Considering the Villages

[Seasonal]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

[champion6]

<snip>"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.<snip>You are describing every warm-weather, southern state during high season.

[Bjeanj]

Ditto.

[Tom52]

Congratulations on your upcoming retirement. If you are snowbirds you will always see TV at the peak of population. I think comments about the crowds and heavy traffic are all relative to where you are coming from and what you are used to. Being from Chicago suburbs the peak traffic volume in TV is nothing. Grocery stores and restaurants are busy but not as busy as what we were used to..

If you are a golfer tee times can be a more difficult but we still get in as much golf as we want. I can't speak about crowding at pools, but you could always look for a home that has a pool or room you could add one.

During normal times the squares can, for sure, be busy. During normal times we only go a couple times a month during peak season. We take our old car to cruise nights and sometimes if there is a particular band we enjoy. My experience is most people that have been Villagers for awhile don't frequent the squares all that often.

If you are active people I can't think of a better 55+ community than TV. Yes, we love it here, but do your own due diligence and check out other interesting communities. We rented here three winters before we bought our home.

Good luck to you.

[kathyspear]

Some snowbirds come down in November and December but many don't leave home until after the holidays with the grandkids. January and February are the most crowded months. Some seasonals are gone in March. In early April (when many more have left for home) you will notice a huge difference.

We have only been down here for about 2 1/2 years but I don't find things super crowded. The main exception is evening entertainment at the squares when one of the most popular bands is playing. (Villages LOVE their Hooligans!)

Definitely rent for a while, in both high and low season. Good luck with your decision.

kathy

[tvbound]

To the OP, having researched and visited numerous retirement communities in Florida and Arizona, it quickly becomes apparent that during the high season they are all crowded. Given the popularity and growth of TV, with its almost unbelievable amount of activities and amenities, we don't have any expectation that it will ever be less crowded than it is right now. However, the same can be said of any other upper-scale 55+ retirement community. So, unless someone wants to build a home in the middle of nowhere or live in another country, I think it's just a matter of making up ones mind on whether having lots (with more every day) of other like-minded people, is something you can live with. We've decided that we can live with it.

[rustyp]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

You described The Villages perfectly. The largest retirement community on the planet. We even have over 50000 golf carts.

[JohnN]

unless someone wants to build a home in the middle of nowhere

I agree in that if you want to just sit back and relax - and not a thing wrong with that at all - you can find a smaller community pretty easily, but you can do that here too. The Villages is big, but not overwhelming to us after 12 years. Sure, at times in high season, we do plan and time our trips to wherever. But we like having the amenities that are here which you won't find anywhere else, plus the resort feel to the whole community. Best wishes on your retirement.

[rjm1cc]

When you look around you might look at small, medium, large and very large communities (Villages). Decide what amenities are available that you are interested in and the crowd situation. That should help narrow your search.

[graciegirl]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

The Villages and almost everywhere in Florida is kinda crammed during high season; January, February and March, but not so much the rest of the year so if you plan to be snow birds you will usually have a lot more folks around you.

However, in going to the rec centers for activities such as I do; painting, clay, crafting, etc., it is never crowded. Exercise classes in rec centers are crowded during high season, but not so much line dancing and the plethora of other activities.

I think it wise to come and rent when you would be snow birding to get a feel. The Villages is very beautiful and sought after.

[Malsua]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

I will also add that where you live makes a huge difference as to how quiet your home is.

My wife and I own two villas, one is nearish to a gate and a "thru" area from the Multi-modal path to the gate. Cars and carts all day.

The other backs up to a preserve and is not through to anywhere. Out back on the Lanai there at night feels like our home in the woods in NJ. It's super quiet and peaceful. It's also further away from the stores, squares and food.

Each place has its merits. You need to decide what's right for you.

Echoing what the others have said, it's definitely more crowded during high season. My wife and I are snow-flakes or sunbirds or whatever you call it. We come down all year round, more in the summer in fact. We are going full time this year though.
It is nice in some ways when it's easier to get into a meal, but it also seems like that feeling when you're visiting a NJ shore town at the end of September. Think "Boys of Summer" by Don Henley :)

[dhdallas]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.

I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own.

[Oneiric]

ALL nice places in Florida are crowded during Snowbird season. If they weren't that nice, they wouldn't be crowded.

[Ele201]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.

I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own. I agree with you about Navarre! I was there last year with my husband, just before the pandemic hit. It was quite memorable. The beaches are beautiful and the infrastructure manageable. A highlight was visiting the turtle museum/observatory.

[mike1946]

I have lived on the historic side for 20 years ... no thru traffic ... the traffic we've got is all it's ever gonna be !!! facilities include 1 CC with the best pool in TV & 18 hole championship GC, 2 REC CTRs one with Family pool, 2 more Pools, 2 executive golf courses Softball field, floodlit tennis, business center., library, archery range, horseshoe pits, Bocce Courts, small dog & Large dog parks, walking trail with fitness machines installed, lakeside BBQ area, convenience store and gas station, post office, a couple of Banks and other businesses e.g. Dental/Tire and car service and a pretty decent Mexican Restaurant. The adjacent golf cart bridge takes you to Spanish springs in a couple of minutes exiting into the parking lot behind Ruby Tuesdays.
We also have a gate that exits TV and allows golf carts to travel up the east side of 441 to places like Lowes, Wal Mart, Bealls, Aldi etc. Property prices here are significantly cheaper than way down south - mine is a massive stretched manufactured (about 2,500 sq ft total footprint) on a full size lot overlooking the championship golf course on a quiet side street 2 bed 2 BR and would probably sell for the $185-195K region ....what more could a person want ... big live oaks and mature landscaping with none of the busy TV.
Lots of luck in your search.

[skarra]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.

I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own.


Great feedback.

Thank you very much for sharing as it sort of captures some of the same reservations I have.

[golfing eagles]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.

I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own.

Minority opinion noted

[nick demis]

We sold our property in New England this past November and rented a place in TV for a couple of months with the intention of visiting numerous 55+ communities. We visited Margaritaville, Webb, Top of the World, and others. You can get nicer houses for your money at some, especially Top of the World, but no matter what they advertise, there are few options for activities. We are now in the process of having a house built here TV and have extended our rental extended until it is done.
You can do as much of as little as you want. Hundreds of activities, clubs and entertainment. Yes hundreds. I have yet to meet anyone that isn't friendly , which is a change that we are pleasantly adjusting to.
The only complaint I have so far is the rate that property price increases, which, I suppose for us, is good for the long term.

[MandoMan]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

Where do you live now? What are you used to? Due to the traffic this time of year, there are several times a day when turning left from Morse Blvd. into the Tierra del Sol postal station parking lot is difficult. I may have to wait an entire minute for several dozen cars and carts to pass because they get held up at the light at San Marino, then arrive at my turn in a long stream. Big deal. The very worst traffic in The Villages at the busiest time of year is much lighter than average traffic year round in most sizable American cities. As for residential streets? I’d guess my street gets on average thirty cars an hour. Some areas get even less. Have you ever driven in Los Angeles or New York or Boston? I taught for 34 years at a university in tiny Kutztown, Pennsylvania, population 5,000. During the school year it gets much more traffic than The Villages at its worst. So at the busiest season during the busiest parts of day, driving Morse from 441 to 466 takes an extra minute. Big deal! It’s not going to be a problem.

As for the town squares, do you want to dance? Go there tonight and you can easily dance with no one within ten feet of you. You may have to walk a little slower because more people are around the square and in carts and lawn chairs outside of it, but if you cross the street you can go for a run at that time without getting in anyone’s way. It’s not nearly as crowded as walking on TImes Square in New York, much less going to see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Is it more crowded this time of year? Yes. But entirely bearable.

Yes, restaurants are more crowded right now. I’ve walked away from places that tell me it will be a 45 minute wait. Part of the problem is that there may be dozens of empty tables, but that is due to social distancing, and there are fewer employees, so it takes longer. However, I’ve always managed to go to some other restaurant in the area and get in at once. It helps to be flexible. Also, next winter, when all the tables are available, it will be easier to get seated.

