Asking for comments on areas south of 44 for to-be-new Villagers

[sshepard03]

We plan to be Villagers in the next 4 months and just finished our third lifestyle visit: were on a mission to pick a neighborhood. We were focused on the areas around south Lake Sumter/north Brownwood...but we surprisingly very much liked the new areas. Pitched and Putted in Marsh Bend, ALLOWED the people at Edna's to serve us and entertain us with music, Putted and Played in Fenney, enjoyed concerts at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood Paddock Square. Looked at houses in those areas as well as St. Catherine and Hawkins. Fell in love with the newer areas and were excited about infrastructure building there. Chitty Chatty seems still to be a little isolated for us. We greatly value convenience to shopping and activities.

Other than distance to town squares being a negative, we would appreciate any/all comments, pros or cons, on the new areas in the south of TVs.

Thank you in advance for your responses.

[vintageogauge]

There has been so much on here regarding the pros and cons of living south of 44. We purchased in Fenney four years ago and have really enjoyed living down here, 30% of the homes sold south of 44 are to Villagers that were living north of 44 so that alone tells you something. I'm only speaking of Fenney as that's where I live. No. 1 is medical, we are very close to the new 24 hour UF Villages Emergency Room, less than 15 minutes to the UF Leesburg Hospital and Emergency Room, less than 10 minutes to The Villages Specialty Care Center and soon to open new Primary Care facility. Restaurants, we are less than 10 minutes away from at least 15 restaurants with more on the way. Entertainment, less than 10 minutes to Paddock Square, later this year the Sawgrass outdoor entertainment area is rumored to be open, probably just before the snowbirds come back. Exercise, there are miles and miles of bike and hike trails down here starting in Fenney and going just about everywhere south of 44, most if not all of the neighborhood rec. centers have outdoor exercise equipment that is well maintained. Dogs, we have two of the 6 dog parks that are in The Villages, I don't like dog parks but they're here if you want to use them. Golf, we have 5 executive courses plus the pitch and putt course and the new 27 hole championship courses are well under way. Atmosphere, this part of TV is very open with lots of green space and water. Amenities, we have all of the amenities known to the northern villages plus several that are not up there with the exception of horse shoes. The only thing we don't have would be box store shopping, you have to go up to Lady Lake for that but I'm sure it will be here in the near future.

[Garywt]

Our cousin just did a lifestyle visit and bought in St Catherine’s. It is a beautiful house that they bought. They were looking in the same area as you but in the a new house won. To us the distance to the town squares is not a negative as it is more golf cart time and that is what it is all about for us. No matter where you end up it will be great. Good luck.

[VApeople]

If you like an area, think about how difficult it will be to get out to a main road.

For example, turning left leaving Chitty Chatty looks very difficult to me.

As I drive down Marsh Bend Trail, I see lots of cars having to wait a long time trying to turn left. The traffic along that road will probably increase when the road is extended to route 301.

On the other hand, I think it will be easy to get out of Hawkins, St. Catherine, and the other new neighborhoods nearby. Just pull out onto Meggison and then take that road or Morse over to Warm Springs Road.

[STLRAY]

I did a LOT of on line research during lockdown and had the same conclusion as you. However, when I got here I concluded that the new areas is where I wanted to be. My biggest reason is I am in my fifties and I found that more people my age lived in St. Catherine and the nearby villages.

[Debfrommaine]

We are on our 4th home, which means we are now in Marsh Bend. Love it! At first I was reluctant because we were used to convenience on the "other side". Now that we've been here a year and experienced it, we have no regrets. There are less homes and more greenspace; we have no one behind us because we chose a water view and walking trails galore. The wildlife is ever changing and entertaining. Publix is open, Sawgrass soon to come, the Water Lilly bridge allows easy access, 14 minutes to Brownwood from our home via golfcart. So, speaking from experience and not rumors or what I've heard.......it is beautiful and life is good down here! Here's the thing, give it a try.......and if it's not for you change it instead of being miserable.

[Stu from NYC]

We rented before buying and decided we wanted to be closer to the shopping on 27/441.
Also closer to the three squares.
All areas have pros and cons and what works for others might not work for you.
People often move here and than move to another area of the villages.
Good luck on your decision.

[HoosierPa]

Our area is best. That’s what you will hear.
We moved right next to Brownwood originally but after a couple years you will never go to squares. We didn’t believe it either but it happens. We moved to Marsh Bend and love it

[VApeople]

Our area is best. That’s what you will hear.


Yes, we all agree with that statement.

after a couple years you will never go to squares.

Yes, we agree. Didn't Yogi Berra say, "No one goes there because it is too crowded."

[banjobob]

Yes south of 44 is the place to be, all the new stuff shops stores homes .

[Brwne]

We plan to be Villagers in the next 4 months and just finished our third lifestyle visit: were on a mission to pick a neighborhood. We were focused on the areas around south Lake Sumter/north Brownwood...but we surprisingly very much liked the new areas. Pitched and Putted in Marsh Bend, ALLOWED the people at Edna's to serve us and entertain us with music, Putted and Played in Fenney, enjoyed concerts at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood Paddock Square. Looked at houses in those areas as well as St. Catherine and Hawkins. Fell in love with the newer areas and were excited about infrastructure building there. Chitty Chatty seems still to be a little isolated for us. We greatly value convenience to shopping and activities.

Other than distance to town squares being a negative, we would appreciate any/all comments, pros or cons, on the new areas in the south of TVs.

Thank you in advance for your responses.

Our experience with "South of 44" is more about "new" rather than geography. New development is South of 44 and that means that each neighborhood is filled with brand new people looking to meet their new neighbors. It seems to us there's a natural inclusivity with being on a circle rather than a long road.

Many older areas, North of 44, have well established "activity groups" and it can be more difficult as a newcomer. Being near a square is not quite as important as there's live entertainment in many other locations throughout The Villages.

Over the next decade (or two) 44 will become the geographic "middle" of The Villages due to the substantial planned expansion further South. Sawgrass is a different approach to a "square" and it's going to be interesting to see how it's received.

We've been Villagers, South of 44, for just over a year and absolutely love it! The challenge for the developer's crystal ball - what will create the magic for the future generations coming to The Villages!

[richs631]

We plan to be Villagers in the next 4 months and just finished our third lifestyle visit: were on a mission to pick a neighborhood. We were focused on the areas around south Lake Sumter/north Brownwood...but we surprisingly very much liked the new areas. Pitched and Putted in Marsh Bend, ALLOWED the people at Edna's to serve us and entertain us with music, Putted and Played in Fenney, enjoyed concerts at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood Paddock Square. Looked at houses in those areas as well as St. Catherine and Hawkins. Fell in love with the newer areas and were excited about infrastructure building there. Chitty Chatty seems still to be a little isolated for us. We greatly value convenience to shopping and activities.

