56 years newbie to TV

[Flillini]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!

[ctmurray]

I am a younger retiree (62) and we have been accepted by our "older" neighbors, very friendly when we arrived. Now good friends with several. Our neighborhood has a several regular golf groups (one for executive courses, one for championship) for both men and women. There are other neighborhood sport groups (bocci golf) and we even have a monthly pot luck (before Covid). We live far up north and the houses are turning over as original residents have aged out or died, and the new residents are younger retiree's like me. The older areas have more mature trees that were planted when the houses were built and were built on land with more existing old growth oaks.

The new areas are also mostly younger retirees, and there should be a fair number < 65. To me the new areas appear "bald", not having mature trees. The older housing stock also have their bond paid off (new houses get a bond to cover infrastructure costs that you have to start paying but is not included in the listed house price). Now that the bridges over the turnpike and hwy 44 are open the southern residents can cart up to the north.

[Flillini]

I appreciate the information! I was told by people I met to stay away from the northern part because it is mainly for people that want very quiet neighborhoods and younger retirees live south.

[Bogie Shooter]

I appreciate the information! I was told by people I met to stay away from the northern part because it is mainly for people that want very quiet neighborhoods and younger retirees live south.
Listen to all people.

[shut the front door]

I appreciate the information! I was told by people I met to stay away from the northern part because it is mainly for people that want very quiet neighborhoods and younger retirees live south.

Absolutely not true. Northern areas are turning over. I also preferred mature landscaping and more restaurants, shopping... when I moved so I chose north. I was also younger than you and have never had one problem. If you are going to play softball, it will be quite some time before Everglades has their own leagues. For now, most divisions are being forced to play 1 season a year down there. The other 2 seasons will be at Buffalo or Saddlebrook.

[Stu from NYC]

I appreciate the information! I was told by people I met to stay away from the northern part because it is mainly for people that want very quiet neighborhoods and younger retirees live south.

Do not generalize. Get out there and see the area and decide for yourself

[Rwirish]

Already way too crowded in TV.

[LizzieBorden]

In most situations, age is not an issue. I bought here 16 years ago, I was 55, moved in when I was 59 and was the “baby” on the block. I still am. I became friends with everyone, organized and held many of our neighborhood socials, etc....remembered the birthdays of everyone...and helped out in emergencies because I could. We are just south of 466, and are close to all shopping and squares, banks, and tons of restaurants if you like. I had my activities, they had theirs, but we always look out for each other and visit back and forth, etc. We too now have mature landscaping in our area and we golf cart most everywhere, and getting ready to go visit our new friends south of 44 across the new bridges....we cant wait. We have visited several open houses down there but just want to get acquainted. Having your college son here is a blessing because people our age love the younger crowds as long as they dont blare their music...lol. So, come, rent, lovely people all over here, we love our area, Lynnhaven/Tall Trees, Belvedere, Ashland, Bonnybrook. We are close to the turnpike and 75 access....we can be to west coast beach in 1 hr and 40 mins, or sitting on Nokomis beach in 2 hrs flat doing down 75. Dont wait to buy, the houses go fast and they keep increasing in price. I agree buying where the bond is paid off or close to being paid off and its a good idea...but each to their own. Good luck...hope this helps.

[George Page]

The further south you go, the thinner the amenities get. We live close to Sumter Landing and take our golf cart everywhere.

[Villagesgal]

I appreciate the information! I was told by people I met to stay away from the northern part because it is mainly for people that want very quiet neighborhoods and younger retirees live south.
That's from people who don't live north. I moved to Glenview when I was 46 and hubby 52, we had our home built. We were well accepted. Other older original owners now moving out in their eighties, new people in their early 60s moving in. I'm 66 and love seeing all the new faces in their early 60s. Neighborhood is very active with block parties, potlucks, parties, sports get together and golf. You would feel right at home in the northern sections, and no $30,000 Bonds to pay off. Check out all areas of the Villages, stop and talk to people you see outside and you'll realize all areas are friendly. You'll love it here.

[juscause]

I'd be happy to talk with you anytime. I'm from Champaign, here for 12 years. Text me, 352-630-7445.

I moved here when I was 54. Go Illini!!!!!

[fireman]

I am 56 and my wife is 53. In the process of buying a home now. We chose a house close to friends and family we know here. We are in Spanish Springs area. By Cart it’s about 20 minutes to Spanish Springs Town Square and 25 to Lake Sumter. We like it up here and would like it about anywhere here. Just keep checking out all the places and you will end up finding your right place.

[Toymeister]

People self segregate and people rationalize their decisions.

How that applies here is the older, less active people stay indoors. Ero the more people you see outdoors the more active and yes younger they are.

The northern areas can be active just not as active. Do anticipate people who live in these areas to post that they are very active.

The truth lies in the recreation news. Look to what is scheduled in the northern recreation centers vice the southern and you can draw some conclusions.