The Villages, apart from this, is delightfully relaxed and a wonderful place to retire. My biggest problem is that at Sam’s Club, lots of people seem to be there for a pleasant stroll, whereas I want to get what I need and get out.

[Robyn1963]

Be sure to visit my YouTube channel. I post episodes about living in The Villages and Florida Fun.
Youtube.com/rcavallaro

[jswirs]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

I've lived in TV for over a year and recently moved to Stone Crest, which is just across the road from TV. Many stores are within 5 minutes of Stone Crest by golf cart, and TV is also accessible by golf cart. There are not as many amenities in Stone Crest, but there are also not as many people here, so, less crowds, more space between houses, less people along with more value per housing dollar.
With all the amenities available, I enjoyed my time in TV, but what I disliked most was grumpy old men and women who can't wait to correct or chastise others for something they may see someone doing "wrong", whether they are impacted by that action, or not. I have had this happen to me many times, sometimes I was guilty of some minor incident (like going the wrong way in a parking lot and was yelled at), and sometimes I was innocent, yet I was chastised because my actions somehow upset someone else, (like riding my bicycle in the middle of a small street and having a neighbor's dog pull away from it's owner, and chase me). I have my own thoughts of why people are grumpy, but one thing I know that is a causative factor is the crowded conditions in TV. It's really simple, the more people there are in a given area, the more problems occur. So, TV is definitely not America's Friendlies Home Town. TV is like any other retirement community, you will find many grumpy old folks, but you will also find many friendly, happy folks. For me, I prefer Stone Crest, but each to their own.

[wm_farrell]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

My wife and I are a couple years ahead of you. We did the Lifestyle visit in Brownwood and really liked what TV has to offer. We bought just south of Lake Sumter last year. Our solution to the crowds? We rent the place at high-season rates and travel. Mexico is perfect in January/February.

[sallyg]

We moved from a sparsely populated area, lived without any neighbors in sight. Moving to TV was not a hard adjustment as far as crowds or traffic, but seeing a house out every window was strange. We quickly adapted to the convenience of shopping, rec centers, banking, restaurants, etc by golf cart. Renting first is a very good idea. Good luck.

[Villages Kahuna]

It’s not the same as it was when we moved here fifteen years ago. Your sense of “crowdedness” is correct. Public events are wall-to-wall people and traffic is becoming impossible. Renting for a couple months, maybe for a couple of years, is an excellent idea. Maybe while you’re here, research other alternatives. Don’t be disappointed by just drinking the Kool Aide.

[dewilson58]

. Many stores are within 5 minutes of Stone Crest by golf cart, and TV is also accessible by golf cart.
Nucky, you left the barn door open and the scavengers are getting in. :shocked:

[coconutmama]

Check out Lakewood Ranch, which is father south. Decide if you want a truly gated community, closer to the ocean, out of the central FL sinkhole zone, etc. I think the taxes are higher but they have many of the same amenities. You owe it to yourself to ck it out.

On another thread someone suggested searching “best 55+ communities in Fl”, which perhaps you have already. I think TV rated 3rd? Good luck! Enjoy the journey

[toeser]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.


We had the same concerns. We explored multiple retirement communities and after considerable thought purchased in The Villages six years ago. We have never looked back as it was the correct decision. The reason we bypassed other retirement communities and settled here is that in retirement the greater risk is dying of boredom, not having too much to do.

You might consider the northern Villages. Rec centers and sports facilities are far less crowded, and you can save a lot of money by buying with no bond. Many homes have been fully updated, so it's not necessary to sacrifice on home quality.

[Petersweeney]

Dhdallas #12 - right on Rambo I wish you were my neighbor.....

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I think that it all depends on where you come from. Yes, The Villages, and all Florida communities get busier and more crowded in the winter. But I've lived and worked in big cities and it's nothing like that. I think that some people that have come from rural areas think that we have a lot of traffic. While there is certainly more traffic here during the season than in the summer, it is not like a big city. The lines at restaurants and super markets are not bad.

I think that many of the years round residents are also a bit spoiled by the smaller population that we enjoy for 7-8 months of the year. But as I say, no matter where you go in Florida, you're going to find the same thing.

I'm originally from Eastern Massachusetts and the people on Cape Cod complain about the excess traffic in the summer time. I can tell you that the winter traffic here is no where as bad as the summer traffic on Cape Cod of the year round traffic in Boston and other places.

In addition, left hand turn lanes are currently being added to many of our busiest intersections to some of the crowding is being addressed.

If you're concerned, rent a place here in January and February and decide. That's the only way that you'll know.

[prettyw102@aol.com]

Just wanted to say I completely agree. We are originally from NY, then lived in South FL for 38 years. Talk about traffic and crowded restaurants...it's like being "in season" all the time! It depends where you come from, but we cannot think of a lovelier, aesthetically pleasing, friendlier,, active place to be! Coming up for 5 years, living here full time a year and a half. We love it here...true paradise!

[DAVES]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

We cannot choose for you. Everywhere has pluses and minuses. I just re-established
contact with an associate that I've not heard from in many years. Far different from the Villages he and his brother bought 168 acres in North Carolina and they live in the woods.

Making a choice is not easy for most people. I would suggest since it is not an inexpensive, easy to reverse choice, I suggest, you spend some time here. The sales dept has inexpensive short term rental programs. We did it 3x before we bought. If I recall the second time you do not get a free movie or diner. We were not here for a free movie or a free? diner. We bought 8 years ago and are happy with the choice we made

[Tmarkwald]

My wife and I are a couple years ahead of you. We did the Lifestyle visit in Brownwood and really liked what TV has to offer. We bought just south of Lake Sumter last year. Our solution to the crowds? We rent the place at high-season rates and travel. Mexico is perfect in January/February.

This is a perfect plan.. what do you do with personal things... that you don't leave out when renters move in?

[rmd2]

The very best thing you are doing is renting. I rented for about a year before buying and I'm glad I did. By then I knew what area of The Villages I liked best and where was spending my time. I live off of 466 and 10 years later I still love this location. Close to 2 town squares, 441 with lots of shopping, Publix, Fresh Market, Walmart, banking and restaurants.

[John_W]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.

I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own.

You have a valid point about, I'm not into clubs, I was in car club but quit after 3 months. I don't use the rec centers, it's the golf courses that brought me here, and since I've arrived I'm trying to make up for lost time, when I discovered MVP at Brownwood. I only wish I had worked out the rest of life instead sitting on my butt.

I also like the panhandle, I lived in Pensacola for six years in the late 70s and early 80s and built 3 houses during that time. I discovered Panama City Beach in 1970, I went through Army school at the Ft. Rucker, Alabama, which is just a 2 hour drive north just across the state line. I was there during summer and every weekend was down at PC.

You would not believe how much PC has grown. The entire commercial area was about ten blocks long in '70 and five of us would rent a cottage for $15 a night right on the strip. Only if I was smart enough to have bought land back then, it's now 30 miles of condos, amusement parks, restaurants, and then wait til spring break, it's get wild. I went to PC during spring break '86 and I don't remember the bar, but it was on the beach with the biggest deck I ever seen. The guy that sang "Key Largo" Bernie Higgins was singing on the deck with his guitar. It was great and hundreds of women.

My best friend lives in Navarre, we were in the Army together 50 years ago and worked in the FAA at Pensacola together. He lives in Navarre, bought a masonry home with a 2 car garage, 3 BR, 2 BA and swimming pool in 1990 for $98,000, today it's worth about $275K. The biggest problem with the panhandle and one of the reasons I settled in TV, besides the golf here, is hurricanes. In just my 6 years of living there I went through two hurricanes. The one in '79 I rode out in the hallway and winds at the airport a mile from my house reached 100 mph. No damage to speak of except for a million pine cones in my pool, we don't have birdcages because of the hurricanes.

My neighbor who lives and loves golf even more than me, I shot a 78 yesterday at Cane Garden and he shot a 70. Him and his wife go the beach at least 3 weekends a month. Monday he's leaving for a week in the Florida Keys. In the past 12 months, he's been to Destin, St. Pete Beach, Siesta Key and his favorite Venice Beach about 20 times. He doesn't mind driving, to me, I rather never have to drive again.