Other than distance to town squares being a negative, we would appreciate any/all comments, pros or cons, on the new areas in the south of TVs.

Thank you in advance for your responses.

No matter where in the villages you move to there is always a better house or better area thus the reason why most villagers move to another house.

[Chloe Girl]

We are on our 4th home, which means we are now in Marsh Bend. Love it! At first I was reluctant because we were used to convenience on the "other side". Now that we've been here a year and experienced it, we have no regrets. There are less homes and more greenspace; we have no one behind us because we chose a water view and walking trails galore. The wildlife is ever changing and entertaining. Publix is open, Sawgrass soon to come, the Water Lilly bridge allows easy access, 14 minutes to Brownwood from our home via golfcart. So, speaking from experience and not rumors or what I've heard.......it is beautiful and life is good down here! Here's the thing, give it a try.......and if it's not for you change it instead of being miserable.
Wow Debfrommaine, it sounds like you think the "other side" is the pit of hell! If that's the case, what do you think of the section of The Villages, yes they are part of us, across 441 and Spanish Springs? We love the fact that where we live on "the other side" has beautiful mature live oaks across the street providing much needed shade in the summer. Every Village has it's pros and cons so we should just all be happy that we live in Florida!! The worst comment to this thread is the one about not liking dog parks, GEEZE!!!!!

[sallyg]

We moved to Marsh Bend after living in the northern part of the Villages. Great house, great neighbors, great facilities, and now the shopping center is very convenient. We found many/most of our neighbors were newly retired which sounds like what you are looking for. Marsh Bend is a lovely area.
If you look and look and cannot decide, renting first is always a good idea. The Villages is so huge, and still growing, there is a lot to choose from. Good luck.

[mrmrsjms]

Just for clarification, I thought the Southern Oaks Championship Course is going to be 18 holes, not 27 holes as indicated in an earlier reply.

[Bay Kid]

Too remote for me at this time. I prefer the Sumter Landing area. Close to everything important to me, especially golf.

[SusanKD]

WE love Marsh bend

[NoMo50]

If you happen to be sensitive to noise, be mindful of a prospective new home's proximity to the turnpike. And...do your due diligence and visit the area at night. When there are no competing sounds in the area, it is amazing just how noisy turnpike traffic can be. Some of those new areas currently under construction are VERY close to the turnpike.

[shueburruss]

We just bought in St Catherine after renting in a few places over 5 years. We've rented in St James, Caroline and most recently in Fenney. While we liked the areas north of 44, south is what we decided suited us best. We like new construction, "younger clientele", many walking/biking trails as well as new development such as Saw Grass Grove. Each area offers its own pros/cons and is up to you to decide which area offers the most pros for you. Good luck with your search!

[llaran]

finally someone mentioned the turnpike noise. also be aware of flood zones where you may need flood insurance, blasting from the quary and loud speakers from the prison

[Rsenholzi]

The houses are beautiful down there but watch out for the bond prices. It adds an additional $25,000 in cost on top of the house, that they conveniently “forget” to tell you. They roll it into the cost of the mortgage so you are not only paying the cost of the interest on the bond but also the cost of the interest on the mortgage bring the interest to almost 10%

[kimgarwel12@gmail.com]

We've lived in our home in Monarch Grove for a year now and absolutely LOVE it!!! It takes us literally mins by cart to get up to Magnolia Plaza and all the executive courses are within a few mins cart driving time. We actually use our cart more than our car now!!! Our friends looked for a home in several areas near us, including Hawkins and St. Catherine, but there's currently only one way in/out of Hawkins and if you're in the homes closest to Warm Springs and the church, you'll have quite a hike in/out of that village to get to those homes. They didn't care for the layout at all. Plus, for the foreseeable future, you won't have easy access past the turnpike to Magnolia Plaza or the golf courses by cart unless you go all the way down to Water Lily bridge and back up. Our friends ended up buying a home in Monarch Grove, but for my money, I'd buy something in the areas west of the turnpike as there's no telling how long it'll be before they get the Bexley bridge done. Just my opinion.......

[stebooo]

You just covered everything you can do south of brownwood. You are considered isolated. Developer has changed model.

[Marathon Man]

1.You just covered everything you can do south of brownwood. 2. You are considered isolated. 3. Developer has changed model.

1. And, in addition, everything north of Brownwood is available.
2. Considered by whom? Not those who live here.
3. Yes. Changed to a better model. More colors. More green space. Etc.

[John41]

We plan to be Villagers in the next 4 months and just finished our third lifestyle visit: were on a mission to pick a neighborhood. We were focused on the areas around south Lake Sumter/north Brownwood...but we surprisingly very much liked the new areas. Pitched and Putted in Marsh Bend, ALLOWED the people at Edna's to serve us and entertain us with music, Putted and Played in Fenney, enjoyed concerts at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood Paddock Square. Looked at houses in those areas as well as St. Catherine and Hawkins. Fell in love with the newer areas and were excited about infrastructure building there. Chitty Chatty seems still to be a little isolated for us. We greatly value convenience to shopping and activities.

Other than distance to town squares being a negative, we would appreciate any/all comments, pros or cons, on the new areas in the south of TVs.

Thank you in advance for your responses.

It’s called “Marsh” Bend because it was built on filled in swampland with potential settling issues in the future. At least one resident there has died of West Nile virus from the swarms of mosquitoes. There is also lots of noise. It’s not “new” once you move in either. So your used house will face competition from more desirable areas North of 44.

[justjim]

Just for clarification, I thought the Southern Oaks Championship Course is going to be 18 holes, not 27 holes as indicated in an earlier reply.

Yes, Southern Oaks Championship Golf Course is going to be an eighteen hole course and not twenty seven. It’s projected to open in the fall or winter of 2021.

[justjim]

Our cousin just did a lifestyle visit and bought in St Catherine’s. It is a beautiful house that they bought. They were looking in the same area as you but in the a new house won. To us the distance to the town squares is not a negative as it is more golf cart time and that is what it is all about for us. No matter where you end up it will be great. Good luck.

If we were younger and didn’t have such good neighbors, we would definitely consider moving into a new home south of 44. It has a lot of pluses. What the heck, might still do it!

[Petersweeney]

Geez...who doesn’t like a good dog park? (Cats)

[coconutmama]

Geez...who doesn’t like a good dog park? (Cats)

I thought the dog park reference was a bit odd. We do not take our dog to them, for many reasons.

But, to stay on the OP’s topic, watch out for water treatment, sewer pump stations & debris dumps. There are definitely some within The Villages & they stink when the wind blows in your direction. Ask your realtor but definitely do your own due diligence.

