Considering Retiring To The Villages

[LarryRCTexas]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

[oldtimes]

I always admire people who read TOTV and still want to move here. It really is a wonderful place to live.

[Stu from NYC]

Good luck to you but do think you need more than a weekend to decide if you want to come here and where you might want to live.

We rented for a month and with hindsight could have made it 2.

[Papa_lecki]

You’ll also want an MLS realtor. The Villages sales agents can’t sell MLS houses and MLS realtors can’t sell Villages properties.
I don’t know the breakdown of MLS vs Villages homes - but you are probably missing 50% of the homes by only working with one agent.

Also, above is correct, you can’t make a decision in 3 days - you’ll want to be here for a month. The place is huge and each “area” has a different vibe.

[Mortal1]

Do your thing. Ignore all replies and base your decision on what you see and what can be done here compared to anywhere else.

We were here two days, but my wife already had perused all the homes/layouts and decided her ideal. She found it the 2nd day and we signed/moved in two days later.

I golf...a lot...my wife quilts/moves stuff around the house constantly...even have her mowing the lawn... :-).

[dewilson58]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

Enjoy the trip.
The Agent is a great source of information.......they are selling, but they have a lot of info for newbies.
Try to hit a town square.
Whatever your interests are, ask the Agent how to sample during your trip.
Good Luck.

[graciegirl]

You will be overwhelmed and astonished. We love it here. Hope you find happiness. My husband and I just like it better every day. It will be fifteen years.

[Tmarkwald]

You’ll also want an MLS realtor. The Villages sales agents can’t sell MLS houses and MLS realtors can’t sell Villages properties.
I don’t know the breakdown of MLS vs Villages homes - but you are probably missing 50% of the homes by only working with one agent.

Also, above is correct, you can’t make a decision in 3 days - you’ll want to be here for a month. The place is huge and each “area” has a different vibe.

Yes, perfect advice. Get a 'real real estate agent.

[graciegirl]

Yes, perfect advice. Get a 'real real estate agent.

Oh please.

I like The Villages agents. They don't PUSH. They don't have to. AND...They can sell new houses and resales. New neighborhoods are fun if you are new and the new homes don't cost any more than used. P.S. I don't sell houses.

[Tmarkwald]

Oh please.

I like The Villages agents. They don't PUSH. They don't have to. AND...They can sell new houses and resales. New neighborhoods are fun if you are new and the new homes don't cost any more than used. P.S. I don't sell houses.

They can only sell the resales they have.

They cannot access nor sell any MLS listings.

Have a REAL agent in addition to the Villages agents. That will give you access to a LOT of additional and varied postings.

And NEW home can cost a LOT more than resales. Starting with the $30,000 bond, landscaping, etc. No squares to go to down there, etc etc.

[Tmarkwald]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

This is a wonderful place to live. Spend some time late afternoon in the evenings at one of the Squares and talk to people at the bars, etc.

That made my choices much easier. And I found that 8 out of 10 people did not buy through the Villages agents.

[Topspinmo]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

I wouldn’t take it to bank what village realty says, they will push new homes. That ok if that’s all you interested in. But I would look at all options which includes Other real estate listing? I would be looking online right now what on market that might be interested in.

[Topspinmo]

Down there? That says a lot as to where you are coming from. Bashing?

That says a lot also. Village realtor’s will push new home’s and they are only down “there”.

[graciegirl]

That says a lot also. Village realtor’s will push new home’s and they are only down “there”.

The Villages agents make the same percentage selling new or used. Our Village agent, Jim McLaughlin, showed us resales when we decided we needed a bigger home. We ended up building. It was cheaper to build.

I am so tired of people saying mean stuff about the newest areas. Someone is always trying to bash the developer and someone is always trying to sell up MLS. No one has to push The Villages.... I love the way The Villages does business. Apparently so do a lot of people. Folks are lined up to buy here. P.S. I don't sell houses and I have never sold houses, but I love watching the market on homes.

[manaboutown]

My first Villages agent evaded showing me even one resale. Their primary mission is selling new homes for the developer. Be sure your Villages agent is willing to show you resales and find a Realtor to show you MLS listings as well.

[DylanTodd]

Hi Larry,

I actually went through a similar process recently. I started researching the Villages back in November and I learned a lot from TOTV and youtube. I had it all built up in my head and I was so excited to come down for my first visit that I was actually scared it wouldn't be as good as advertised, especially since I had been encouraging my wife that this would be a great spot. We came down the first week of February and heard the music playing in the square, had a great tour day with our Villages realtor. Smitten from the first moment. Purchased a home in the south in De Luna a couple weeks later. In sum, I think you are on the right track. If you have any specific questions don't hesitate to reach out to me directly.

Cheers,

Dylan

[Northerner52]

Someone was just telling me when building was starting south of 466, yes, 466, everyone said you don't want to buy past there, there is nothing there. LOL!!!

[nob77@comcast.net]

Definitely get a mls realtor as well. Good luck!

[spike36]

Check out Top of the World in Ocala before you buy here…..A lot more home for the money and better golf courses.

[dewilson58]

Definitely get a mls realtor as well. Good luck!

Can't look at new homes.

[Rwirish]

Come down for a few years and during all seasons and then make an informed intelligent decision.

[Ctaylor]

We moved here from San Antonio and have found that our Village realtor tried to discourage us from buying fast (we did anyway). We have a new house down South and it is absolutely one of the best decisions we have made. Amazing amount of stuff todo - we prefer Edna’s on the Green to town square (which is 12 minutes away in a golf cart).

[Billy1]

Have lived "down there" 3 years, love it. There is no right place or better place, but only the place you like.

[BayLady57]

Hi Larry,

Not sure if you are a YouTube watcher, but if you are or are not let me suggest you being a single guy considering TV for retirement, YouTuber Rusty Nelson who is on the same journey as you has put out a number videos detailing his experiences from a single's perspective which begin with making his 1st call to book a lifestyle visit. Rusty just completed a month long stay which he rented a patio villa. Also, Rusty is very responsive to answering questions of those who leave them in the comments. Although I will be making the journey to TV with my husband, I very much enjoy Rusty's videos as well as several other TV YouTubers.

Best of luck.

[Tmarkwald]

The Villages agents make the same percentage selling new or used. Our Village agent, Jim McLaughlin, showed us resales when we decided we needed a bigger home.

The point is the Villages agents have NO access to MLS listings at all.
They cannot list them,
They cannot show them,
They cannot see them.

There is a whole, bigger world out there in MLS that Village realtors do not talk about or deal with. We closed on house 2 in March. It took us an additional 3 weeks to close because the title agencies were doing 10 closings a day in TV and that was the backlog.