Hang in there, if you don't like golf, try pickleball. Look to see when they have the 101 classes, I took that back in 2013 and it's really a neat sport. I also enjoy music when things are normal, the Hooligans, Uncle Bob, the classic rock bands I enjoy going to see. Movies, it's neat to go the theater and there's not a million kids and their mothers there to see some cartoon in the other theater. That's one of reasons I like it here, now that I'm 70 I rather be around people my own age than young people.

Traffic here, I grew up in St. Petersburg, and when I go there the traffic is 20 times worse and I remember when there was hardly anybody. Traffic here is really nothing. Condos are cheap in PC, maybe get a vacation condo for $200K and then rent it out when you're not there. The heat, I lived up north before moving here and in Maryland it would hit 100 degrees 15 days in the month of August. At the beach we got constant thunderstorms, they were really more over the city. I remember being on Pensacola Beach a few times in beautiful sunshine and looking back at Pensacola and seeing dark clouds and lightning. However, the storms didn't last long, the air over the gulf meeting the air over the land you get thunderstorms just about every afternoon. So for that reason, I really don't mind the heat here.

You could own something like this in PC and rent it out for $250 a night when you're not there.

https://res.cloudinary.com/rws-ecbyo/image/upload/f_auto,c_scale,h_474,q_auto/img_68d61c5e4b86d898_00a0a_jytbaoka6ah_1200x900.jp g

https://ivacationonline.com/uploads/pictures/23/6567.jpg

BTW, Jaws 2 was filmed at Navarre Beach in '77, I went several days during shooting and saw the sharks sitting on the trailers, didn't see any actors but did see the director setting up shots. Base camp was at the Holiday Inn Navarre, beautiful motel with a Holidome and indoor pool, the movie's opening scene with the band playing was shot inside the Holidome, however that motel was destroyed in a 2005 hurricane and wasn't rebuilt.

[airstreamingypsy]

Ask yourself, if you are golfers and/or joiners. To me, if you are social, and a joiner, then move to The Villages. If you don't golf, pickleball, swim... and you don't want to join clubs...... there are plenty of places in Florida the are less crowded.

[Mhollowaygleasom]

We landed in TV to escape the long NH winters and because my husband is a golf enthusiast.
He absolutely loved TV from the moment we first visited. I was not as excited about purchasing here and thought it to be a bit Stepford. That being said, we visited numerous times (in TV and basically everywhere else of interest to us in FL) and purchased a home here almost 5 years ago.
We were snowbirds for 3 years and visited numerous times throughout the year. I grew to love TV as much as my husband, over the years. Our initial plan was to keep both homes and enjoy the best of both worlds. We fully retired January 2020 and decided to sell our northern home. It was a major decision but neither of us have any regrets.
The Lifestyle of TV, can’t be beat.
We chose our home based on our particular needs and wants. Like you, we wanted our home to provide us with the peaceful setting we were accustomed to, (for privacy and alone time) yet centrally located for ease of getting where we wanted to with as much ease as possible. Life does get crazy here during peak season but not enough to discourage us. The activities we enjoy are still within easy reach, shopping, dinning and entertainment require a little more planning but remain just as enjoyable. Traffic in and around the squares is heavy but no more of an issue than Cape Cod during summer months. You will eventually learn the best times to shop and venture out without too much difficulty. It’s a learning curve. Crowed squares can be a major source of entertainment as you never know what you will see. Regardless of where you purchase, FL is crazy in season. It’s up to you to figure out how to deal with it.
Realistically speaking, there is no perfect place to live. There are however places that meet more of your needs than others.
Like everywhere else, it’s all about location and fulfilling your needs. You can easily find your slice of heaven here if you know what you want.
No kissing lanai’s for us, a quiet side street that doesn’t connect to busier streets, a large corner lot with pool and privacy hedge, no cart path or busy road behind us and we couldn’t be happier. We can go days without socializing with neighbors or engage several times a day if we wish. Most people are likeminded and basically seek the very things you are looking for.
Best of luck in your search. Stay true to yourselves and you won’t be disappointed.

[mikemalloy]

As Yogi is reported to have said "No one goes there anymore, it's too crowded."

[Carlsondm]

Peak season in Jan thru March brings more visitors and traffic. Seniors have time to arrive very early at popular events so plan accordingly. Parking is limited at the squares. Planning for large events definitely was not on the radar. All TV can do is encourage golf carts so two can park in one space.
If you are a swimmer or diver, pools are shallow in TV. Only two that I know of are deep enough for those 5’5” and more to do water aerobics in: Mulberry and Laurel. Pools in the new home areas toward the south are 3’6” - shallower than above ground pools back home. No indoor pools at all. I mention this because we left two regulation size pools with deep ends back home and expected at least a few down here. We maintained two pools for years, so don’t even mention building or buying one unless it comes with a pool boy/gal.
Golf is plentiful, just plan ahead. Maintenance can be an issue, but with crowds that is expected.

[lloydkuczek]

My wife and I considered purchasing a home in TV. Based on on-line research, I thought it would be the perfect place. We rented a home for a month and I was disappointed. I loved the concept, but was very disappointed with the shape and condition of the golf courses. The other significant negative was the expense - both overall general home costs, golf fees and everything else including groceries. I also found the area (outside of TV to be far from attractive). We are still looking but haven't landed on where to purchase yet. Nothing is perfect.

[Pricey]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.

I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own.

I'm glad you got your slice of heaven, and that your wife got her wishes, too.
We're all such different creatures from each other. What pleases one won't always please another. It's nice to see the compromise, and I can see the happiness and nature appreciation in the solitude as well as the social pleasantries of the other.
G-d bless you!

[oemsp1]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.
Your concerns are valid.

[kenoc7]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

If you want to avoid a crush of people choose the lovely north end near CR 42.

[stebooo]

Don't know of course what you are coming from so it's kind of hardto advise. You do and go where you want. You have an incredible amount of options, from a solo walk to a popular concert. You have a off season, May through Dec. Considerably less people. And a high season, jan through April. A 40%swell.

So you can see it's up to you. Are you a social person or a introvoted hermit. If the later, you could come but maybe should buy a hut in the country . You can be in the villages but maybe wouldn't be so happy

[Seasonal]

I wanted to sincerely thank everyone that posted a comment. I've read all of the comments and will continue to read and research.

We will have to spend some time thinking about what we enjoy in life and how that fits into TV lifestyle.

Thanks again!

Bruce...

[emb2458]

Look at DEL WEB just down the road from The Villages on 441 going towards Ocala. Won't have the new construction and cost of living in The Villages

[Tsalla Apopka]

There are so many nice places in Florida. The Villages is crowded and very overpriced because so many folks want to live there.
Look on Zillow at some places in Ocala, like Oak Run and OTOW, to compare. Same amenities, much less cost. OR, look down around Tampa and St Pete for same things with the same high costs.

[Bogie Shooter]

Look at DEL WEB just down the road from The Villages on 441 going towards Ocala. Won't have the new construction and cost of living in The Villages

But not much of anything else either............

[SAGeorge]

Florida is a busy in the winter. Yes, it can be crowded here during snowbird season and you need to be ok or adjust to waiting in line for popular things. On the flip side is that there is a ton of things to do and lots of great people. Plus the line ups can give you an opportunity to meet people and make new friends. While we bought very quickly and don't regret it, there is also a lot to be said for renting a place for a year so you can learn if The Villages is for you and which part of it you want to live in.



Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

[doecats]

check out THE GREENS on 35 headed for ocala. very affordable and what you save allows you to go just about anywhere for entertainment and food AND A LOT LESS EXPENSIVE

[Doctorcrime]

Spruce Creek South..guard gate ( with 24 hr. guards ) to enter...great homes...its own 18 hole golf course...plus all the other types of sports activities...all single-family homes.. large swimming pool ..

[dkaufnelson]

The crowds are only here mostly February and March. You will quickly learn which classes are overcrowded during those months in either go earlier or avoid them. I seldom hit crowds when shopping but yes you will hit crowds at any of the Town squares during peak months. If you want a very fun active lifestyle this is where you should live but if you want something less active there are many beautiful less crowded retirement communities to choose from. Good luck

[La lamy]

If you want a slower paced Florida experience with less crowds and activities than The Villages, I personally would recommend the west coast of Florida. I stayed in Largo and enjoyed the 5 minute drive to the beach and 'village-like' cafes/bars and restaurants without the massive crowds. There are very crowded areas on the Gulf side too, but if you try some smaller towns it may be more your beat. Happy discovery to you!