Good luck in your search, enjoy the process & welcome!

[DAVES]

We plan to be Villagers in the next 4 months and just finished our third lifestyle visit: were on a mission to pick a neighborhood. We were focused on the areas around south Lake Sumter/north Brownwood...but we surprisingly very much liked the new areas. Pitched and Putted in Marsh Bend, ALLOWED the people at Edna's to serve us and entertain us with music, Putted and Played in Fenney, enjoyed concerts at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood Paddock Square. Looked at houses in those areas as well as St. Catherine and Hawkins. Fell in love with the newer areas and were excited about infrastructure building there. Chitty Chatty seems still to be a little isolated for us. We greatly value convenience to shopping and activities.

Other than distance to town squares being a negative, we would appreciate any/all comments, pros or cons, on the new areas in the south of TVs.

Thank you in advance for your responses.

Realize everything is a matter of opinion. Many, in my opinion, have a need to defend the choice they have made rather than admit others have perhaps made a better choice than they did.

We also did three of the life style visits. Since, you say we there are at least two of you.

I would suggest you write things down. What is important to you and what is important to the other or others in the at least two. Writing things out makes all of us think about what we are saying. You then assign each care a number order in order of importance.
In writing it does not change or get spun. See where you agree and disagree. Often it is a surprise.

My opinion, my personality it is far less expensive and less stressful to do it right the first time rather than doing it over and over and over again. The realtor told us the average villager moves three times. We have been here almost 9 years, in the same house and we are happy. What to I regret? Frankly, I miss the basement we used to have. In the villages, I don't think anyone has a basement and due to the soil, the rain etc a basement would be an indoor swimming pool that you would hope to stick the next buyer with.

[DAVES]

The houses are beautiful down there but watch out for the bond prices. It adds an additional $25,000 in cost on top of the house, that they conveniently “forget” to tell you. They roll it into the cost of the mortgage so you are not only paying the cost of the interest on the bond but also the cost of the interest on the mortgage bring the interest to almost 10%

I'm no math wiz. We recently paid off our bond. At the time we bought, eight years ago,
the amount of the bond was far less than it is now and the interest rate was 5%.
When, we paid it off we were told the rate would be renegotiated in two years. That was roughly a year ago. Due to current interest rates going down, I assumed. perhaps incorrectly that it would go down from the 5% we were paying. I've seen people posting it is now 7%-that is not confirmed by me.

Check what you are saying. While you send one check for the bond with your mortgage they are not additive 7% interest on the bond plus 3% on the mortgage. It is paying two loans with one check. One loan is 7% the other 3%. Even the terms are different.
You can decide to pay more into your mortgage and pay off a 30 year mortgage in whatever you choose say 15 years 10 or 28 years. By law there is no penalty. The bond on the other hand you do not have that option. You need to pay it off in full.

[DavidCovid]

Hello and good luck on your home purchase.
Generally speaking, a vast majority of the new homes are located in the Southern Sections and the demographics of the Southern section vs those living north of CR 44 are the age of the residents.

A draw-back of living in the Southern Section is that you will need a car for many of your travels throughout The Villages. Although there is full golf cart connectivity in The Villages, you will need a car, especially to travel anything north of CR 466A. Traveling to any point north of 466A from the Southern Sections is not practical.

Good Luck and welcome to The Villages.

[vintageogauge]

Wow Debfrommaine, it sounds like you think the "other side" is the pit of hell! If that's the case, what do you think of the section of The Villages, yes they are part of us, across 441 and Spanish Springs? We love the fact that where we live on "the other side" has beautiful mature live oaks across the street providing much needed shade in the summer. Every Village has it's pros and cons so we should just all be happy that we live in Florida!! The worst comment to this thread is the one about not liking dog parks, GEEZE!!!!!

I don't like dog parks and many others feel the same way if even 30% of the residents liked and used dog parks they would be way over crowded with dogs and people. Now back to the original topic.

[Dond1959]

We have lived in DeSoto over two years and are happy with our decision. Here are what I see as the pros and cons south of 44:
Pros:
1. Newer homes and less to update
2. Lots of walking / biking paths that don’t have golf carts on them.
3. Typically easier to make friends when everyone is “new”.
4. Lots of green areas.
5. Good choice for Executive golf courses.
6. Lots of new types of things like the Pitch and Putt, Ednas, and Sawgrass Market.

Cons:
1. Noise. If you are sensitive to noise south of 44 may not be for you. There is definitely turnpike noise in the background. Also, in DeSoto the cement plant on 470 can be quite noticeable in the mornings.
2. Lack of championship golf. If you want to be within a 30 minutes cart ride of 6 or more championship courses you need to be north of 44. While the first 18 hole course will be ready probably by the fall, the other two planned courses (18 and 27 hole courses) have not broken ground and are several years away.
3. Lack of big box stores. It will probably be 5 to 10 years before there is sufficient population south of 44 to support the big box stores. That means a trip north will be required. If you need to be close to these stores move north of 44.
4. Living in a construction area. This can get tiring with all the dirt flying and fires being set to clear land.
5. Lack of restaurants
6. High bond amounts

It really depends on what you value and want. You have to decide your own priority.

[Bogie Shooter]

finally someone mentioned the turnpike noise. also be aware of flood zones where you may need flood insurance, blasting from the quary and loud speakers from the prison

Any other supposed negative things you forgot ?
Most of what you said has been debunked by those actually living there.

[Burgy]

We plan to be Villagers in the next 4 months and just finished our third lifestyle visit: were on a mission to pick a neighborhood. We were focused on the areas around south Lake Sumter/north Brownwood...but we surprisingly very much liked the new areas. Pitched and Putted in Marsh Bend, ALLOWED the people at Edna's to serve us and entertain us with music, Putted and Played in Fenney, enjoyed concerts at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood Paddock Square. Looked at houses in those areas as well as St. Catherine and Hawkins. Fell in love with the newer areas and were excited about infrastructure building there. Chitty Chatty seems still to be a little isolated for us. We greatly value convenience to shopping and activities.

Other than distance to town squares being a negative, we would appreciate any/all comments, pros or cons, on the new areas in the south of TVs.

Thank you in advance for your responses.

If a variety of championship golf is important to you, better stay north of 44. If exec or pitch and put is fine south is ok and I have been surprised has some new paths and wrinkles that are nice.

[Marathon Man]

We have lived in DeSoto over two years and are happy with our decision. Here are what I see as the pros and cons south of 44:
Pros:
1. Newer homes and less to update
2. Lots of walking / biking paths that don’t have golf carts on them.
3. Typically easier to make friends when everyone is “new”.
4. Lots of green areas.
5. Good choice for Executive golf courses.
6. Lots of new types of things like the Pitch and Putt, Ednas, and Sawgrass Market.

