

Come look at a beautiful cottage home for sale in the village of Pine Hills. 3216 Knowlton Ave. Quiet street on cul- da- sac.

My parents are 89 and 91 years old and live in a Cottage Home with 3 BR and 2 BA. It is beautiful. It is perfect for them and they maintain the home easily. Their neighbors are very nice and thoughtful.
My husband and I have retired and now we live here in The Villages, too. We have a designer home that we LOVE. We stayed in a Patio Villa for a couple of nights as we closed escrow on the house, and were so impressed that my husband says he would have been very happy if we had bought one of those rather than the house (but we LOVE our house!).
We take our dog for walks and often go into a nearby Villa. It's a very sweet mini neighborhood. Some of the homes there have "for rent" signs in the windows, but the neighborhood in general is super nice and low maintenance with very pretty rock landscapes. We have our favorites picked out(!).
I recommend that when you have narrowed your search to a couple of Villas and a couple of houses, that you spend a true bit of time visiting each neighborhood that you're considering. I estimate you will be very happy with your choice!

[Dorebea]

We have lived in a CYV for 9 years and have 80% of the same neighbors. We have a Villa Golf Group, have driveway parties, Holiday Street parties, take day strips together. We have a great neighborhood and don’t care to move anywhere else.

Sounds like a great neighborhood! Which village are you in?