[jimjamuser]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.
It is not crowded in the summer.

[rustyp]

If privacy is important to you TV is probably not the place for you.
- The commercial infrastructure keeps rapidly expanding but never seems fast enough to keep up with residential building. You can't find a parking spot at a grocery store in TV within the last five years during high season. Keep in mind high season seems to have expanded to include December through April. I believe this is a function of such high demand on rentals during cold months that landlords insist on 3 - 4 months minimum.
- You talked about town squares. There are three squares for 130000 residents plus any and all public that wish to attend. Not only has TV expanded exponentially so has the surrounding area. Many people buy outside of TV to get more house for the money but know they can utilize the town squares, restaurants and all other commercial facilities (hospital, doctors, bowling alley, etc.). If they are snowbirds (not full time residents of the three adjoining counties) their TV buddies can get them guest passes to use other amenities. In the squares you will be lucky to get a drink during happy hour at the bar huts after spending the first set standing in line waiting during high season. And lets squelch the "only during high season" justification. I can not tolerate heat and in the summer months I wouldn't utilize the amenities nearly as much as I do during the dreaded "high season". It is very hot I'll repeat very hot here as compared to oceanfront (cooler with breezes off the water) June through September.
- The other half truth - your neighborhood is quiet. Well unless you are prepaid to spend north of $400K for a house there is a very high chance of getting the dreaded kissing lanai. So close you can hear every word the neighbor is whispering and hopefully they don't smoke. Also the newer neighborhoods are attacking newly retirees. They are young and still have a lot of partying to let loose of. These neighborhoods tend to start cilcks and join each at the hip with driveway and house parties. Not a sales feature if privacy is at the top of your list.
- Remember who you asked your question to. People that live here in TV. While on this site TV'ers are the overwhelming majority they are but a very small minority of Florida's retirement population.
- If activities and socialization are your priority you won't beat TV. If privacy or small town feel is your priority you will be very unhappy here.
- Best advice seen here - do not buy before you rent at least one season. Also ask your same question on social media of other Florida retirement communities.

[JimJohnson]

Within the next year, the wife and I plan to retire and purchase a second home in Florida. Another set of snow birds, yeah! :ohdear:

We have driven through the Villages and love the new homes available online but we have one thought that keeps us away. I wanted to ask about this to see if our thought is correct or way off base.

"Oh the humanity!" is our thought. Once we left our new Village home, all we would encounter is a crush of people. Decide to go food shopping, crowds. Golfing or swimming, people everywhere. Enjoy a beer and music on the square and it's like a day at Disney. Wherever you are standing, you are in the way.

We are are looking to slow down some. Enjoy the warm weather with our little dogs without giving up all privacy.

We will certainly rent something in the Villages and other areas in Florida for a month or two prior to purchasing anything but the thought around the crowds is our concern.

I've read this forum for years and enjoy the conversation. Thought I would state our concern, seeking comments.

Please come. The Villages is a great place to continue to live. Since you think, you would be a welcome addition to our community.

[jimjamuser]

You are describing every warm-weather, southern state during high season.
Not completely true. The whole center of the state of Tn. has MANY small towns that are NOT crowded. Of course, there are disadvantages......basically lack of sophistication - the doctors are "B" team as compared to TV Land - the swimming pools are for children - there are serious Red Necks that do NOT like northerners - it is hard to find senior activities - everyone asks, "and what church do you belong to?" - a home on 1 acre may cost only #100 K - you better like country and western music - you still get some snowstorms in the Winter. I found that I could only take it for about 4 months / year at the max.

[lisafolker@gmail.com]

I’m glad to hear you are considering a move here to The Villages! My husband and I recently purchased a house in the Glenbrook Village. You may want to consider looking at homes in the northern villages. We find it more quiet and less congested. The homes are slightly older and might need some renovations but it is something to think about. Renting for a year is a sure way to be certain you’ve found the spot for you.

[golfing eagles]

I've lived in TV for over a year and recently moved to Stone Crest, which is just across the road from TV. Many stores are within 5 minutes of Stone Crest by golf cart, and TV is also accessible by golf cart. There are not as many amenities in Stone Crest, but there are also not as many people here, so, less crowds, more space between houses, less people along with more value per housing dollar.
With all the amenities available, I enjoyed my time in TV, but what I disliked most was grumpy old men and women who can't wait to correct or chastise others for something they may see someone doing "wrong", whether they are impacted by that action, or not. I have had this happen to me many times, sometimes I was guilty of some minor incident (like going the wrong way in a parking lot and was yelled at), and sometimes I was innocent, yet I was chastised because my actions somehow upset someone else, (like riding my bicycle in the middle of a small street and having a neighbor's dog pull away from it's owner, and chase me). I have my own thoughts of why people are grumpy, but one thing I know that is a causative factor is the crowded conditions in TV. It's really simple, the more people there are in a given area, the more problems occur. So, TV is definitely not America's Friendlies Home Town. TV is like any other retirement community, you will find many grumpy old folks, but you will also find many friendly, happy folks. For me, I prefer Stone Crest, but each to their own.

Are we to take it that you think it is OK to drive down a parking aisle the wrong way or ride you bike down the middle of the street? I've seen more parking lot accidents due to people doing exactly what you describe. Consider yourself "chastised"

[JimJohnson]

Not completely true. The whole center of the state of Tn. has MANY small towns that are NOT crowded. Of course, there are disadvantages......basically lack of sophistication - the doctors are "B" team as I compared to TV Land - the swimming pools are for children - there are serious Red Necks that do NOT like northerners - it is hard to find senior activities - everyone asks, "and what church do you belong to?" - a home on 1 acre may cost only #100 K - you better like country and western music - you still get some snowstorms in the Winter. I found that I could only take it for about 4 months / year at the max.

You could say the same about The Villages, but I would add that after traveling and living all over the world, The Villages offers the opportunity to live as you believe and ignore the racism and prejudices of those not so informed and awakened to the truth and reality of our wonderful country.

[Tmarkwald]

If TV is such a horrible place to live, why did every other retirement area advertise the distance to TV ??

I don't understand comments that say all these other places have the same amenities for less money?

[JimJohnson]

If TV is such a horrible place to live, why did every other retirement area advertise the distance to TV ??

I don't understand comments that say all these other places have the same amenities for less money?
There are certainly places less expensive than here, but, amenities, not even close. We pay roughly 160 dollars a month for amenities that in my opinion are worth at least a thousand per month.

[Dgizzi]

I agree with you somewhat. Though I want more tropical sites. Not woods. And yes the area outside of TV is awful. I’d rather be by beaches. I lived in ft lauderdale and liked the beach area. However buying a condo on the beach or close buy is expensive. Depending where you buy. HOA can be up to $500 and hurricane insurance is crazy. You have a condo even a street or two from the beach, you will be required to have hurricane insurance and it’s big bucks. We have friends who have a condo on Cocoa Beach. I would live by the beach in a heart beat. I don’t go into Leesburg either run down old city. Yep don’t like the woods, want beaches and tropical scenery.

[FLgirl2]

Interesting thread. We are also newbies looking at TV to rent in the winter and our biggest concern is also the large population as well as how snowbirds are perceived by year rounders? We are excited to try it out, and want to be social next winter. We have a lifestyle preview visit scheduled in April, so we are excited to learn more and experience it all firsthand. I am hoping my husband can get on board!
Also, if any of you have lived in Village of Citrus Hills, would love to hear your comparisons as it is another location on our list.

[Joe V.]

Interesting thread. We are also newbies looking at TV to rent in the winter and our biggest concern is also the large population as well as how snowbirds are perceived by year rounders? We are excited to try it out, and want to be social next winter. We have a lifestyle preview visit scheduled in April, so we are excited to learn more and experience it all firsthand. I am hoping my husband can get on board!
Also, if any of you have lived in Village of Citrus Hills, would love to hear your comparisons as it is another location on our list.