Cons:
1. Noise. If you are sensitive to noise south of 44 may not be for you. There is definitely turnpike noise in the background. Also, in DeSoto the cement plant on 470 can be quite noticeable in the mornings.
2. Lack of championship golf. If you want to be within a 30 minutes cart ride of 6 or more championship courses you need to be north of 44. While the first 18 hole course will be ready probably by the fall, the other two planned courses (18 and 27 hole courses) have not broken ground and are several years away.
3. Lack of big box stores. It will probably be 5 to 10 years before there is sufficient population south of 44 to support the big box stores. That means a trip north will be required. If you need to be close to these stores move north of 44.
4. Living in a construction area. This can get tiring with all the dirt flying and fires being set to clear land.
5. Lack of restaurants
6. High bond amounts

It really depends on what you value and want. You have to decide your own priority.

This pretty accurate. The only change that I would make is replacing "lack of" with "farther distance from".

[Marathon Man]

finally someone mentioned the turnpike noise. also be aware of flood zones where you may need flood insurance, blasting from the quary and loud speakers from the prison

"Finally" ????

As in "Finally I can jump in there with some negative comments about an area that I don't live in." ????

[vintageogauge]

finally someone mentioned the turnpike noise. also be aware of flood zones where you may need flood insurance, blasting from the quary and loud speakers from the prison

You speak like you know all of the southern villages. Turnpike noise is not heard all through the southern villages, as far as I know not any flooding down here like there is in the northern villages, remember Irma and how the tunnels up there were flooded, etc. not down here. I have lived here for 4 years and have never heard a loud speaker from the prison, the quarry blasts are once every 6 weeks or so and last a maximum of 2 seconds, most people down here have never felt one. The nearest railroad tracks are on the western side of 301 unlike the northern villages. It's very peaceful south of 44 and most of those that bought homes on the east side near the turnpike knew it was there before they purchased their homes. I'm a very light sleeper and like peace and quiet, if there were the kind of noises you talk about near my home I would have moved long ago.

[HIgolfers]

We have lived in DeSoto over two years and are happy with our decision. Here are what I see as the pros and cons south of 44:
Pros:
1. Newer homes and less to update
2. Lots of walking / biking paths that don’t have golf carts on them.
3. Typically easier to make friends when everyone is “new”.
4. Lots of green areas.
5. Good choice for Executive golf courses.
6. Lots of new types of things like the Pitch and Putt, Ednas, and Sawgrass Market.

Cons:
1. Noise. If you are sensitive to noise south of 44 may not be for you. There is definitely turnpike noise in the background. Also, in DeSoto the cement plant on 470 can be quite noticeable in the mornings.
2. Lack of championship golf. If you want to be within a 30 minutes cart ride of 6 or more championship courses you need to be north of 44. While the first 18 hole course will be ready probably by the fall, the other two planned courses (18 and 27 hole courses) have not broken ground and are several years away.
3. Lack of big box stores. It will probably be 5 to 10 years before there is sufficient population south of 44 to support the big box stores. That means a trip north will be required. If you need to be close to these stores move north of 44.
4. Living in a construction area. This can get tiring with all the dirt flying and fires being set to clear land.
5. Lack of restaurants
6. High bond amounts

It really depends on what you value and want. You have to decide your own priority.

Best post yet.

[Barborv]

I truly feel its a personal preference. I bought in the villages 9 years ago a new unit in Gilcrest. Since we rent that, last March we decided to purchase another home by lake Miona ,that we will live in when we retire next year. When we saw there was NO BOND, we jumped on it. I also wanted a particular style house for the past 9 years, and they don't make them anymore. There are many positive things about the new areas, such as walking and biking trails, newer recreation facilities , and yes, newer people. The downside for me was I like more mature areas, Love being near sumpter Landing and Spanish Springs area, Love driving my cart on Buena Vista, Love being by the theatres, and entertainment venues and all the shopping. As far as new people, the village I bought in is a bit secluded, and besides my husband and I, 3 new people moved into the area around the same time as us. It's a very tight knit area and they do a lot of things together. I guess also where you buy south of the turnpike makes a difference also. I have heard people complain that they hear the blasting from the stone quarry, or the speakers from the prison. The best thing to do is go to the areas that appeal to you and ask the people who live there and I bet you they will all tell you that they love their area. Soooo- personal preference.

[Chi-Town]

Take a ride on Buena Vista from 466 to Brownwood. Enjoy the vistas and the open spaces. That is a benchmark for comparison.

[Dynsol]

There has been so much on here regarding the pros and cons of living south of 44. We purchased in Fenney four years ago and have really enjoyed living down here, 30% of the homes sold south of 44 are to Villagers that were living north of 44 so that alone tells you something. I'm only speaking of Fenney as that's where I live. No. 1 is medical, we are very close to the new 24 hour UF Villages Emergency Room, less than 15 minutes to the UF Leesburg Hospital and Emergency Room, less than 10 minutes to The Villages Specialty Care Center and soon to open new Primary Care facility. Restaurants, we are less than 10 minutes away from at least 15 restaurants with more on the way. Entertainment, less than 10 minutes to Paddock Square, later this year the Sawgrass outdoor entertainment area is rumored to be open, probably just before the snowbirds come back. Exercise, there are miles and miles of bike and hike trails down here starting in Fenney and going just about everywhere south of 44, most if not all of the neighborhood rec. centers have outdoor exercise equipment that is well maintained. Dogs, we have two of the 6 dog parks that are in The Villages, I don't like dog parks but they're here if you want to use them. Golf, we have 5 executive courses plus the pitch and putt course and the new 27 hole championship courses are well under way. Atmosphere, this part of TV is very open with lots of green space and water. Amenities, we have all of the amenities known to the northern villages plus several that are not up there with the exception of horse shoes. The only thing we don't have would be box store shopping, you have to go up to Lady Lake for that but I'm sure it will be here in the near future.

According to Todays newspaper (4/27/21) and previous newspaper articles there will be an 18-Hole Championship course (NOT 27-Hole ) . Many keep posting there is to be a 27-Hole course adjacent to the Villages of Cason Hammock and Citrus Grove.

Each nine will be called Live Oak 9 and Laurel Oak 9 respectively.

If anyone has other FACTUAL Info to the contrary , please publish where documentation as to the source...............:bigbow:

[vintageogauge]

According to Todays newspaper (4/27/21) and previous newspaper articles there will be an 18-Hole Championship course (NOT 27-Hole ) . Many keep posting there is to be a 27-Hole course adjacent to the Villages of Cason Hammock and Citrus Grove.

Each nine will be called Live Oak 9 and Laurel Oak 9 respectively.