8/10 people use MLS to purchase.

Always excited to see a new person look at our little slice of heaven, but he needs to know how big the resale world actually is.

[Robyn1963]

You should work with an MLS agent too. I work with Exit Realty.

Also check out my YouTube channel. I can’t put the link to the channel because when I do I get a warning from this site because I advertise my real estate business. But if you search my name you will find it. Robyn Cavallaro. It’s all about living in the villages in Florida

[jamorela]

What suburb of Dallas? My son lives in Southlake!

[westernrider75]

I think your info is not quite accurate. Since the opening of the Water Lily Bridge all the squares are very easily and quickly accessible to anyone in a new home area. From Monarch Grove we can get to Brownwood Square in 15 minutes. The new Sawgrass Grove area is coming and there will be entertainment there.

Before we bought new we looked at pre-owned, when we inserted all info that was important to us into our spreadsheet, new came out on top every time.

[nick demis]

They can only sell the resales they have.

They cannot access nor sell any MLS listings.

Have a REAL agent in addition to the Villages agents. That will give you access to a LOT of additional and varied postings.

And NEW home can cost a LOT more than resales. Starting with the $30,000 bond, landscaping, etc. No squares to go to down there, etc etc.

As someone that has moved DOWN THERE you have no idea what you are talking about. Things are moving fast and within a couple of years, this will be the best place to live unless you are to old and set in your ways.
PS the cost is going up as fast for resales as it is for new and you can build for no more cost or spend as much as you want to have the perfect new home with non of the resale house problems like plumbing and roof replacement.

[jamorela]

Also, check out “Single in the Villages” on Facebook. It is a great group!
The Villages 55+ Retirement Community and Being Single. The Facebook Group Single in the Villages. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKGmRdMzvCg)

[billyb1950]

Keep in mind The Villages is no longer a retirement "community", but a retirement "metropolis".

[thevillages2013]

Also, check out “Single in the Villages” on Facebook. It is a great group!
The Villages 55+ Retirement Community and Being Single. The Facebook Group Single in the Villages. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKGmRdMzvCg)

Trying to scare him into staying in Texas?:bigbow:

[Tmarkwald]

As someone that has moved DOWN THERE you have no idea what you are talking about.

PS the cost is going up as fast for resales as it is for new

Well, considering I price the homes continuously I'll differ with you, in a very big way. But, everyone has different ideas of affordable. I absolutely know what I am talking about.

And yes, resales are going up, but new are going crazy because of the cost of raw materials.

Nobody from UP HERE is bashing anybody, but it is interesting that everyone south of the new bridge seems to be bashing and defending themselves as if someone has said something disparaging about them.

[J1ceasar]

Great thing you're coming down to visit, remember there are 10 plus Senior communities near the villages all are much cheaper and have a different vibe than The villages, Plantation , and Pennbrooke Fairways are two you should look at also as well as more in and around Leesburg . Stay at least a week

[stewiegal]

Use an MLS agent in addition to The Villages agent. They cant sell each others listings. That way you can see everything available in the area you prefer. BTW theres no BAD areas. Make sure you understsnd what the bond is. There are many homes with bonds paid off. Everyplace in TV is beautiful and friendly. Best of luck.

[Tmarkwald]

One thing to remember - if you aren't IN the Villages, you cannot partake in any of the activities of the Villages.

Everything in TV is within golfcart range, although most of this is north right now. That will gradually shift as more recreation areas are planned towards the south.

If you purchase outside TV, the only activity you can do is the entertainment at The Squares. Nothing else will be available to you. So, there is a price to pay for being in TV, but it is, in my opinion, well worth it. Bear that in mind as you shop.

Welcome - most everyone here is extremely friendly and will welcome you to TV and show you around!

All the Villages are great to live in!

[Dlbonivich]

I came here for a weekend 3 1/2 years ago and moved I am a MLS realtor here. I have 25 years experience and have been in Florida for 13 of those. Villages sales agents are great. They do represent the developer. Seem to be fair. Prices for new have increased because of material costs. The new areas are fine, you have to find what suits you. There are MLS resales in all areas. MLS agents have about half of the resales in the area. Good luck. Andrea Bonivich, Sellstate Superior Realty 281-513-1250

[noslices1]

Don’t worry about getting a MLS real estate agent unless the Villages agent can’t find you something you like. You won’t have enough time to use two agents trying to help you.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

It took until post #37 to be really helpful to new customer at the koolaid stand. We don't and should not know your financial situation, but as part of your affordability cost, don't forget to add in the cost of the bond or not, when putting the numbers in your financial margarita blender. . .

Make sure you decide what your priorities are, and be sure to look at the different models, and if you decide to build, be sure to check what type of house can go on each lot you are considering. If you decide against a build, and are going for a re-sale, i would rent down here with a pen in your hand every day, and try to be the first for every new listing, as we have seen some very, very nice houses get put under agreement hours after for sale, and some never even make the public view. . . .

but then again, we are all just individual posters on a random internet site.

finance guy

[richs631]

Good luck to you but do think you need more than a weekend to decide if you want to come here and where you might want to live.

We rented for a month and with hindsight could have made it 2.

I made my decision after the second roundabout on Buena Vista. Never played golf before I came so it wasn’t about golf. The fact that the place was so well manicured is what got me. After 3 years, not one regret

[mcwood4d]

There is a lot of conversation about villages vs. MLS realtors. One thing I haven't seen yet is a mention of VA funding. Villages agents can't (won't?) work with VA funded loans. I've spoken to a few people who have needed to go with an MLS realtor. I think (don't know) that the reason Properties of The Villages doesn't do VA funded sales is because of lead time. Last I heard new home sales must close within 30 days. VA can't meet that schedule. Also, if you talk to an MLS agent, some (perhaps not a lot) also manage rentals in the villages. You could rent for a few months while shopping...?

Talk to a lot of "strangers" while you visit.

Wishing you nothing but luck in your journey.

[Footer]

Download The Villages App. You can see all the homes being sold by The Villages and it has a Destinations tab with directions to everywhere in The Villages via car and cart. Then check out homes on Zillow using appropriate filters. The Villages sold 800 homes last month. Don't know the mix but probably 50/50 new/used. Don't know how many are sold by MLS but I expect quite a few.

If you like natural gas for heat or cooking be aware that houses between 466a and 44 don't have it.

If you are a softball player, most of the action is at the 2 fields along 466, although Everglades in the south will be getting some use now.

[richs631]

This is a wonderful place to live. Spend some time late afternoon in the evenings at one of the Squares and talk to people at the bars, etc.

That made my choices much easier. And I found that 8 out of 10 people did not buy through the Villages agents.