Ditch the sales agent on your visit. Explore on your own and talk with people.

[Bogie Shooter]

I agree with you somewhat. Though I want more tropical sites. Not woods. And yes the area outside of TV is awful. I’d rather be by beaches. I lived in ft lauderdale and liked the beach area. However buying a condo on the beach or close buy is expensive. Depending where you buy. HOA can be up to $500 and hurricane insurance is crazy. You have a condo even a street or two from the beach, you will be required to have hurricane insurance and it’s big bucks. We have friends who have a condo on Cocoa Beach. I would live by the beach in a heart beat. I don’t go into Leesburg either run down old city. Yep don’t like the woods, want beaches and tropical scenery.

Why are you still here?

[Tmarkwald]

Ditch the sales agent on your visit. Explore on your own and talk with people.

Yes yes yes yes!!!!

[John_W]

Ditch the sales agent on your visit. Explore on your own and talk with people.

You must of had an awful sales agent. Usually they're not pushy, I believe most successful Villages agents are not like that. I came on a 7 day lifestyle in 2011 and my salesman was Tony Trussler. A British fellow who came to America in the late 70s and if you did a search, he has a lot of recommendations on this website. He is still working although he is close to retirement.

We had spoke with Tony on the phone while still up north before our LSV. We arrived, went to the sales office, they took us to our cottage for our 7 day stay. Showed us the unit, told us the Villages Sun would be in the driveway in the morning. There is a golf cart and 2 bicycles in the garage for our use.

Tony called the next day and said, would like to see any homes. I said yes, CYVs and cottages. He took us in his car and we looked at one CYV community and walked through several units that were for sale. Then went to another village five minutes away and went several cottages. We didn't discuss any contracts, purchases, down payments, deposits, nothing to do with buying. That was it, we were done, and he wasn't pushy at all. He told me he had arranged for a round of golf at Cane Garden and an executive tee time at Heron and how to get to the courses from were we were staying at LSL.

Two days later I decided I wanted to see patio villas, so I called Tony. He took the next day and we looked at both styles of patio villas at that time, took about 30 minutes. Once again we parted ways.

When our seven days were up, we checked out and left. We were so close to the square, we went to the square every night and listened to the bands, ate at restaurants, saw one movie, and drove the golf cart around some and talked to people on our own.

We went back north and listed our home for sale 3 weeks later. We sold the home in 18 hours. I called Tony and told him we had contract with money guaranteed by their employer and I wanted to buy a patio villa in Buttonwood for $140K, and gave him the address. He said we have some masonry CYVs in a community you haven't seen.

All the masonry CVYs villas that you looked at in Amberjack Villas have sold, we have only 2 units left in the next community and we have a 2 BR masonry CYV that has been discounted twice and is only $17,000 more than the patio villa. He said the next villa community has already started selling and that model with the discounts on this villa, the next units will be $25,000 more. He said there is no photos on the website, but I will drive over tonight and take pictures and email them to you, which he did. I said, I want to hold that unit. He said, give a credit card and I will put $2,500 on it, and we hold it for 15 days.

Thanks to Tony, I upgraded from a patio villa to a masonry CYV in a great location 3-1/2 miles from LSL and 3-1/2 from Brownwood and for a bargain price.

You can ditch your salesman and learn half of what you need to know on your own or you can be serious about buying a home and get the inside scoop.

[Garywt]

I guess it might depend on the area but we rarely find anything over crowded and never feel in the way. Grocery store is never crowded, the squares have plenty of room although we sit on the outside. There are a couple crossings that might get backed up a little with golf carts but for the most part we do not have issues. Also we bought a Villa and have all the privacy we could ever want.

[davem4616]

I agree with you somewhat. Though I want more tropical sites. Not woods. And yes the area outside of TV is awful. I’d rather be by beaches. I lived in ft lauderdale and liked the beach area. However buying a condo on the beach or close buy is expensive. Depending where you buy. HOA can be up to $500 and hurricane insurance is crazy. You have a condo even a street or two from the beach, you will be required to have hurricane insurance and it’s big bucks. We have friends who have a condo on Cocoa Beach. I would live by the beach in a heart beat. I don’t go into Leesburg either run down old city. Yep don’t like the woods, want beaches and tropical scenery.


We moved to TV from Ft Lauderdale in 2017. We had a home in Ft Lauderdale on a canal since 1995.

We like 'live theatre' and traveled up to West Palm, down to Miami and of course to Broward Center for the Arts to see shows and concerts....Now everything comes to us here in the TV.

Yes it was very nice being that close to some wonderful beaches. We loved to take a walk on the beach after dinner...or go for the day with a picnic....but the traffic and the darn iguanas that constantly walked up and down the canal eating all of our plants finally got to us.

[Joe V.]

You must of had an awful sales agent. Usually they're not pushy, I believe most successful Villages agents are not like that. I came on a 7 day lifestyle in 2011 and my salesman was Tony Trussler. A British fellow who came to America in the late 70s and if you did a search, he has a lot of recommendations on this website. He is still working although he is close to retirement.

We had spoke with Tony on the phone while still up north before our LSV. We arrived, went to the sales office, they took us to our cottage for our 7 day stay. Showed us the unit, told us the Villages Sun would be in the driveway in the morning. There is a golf cart and 2 bicycles in the garage for our use.

Tony called the next day and said, would like to see any homes. I said yes, CYVs and cottages. He took us in his car and we looked at one CYV community and walked through several units that were for sale. Then went to another village five minutes away and went several cottages. We didn't discuss any contracts, purchases, down payments, deposits, nothing to do with buying. That was it, we were done, and he wasn't pushy at all. He told me he had arranged for a round of golf at Cane Garden and an executive tee time at Heron and how to get to the courses from were we were staying at LSL.

Two days later I decided I wanted to see patio villas, so I called Tony. He took the next day and we looked at both styles of patio villas at that time, took about 30 minutes. Once again we parted ways.

When our seven days were up, we checked out and left. We were so close to the square, we went to the square every night and listened to the bands, ate at restaurants, saw one movie, and drove the golf cart around some and talked to people on our own.

We went back north and listed our home for sale 3 weeks later. We sold the home in 18 hours. I called Tony and told him we had contract with money guaranteed by their employer and I wanted to buy a patio villa in Buttonwood for $140K, and gave him the address. He said we have some masonry CYVs in a community you haven't seen.

All the masonry CVYs villas that you looked at in Amberjack Villas have sold, we have only 2 units left in the next community and we have a 2 BR masonry CYV that has been discounted twice and is only $17,000 more than the patio villa. He said the next villa community has already started selling and that model with the discounts on this villa, the next units will be $25,000 more. He said there is no photos on the website, but I will drive over tonight and take pictures and email them to you, which he did. I said, I want to hold that unit. He said, give a credit card and I will put $2,500 on it, and we hold it for 15 days.

Thanks to Tony, I upgraded from a patio villa to a masonry CYV in a great location 3-1/2 miles from LSL and 3-1/2 from Brownwood and for a bargain price.

You can ditch your salesman and learn half of what you need to know on your own or you can be serious about buying a home and get the inside scoop.

The original agent made us feel uncomfortable and always pushed us to new homes not in our selected ranges or styles. We did not buy. We came back 2 more times on our own and by then found the agent we liked the third time. Then we bought exactly what we wanted to buy into on our first visit.

Having lived in FL for years we had friends in TV. We had no surprises when we finally decided. I have trouble with people not listening to our concerns when we are spending real money on their product.

We like being here but not how this agent acted. I did not care for the vulture that was assigned to watch over me.

[talleyjm]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.



I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own.


I bet you were hoping for an outpouring of outrage about the comments you voiced about TV. Glad it didn’t happen. You know why? Because Nobody who lives here happily cares. :boom:

[talleyjm]

There are so many nice places in Florida. The Villages is crowded and very overpriced because so many folks want to live there.
Look on Zillow at some places in Ocala, like Oak Run and OTOW, to compare. Same amenities, much less cost. OR, look down around Tampa and St Pete for same things with the same high costs.