If anyone has other FACTUAL Info to the contrary , please publish where documentation as to the source...............:bigbow:

I think there is another area below Monarch Grove that is getting 27 holes. Maybe Goldwing Nut will chime in on it.

[Stu from NYC]

Our experience with "South of 44" is more about "new" rather than geography. New development is South of 44 and that means that each neighborhood is filled with brand new people looking to meet their new neighbors. It seems to us there's a natural inclusivity with being on a circle rather than a long road.

Many older areas, North of 44, have well established "activity groups" and it can be more difficult as a newcomer. Being near a square is not quite as important as there's live entertainment in many other locations throughout The Villages.

Over the next decade (or two) 44 will become the geographic "middle" of The Villages due to the substantial planned expansion further South. Sawgrass is a different approach to a "square" and it's going to be interesting to see how it's received.

We've been Villagers, South of 44, for just over a year and absolutely love it! The challenge for the developer's crystal ball - what will create the magic for the future generations coming to The Villages!

At the rate this place is expanding 44 will be considered in the northern part of the villages within 20 years.

As I told my brother in law who just retired wait 20 years and you can leave your house and say hi to Mickey.

[Ringo7648]

Other than Webster, Fl for their exciting flea market, you should drive north for many miles to shopping on 441/27. As for eating out you would have selection from the three trailers for exciting options as well as 1 Fenny Grill. Otherwise, again you will be driving to escape the turnpike noise, blasting, penitentiary noise to go to Brownwood.:1rotfl:

We plan to be Villagers in the next 4 months and just finished our third lifestyle visit: were on a mission to pick a neighborhood. We were focused on the areas around south Lake Sumter/north Brownwood...but we surprisingly very much liked the new areas. Pitched and Putted in Marsh Bend, ALLOWED the people at Edna's to serve us and entertain us with music, Putted and Played in Fenney, enjoyed concerts at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood Paddock Square. Looked at houses in those areas as well as St. Catherine and Hawkins. Fell in love with the newer areas and were excited about infrastructure building there. Chitty Chatty seems still to be a little isolated for us. We greatly value convenience to shopping and activities.

Other than distance to town squares being a negative, we would appreciate any/all comments, pros or cons, on the new areas in the south of TVs.

Thank you in advance for your responses.

[vintageogauge]

Other than Webster, Fl for their exciting flea market, you should drive north for many miles to shopping on 441/27. As for eating out you would have selection from the three trailers for exciting options as well as 1 Fenny Grill. Otherwise, again you will be driving to escape the turnpike noise, blasting, penitentiary noise to go to Brownwood.:1rotfl:

Very sad reply.

[Bogie Shooter]

Other than Webster, Fl for their exciting flea market, you should drive north for many miles to shopping on 441/27. As for eating out you would have selection from the three trailers for exciting options as well as 1 Fenny Grill. Otherwise, again you will be driving to escape the turnpike noise, blasting, penitentiary noise to go to Brownwood.:1rotfl:

Nice, another bashingpost.

[txfan]

Sawgrass Grove is a game-changer.

[beckylou152]

The houses are beautiful down there but watch out for the bond prices. It adds an additional $25,000 in cost on top of the house, that they conveniently “forget” to tell you. They roll it into the cost of the mortgage so you are not only paying the cost of the interest on the bond but also the cost of the interest on the mortgage bring the interest to almost 10%

We just bought in Bradford, and we researched everything first quite in depth. For the same house north of 44, we would have paid about $30,000 more. So the bond, which was explained very thoroughly to use, and not hidden in any manner at all, really makes up for that. Plus we have a brand new house. We have found all of our neighbors to be so nice, there are a lot of new groups forming, and we feel happy about our decision. I'm not saying this is the only place to live. I think we'd have been happy most anywhere at The Villages. The only negatives, so far, is the distance to shopping at big box stores, and that it takes a bit to get to an executive golf course. I'm super excited about Sawgrass. We do often take a golf cart ride to Brownwood, and to Sumter, and enjoy that as well. Brownwood seems to be a real "happening place" now with the bridges all open. We like to just grab a drink or dinner outside and listen to the music. I don't see that changing. We find being close to Leesburg really nice - we have found a church and bank there. All is good, and I think anywhere you live has its pros and cons. You just have to pick which ones you want to deal with!

[Bacimom]

We recently moved to Chitty Chatty from Pine Hills. We were concerned about leaving the convenience of Colony, Walmart, Belle Glade, etc. In reality, we are 5 minutes by golf cart from Lake Deaton Publix, 12 minutes to Belle Glade, etc. We can actually get to Brownwood faster now than before! We absolutely love the wildlife & the trails. I walk everyday & my husband is an avid cyclist & he feels SO much safer now that he doesn’t have to share the road with cars. Finally, we’ve found this to be an extremely active, inclusive neighborhood. Additionally, there’s only one gate, so our only traffic (other than construction/landscape) is residents-no through traffic. It’s been an excellent move for us! Ps, we’re 56 & yes, we do find a lot more ‘young’ or young at heart have moved here.

[VApeople]

We recently moved to Chitty Chatty from Pine Hills.

Do you enjoy trying to turn left onto Morse Road (Route 468) to get to the new Magnolia Plaza?

[Dond1959]

According to Todays newspaper (4/27/21) and previous newspaper articles there will be an 18-Hole Championship course (NOT 27-Hole ) . Many keep posting there is to be a 27-Hole course adjacent to the Villages of Cason Hammock and Citrus Grove.

Each nine will be called Live Oak 9 and Laurel Oak 9 respectively.

If anyone has other FACTUAL Info to the contrary , please publish where documentation as to the source...............:bigbow:

You are correct, the first course opening in the fall will be an 18 hole course. However, there are plan for two more courses, an 18 and 27 hole course which will be south of Monarch Grove and east of Marsh Bend. These courses have been discussed by the Villages and were shown in the latest insert that came with the paper this week. No announcement on timeframe for these courses has been discussed.

Continuing The Dream: Volume 3 (https://www.nxtbook.com/thevillages/TheVillages/ContinuingTheDream_Vol3/index.php#/p/1)

[Lottoguy]

Look at the villages of Polo Ridge, Tall Trees, and Piedmont. All are great locations and near everything you will need. New area is years away from needed infrastructure. Do you really want to wait?

[vintageogauge]

Do you enjoy trying to turn left onto Morse Road (Route 468) to get to the new Magnolia Plaza?

No different than coming out of Colony Blvd. and turning left on Morse. There are several intersections similar to that in TV, most of them North of 44 so why pick on Chitty Chatty?