[Nevinmann]

I'm older and live between the sixes, 466 & 466A. If I were your age, I would consider being south of 44. Price/value is better there because it's new. In 10 years that area should be well developed with full amenities and shopping. Also, most of the people living in those locations are "brand new" to TV and do not have established relationships like people between the sixes. However, you will find real friendly people everywhere here. Learn to play Pickleball and you will soon have hundreds of acquaintances that might someday be friends

[La lamy]

There's also a social club called "south of 60" I believe where younger people get together. Might be of interest to you.

[scottiesrgreat@gmail.com]

I agree - do not generalize :-). I live south - I still WFH - thought I would be way younger than most - hahaha - don’t know how it is done - but many couples in my area are in their 40s (yes) and in their 50s.

I might be younger - but that doesn’t mean I do not want neighbors who are respectful of others (quiet, tidy yards, friendly, etc...). :-) :-). I didn’t come here to party - and know very few who do. I have seen some who keep a very festive atmosphere around their homes - hahaha - they mean well - and it is nice to have people like that - but, I am sure glad I do not live near them :-) :-) !!!

I think wherever you go - you will find lots of nice people - who are happy to be here and take pride in their homes and neighborhood. Visit the neighborhood and homesite you are interested in at all times of the day, every day of the week.... you will know :-)

[Sskip]

Not true. I'm in my 60s and love it up by Nancy Lopez and Glenview. Easy access to 441, 301, El Camino and Ocala. Mature trees and no bond. Just sayin'.

[jmcica@aol.com]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!
Do yourself a favor and go to all the new villages in the south. Just left after 7 days- we drove through every village by golf cart. Great neighborhoods- you will be surprised.

[sallyg]

You will find many new friends wherever you decide to settle. Renting first is very wise. The Villages is so huge with advantages and disadvantages to all areas. Renting will give you time to find an area that suits your interests best.
We have lived in the oldest and the newest areas. It is hard to decide which I like better. Good luck.

[Kasolnic]

I’m in Pine Hills, which is about the same distance from Sumter Landing and Brownwood. And I’m only 57....there is a nice mix of ages in the neighborhood.

[banjobob]

The down south area all bright shiny and new attracts many , the established areas north offer a lot more to me . Shopping restaurants , mature landscapes little more laid back , all the amenities established ,many golf courses and rec centers. Just depends on what lifestyle you want . Plus no bond in a lot of cases and ,I would visit town squares and talk to residents for input.

[SacDQ]

We bought in 2019 in the Hillsboro area just east of Brownwood. Super friendly neighbor neighborhood. The area was developed around 7-8 years ago so all the vegetation was mature when we moved in. Welcome to the Villages.

[wganderson13]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!
I live in the historic section. Wouldn't have it another way. Bought starter house here & forever house on water on Aloha Way. Got rid of car for everything is accessible by golf cart. Seldom go south of 466. Having the time of my life. Left ALL my problems back in overpopulated, 3rd. world dump Chicago.

[Troopie]

You'd be surprised at how many people your age, and even younger live in The Villages. I'm 57, and moved here almost two years ago (although I had been visiting TV since 2003). My brother- and sister-in-law were only about 50 when they moved here. I think the area you've identified is great...any more north of that and the population tends to have lived here a lot longer (is older). I'm in LaBelle, and love this area. You might also look into the "South of 60s" and "Born in the 60s" clubs. You're going to love it here!

[mk1126]

Yes, when are they going to put up a "new Square" south of 44?!?! They are all coming up here packing the places now that the perimeter barriers are gone, especially Brownwood!
Goldwingnut - you know anything about a "new Square"?
M

[judyanswers@gmail.com]

If you haven’t already, you might enjoy a lifestyle visit through the villages, where you can stay in expensively on campus housing-and take informative tours.

The more time you can spend driving around neighborhoods and hanging out, the easier your choosing will be, as the differences are really street by street and time of year.

You can get about anywhere on a golf cart, but if you hang out at a particular square, consider the distance. We live up north in the villages, and 22 miles each way on a golf cart to Brownwood is a time commitment..about an hour each way.

If economy matters, you might want to choose a home with the bond paid. The Villages is in three different counties, and taxes are much higher in Sumpter County and lowest in Marion.

Most importantly, work with a realtor from the Villages Real Estate. I know some will argue this, but I have 40 years of real estate broker experience from Ohio, and worked with a wonderful off-campus agent. There was so much this experienced agent could have helped us with if she had worked full time in TV. I didn’t know how much there was to know!!

My husband inserts here that it could take 2 years to wrap your brain around the many opportunities there are for you in TV.

No matter what you chose, you’re going to end up in a fantastically well run, economically maintained, friendly home and lifestyle! Enjoy!

[Andrea3051]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!
I have the same question, 56 years young and thinking about TV as my new home. I will be staying for a 1 month visit to see the sights and homes and I agree that we have to see things for ourselves but I do have the same concern about "fitting" into my surroundings. And also wondered whether certain areas were more diverse in age than other areas? I am ok with peace and quiet but don't want to be too far from activities. Hoping my visit will clear out these concerns and find the perfect new home!