I don’t know we’re you got that info but you are 100% incorrect.

[Tmarkwald]

It took until post #37 to be really helpful to new customer at the koolaid stand. We don't and should not know your financial situation, but as part of your affordability cost, don't forget to add in the cost of the bond or not, when putting the numbers in your financial margarita blender. . .

Bond was mentioned in Post #10 - and bond, for me, meant the home would cost 10% more.

Then, when I factored in landscaping, upgraded interior stuff, etc, just got too dear.

Some people come down here with loads of cash and really don't care or the costs. And that's fine. We are all on equal footing here - nobody is better than anybody else. We're on an even playing field, as we should be!

One other thing that needs to be pointed out - the amenity fee is currently $164 / monthly.

[Tmarkwald]

I don’t know we’re you got that info but you are 100% incorrect.

Well, I asked around when shopping and 8/10 people told me to check with MLS as they had gotten more bang for the buck working with MLS. And I certainly did. Easy choice...

So, it is what it is. And with MLS closings being delayed by 3 weeks because there are so many closing kinda makes that comment a bit nonsensical.

[richs631]

Check out Top of the World in Ocala before you buy here…..A lot more home for the money and better golf courses.

You do get more home for your money but OTOTW IS NO COMPARISON to the villages, not even on the same planet. Maybe 3 of there golf courses are better is because they only have 3.

[Tmarkwald]

I don’t know we’re you got that info but you are 100% incorrect.

You do get more home for your money but OTOTW IS NO COMPARISON to the villages, not even on the same planet. Maybe 3 of there golf courses are better is because they only have 3.

There are a few great YouTube videos comparing OTOTW and TV. World of difference, Especially the drone flyovers showing.. nothing...happening at OTOTW.

Entertainment alone is almost nonexistent. And I swear, after touring there, the only person under 85 was me and my realtor.... It's an assisted living facility without the 'assisted' part...

But, no problem getting tee times. problem might be getting together a foursome and actually completing a course!

[akerwin1909]

I use Realtor.com. Look at all homes North of 44. I’ve been here 11 months this week and can assure you that you’ll like a lot of things about the Villages, but it is not like the Dallas area. Outside of The Villages is very country and small town. Look at new homes but the bulk of The Villages, most of the action and miles and miles of the golf cart paths are North of Hwy. 44. Rent for at least a month to find out where you want to land. There’s no hurry!!

[riamd1954]

Welcome I own a sun kissed small cottage home! It has a great floor plan

[richs631]

Bond was mentioned in Post #10 - and bond, for me, meant the home would cost 10% more.

Then, when I factored in landscaping, upgraded interior stuff, etc, just got too dear.

Some people come down here with loads of cash and really don't care or the costs. And that's fine. We are all on equal footing here - nobody is better than anybody else. We're on an even playing field, as we should be!

One other thing that needs to be pointed out - the amenity fee is currently $164 / monthly.

Once you add all the other hidden fees from other developers you will see that the costs are very similar

[Stu from NYC]

Wow cannot believe the arguing over MLS and Village realtors.

They both have something to offer.

[sallyg]

Get an MLS realtor as well or you won't see everything that is available.
I wish we would have rented before purchasing a home. The Villages has grown so much, and continues to grow, it is hard to take it all in during a short visit. Good luck.

[JMintzer]

We worked w/a Villages realtor. She showed us both new (South of 44) and resales (between 446 & 446A) because those were the areas we wanted to be.

After looking at Chitty Chatty and Bradford, my wife ruled out those area due to her aversion to the plethora of power lines. She hates seeing them and won't live near them.

I felt Isolated West of 75, although the area was beautiful. My wife has met some women there (taking lessons at the Golf Academy) and now plays golf with them. I've been over there more and it's definitely grown on me, but for me, being North of 44 was what "WE" wanted. Just like chocolate and vanilla ice cream, everyone likes something different...

Once we knew where we wanted to be, our realtor worked really hard to find us what we wanted and even made a few calls for us on MLS listings (even though she would not get the commission). She never "pushed the new homes" or spoke ill of the resales. She asked us what WE wanted and worked to find us exactly that!

We found a beautiful resale in Osceola Hills (Soaring Eagle), which happened to be right down the street from some friends of ours.

[Ele201]

Thanks for the info! Btw, what vibe is the area around lake Sumter (Virginia Trace, etc). Curious because I’m renting there. You’ll also want an MLS realtor. The Villages sales agents can’t sell MLS houses and MLS realtors can’t sell Villages properties.
I don’t know the breakdown of MLS vs Villages homes - but you are probably missing 50% of the homes by only working with one agent.

Also, above is correct, you can’t make a decision in 3 days - you’ll want to be here for a month. The place is huge and each “area” has a different vibe.

[Robnlaura]

We are coming in june to check it out and to be honest we have no interest in resale units at all. New home new life new. Neighbors.. we prefer having a warranty on everything and homes built to the latest construction codes

[mskaggs]

Hey Larry! Congratulations on your decision to retire!! My husband and I are in the process of moving here too. So exciting!

Everyone does their research differently, according to what works for them. We started our research last June when we were vacationing here why my sister. We spent one day with a VLS (villages) agent who showed us new amd resales. When we returned home, we kept an eye on Realtor.com and the Villages listings.

When the market exploded this spring, we pulled the trigger and our house at home was under contract in a day. Once we made it through inspections and appraisal, I high-tailed it down here. I had been talking with a VLS agent and I also contacted an MLS agent, prepared to work with both. The MLS agent was less than responsive.

The day before I came, I found a new construction (But completed) house that was the model we were looking for and I put a hold on it. When I got here, my VLS agent took me to several homes (including a couple resales), and it confirmed my choice of the one I had on hold. Because of the advance research we did I was able to shop for and buy a house in one day.

The discussion of new/pre-owned is interesting. New houses cost significantly less because they have not had the money put in for landscaping and other improvements. We decided that we wanted to go that way—you will make the decision that is right for you!

Regarding areas: I am learning that the South (Fenney—near the turnpike) has a slightly younger population, the North (Spanish Springs) has beautiful, mature trees and landscaping, plus a plethora of golf courses. In the South, some have complained about Turnpike noise. In the North I hear that insurance is hard to get if a roof hasn’t been replaced. In EVERY section, you will find many pleasant neighbors, and the occasional lemon.

Hopefully you will get here and become enchanted! It’s a pretty cool place. :-)

[Tmarkwald]

Once you add all the other hidden fees from other developers you will see that the costs are very similar

I've bought resales and there are no hidden fees at all. Please explain what you mean and these 'other developers'

2 months ago I bought my second home - resale 2000 square foot, cul-de-sac for 300K on the nose. That was 100K less than a new home and had all the upgrades already.