[ohiosbestus]

My friends just bought a place off of Lawler Loop in Marsh Bend which is just past Ednas on the Green and she said she barely got moved in before neighbors were knocking at her door and took her under their wings and introduced her to their neighborhood watch group they have established plus their neighborhood golf groups for both women and couples and talked about other plans for purchasing defibrilator's for the group in the neighborhood for possible life saving moments before the EMS would get to that location. I believe Lawler Loop is either the first or second street past Edna's on the Green. Better hurry though homes are selling like hot cakes in that area.

[VApeople]

No different than coming out of Colony Blvd. and turning left on Morse.

To my knowledge, Colony does not intersect Morse.

I guess you are referring to going south on Colony and trying to turn left on 466A. That is a terrible intersection!! We have never even considered trying to turn left there,

We often play golf at Truman or Roosevelt. When we leave, we go right on Colony, then right on Odell, and then right on Morse to get home to Osceola Hills.

There are several intersections similar to that in TV, most of them North of 44

The only others I have noticed are:

1) Leaving Ternberry Forest Drive and trying to turn left on Buena Vista.
2) Leaving Laurel Run Drive and trying to turn left on 466.

I have never, and will never, try either of them.

[champion6]

To my knowledge, Colony does not intersect Morse.

I guess you are referring to going south on Colony and trying to turn left on 466A. That is a terrible intersection!! We have never even considered trying to turn left there,

We often play golf at Truman or Roosevelt. When we leave, we go right on Colony, then right on Odell, and then right on Morse to get home to Osceola Hills.

<snip>You are confusing Colony Blvd with Canal St. Your trip from Truman or Roosevelt uses Canal St. Colony Blvd. goes west from Colony Plaza, by Colony Cottage Rec Center and terminates at Morse Blvd.

[vintageogauge]

To my knowledge, Colony does not intersect Morse.

I guess you are referring to going south on Colony and trying to turn left on 466A. That is a terrible intersection!! We have never even considered trying to turn left there,

We often play golf at Truman or Roosevelt. When we leave, we go right on Colony, then right on Odell, and then right on Morse to get home to Osceola Hills.



The only others I have noticed are:

1) Leaving Ternberry Forest Drive and trying to turn left on Buena Vista.
2) Leaving Laurel Run Drive and trying to turn left on 466.

I have never, and will never, try either of them.

Google it. Colony Blvd. empties onto Morse Blvd. with no lights. I could never understand why they would do that. No need for being critical of Chitty Chatty as it is not unique to The Villages.

[laboutj]

Google it. Colony Blvd. empties onto Morse Blvd. with no lights. I could never understand why they would do that. No need for being critical of Chitty Chatty as it is not unique to The Villages.

There's no lights at that intersection because it's too close to the intersection of 466A and Morse Blvd. During snowbird season there would be a good chance that the traffic would back up onto 466A during certain times of the day.

And the bashing of south of 44 has to stop. I'm sure the same things were said of the neighborhoods south of 466 and then south of 466A.

[VApeople]

Google it. Colony Blvd. empties onto Morse Blvd. with no lights. I could never understand why they would do that.

Yeah, I sure did get Canal and Colony confused. I often make simple mistakes like that.

I often drive along Morse where it intersects Colony, and I never thought a person would ever come out of Colony and try to go left on Morse. I agree, I can't understand why it was designed to even allow that.

No need for being critical of Chitty Chatty as it is not unique to The Villages.

I disagree.

This thread is asking for comments about the areas south of 44 and I make the comment about the difficulty of turning left onto Morse Road from Chitty Chatty. I think my comment is very appropriate.

[JSR22]

Yeah, I sure did get Canal and Colony confused. I often make simple mistakes like that.

I often drive along Morse where it intersects Colony, and I never thought a person would ever come out of Colony and try to go left on Morse. I agree, I can't understand why it was designed to even allow that.



I disagree.

This thread is asking for comments about the areas south of 44 and I make the comment about the difficulty of turning left onto Morse Road from Chitty Chatty. I think my comment is very appropriate.

I turn left onto Morse from Colony all the time year round. Never a big deal.

[vintageogauge]

I turn left onto Morse from Colony all the time year round. Never a big deal.

As do everyone that lives in Chitty Chatty, not a big deal.

[vintageogauge]

Yeah, I sure did get Canal and Colony confused. I often make simple mistakes like that.

I often drive along Morse where it intersects Colony, and I never thought a person would ever come out of Colony and try to go left on Morse. I agree, I can't understand why it was designed to even allow that.



I disagree.

This thread is asking for comments about the areas south of 44 and I make the comment about the difficulty of turning left onto Morse Road from Chitty Chatty. I think my comment is very appropriate.

Your comment is only one man's opinion, you make it sound like it's a life threatening situation. You were not even replying to the OP you were replying to the individual that bought in Chitty Chatty and enjoys her home and village, you comment was not OP appropriate.

[Tennisbum]

Please buy up north......we southenders are growing weary of the northerners coming down and crowding out facilities!! Spanish Springs is a lovely place to own a home!

[Marathon Man]

Yeah, I sure did get Canal and Colony confused. I often make simple mistakes like that.

I often drive along Morse where it intersects Colony, and I never thought a person would ever come out of Colony and try to go left on Morse. I agree, I can't understand why it was designed to even allow that.



I disagree.

This thread is asking for comments about the areas south of 44 and I make the comment about the difficulty of turning left onto Morse Road from Chitty Chatty. I think my comment is very appropriate.

Because no where else in The Villages does anyone have to make a left turn????

[Tennisbum]

heard the same bull from some out of TV agents. Live in Marsh Bend for over a year and have yet to hear anything from the prison or the quarry, but if will keep people away please keep spreading the fake news!!!

[yabbadu]

I think there is another area below Monarch Grove that is getting 27 holes. Maybe Goldwing Nut will chime in on it.

Another words, it is here say to you with no facts! :bigbow:

[tvbound]

Although we will be buying somewhere near Lake Sumter Landing, between 466 & 466A, I like the idea that down below 44 is where the new Costco will be built (ducking - lol).

[vintageogauge]

Another words, it is here say to you with no facts! :bigbow:

You didn't read #52 did you?????

[Bay Kid]

Although we will be buying somewhere near Lake Sumter Landing, between 466 & 466A, I like the idea that down below 44 is where the new Costco will be built (ducking - lol).

Costco, a good reason to buy up north.

[canyonblue]

Other than Webster, Fl for their exciting flea market, you should drive north for many miles to shopping on 441/27. As for eating out you would have selection from the three trailers for exciting options as well as 1 Fenny Grill. Otherwise, again you will be driving to escape the turnpike noise, blasting, penitentiary noise to go to Brownwood.:1rotfl:

:blahblahblah::blahblahblah::blahblahblah:

[Lottoguy]

If a Costco comes to this area it will be built in Ocala. Perfect spot between Gainesville and The Villages. They want to be in areas with growing families.