[Debset]

I moved here at age 55. This place is fantastic! Everyone is wonderful! No regrets! Only wish I moved here sooner. The hardest part is trying to explain to friends and family all the Villages has to offer. Enjoy!

[Bacimom]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!

We were 52 when we bought in Pine Hills. We were welcomed & included by our neighbors who have become great friends. We recently moved to Chitty Chatty so we could have a larger house & put in a pool. We love it here-the paths along the preserve are beautiful & quiet. Our neighborhood is the friendliest place we’ve lived. Loads of activities! Our college age son is with us taking classes online (Covid). He loves to fish and is able to fish every day. I was worried that Villagers might question him or make him feel uncomfortable, but it’s been the opposite. He’s only experienced kindness and encouragement-many fellow anglers inquiring about his success.
Pre-Covid we regularly attended Virginia Tech watch parties and the members are always extremely welcoming when either of our kids (22 & 25) attend with us.
Don’t rule out any area-look everywhere, walk around your potential favorite neighborhoods. Don’t just look at the specific home, but look at the surrounding area and how people respond to you when you’re walking around or driving a golf cart around. It’s a great place to live!! Good luck in your search!

[yanksansky]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!
Come on down to South of 44. We are younger and all somewhat newbies.

[Garywt]

We bought when we were 55 and I was forced to retire last year at 56. My wife is still working so we don’t get down as much as we would want. For now we take what we can get, about 4 weeks a year. Someday we will be there for 6 months.

[newgirl]

There are many of us young ones lol here! Check out south of sixty group, born in the 60's and more!

[jimjamuser]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!
If I had to do it over again I would live on a Cul de Sac. Avoid high traffic, main roads. I would NOT want to be on a golf course. Avoid lakes unless you are a rowing or kyack enthusiast. Lakes and golf courses drive up the price of homes and they are not worth it to the average person. Try for a gently sloping lot with a mostly flat driveway. if you cut your own grass, do not get the larger corner lots, they cost more and you will NOT use the extra area. Spend your time on outside activities, not tricking up your house.

[Flillini]

I appreciate all the responses! I am looking forward to moving down in May, getting to know the area, and hopefully make some new friends along the way!

[024engine]

Mira mesa or la zamora

[Gulfcoast]

I am moving and renting for six months. Been there couple times. Thinking strongly about buying between Sumter and Brownwood. Love golf, softball and all sports talk (especially St. Louis Cards and my Fighting Illini!). Right now limited in my activities with couple bad knees. Any suggestions on areas to live. I have been very impressed driving around and seeing people sitting out on their driveways just talking and enjoying the company. Obviously I'm not the average age in the villages, and I enjoy talking to about anyone, but don't want to feel out of place. I have a college son that for now will stay with me during breaks, or until he finds better options than dad. I do enjoy the more established areas with mature trees and scenic nature. Thank you all in advance!!

We'll be looking at TV very soon. I've done a fair amount of research and it's a top consideration for us. We're about your age with 2 college age kids. There are times when I'll be talking to someone who mentions their 30 something year old kids and their grandchildren. I'll think to myself "Oh, they must be about 10 years older than us", but then I'll find out that they graduated HS the same year that I did, lol.

56 is an age that can look a lot of different ways. While I might still have a teenager at home, someone else might have a 35 year old adult child helping them out with the logistics of their move. Some of us might dye our hair while others let the gray come out.

I think 50's/60's is a pretty normal age to be looking to move to TV. I've heard anecdotally that the average age to move into TV is 60 for women, 62 for men But some move in a little earlier, some move in later. I'll be curious to see Brownwood - I think my husband would like World of Beer. I'm also curious to see Sumter Landing. I can't "welcome" you to TV because we're not even there, yet, ourselves. But my guess is you will find plenty to do and find plenty of friendly people there.

[ndf888]

We are in our early 60s. We’ve been renting in different areas of the Villages but decided buy a house close to Lake Sumter. We wanted to be near a golf driving range (Palmer), restaurants, etc. The mature landscaping is a huge plus too. I only wish there were a gym close by and perhaps a few dedicated bicycle paths.

[Dgizzi]

The “newer” areas are not young people. You people from the “old” neighborhoods need to drive around here. I don’t know where you get everyone here is under 65! I live in monarch grove, moved here a year ago. I am 57 all my neighbors are 65 and older. And our newer area looks nicer than the “old” neighborhoods. We have nice new everything..roads rec centers and plazas and will only get better. The golf cart roads to Brownwood are unbelievable and I have talked with people who live by Brownwood and Lake Sumter, they are jealous of our new landscaping and I have met several people who moved from the “old” neighborhoods to come by all the new stuff. I would rather have newer home then used. Yea, there are all ages in the new section. Young and old. Quit telling people stuff about the “newer” area since you don’t live over here. My advice to people they need to come here and look everywhere don’t ask opinions cause you have to decide what you like.