So, enlightened me about the hidden fees on a resale unit.

[Ele201]

Hi I’m looking for a good realtor to show me around the Villages. Any recommendations? Thanks!Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

[beccaboo**]

Would make a few suggestions to help with your decision making:
1. Take advantage of the Lifestyle Preview option that the Villages offers, would recommend the full week.
2. Location is critical, and we are all looking for different things. Spend an evening at each of the town squares to get a flavor for what they offer. This may help in you choice of where to live.
3. My bias is toward the established neighborhoods, but you may prefer the new, so look at both options.
Whatever your choice, wishing all the best in your search. Welcome to the Villages.

[KimmieK]

Wow cannot believe the arguing over MLS and Village realtors.

They both have something to offer.
Agree — it’s called due diligence.

[Dilligas]

You do get more home for your money but OTOTW IS NO COMPARISON to the villages, not even on the same planet. Maybe 3 of there golf courses are better is because they only have 3.
Played at one (of the 3) of OTOTW golf courses last week and was very nice……but…..it was amazingly apparent that it was very boring there. There were very few people moving around the community in cars, carts, or walking, on a perfect Spring day. There is a reason you get housing cheaper there, not as much to do.

[graciegirl]

Larry. This is a video of the three developers; siblings, children of Gary Morse, and grandchildren of Harold Schwartz who started this place with modular homes. These three hardworking people stay OUT of the limelight and are often the target of criticism from those that I think are just plain jealous of their enormous success and wealth.

This video is summing up the horrible year of 2020. Larry, meet Mark, Jennifer and Tracey. To me they are heros.

The Villages, Florida. Youtube - Bing video (https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=The+Villages%2c+Florida.+Youtube&&view=detail&mid=1F3E80361026BDF9D2371F3E80361026BDF9D237&&FORM=VDRVSR)

P.S. I have never met these folks. P.P.S. I don't sell houses or any kind of real estate and never have. P.P.S. I am not single.

[merrymini]

If you want new only, you must use the villages agents.
If you consider resale, use one inside and one outside, we decided to buy new.
Visit every square, easy to get to.
Sharpen your pencil and do your calculations before you decide.
So many models, best to get an overview of square footage etc before you look.
Great stuff to do here no matter where you buy.
Top of the world does not hold a candle to this place.
We came on a life style of four days and decided to buy, easy decision.

[JanetMM]

Hello and welcome. We all have our realtor preferences but no one has mentioned For Sale By Owner. I know some folks here who bought without a realtor from the FSBO website and saved the commission. I am not pushing it, just mentioning a third option.

[Ele201]

Thanks! Very good advice indeed.

[Phantomf8]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry
The Villages Realty agents are a wonderful group - you should learn as much as possible about this place. Not certain if you are aware, but there are two sets of realtors here in The Villages. There is the Villages Realty who are responsible for showing you their inventory of homes on the market and then there are the MLS agents responsible for showing you all the other inventory. A unique structure only found in The Villages which can be confusing to outsiders. You owe it to yourself to engage an agent from each side as you are already doing this with the agent from The Villages. I happen to be a realtor from the MLS side and would be more than honored to help you tour this side. My name is Bill Peck - you can contact me at: 352-459-2641.

[paulajr]

The “Models” they like are all “new” houses...so an MLS will do them no good!

You’ll also want an MLS realtor. The Villages sales agents can’t sell MLS houses and MLS realtors can’t sell Villages properties.
I don’t know the breakdown of MLS vs Villages homes - but you are probably missing 50% of the homes by only working with one agent.

Also, above is correct, you can’t make a decision in 3 days - you’ll want to be here for a month. The place is huge and each “area” has a different vibe.

[dicktracy4120]

Larry, my wife and I retired and moved here in November of 2019. We came here several times to look at homes. We looked with Villages Realty and also used an outside realtor. We took the 3 tour bus rides, which explained what The Villages had to offer.
Villages Realty suggested buying a new home down in the Fenney area, but showed any we wished to see. We went back and forth between courtyard vs open lawn/yard homes. We finally decided on a courtyard villa for our small rescue dog and privacy. We also decided we liked Spanish Springs for the look and mature landscape. Fenney was too new and too sterile looking, due to the new construction. Some folks we met suggested, because we we younger, Spanish Springs residents might be too old for us. Here’s my opinion, I believe you will find an assortment of ages in all areas of The Villages. Our neighborhood has a range of late 50’s to late 80 year old folks. All of them are healthy and very active. Many of us get together in each other’s driveways in the evening. This is truly a friendly and active environment. You will find a few negative folks here and there, but most everyone we know and met, love it here.
If you are on Medicare, check on your medical part. I went with United Health Care and my membership at the MVP gyms (located in Spanish Springs & Brownwood) are free. I go there 5 times each week.
As someone else suggested above, look with Village and MLS realtors. I hope you enjoy it here as much as we do.
If you’d like to talk with me (via phone) about The Villages, I’d be very happy to do so.
Have a great day.

[Villagesgal]

You will love it here. New areas won't be new all that long, the Villages keeps moving south at great speed. Large Bond there to take into consideration. North of 466A, most Bonds already paid off. All areas are great in their own way. Visit all areas, talk to people out and about, find a house you love and buy it. All areas are good and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Welcome to the Villages. You will love it here.

[Psacc0]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

Great! You’ll love it here! Villages realtor can show you plenty! If you still don’t see something you love, look on Zillow for additional houses.
Two things.... bring your checkbook, and put a for sale sign on your Texas house before you leave! :1rotfl:
Good luck!!

[wganderson13]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry
Hello, I bought a starter house in "The Historic Side" & 3 years later bought "My Forever House" on Aloha Way on Lake Paradise. Got rid on my car 2 years ago. Use a friend to go to Sams, otherwise it's a Yamaha gas Golf Cart for all my travel needs. Seldom need to go south of 466. Left ALL my problems in Chicago, never been happier.

[sterlingcnslts]

Agree with most of the post particularly suggestions to use an outside realtor. Villages realtors really push you for what they want to sell. If you want to talk to someone who has "been there-done that" my wife and I would be happy to meet with you while you are here and hopefully share our view of "Americas friendliest home town.".

[brfree1411@aol.com]

Have you looked at Robson Ranch homes?
I liked the houses there much better than the Villages but like the Florida ambiance better.

[JMintzer]

Hi I’m looking for a good realtor to show me around the Villages. Any recommendations? Thanks!