Same amenities as TV❓ Right. 🤦🏼

[Kayakguy]

You have a valid point about, I'm not into clubs, I was in car club but quit after 3 months. I don't use the rec centers, it's the golf courses that brought me here, and since I've arrived I'm trying to make up for lost time, when I discovered MVP at Brownwood. I only wish I had worked out the rest of life instead sitting on my butt.

I also like the panhandle, I lived in Pensacola for six years in the late 70s and early 80s and built 3 houses during that time. I discovered Panama City Beach in 1970, I went through Army school at the Ft. Rucker, Alabama, which is just a 2 hour drive north just across the state line. I was there during summer and every weekend was down at PC.

You would not believe how much PC has grown. The entire commercial area was about ten blocks long in '70 and five of us would rent a cottage for $15 a night right on the strip. Only if I was smart enough to have bought land back then, it's now 30 miles of condos, amusement parks, restaurants, and then wait til spring break, it's get wild. I went to PC during spring break '86 and I don't remember the bar, but it was on the beach with the biggest deck I ever seen. The guy that sang "Key Largo" Bernie Higgins was singing on the deck with his guitar. It was great and hundreds of women.

My best friend lives in Navarre, we were in the Army together 50 years ago and worked in the FAA at Pensacola together. He lives in Navarre, bought a masonry home with a 2 car garage, 3 BR, 2 BA and swimming pool in 1990 for $98,000, today it's worth about $275K. The biggest problem with the panhandle and one of the reasons I settled in TV, besides the golf here, is hurricanes. In just my 6 years of living there I went through two hurricanes. The one in '79 I rode out in the hallway and winds at the airport a mile from my house reached 100 mph. No damage to speak of except for a million pine cones in my pool, we don't have birdcages because of the hurricanes.

My neighbor who lives and loves golf even more than me, I shot a 78 yesterday at Cane Garden and he shot a 70. Him and his wife go the beach at least 3 weekends a month. Monday he's leaving for a week in the Florida Keys. In the past 12 months, he's been to Destin, St. Pete Beach, Siesta Key and his favorite Venice Beach about 20 times. He doesn't mind driving, to me, I rather never have to drive again.

Hang in there, if you don't like golf, try pickleball. Look to see when they have the 101 classes, I took that back in 2013 and it's really a neat sport. I also enjoy music when things are normal, the Hooligans, Uncle Bob, the classic rock bands I enjoy going to see. Movies, it's neat to go the theater and there's not a million kids and their mothers there to see some cartoon in the other theater. That's one of reasons I like it here, now that I'm 70 I rather be around people my own age than young people.

Traffic here, I grew up in St. Petersburg, and when I go there the traffic is 20 times worse and I remember when there was hardly anybody. Traffic here is really nothing. Condos are cheap in PC, maybe get a vacation condo for $200K and then rent it out when you're not there. The heat, I lived up north before moving here and in Maryland it would hit 100 degrees 15 days in the month of August. At the beach we got constant thunderstorms, they were really more over the city. I remember being on Pensacola Beach a few times in beautiful sunshine and looking back at Pensacola and seeing dark clouds and lightning. However, the storms didn't last long, the air over the gulf meeting the air over the land you get thunderstorms just about every afternoon. So for that reason, I really don't mind the heat here.

You could own something like this in PC and rent it out for $250 a night when you're not there.

https://res.cloudinary.com/rws-ecbyo/image/upload/f_auto,c_scale,h_474,q_auto/img_68d61c5e4b86d898_00a0a_jytbaoka6ah_1200x900.jp g

https://ivacationonline.com/uploads/pictures/23/6567.jpg

BTW, Jaws 2 was filmed at Navarre Beach in '77, I went several days during shooting and saw the sharks sitting on the trailers, didn't see any actors but did see the director setting up shots. Base camp was at the Holiday Inn Navarre, beautiful motel with a Holidome and indoor pool, the movie's opening scene with the band playing was shot inside the Holidome, however that motel was destroyed in a 2005 hurricane and wasn't rebuilt.


I was assigned to the US Aviation Test Board at Fort Rucker from 1962-1964. And got on flight status and flew as tech observer on every plane and helicopter the Army had there.Most fun was in the co-pilot's seat of a Huey practicing a strafing run at top speed 10 feet off the runways in the farmer's fields.
Also went to Panama City, and spent summer at the Climatic Laboratory at Eglin AFB in Fort Walton Beach.Tests for our helicopters, never forget walking through those double doors from the hangar at -65 to the Florida sunshine at close to 100.

[jswirs]

Are we to take it that you think it is OK to drive down a parking aisle the wrong way or ride you bike down the middle of the street? I've seen more parking lot accidents due to people doing exactly what you describe. Consider yourself "chastised"
Please re-read and this time comprehend what I wrote. Yes, I agree I was wrong for driving the wrong way in a parking lot, but please note that no one was impacted, again, I was in the wrong. As for the bicycle incident, I was completely within my rights of riding a bike in a street. The woman who chastised me claimed she could not hold onto her dog leash when the dog pulls away to chase me, because she has a balance problem. So maybe she should not have a dog, and not expect others to change their actions to make up for her lack of health.
Sounds to me like you are one of the grumpy people I have mentioned. You can't wait to correct someone whether or not you are impacted. Consider yourself "grumpy!"

[Rwirish]

Pretty much the way it is during snowbird season. TV is getting bigger and more congested everyday.

[golfing eagles]

Please re-read and this time comprehend what I wrote. Yes, I agree I was wrong for driving the wrong way in a parking lot, but please note that no one was impacted, again, I was in the wrong. As for the bicycle incident, I was completely within my rights of riding a bike in a street. The woman who chastised me claimed she could not hold onto her dog leash when the dog pulls away to chase me, because she has a balance problem. So maybe she should not have a dog, and not expect others to change their actions to make up for her lack of health.
Sounds to me like you are one of the grumpy people I have mentioned. You can't wait to correct someone whether or not you are impacted. Consider yourself "grumpy!"

I agree that the bike is no big deal, although a bicycle is still a vehicle and should stay to the right (you never know when somebody pulls out of their driveway without looking), the lady with the dog is irrelevant. The parking lot is a different story. Given the drivers in TV, it's a toss up for the most dangerous place to drive----the parking lots, especially the mail stations, or the RBs. In the first post it seemed like you were complaining that you were called out for driving the wrong way. I guess that would make you the grumpy one:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Here's the good news: After these posts, I doubt you (and many others) won't be driving the wrong way down a parking aisle, thank you for your public service:clap2::clap2::clap2:

[Tmarkwald]

Same amenities as TV❓ Right. 🤦🏼

I know - pretty silly comment. Nobody has amenities like we do - nobody even comes close!

I want to learn how to golf - Villages won.

I wanted a variety of courses - Villages won.

I didn't want a 4500/year Country Club membership to golf - Villages won.

I wanted live entertainment any night I felt like going out - Villages won.

Now, if someone can come up with an alternative that even comes close, I'd love to hear about it.. Otherwise, forever hold your peace...

[MickeyStevens]

Great feedback.

Thank you very much for sharing as it sort of captures some of the same reservations I have.

Plus one to DHDallas comments.

[davephan]

If your snow bird goal also includes stop paying income taxes in your snow belt state, be careful! Your snow belt state might not want you to stop paying the income taxes, even if your are away from your snow belt state for more than six months, plus one day.

For example, in Minnesota, there are 26 “intention” factors. These are things the state could use to force you to continue to pay the state income taxes. The factors include things like where you are registered to vote, churches or club memberships, including gyms, where you register, insure, and store vehicles. The state also has the “right” to know what you told your insurance company.

Your snow belt state might also use tactics like that to try to force you to continue to pay the state income taxes. I’ve heard that New York, California, and New Jersey are the most aggressive for forcing you to pay their state income taxes. I’ve heard that some states also consider when you visit your snow belt state, such as during holidays when families get together! Don’t just assume that being away from your snow belt state six months plus one day, will free you from paying the state income taxes!

[PanamaKim]

Please excuse if this has already been mentioned - I didn’t have time to read through all the replies. Check out the Fenney area and other areas South of Hwy 44. This is the newer area and it is more spread out with walking paths, bicycle paths and 2 great dog parks. This area may be more suitable fo you. In high season it’s “spread out crowded,” if that makes any sense. Lots of walkers, cyclers, nature preserves. Of course, not as much shopping (hardly any yet) and only a few restaurants. Add it to you list - it could be what you are looking for. Congrats on your retirement and keep looking until you find your place!