[Lottoguy]

BJ's Wholesale just broke ground next to the Lowes on 441. Should be up and running near the end of this year.

[graciegirl]

BJ's Wholesale just broke ground next to the Lowes on 441. Should be up and running near the end of this year.

I haven't ever seen or visited a BJ's Wholesale. I have belonged to Costco at one time. I am happy with Sam's Club.

I think, as I always do, that I am suspicious of the motivation of anonymous posters who diss the new areas. I always suspect they may be MLS realtors that are frustrated because they are NOT allowed to sell new homes in The Villages and want to scare people off from new areas.

I think it is fun to be new in a place where a lot of people are new. You can begin the fun together. But I understand a lot of people who already live here are also moving to the new areas.

It will take a while for businesses to catch up, but they will come quickly, I bet. People are swarming to live here and I would choose a new area if I were moving here.

[Stu from NYC]

I haven't ever seen or visited a BJ's Wholesale. I have belonged to Costco at one time. I am happy with Sam's Club.

I think, as I always do, that I am suspicious of the motivation of anonymous posters who diss the new areas. I always suspect they may be MLS realtors that are frustrated because they are NOT allowed to sell new homes in The Villages and want to scare people off from new areas.

I think it is fun to be new in a place where a lot of people are new. You can begin the fun together. But I understand a lot of people who already live here are also moving to the new areas.

It will take a while for businesses to catch up, but they will come quickly, I bet. People are swarming to live here and I would choose a new area if I were moving here.

Went to a BJ's for the first time a few weeks ago. Loved their deli counter, wish Sams had one.

No idea when restaurants and stores will be opening in large numbers down south but when the population gets big enough they will be coming in droves.

[kenoc7]

Our area is best. That’s what you will hear.
We moved right next to Brownwood originally but after a couple years you will never go to squares. We didn’t believe it either but it happens. We moved to Marsh Bend and love it

Yes our lovely quiet area in the north end near CR42 is best.

[VApeople]

Because no where else in The Villages does anyone have to make a left turn????

I make a lot of left turns onto 2-lane roads in my neighborhood where the speed limit is 25 mph.

On the other hand, I hate making left turns onto a 45 mph 4-lane road without a traffic light. I guess the residents in Chitty Chatty can handle it.

[Joe V.]

I make a lot of left turns onto 2-lane roads in my neighborhood where the speed limit is 25 mph.

On the other hand, I hate making left turns onto a 45 mph 4-lane road without a traffic light. I guess the residents in Chitty Chatty can handle it.


We do. Quite well. None of my neighbors has even brought this subject up.

[DON10E]

Out of curiosity, why would you move 4 times within the villages?

[VApeople]

On the other hand, I hate making left turns onto a 45 mph 4-lane road without a traffic light. I guess the residents in Chitty Chatty can handle it.

We do. Quite well. None of my neighbors has even brought this subject up.

I have never talked with a resident of Chitty Chatty but I know someone who lives in the Sandalwood condos right across the street. He said it is VERY difficult to turn left onto Morse Road in the morning when he is going to work.

I told him if someone is going to start a petition to request a stop light at that intersection, I would be happy to sign it.

[txfan]

Do you enjoy trying to turn left onto Morse Road (Route 468) to get to the new Magnolia Plaza?

It’s not a problem.

[coffeebean]

Our area is best. That’s what you will hear.
We moved right next to Brownwood originally but after a couple years you will never go to squares. We didn’t believe it either but it happens. We moved to Marsh Bend and love it
Between being seasonal residents for six years and full time residents for five years, we still do go to the town squares to listen to live music. We have our favorites and usually go when they are playing. We love being so close to all three town squares, living in Mallory Square. LSL is the closest town square to us and we are about 6 minutes away in our golf cart.

Just last night we drove through LSL when The Hooligans were playing. The place was jammed so there are plenty of people who enjoy live music at the squares and socializing too. Then we went to Spanish Springs to listen to Johnny Wild and the Delights (personally my absolute favorite band) and the place was also jammed. We enjoy that sort of stuff but as I said, there are folks who don't. People have to decide what is important to them.

[coffeebean]

Too remote for me at this time. I prefer the Sumter Landing area. Close to everything important to me, especially golf.

Agree. Hubby and I much prefer to be close to the 441/27 corridor of stores and restaurants. Many people do say that having this convenience is not important to them. For anyone looking to move to The Villages, they must decide for themselves if they prefer to be closer to those stores and restaurants. It is a bit of a "hike" from areas south.

[coffeebean]

Take a ride on Buena Vista from 466 to Brownwood. Enjoy the vistas and the open spaces. That is a benchmark for comparison.

THAT drive at night is what sold us on purchasing in The Villages. The drive during the day is breathtaking but that drive at night was so peaceful and serene I was immediately in love with The Villages. Good thing we had our check book with us. LOL.

Hubby and I have driven around the areas south of 44 and I see less green space and rolling golf courses off of main roads so I'm not quite sure where the green space is that people talk about. Are those green spaces in the residential areas where the homes are? Seems to me the front lawns are even smaller south of 44. Maybe I'm just looking in the wrong areas. I just don't know.

I do love the walking path behind the Fenney Grill with the board walk so we sometimes take the drive in our car and hop on the path for a nice walk. That is a wonderful plus in the southern area. Lots of wildlife to take in. I see the same wild life in the northern area too and I can enjoy them when in the golf cart more so than in the car.

I prefer the golf cart paths to be separate from the main roads on Morse Blvd and Buena Vista Blvd. When we drove south of 44 (and also north of 466 is the same way on Morse Blvd.), the golf cart path is in the main street on Morse Blvd or what other name it has south of 44. I do understand that this infrastructure south of 44 affords the walking paths that do not allow golf carts. I much prefer the golf cart path on those busy main roads to be completely separate and away from the road with vehicular traffic which is the way that infrastructure was built south of 466 and north of 44..

Again, as most people have been saying.......anyone trying to weigh the pros and cons of what ever area they are looking to move to, needs to decide what is important to them.

[coffeebean]

Sawgrass Grove is a game-changer.

I don't know much about Sawgrass Grove but I'm surely hoping there will be a band stand like the other three squares where there will be live music. Folks south of 44 need to have that type of entertainment because the squares north of 44 can already get very crowded when the really popular bands play them.

[coffeebean]

Do you enjoy trying to turn left onto Morse Road (Route 468) to get to the new Magnolia Plaza?

From what I keep reading on this thread, it sounds like a traffic light may be the answer.

[coffeebean]

No different than coming out of Colony Blvd. and turning left on Morse. There are several intersections similar to that in TV, most of them North of 44 so why pick on Chitty Chatty?