Colleen Wotring
Properties of The Villages
Mobile: 352-267-2064

[OhioBuckeye]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

Larry, we lived i TV for about 8 yrs. & moves to Northlake, TX. because we have a daughter, grandchildren & great grandchildren living there. We really miss TV. You’ll love it there & it’ll fit you perfectly because it’s big enough to make you sorta feel at home. You won’t regret it, lots to do & a lot less traveling to get to entertainment & restaurants. It’s a lot more fun living there than Texas. Make sure you get a golf cart though!

[Bhighley]

Welcome! We moved from Southlake part time last year and love it.

As you can see, everyone seems to have an opinion here. I lived here 9 months and still didn’t know the best place to be. I believe the stat is the most in the Villages wind up with three homes. What does that tell you? A month or even two months before you buy isn’t going to get you into the right home...

Good luck. I’d suggest starting south, most of the grumpy opinionated folks seem to live up north. Check out Edna’s and the area surrounding it. Edna’s is a little beer garden with food trucks and live music every day. Great place to meet people and see the type of folks you’ll be living around.


Best of luck!

[Hape2Bhr]

The Villages sold 800 homes last month. Don't know the mix but probably 50/50 new/used. Don't know how many are sold by MLS but I expect quite a few.

Well...that means MLS sold 3200 homes last month according to one of the above posters! Yikes!!! :boxing2:

[Topspinmo]

The Villages agents make the same percentage selling new or used. Our Village agent, Jim McLaughlin, showed us resales when we decided we needed a bigger home. We ended up building. It was cheaper to build.

I am so tired of people saying mean stuff about the newest areas. Someone is always trying to bash the developer and someone is always trying to sell up MLS. No one has to push The Villages.... I love the way The Villages does business. Apparently so do a lot of people. Folks are lined up to buy here. P.S. I don't sell houses and I have never sold houses, but I love watching the market on homes.


I’m tired of people thinking the developers are the second coming. Cheaper to build. LOL.

[yanksansky]

They can only sell the resales they have.

They cannot access nor sell any MLS listings.

Have a REAL agent in addition to the Villages agents. That will give you access to a LOT of additional and varied postings.

And NEW home can cost a LOT more than resales. Starting with the $30,000 bond, landscaping, etc. No squares to go to down there, etc etc.

To correct the statement about NO SQUARE, Sawgrass Grove is being built in Hawkins as we speak. Its expected to open in the fall of this year. We love living south of 44. Especially now that the bridges are open for easy access up to Brownwood square.

[Amohernyikes]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

Larry, I sent you private message.

[airstreamingypsy]

My observations, after 7 years. If you like trees, and don't like paying high fees, buy in one of the older areas, north of 466. The older sections are beautiful, the houses have shade and old granddaddy oaks. The new sections have been razed down to dirt, and palm trees sprinkled around. They have all the charm of Levittown.

[DAVES]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry

I'm not sure what you are expecting in reply. We do not know you. Your look around for three days? Imagine, if, I was to post, I'm thinking about retiring to Dallas and I have set aside three days.

I've been to Dallas two or three times. I am an ex-New Yorker. Wat do I remember?
I do not ever remember seeing so many pretty ladies in one place.

My view, you can be happy or miserable any where.

We came to the villages four times. Before buying. All went well. We have been here for 8-9 years. We are happy.

[Tmarkwald]

My observations, after 7 years. If you like trees, and don't like paying high fees, buy in one of the older areas, north of 466. The older sections are beautiful, the houses have shade and old granddaddy oaks. The new sections have been razed down to dirt, and palm trees sprinkled around. They have all the charm of Levittown.

Looking like a 'factory town' from the 50's

[jamorela]

I live in Virginia Trace and love it!

[ron32162]

It will take just a hour or so and the village sales person will say o by the way I have a brand new home same floor plan thats cost a little less want hurt anything to take a look. Then ask the sales person how much is the bond on the new ones.

[graciegirl]

My observations, after 7 years. If you like trees, and don't like paying high fees, buy in one of the older areas, north of 466. The older sections are beautiful, the houses have shade and old granddaddy oaks. The new sections have been razed down to dirt, and palm trees sprinkled around. They have all the charm of Levittown.

Awwww but just wait eighteen months. This is Florida. A small bush grows faster than lightning. Soon the owners of the newer homes will be thinking about removing trees and shrubs.

I have heard people afraid to leave their garbage on the curb, afraid it will take root. ; )

[txyaya]

Don't neglect looking at courtyard villas as well as houses. Get an MLS realtor too for greatest options. Once you are here, join us in the Texas Club and Dallas Cowboy Fans in TV. Good luck!

[lindaelane]

I bought through a Village Agent (Pete Laufersky). He helped me greatly when The Villages refused to trim a tree behind my home on Village land, which obscured the view of the lake behind my home - I bought, rented out for a year while finishing my job up north, then moved here and the tree overgrew. The view would not be there without Pete and his talking to people he know in village administration since they normally have a policy against trimming. (They let it through as long as I paid for it - I had offered to pay but they did not accept until Pete stepped in to negotiate on my behalf.)

So I found that buying from a Village Agent helped me because my relationship with the agent continued and he helps me at times when I need it in ways an MLS agent could not. He has also become a friend and advisor, though I do not contact him often so as to not take advantage.

[Gerrys]

Three days is not enough. Come and rent for a month or two. You won’t be sorry. Good luck.

[lonestar4ever@outlook.com]

We lived in Colleyville. .

[cmadc]

We are from Dallas. We have been here almost 18 years. My husband is an avid golfer and I like the weather. The Villages is and has been getting too big. Lots of activities, friendly people, housing runs the full spectrum (depends on how much time you want to spend at home) and descent healthcare. No freeways. It takes between an hour to hour and a half to get to either Tampa (better airport) or Orlando. Gainesville is about 30-45 minutes North.
Overall life is good here. Safe, clean and friendly. Miss Texas but Florida has lots of fun and sun to offer. Best of luck.

[GrumpyOldMan]

Everyone is different. Some need hours to make up their mind, some need months. Do whatever makes you comfortable.

The Villages is not for everyone, but it has a LONG track record of growth and happy residents. Not perfect, not heaven on earth, but a lot of people like it.

[DAVES]

Do your thing. Ignore all replies and base your decision on what you see and what can be done here compared to anywhere else.

We were here two days, but my wife already had perused all the homes/layouts and decided her ideal. She found it the 2nd day and we signed/moved in two days later.

I golf...a lot...my wife quilts/moves stuff around the house constantly...even have her mowing the lawn... :-).

Re: wife mowing lawn.
We've been married roughly 50 years. My dad night before our wedding said, you will never understand your wife.

I am shocked once again. We do have a guy to mow the lawn. Weeding. We used to do it together. Hum, what is that noise? She is out pulling weeds.