[Tmarkwald]

If your snow bird goal also includes stop paying income taxes in your snow belt state, be careful! Your snow belt state might not want you to stop paying the income taxes, even if your are away from your snow belt state for more than six months, plus one day.

For example, in Minnesota, there are 26 “intention” factors. These are things the state could use to force you to continue to pay the state income taxes. The factors include things like where you are registered to vote, churches or club memberships, including gyms, where you register, insure, and store vehicles. The state also has the “right” to know what you told your insurance company.

Your snow belt state might also use tactics like that to try to force you to continue to pay the state income taxes. I’ve heard that New York, California, and New Jersey are the most aggressive for forcing you to pay their state income taxes. I’ve heard that some states also consider when you visit your snow belt state, such as during holidays when families get together! Don’t just assume that being away from your snow belt state six months plus one day, will free you from paying the state income taxes!

I've also heard that in some cases, if they really want to check, they will look at CC receipts to see where you've been. I pay all cash when in northern states. CC in Florida.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

If your snow bird goal also includes stop paying income taxes in your snow belt state, be careful! Your snow belt state might not want you to stop paying the income taxes, even if your are away from your snow belt state for more than six months, plus one day.

For example, in Minnesota, there are 26 “intention” factors. These are things the state could use to force you to continue to pay the state income taxes. The factors include things like where you are registered to vote, churches or club memberships, including gyms, where you register, insure, and store vehicles. The state also has the “right” to know what you told your insurance company.

Your snow belt state might also use tactics like that to try to force you to continue to pay the state income taxes. I’ve heard that New York, California, and New Jersey are the most aggressive for forcing you to pay their state income taxes. I’ve heard that some states also consider when you visit your snow belt state, such as during holidays when families get together! Don’t just assume that being away from your snow belt state six months plus one day, will free you from paying the state income taxes!

It seems that if you changed your residency to Florida that they would have no power to force you to pay income tax.

Another option might be to sell the house up north and rent something for the months that you want to be up there.

[jerseyjoy]

We lived between 466A and Brownwood for two years. Anxiety about the crowds runs from November until April. Left turning out of our street was almost impossible in the winter. Going to the mail station had to be planned because of the volume of cars and golf carts with their “unusual” driving moves. Salon appointments need to be booked three months in advance. Same with doctors. I tried to change my dental cleaning appointment and had to wait 6 more months. Restaurant seating was always a wait, and take out food could take two to three hours. Trips to the car wash have to be “timed”, too. Need to put your pets in a kennel during the holidays? Book that a year in advance. If you’re willing to jockey for position five or six months a year, it’s a beautiful place to live.

[davephan]

It seems that if you changed your residency to Florida that they would have no power to force you to pay income tax.

Another option might be to sell the house up north and rent something for the months that you want to be up there.

Changing your state residency isn’t always enough. Filing the declaration of domicile document could be helpful, but may not be enough. Be sure to cancel your voter registration in the snow belt state too.

The states that aggressively try to force you to continue to pay the state income taxes, try to figure out your “intention”, and they are motivated to not lose their state’s income tax revenue.

Renting a home in the snow belt state could be an option. But then you have to move and store your stuff! That could be a huge hassle, unless you travel very light to the snow belt state. It won’t be cheap to rent a vacation home for months, during the peak vacation time in the snow belt state.

There’s simply a lot of extra costs for being a snow bird that you have to accept, like mail forwarding, maintaining two homes a thousand miles apart, and maybe being forced to pay the state income taxes, if you’re not careful.

We considered being snow birds, but decided to move to Florida, and cut our relationship to Minnesota. We still have in laws in Minnesota, so we can stay with them, and don’t have to own or rent property in Minnesota.

[Bogie Shooter]

We lived between 466A and Brownwood for two years. Anxiety about the crowds runs from November until April. Left turning out of our street was almost impossible in the winter. Going to the mail station had to be planned because of the volume of cars and golf carts with their “unusual” driving moves. Salon appointments need to be booked three months in advance. Same with doctors. I tried to change my dental cleaning appointment and had to wait 6 more months. Restaurant seating was always a wait, and take out food could take two to three hours. Trips to the car wash have to be “timed”, too. Need to put your pets in a kennel during the holidays? Book that a year in advance. If you’re willing to jockey for position five or six months a year, it’s a beautiful place to live.
So where did you move to that solved all your problems??

[Bogie Shooter]

I've lived in TV for over a year and recently moved to Stone Crest, which is just across the road from TV. Many stores are within 5 minutes of Stone Crest by golf cart, and TV is also accessible by golf cart. There are not as many amenities in Stone Crest, but there are also not as many people here, so, less crowds, more space between houses, less people along with more value per housing dollar.
With all the amenities available, I enjoyed my time in TV, but what I disliked most was grumpy old men and women who can't wait to correct or chastise others for something they may see someone doing "wrong", whether they are impacted by that action, or not. I have had this happen to me many times, sometimes I was guilty of some minor incident (like going the wrong way in a parking lot and was yelled at), and sometimes I was innocent, yet I was chastised because my actions somehow upset someone else, (like riding my bicycle in the middle of a small street and having a neighbor's dog pull away from it's owner, and chase me). I have my own thoughts of why people are grumpy, but one thing I know that is a causative factor is the crowded conditions in TV. It's really simple, the more people there are in a given area, the more problems occur. So, TV is definitely not America's Friendlies Home Town. TV is like any other retirement community, you will find many grumpy old folks, but you will also find many friendly, happy folks. For me, I prefer Stone Crest, but each to their own.

Could you send a check to help support the golf cart path maintenance cost?
You left but sneak back in......
Hard to believe there is not one grumpy old man or woman in stonecrest.

[rustyp]

I've also heard that in some cases, if they really want to check, they will look at CC receipts to see where you've been. I pay all cash when in northern states. CC in Florida.

If you play by the rules it is highly unlikely you will have a problem. No tricks you think up will beat the system nowadays. Big brother knows where you are - cash is not the answer. Example do you own a cell phone - big brother knows where you are and been. Have a car equipped with GPS ? Guess what. Do you even know you have a car equipped with GPS ? Those roadside assistance buttons work off GPS. Second house? Did the utility bills fluctuate and correspond to where you claimed you were. A tip for you - states communicate with each other when changes of residency occurs. Number one trigger claiming the equivalent of a homestead deduction in two states.

[aallbrand]

Try Del Web in Lutz Fl about 15 miles from Tampa . It is a retirement community and you are close enough to Tampa and all it has to offer. The villages has seen its better day in my opinion . It has become to political in my opinion .Keep in mind that TV community played a big part in electing the last guy in the White House. Not something I am proud of .

[golfing eagles]

We lived between 466A and Brownwood for two years. Anxiety about the crowds runs from November until April. Left turning out of our street was almost impossible in the winter. Going to the mail station had to be planned because of the volume of cars and golf carts with their “unusual” driving moves. Salon appointments need to be booked three months in advance. Same with doctors. I tried to change my dental cleaning appointment and had to wait 6 more months. Restaurant seating was always a wait, and take out food could take two to three hours. Trips to the car wash have to be “timed”, too. Need to put your pets in a kennel during the holidays? Book that a year in advance. If you’re willing to jockey for position five or six months a year, it’s a beautiful place to live.

Sorry, but I have to call BS on this post. A grain of truth and a ton of exaggeration. I've lived between 466A and Brownwood for the last 7 years. On a few occasions I've had to wait a minute to make a left turn off Warnock onto Hillsborough, and that is one of the busiest turns you're likely to see in the area. (Caroline Pl onto Pinellas would be the other). You can pick up your mail anytime, obviously some times are busier than others but no time is unmanageable. Besides, unless you're in a hurry to get your electric bill, what's the rush? Everyplace has a wait to see a doctor, dentist, hairdresser----but it is NOT 6 months. Never waited more than 40 minutes for takeout, so I arrive to pick it up at the time they stated. There are too few "good" carwashes, so there can be a wait at Atlantis, but there are small single car bay automatic car washes that you can get at a discount when you but 10 gallons of gas. And I've had a dog all the time I've lived here, the most popular kennel, Villages Pet Spa, starts taking Christmas reservations in July and is full by mid August, but has cancellations.