Morse at Colony is divided with an area for cars to sit and wait for clearance of opposing traffic. Is 468 a divided highway by Magnolia Plaza? I know I have been there but can't remember the configuration of the road.

[coffeebean]

I turn left onto Morse from Colony all the time year round. Never a big deal.

I do too and that is because it is divided with area to sit and wait for the opposing traffic to clear. No big deal.

[VApeople]

I do too and that is because it is divided with area to sit and wait for the opposing traffic to clear. No big deal.

I'm glad to hear that you guys don't mind sitting in the median with the traffic whizzing by you in front and in back.

We drive down to the Southern Area several times a week to enjoy your amenities and I always feel bad for the Chitty Chatty and Sandalwood and Continental people sitting in the median. I'm pleased to hear it is not a problem for you.

[coffeebean]

I'm glad to hear that you guys don't mind sitting in the median with the traffic whizzing by you in front and in back.

We drive down to the Southern Area several times a week to enjoy your amenities and I always feel bad for the Chitty Chatty and Sandalwood and Continental people sitting in the median. I'm pleased to hear it is not a problem for you.

Really no problem at all. Isn't that those medians are for?

[Cookie Princess]

The only drawback that worries me is the size of the lots in that area. They appear to be much smaller, and the houses look very close together.

[vintageogauge]

The only drawback that worries me is the size of the lots in that area. They appear to be much smaller, and the houses look very close together.

Some are and some are not, just like in all of TV. There are probably more homes south of 44 with 4 car garages than up north and they require larger lots.

[Accidental1]

It’s called “Marsh” Bend because it was built on filled in swampland with potential settling issues in the future. At least one resident there has died of West Nile virus from the swarms of mosquitoes. There is also lots of noise. It’s not “new” once you move in either. So your used house will face competition from more desirable areas North of 44.

Swampland, really? Take a look at google earth historical photos...more like cow pastures.

[Altavia]

Swampland, really? Take a look at google earth historical photos...more like cow pastures.

Exactly, far more trees/green than before. The preserves and lakes support all forms of Florida wildlife where the future McDonalds hamburgers used to roam.

[vinricci]

You may want to inquire about higher bond prices and property taxes south.

[txfan]

I'm glad to hear that you guys don't mind sitting in the median with the traffic whizzing by you in front and in back.

We drive down to the Southern Area several times a week to enjoy your amenities and I always feel bad for the Chitty Chatty and Sandalwood and Continental people sitting in the median. I'm pleased to hear it is not a problem for you.

Please don’t feel bad for us, and please no traffic light. Maybe police could enforce the speed limit from Morse to Warm Springs a bit more.

[Pballer]

Many of the multimodal paths south of 44 have lovely views of the Turnpike as well as its constant noise. The multimodal path through Chitty Chatty has nice views of the high voltage lines that run along side it.

[Joe V.]

Many of the multimodal paths south of 44 have lovely views of the Turnpike as well as its constant noise. The multimodal path through Chitty Chatty has nice views of the high voltage lines that run along side it.


You feel better now?

[Debfrommaine]

You may want to inquire about higher bond prices and property taxes south.

Yes, new build can bring higher bonds. I remember checking out Lake Deaton and nearby areas a few years back, whew, bonds over 30K. You'll find bonds here in that range or depending on the size of the home, as low as 16K. The Wildwood tax is about $300 per $100K.

[Stu from NYC]

Please don’t feel bad for us, and please no traffic light. Maybe police could enforce the speed limit from Morse to Warm Springs a bit more.

They would like to but have a shortage of patrol cars.

They were put along the major thoroughfares and now they forgot where they are.

[vintageogauge]

Many of the multimodal paths south of 44 have lovely views of the Turnpike as well as its constant noise. The multimodal path through Chitty Chatty has nice views of the high voltage lines that run along side it.

I have to admit the developers were very smart in using land that was not suitable for building for some of the cart paths. If you want to cross the turnpike I guess you have to drive along side of it to find a bridge, doesn't seem to bother anyone that lives down here.

[vintageogauge]

You may want to inquire about higher bond prices and property taxes south.

The villages in Lake County have the higher taxes and the bonds vary just like everywhere else.

[Dotneko]

You feel better now?

You owe me a keyboard :1rotfl:

[NemoCrownie]

Do you enjoy trying to turn left onto Morse Road (Route 468) to get to the new Magnolia Plaza?

Why would proximity to Magnolia Plaza matter to a Chitty Chatty resident? Lake Deaton Plaza is a right turn on Morse or a quick 4 to 6 minute cart ride over the Chitty Chatty bridge and also has a Marathon gas station selling recreational fuel, Walgreen's, Publix, etc.

The only reason to turn left is to go to the southern Villages, Everglades and amenities to the south. The majority of the time it is rather painless and Meggison is already routing some of the traffic pressure off of Morse.

[MrFlorida]

My only negative of living in the southern area is the noise, the Florida turnpike is very noisy, and if the wind is blowing just right, it's extremely noisy.

[vintageogauge]

My only negative of living in the southern area is the noise, the Florida turnpike is very noisy, and if the wind is blowing just right, it's extremely noisy.

It's not noisy on the west side of the southern villages. I've lived here for 4 years and have yet to hear the turnpike. They are in the process of building more homes even further west in the village of Fenney Hammock along the Red and Gray Fox golf courses. .

[VApeople]

My only negative of living in the southern area is the noise, the Florida turnpike is very noisy, and if the wind is blowing just right, it's extremely noisy.

We often go to the Southern Area to ride our bikes, go for walks, play golf at Marshview, or just hang out at Edna's.

You're right, some areas can be very noisy, especially when the breeze is coming off the turnpike, but other areas are pretty quiet. It is something for buyers to check out before making a purchase.

[TCRSO]

This will echo much of what has been posted: We thought we wanted to be very near one of the squares and did not want to be South of 44. We rented for 6 weeks in Desoto (we did not want to be in Desoto but it was the only rental we could find). That turned out to be a blessing. We discovered that everything we wanted to do was nearby. We ended up in Marsh Bend (and love it). Brownwood is a 12-15 min golf cart ride. But after only a few months, we rarely go.

Rent before you buy if possible

[Road-Runner]

If you happen to be sensitive to noise, be mindful of a prospective new home's proximity to the turnpike. And...do your due diligence and visit the area at night. When there are no competing sounds in the area, it is amazing just how noisy turnpike traffic can be. Some of those new areas currently under construction are VERY close to the turnpike.

100% agree which is one of the reasons we recently purchased a home in Bradford, great location and as of yet I haven't heard the turnpike noise at all. It's pretty simple to use The Villages app/website to view a particular lot's proximity to the turnpike, distance and obstructions between you and the 18 wheelers matters.