As to moving stuff. I think it is genetics. What happened to my xxxx that I left xxxxxxx.
I put it............

You will not win. As dad said, if you are right, it will change shortly. I DO NOT DO MARRIAGE COUNSELING-obviously. It is a universal truth not related to social upbringing, race creed, religion.

ENJOY THE ADVENTURE.

[Ajiveson]

Welcome to the Villages. There is so much to do. We are a friendly bunch in general and it is easy to make friends.

[stebooo]

You might do yourself a favor and contact a non village realtor as well to review used property's. It will round out your visit with a realtor interested in taking care of YOU

[LarryRCTexas]

Wow, thank you for all the wonderful notes above - I really do appreciate it. So much to consider!!

[tedquick]

Larry, as you can tell this place is filled with advice. I will only tell you this: I was a Realtor in Omaha for 41 years and partly because of that experience my wife and I visited TV 5 or 6 times before we purchased. We wanted to see how we would live. It was important to us to be close to The Sharon and The Savannah Center as we enjoy entertainment. We wanted to be reasonably golf-cart close to shopping I.E. Lowes and the other shopping north of 441 so we ended up purchasing a 12 year-old-home and completely redid it. We had built a couple homes and liked the idea of new but a complete redo gives you the same result. In the end, it was the perfect thing to do for the two or us. We actually bought off of Morse Blvd between Sumter Landing and Spanish Springs. As others have said, don't rush: decide first how you think you'll be living. Best of luck to you, Larry. You'll love it here.

[Tmarkwald]

Larry, as you can tell this place is filled with advice. I will only tell you this: I was a Realtor in Omaha for 41 years and partly because of that experience my wife and I visited TV 5 or 6 times before we purchased. We wanted to see how we would live. It was important to us to be close to The Sharon and The Savannah Center as we enjoy entertainment. We wanted to be reasonably golf-cart close to shopping I.E. Lowes and the other shopping north of 441 so we ended up purchasing a 12 year-old-home and completely redid it. We had built a couple homes and liked the idea of new but a complete redo gives you the same result. In the end, it was the perfect thing to do for the two or us. We actually bought off of Morse Blvd between Sumter Landing and Spanish Springs. As others have said, don't rush: decide first how you think you'll be living. Best of luck to you, Larry. You'll love it here.

Ditto - you'll love it here.

And you absolutely, positively, will get a LOT of opinions and advice if you ask a question, as you've seen !!!

Don't be too afraid about diving in as well - I think the statistic (someone correct me if I am wrong) is that the average person moves 4 times when they live here.

I'm just happy to be here. And I love it!

[LucyP]

I would download The Village appt and start looking at homes and have some to see. Write down a list what you are looking for like near squares, type of lawn, no bond ect.. there are single groups for TV on Facebook to join and many activities.

[Tsalla Apopka]

The Villages is a huge megalopolis of many different places and communities.
If you don't like crowds and long lines at the best restaurants it may not be right for you.
There are many other places in the area that are just as nice and much less costly, mostly because "The Villages" is currently the place to be and that costs extra.......
Some examples in nearby Ocala. If you are into radio control then OTOW has huge flying fields and tracks and if Pickleball is your thing then "Stone Creek" is special and golf and friendly folks can also be found at Oak Run.
Folks from these places go to The Villages to shop or eat but then go home for peace and quiet........

[Bogie Shooter]

The Villages is a huge megalopolis of many different places and communities.
If you don't like crowds and long lines at the best restaurants it may not be right for you.
There are many other places in the area that are just as nice and much less costly, mostly because "The Villages" is currently the place to be and that costs extra.......
Some examples in nearby Ocala. If you are into radio control then OTOW has huge flying fields and tracks and if Pickleball is your thing then "Stone Creek" is special and golf and friendly folks can also be found at Oak Run.
Folks from these places go to The Villages to shop or eat but then go home for peace and quiet........

We can call this West coast input from afar..right? Oh wait, maybe its Apopka.

[Tmarkwald]

The Villages is a huge megalopolis of many different places and communities.
If you don't like crowds and long lines at the best restaurants it may not be right for you.
There are many other places in the area that are just as nice and much less costly, mostly because "The Villages" is currently the place to be and that costs extra.......
Some examples in nearby Ocala. If you are into radio control then OTOW has huge flying fields and tracks and if Pickleball is your thing then "Stone Creek" is special and golf and friendly folks can also be found at Oak Run.
Folks from these places go to The Villages to shop or eat but then go home for peace and quiet........

And every place you look at outside of The Villages tell you how far they are from The Villages, because this is where you'll be.

[eddie888]

I have been here for 13 years. I was here for the tornado not hurricane tornado that hit the villages February 2, 2007 . I was in a sided at home at the time. I lived in the duval that was about 4 miles away and blew off my siding. The homes in the villages were blown apart. Except the concrete homes only a little bit of the roof blew off. The sided homes were destroyed. A tornado or probably never hit again in our lifetime. But, be aware the side of homes are cheaper. But, the concrete homes or Bloc homes are safer. That’s all I have to say about that.

[rmd2]

I would rent for a month or so to decide what area you are spending most of your time in. I think convenience and location are important so I bought a resale in an area that I was most active in and am very happy I did.

[aallbrand]

If I had to do it over I would move nearby . The villages is way to crowed and it will only get worse. Its also way to political .

[Tbrazie]

New also last year. Have family visiting but call 6035910585 if you want to talk
Colonel B

[conman5652@aol.com]

Best to find someone that u know that could tell which village areas of resale homes is best. Also look for turn key units. Not a fan of area over fl turnpike as not developed enough

[Stu from NYC]

Best to find someone that u know that could tell which village areas of resale homes is best. Also look for turn key units. Not a fan of area over fl turnpike as not developed enough

We are all different so people need to see what is best for them.

Would not buy a house near a highway unless you like to here noises at all hours.

[buehler7@gmail.com]

As a fellow Texan I made a decision in one day this is where I wanted to be. I was a bit confused on two Villages so I decided to rent a place. I love the area I chose the Village of Fenney!

Good Luck with your search

[Spike380]

We stopped at the Villages after leaving our winter rental in Miami-towards Buffalo-those were the days where you had 30 minutes to decide if you wanted a particular house or it was gone! Within 15min we were signing the papers, the mortgage, opened a bank acct and had our Villages card pictures taken. Plus we had two puppies and the staff put them in an office, market the door "puppy nursery" and took care of them while we were busy signing. We closed by mail! Do NOT listen to the cranky people who write. The Villages is a beautiful place with everything at your fingertips. We never regretted our move-in fact we're on our 2nd house!!! Good luck!