Basically, life here in the winter months is no different than Long Island all year round, with MUCH less traffic and MUCH less cold weather

[golfing eagles]

Try Del Web in Lutz Fl about 15 miles from Tampa . It is a retirement community and you are close enough to Tampa and all it has to offer. The villages has seen its better day in my opinion . It has become to political in my opinion .Keep in mind that TV community played a big part in electing the last guy in the White House. Not something I am proud of .

Sounds like you are the one making it political. Let's see-----maybe 50,000 people in TV voted in 2016 (although I doubt it was that high), and lets say they broke 3:1 for "the last guy", 37,500 to 12,500 or 25,000 to the plus. Yep, that's a "BIG" difference in an election where the winner got 60 million votes:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

PS: Just about everything you need in life at Del Webb Lutz you have to get in your car and drive to

[Rosebud1949]

Us 14 year PERMANENT residents agree with "the crush" every year Jan to March and more. People with attitude, and so demanding treating the villages like a holiday camp. Please remember that the Town Squares are also OPEN TO ALL, not just Villagers, so that makes for additional crowds as well. TOTV the other day) With the "never ending " building going on it will not get better. The unique way of life here is no more. So maybe snow birds should "stagger" their visits, for everyone's benefit.

There are lovely places in Florida to visit, and sometimes its good to "get out of the bubble", and see real animals !!!!!!!!!!! With our bird population decreased so much in the time we have been here, we need to get out and find them again.

[tlshoe]

I am only here in TV because my wife insisted. This is not her opinion; she loves every little thing about it. For me though other than the warm winter weather, it sucks. Driving anywhere is a pain. Way too much traffic and it will continue to get worse as they are continuing nonstop developing. Homes are crammed together. Heavy golf cart traffic is ridiculous and dangerous. I ride my bike on the cart paths and it is scary. Read The **************.com for all the latest drunk cart driving accidents and crimes.

I am more prejudiced than most because I don’t play golf, I don’t like games or clubs, I don’t like to socialize, I don’t swim or like pools, and would rather be around animals than people. I’ve been here 3 months and haven’t even needed or would use a TV ID card for anything. I prefer solitary pursuits, cycling, hunting, fishing, kayaking, reading, television, sitting on a beach, etc.

TV is a marvel of cookie-cutter overpriced homes in town that reminds me of The Twilight Zone episode where a couple woke up in this picture perfect town only to find out everything in it was fake and they were in a giant being’s terrarium. The place is just plain weird.

Get outside TV and this central part of FL is pretty darn ugly. Swamps, brush & scrubs, ugly trees, trashy homes, dumpy house trailers with plenty of crime & drugs to go around. I carry a legally concealed handgun pretty much everywhere I go.

Last year we stayed at Navarre Beach which is near Pensacola and absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but really very few. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along.

There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and local markets (as in real markets, not the imitation overpriced ones in the TV pretend town squares). Navarre Beach is NOT a tourist trap. The summers there are bearable too, not 100 degrees in the shade like here.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices (2019). The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I thought Navarre was a slice of heaven. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV. I got my summer lakefront home though for most of the year so all is not lost.

I admit, I am not the typical TV resident and my comments will generate plenty of “Yankee go home” comments but you asked for opinions so there you go...to each his own.

If you're anything like the guy who submitted this post, please don't move here--for your sake and ours! My own opinion can be summed up pretty quickly: When I have been away on a trip, I am very happy to return to our home and life in TV.

[MickeyStevens]

So where did you move to that solved all your problems??

Not sure where they moved but we live in the north end and we go out of the Villages for hair, docs and some appointments. We usually head toward Bellview. The section north may be older but what we like about it so less congestion.

[Bogie Shooter]

Not sure where they moved but we live in the north end and we go out of the Villages for hair, docs and some appointments. We usually head toward Bellview. The section north may be older but what we like about it so less congestion.

Wasn’t looking for a place to live , already in TV.

[Gulfcoast]

It seems that more and more people are moving to Florida, in general. I've done a lot of research on the Florida retirement communities and The Villages always comes up as having the most to offer as far as activities, clubs, golf courses, shopping, entertainment. I think that I would be most happy having a wide variety of things to do. From a longer term standpoint, I think that we would be best off having medical, dental, grocery stores, hair salons, etc a short drive (or walk or shuttle) away.

[Bay Kid]

Always sad to leave the beautiful Chesapeake Bay to come to TVs. Always sad leaving TVs heading back to the bay.

Life is hard, but fun!

[Nick B]

Check Harbor Hills. Upscale homes. It's not the villages but close by.

[Seasonal]

Check Harbor Hills. Upscale homes. It's not the villages but close by.

Thank you for posting this. Nice looking place and beautiful homes. Larger lots than those I see in TV.

[jojo]

I am excited when I read the plans for The Villages expansion that we all can enjoy.
Crowds don't affect my daily life within our village. In almost 13 years, I rarely experienced long waits for services and restaurants- maybe lines for pickleball in March. But that goes away. Traffic- are you kidding? With the roundabouts, there is rarely a back-up.

Someone mentioned decreased bird life. in The Villages. We have had over a hundred pelicans and the same number of cormorants on the water behind us for the past several days. While the pelicans are migratory, we have a variety of ducks, ibis, egrets, and herons on a daily basis with the occasional wood stork. We love it here. I said I would live here even if I won the lottery - albeit with a beach house also.

[Seasonal]

Thanks again for all the helpful posts.

[John_W]

...

[graciegirl]

If you're anything like the guy who submitted this post, please don't move here--for your sake and ours! My own opinion can be summed up pretty quickly: When I have been away on a trip, I am very happy to return to our home and life in TV.

ME TOO. I love that the homes have small yards, so much less to have maintained even though grass cutting here is low compared with up north. REALLY LOW. I love that as the developer builds he first builds the amenities, the golf courses, pools, recreational centers and green spaces along the major streets. I love that things are maintained and repainted in the common areas and that even though they keep building, they keep building in green spaces, very unlike any other neighborhoods I have ever lived in and I have lived in some nice ones. And another thing...folks are older and have seen and lived through a lot, which makes MOST of them compassionate and open minded and SOME of them grouchy and negative. I have lived here since 2007 and it just keeps getting better and better, and my dear husband completely agrees.

[graciegirl]

Thank you for posting this. Nice looking place and beautiful homes. Larger lots than those I see in TV.

Here is one of the NEW SMALLER homes available in The Villages. If you are looking for larger lots look at Premier neighborhoods. Harmeswood has the largest lots.

Homefinder - The Villages(R) Homes and Villas for Sale (https://www.thevillages.com/homefinder/S85V.9?new&preowned&maxPrice=200000&status&map&lng=-81.99355979584547&lat=28.87421165371721&lvl=0)

Homefinder - The Villages(R) Homes and Villas for Sale (https://www.thevillages.com/homefinder/S214.90?new&preowned&homesites&map&lng=-81.99355979584547&lat=28.87421165371721&lvl=0)

Most people buy the catagory here, called Designer Homes. NO. I don't sell real estate. Living here is more than a house, it's all of the opportunities to do what you love to do. I have become much better at my painting since sharing space in classes and clubs with immensely skilled artists.

I was surprised to see that there are very few designer homes listed right now. They must be selling fast. This one above is a little more expensive than most.

[deej012160]

We are probably three years out from a decision on staying here in south Louisiana (similar weather to central FL) or moving to an active 55+ community. We are leaning hard toward TV right now. Thanks to all the folks who posted such good responses!! These are very helpful.

[Catalina36]

Crowds??? In the Winter from Snowbirds??? I am a Homeowner and Snow birder. I am from Long Island, NY. I have heard people saying it's gets crowded and there is more traffic in the winter months when the snow birders come. If you are from NY, NJ, CT you will not think there is any traffic or crowding.

[Seasonal]

I found the video channel, Newcomers to The Villages, Florida, Jerry and Linda. So that's great fun to watch and kind of addicting. Very helpful and entertaining.