[yankygrl]

I came here from Ft, Worth in 2010, love it more then you could imagine. TV “realtors” mostly are sales agents and will try to have you buy south of 44...they work for the developer. If you want a realtor who can show you everything go with outside agency - I suggest Keller Williams -Karen Kemperman. She helped me sell 2 places at great prices in the past 6 months

[Beach Boy]

Think about all the interesting things you have liked and may like but have not done, ask what is here that matches them. Then ask about things you may not be familiar with, it could be you will find a new hobby or activity you will like. It is a place that is open to explore with people from diverse backgrounds.
Good luck!

[carhirsch]

We bought from an owner listing in the newspaper—got a great deal and we love our home in Duval.

[pgettinger01]

Remember The Villages is unique. The Villages VLS real agents sell all new and some used homes. The MLS agents sell some used homes. If you want to see all the homes that are available you just see both agents.They are not listed in the same place.

[Tmarkwald]

Remember The Villages is unique. The Villages VLS real agents sell all new and some used homes. The MLS agents sell some used homes. If you want to see all the homes that are available you just see both agents.They are not listed in the same place.


There are also some listings right on this website as well, although many times they are old as people don't remove them..

[jimkerr]

That says a lot also. Village realtor’s will push new home’s and they are only down “there”.

That is 100% false. We recently purchased a resale listed with the villages and our agent was happy to show us both new and resale.

[Tmarkwald]

That is 100% false. We recently purchased a resale listed with the villages and our agent was happy to show us both new and resale.

Nope, we got pushed away from resale to new every time we saw a Village realtor. We bought using our MLS realtor and saved a bundle. No pressure

[manaboutown]

That is 100% false. We recently purchased a resale listed with the villages and our agent was happy to show us both new and resale.

Then you did not have my first agent who never showed me even one single resale after I repeatedly requested he do so. He appeared to be selling only new. He admitted he was handsomely rewarded (incentivized) with rides on Morse Air Force jets and dining in their private dining room.

[Thaxxx]

Another thing to consider.....
If you read this "Talk of The Villages" enough, you'll see how childish and petty many of the folks living here are.
As a native Floridian I can tell you that most here are from the frigid North and do not have the hospitality skills/traits that most southerners do.
You being from Texas, it might be a consideration in your decision to move to this place.

[Aces4]

Another thing to consider.....
If you read this "Talk of The Villages" enough, you'll see how childish and petty many of the folks living here are.
As a native Floridian I can tell you that most here are from the frigid North and do not have the hospitality skills/traits that most southerners do.
You being from Texas, it might be a consideration in your decision to move to this place.


And you will probably realize this is the rudest post yet and that may give you second thoughts about Florida residents.:ohdear:

[Tmarkwald]

And you will probably realize this is the rudest post yet and that may give you second thoughts about Florida residents.:ohdear:

I am from the South, but lived everywhere. Just watch and see who waves when you wave at people on the street.

Having gone to college in Florida I found that the majority of the stuck-up, holier-than-thou people were the ones wearing FLORIDA NATIVE shirts or hats.....

that attitude nearly made me pass by Florida as a retirement state as I don't associate with stuck-up people very well... luckily a lot of people in TV are friendly....

[daspiva]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry
Welcome to TV...Hoping that you enjoy your retirement here! :coolsmiley: I'm sure you'll find the home of your dreams here. :)

[Bogie Shooter]

Another thing to consider.....
If you read this "Talk of The Villages" enough, you'll see how childish and petty many of the folks living here are.
As a native Floridian I can tell you that most here are from the frigid North and do not have the hospitality skills/traits that most southerners do.
You being from Texas, it might be a consideration in your decision to move to this place.

And you live in which village?

[LarryRCTexas]

What suburb of Dallas? My son lives in Southlake!

I live in Lewisville - where 121 and I35 meet.

[graciegirl]

there is a lot of conversation about villages vs. Mls realtors. One thing i haven't seen yet is a mention of va funding. Villages agents can't (won't?) work with va funded loans. I've spoken to a few people who have needed to go with an mls realtor. I think (don't know) that the reason properties of the villages doesn't do va funded sales is because of lead time. Last i heard new home sales must close within 30 days. Va can't meet that schedule. Also, if you talk to an mls agent, some (perhaps not a lot) also manage rentals in the villages. You could rent for a few months while shopping...?

Talk to a lot of "strangers" while you visit.

Wishing you nothing but luck in your journey.

just new ones/ va financing. Just the new ones. They won't mess with mortgages that take a lot of time to get.

[dadspet]

I strongly recommend you don't drink the water. The Villages also controls the water supply and puts something in it. Your better off sticking with Gin and Tonic instead but I think they also add something to the Gin at their Drink Shacks in the Square so be careful.

[Hopeful Returnee]

You mentioned that you rented for a month before you bought in The Villages. How does one rent for only a month. Do you rent from an owner who has returned up North for the summer? Or does the Villages management rent one of their patio villas for a month?

[Marathon Man]

You mentioned that you rented for a month before you bought in The Villages. How does one rent for only a month. Do you rent from an owner who has returned up North for the summer? Or does the Villages management rent one of their patio villas for a month?

You are renting a home owned by someone who is either a part time resident or owns the home as a rental investment.

Just Google "Homes for rent in The Villages, FL."

[easydog]

Recommend the "lifestyle plan"... take a week.... use the golf cart and explore.
Get a good map ..... there is an almost infinite number of possibilities... nearly everyone you meet or seek advice from, loves their area (village) ... I live in McClure and find it is everything I could imagine. Tons of expansion .... lot of pre-owned homes are selling fast since (I understand) building a new home may take nearly a year now... plus escaling costs of materials.... good luck.

[Ele201]

Thanks!We bought from an owner listing in the newspaper—got a great deal and we love our home in Duval.

[asianthree]

Right now it does matter which agent you contact, MLS or Villages Agent. Neither have many resales listed, and both will admit that to you. It maybe the lowest inventory since the 07 buying frenzy.
As you have read you have opinions on where you should or shouldn’t live, who you should or shouldn’t buy from, and don’t buy in less than a week visit or buy soon as you find a home.

No one in this site has the exact answer for you. Read the posts take with a grain of salt, take a deep breath enjoy the time you have here. Make a decision to buy, or return later. Either way make sure you are happy with whatever you decide.

[WEHOWL]

Villages sales agent are real estate agents. Go to the florida dbpr website and put a name of a villages sales person and you will see that they too, are licensed agents with the state - no different than any other. Working for a developer is a bit different than that of a brokerage. They are single-agency, meaning they cannot co-broke with mls, and vice versa. The villages has well over 50% of the resale market and have made themselves very competetive in the market percentage. It is not a bad idea to have an mls/villages representative. The villages representative goal is just not sales of homes, but sharing the lifestyle of the villages. Remember, all of the sales reps do not get paid for touring, hosting, showing, arranging, calling, emailing, and providing information of any kind, etc. They get paid when they sell a house.

[Jayhawk]

I always admire people who read TOTV and still want to move here. It really is a wonderful place to live.

:bigbow:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

just new ones/ va financing. Just the new ones. They won't mess with mortgages that take a lot of time to get. and I will never take a VA mortgage they just take to long and to much nit picking and I have never used one myself

[Aviator1211]

Be sure to ask your Villages realtor to show you Katie Bells and the Hacienda country club. And ask about their plans for your neighborhood after the sell all the lots.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Then you did not have my first agent who never showed me even one single resale after I repeatedly requested he do so. He appeared to be selling only new. He admitted he was handsomely rewarded (incentivized) with rides on Morse Air Force jets and dining in their private dining room. 6th home in villages it was my first preowned my agent spent 2 days with me looking at resales because the market is hot they don’t last long so it took sometime , after a long day of looking I was home and got a call to come out at 7:30 at night I didn’t want to go but the agent practically dragged me there and I’m glad because house was perfect, it still amazes me that so many still live here that hate the family and continue to thrash them with bogus statements, and yes my other 5 homes were new but I looked at preowned also and agent was happy to do that, FYI I also had a non villages agent also working just as hard for me

[manaboutown]

it still amazes me that so many still live here that hate the family and continue to thrash them with bogus statements,

It amazes me as well. My Villages agent story (statement) is not bogus. That is actually what happened.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I wonder what kind of person practically begs an agent to show him something he wants to see and is okay with it when the agent declines the request , I know what I would do I would get another agent . Well changing agents might even be worse the next agent might have been promised a ride on the next NASA shuttle launch

[manaboutown]

I wonder what kind of person practically begs an agent to show him something he wants to see and is okay with it when the agent declines the request , I know what I would do I would get another agent . Well changing agents might even be worse the next agent might have been promised a ride on the next NASA shuttle launch

There was no begging involved. And I was not OK with it. The agent did not decline my requests. He evaded them, passive-aggressively. Of course I changed agents and found a good one. If at first I don't succeed I try, try again. Who wouldn't?

The next NASA launch is June 3, 2021. From your past six Villages home purchases and five home sales your agent(s) may have garnered enough in commissions to pay for your trip. If you hurry you may be able to catch a ride on it. Rocket Launch Schedule | Kennedy Space Center (https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/launches-and-events)

[retiredguy123]

This is a wonderful place to live. Spend some time late afternoon in the evenings at one of the Squares and talk to people at the bars, etc.

That made my choices much easier. And I found that 8 out of 10 people did not buy through the Villages agents.
According to insidethebubble.net, only about 35-40 percent of resales are sold by outside real estate agents. So, The Villages sells 60-65 percent of the resales and 100 percent of the new houses. Obviously, that excludes FSBO sales.

[Marathon Man]

Be sure to ask your Villages realtor to show you Katie Bells and the Hacienda country club. And ask about their plans for your neighborhood after the sell all the lots.

I just can not imagine living life filled with such anger and sorrow. Change happens. How does someone reach retirement age and not know that.

[Tmarkwald]

According to insidethebubble.net, only about 35-40 percent of resales are sold by outside real estate agents. So, The Villages sells 60-65 percent of the resales and 100 percent of the new houses. Obviously, that excludes FSBO sales.

I only know what I was told when I first came here and asked people at the Squares and in the restaurants and bars. So, I don't have the numbers. Just the tales people told... :)

[CoachKandSportsguy]

You mentioned that you rented for a month before you bought in The Villages. How does one rent for only a month. Do you rent from an owner who has returned up North for the summer? Or does the Villages management rent one of their patio villas for a month?

Have you never heard of V/R/B/O? Vakation Rentahls Buy Ohner? (spelling to get past the **** filters) have you never gone on vacation and rented a condo for a week or two? Have you never tried to google something you are interested int going?

There are property managers here who compete with the villages rentals, as well as individuals who rent out their properties as available.

come on posters. . . . google and search for ideas which you have questions about. .

tech guy . . where google and the web are your friends.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I’m with you coach k maybe many on here think goggle is something you swirl around in your mouth

[JMintzer]

I’m with you coach k maybe many on here think goggle is something you swirl around in your mouth

"Goggle"? ;)

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/79/51/0d/79510d905bbfc969c94e9a660646fe1b.gif

[Papa_lecki]

Have you never heard of V/R/B/O? Vakation Rentahls Buy Ohner? (spelling to get past the **** filters) have you never gone on vacation and rented a condo for a week or two? Have you never tried to google something you are interested int going?

There are property managers here who compete with the villages rentals, as well as individuals who rent out their properties as available.

come on posters. . . . google and search for ideas which you have questions about. .

tech guy . . where google and the web are your friends.

I would guess 30% to 50% of the homes are available for rent. You can rent as short as a few days, a week or months. During Jan/Feb/Mar - probably can only rent for a month.

Google - there are A LOT of property managers.

[SKBandME]

Hi I’m looking for a good realtor to show me around the Villages. Any recommendations? Thanks!

Dave Luce for the VLS listings. He was awesome!

[graciegirl]

Hi Everyone!

I'm considering retiring and moving to The Villages. I currently live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas. I'm coming to The Villages May 20th - May 23rd.
I'm looking at homes - both new and used. Since I'm single, I don't need a large place to live. I like the floor plans of Colony, Austin, Corpus Christi, Cabot Cove, Ruby and Pearl.
I have a Villages Real Estate Agent who will be taking me around while I'm there.
Hopefully, I will be able to meet some of you while I'm in town.

Larry


I so enjoy seeing and hearing from people who visit here for the first time. This is SUCH an amazing place that we now call home.

Larry, be prepared to be completely amazed.

Don't forget to notice all of the ummm "older people". lol.

[SKBandME]

I live in Lewisville - where 121 and I35 meet.

Nice! We live in Wylie and will be taking our lifestyle visit in August. We chose August as it is supposed to be the worst weather month for The Villages due to the heat/humidity. Just wanted to experience the "worst case scenerio" LOL

[Tim C.]

we are new to TV. It has it's upsides and downsides. but we are very happy to be here already. Great choice as far as I'm concerned

[rjm1cc]

You mentioned that you rented for a month before you bought in The Villages. How does one rent for only a month. Do you rent from an owner who has returned up North for the summer? Or does the Villages management rent one of their patio villas for a month?

VH4R Home Rentals in The Villages Florida The Villages Rentals (https://villagershomes4rent.com/)