Villages - buying north of 440

[rugbyjohn]

This may prossibly upset some people, but I would like to get your feelings about it. We have been advised by a number of people who live in TV, not to buy a home north of Rte. 440 when we come down to buy in November. We've heard a number of comments that I will not repeat, but what is truth and what is perception? Please don't shoot the messenger (Questioner).
Thanks
John & Barb
Cherry Hill -- Villages by 12/15

[laryb]

When we bought our home this summer, we bought south of 466 because we bought a new home. While we were in the buying process, we checked out north of 466 and liked it very much. It was more established and had a "familiar" feel to us. If we didn't go new, I would have had no problem living there. In my opinion, and my knowledge of TV is limited at best, I don't think you can buy in an area of TV that wouldn't be wonderful.:thumbup:

[coach]

I don't know what you mean by Rt. 440. Do you think it could be Rt. 44?

Or do you think it was Rt. 466? I really don't know of Rt. 440.

[l2ridehd]

My guess is they mean 441 and it would be North East. That is what is known as the historic section which has a mix of stick built and factory built homes. However there are some very nice places of both types and some very nice locations there at very attractive prices. So you need to buy what fits your budget and life style. And as said above, there are no bad places in TV. I chose my location based on the town square I preferred, not near a treatment plant, power lines or rail road tracks. And i liked LSL better then SS. To me those were more important then what section, N or S of any place.

If I was looking for a place in TV that I wanted to keep in a lower price range and didn't care about being near LSL, I would have been looking in the historic section. It has a lot of positive things to offer.

[Ohiogirl]

Don't really think it matters which Hwy the poster meant. We bought south of 466 over 4 years ago because we bought new. We still love our location and at first thought it was superior to everyone else's:)

With repeated visits (we have been snowflakes/landlords) have discovered that every area, north or south, east or west, has its advantages and disadvantages. There really is no BAD area. Wherever you end up, you will probably think that yours is the best, and it will be for certain things (close to shopping, or softball diamonds, libraries, or town squares, dog parks, Savannah Center, quieter with less traffic, other shopping areas, woodshop, driving range, favorite country club restaurant or golf course).

Older areas have more mature landscaping, larger lots. New areas may have a higher concentration of younger buyers, but not always. In each area, you could be within walking distance or a 3 minute cart ride to a rec center and/or family or adult pool or country club, or you could be out of easy walking distance to anything and need to take your cart or car. Some people never walk anywhere, even if they are around the corner. You will be close to a golf course no matter where you end up.

If you have close friends or family you expect to be visiting a lot, then you may not want to be at opposite ends which would be a 45 minute (or possibly more) cart ride. But it's kind of fun to visit someone occasionally in an area you don't get to very often.

[Mudder]

If you mean north of 446 , can't imagine why someone would say negative things about living there. We bought north of there and are very happy with the location. Everything is well established, same facilities as south of 446. Yes, they are older, but new doesn't always mean better. There are lots of trees over here, close to many stores, plenty of Rec centers, pools, golf courses, what more could you want? Everywhere in The Villages is a nice place to live !

[LittleDog]

I'm sure this is a generality but probably the ages of people that live in the historic section are older because it's been there longer. I have good friends who live there and she is very defensive when people "bad mouth" the historic section. When we moved here 5 years ago we were very interested in a manufactured home in the historic district that had a lot of storage, was wonderfully maintained, and had great landscaping. However we felt the price was a little high and we continued to look after taking 3 visits to this home. As an aside, on the 3rd visit we noticed that the home had no oven (which was not a deal breaker for us). We kept looking and purchased in Poinciana but if our experience is typical regarding the historic side I would not eliminate a purchase there.

John

[golf2140]

This may prossibly upset some people, but I would like to get your feelings about it. We have been advised by a number of people who live in TV, not to buy a home north of Rte. 440 when we come down to buy in November. We've heard a number of comments that I will not repeat, but what is truth and what is perception? Please don't shoot the messenger (Questioner).
Thanks
John & Barb
Cherry Hill -- Villages by 12/15

If you are speaking about north of CR 466, try Polo Ridge. Great neighborhood, close to shopping, golf, rec centers, etc. We moved from there just for a larger home. Plus we build a home every ten years. Don't ask me why but we do. You will enjoy north of 466.

[redwitch]

Another one who doesn't think it matters where you live -- it really is a matter of price, affordability and preference. I have issues with a lot of rules and regulations (I would never have gnomes or flamingoes in my yard but I'll defend your right to have to the death), so south of 466 is not for me. Also, I like Spanish Springs better than Lake Sumter Landing (probably because I'm more used to the Spanish decor coming from California). The biggest reason though, is the more mature landscaping. I just find it soothing and don't want to wait years to have that growth.

To me, the only real negative to living north of 441 is the distance to the southern areas of TV, especially since I've been known to travel from one of TV to the other in one or day. So, I chose just north of 466 off of Morse.

So, go for what you like. While a new neighborhood will make it easier to make friends at first (and have more frequent get-togethers), the odds are you will end up making other friends as you find your interests and you'll find they live all over TV.

[Talk Host]

I think the women north of 466 are better looking.

[SALYBOW]

I think the women north of 466 are better looking.

OH NO THEY AREN"T!!!!!!!:rolleyes:

[Mikeod]

I think the women north of 466 are better looking.
Nope. Nope. Not gonna touch that one. Nope:girlneener:

[rugbyjohn]

Brain Cramp

[Pturner]

This may prossibly upset some people, but I would like to get your feelings about it. We have been advised by a number of people who live in TV, not to buy a home north of Rte. 440 when we come down to buy in November. We've heard a number of comments that I will not repeat, but what is truth and what is perception? Please don't shoot the messenger (Questioner).
Thanks
John & Barb
Cherry Hill -- Villages by 12/15

Hi Rugbyjohn,
We bought north of 466 because of the mature landscaping, the homes further apart, and our favorite golf courses and country clubs are on the north side. We enjoy both town squares. If you want new, north of 466 is not an option.

I'm curious what you were told. Whatever it was, check it out for yourself. Whatever you choose, I hope it's perfect for you!

[Pturner]

oh no they aren"t!!!!!!!:rolleyes:

says who!!!!!!!

[Bransonhillbilly]

Are the better looking ones married are single?

[graciegirl]

Are the better looking ones married are single?

yes

[pooh]

Nope. Nope. Not gonna touch that one. Nope:girlneener:

Good answer!

[njbchbum]

I think the women north of 466 are better looking.

Thank you, TH! :clap2:

[Barefoot]

[QUOTE=Pturner;299503]Hi Rugbyjohn,
We bought north of 466 because of the mature landscaping, the homes further apart, and our favorite golf courses and country clubs are on the north side. We enjoy both town squares. If you want new, north of 466 is not an option.

..................................

And now that the golf cart paths are being widened, I think that buying north of 466 is even more appealing.

[Nana18]

Nice insulting comment coming from an old man!!!!!!!

[zcaveman]

Nice insulting comment coming from an old man!!!!!!!

???? Who are you referring to?

[scrapple]

I think the women north of 466 are better looking.

Am I included even if I'm up by Mulberry only temporarily?

I will say staying this far north in the rental I notice that it's much quieter and less traffic. I met some people who recently bought in Orange Blossom Special and they seem very happy. I agree it's all preference. We'll permanently land centrally.

[chuckinca]

???? Who are you referring to?


The better looking women north of 466.



.

[RichieLion]

There are a couple of things you can consider. On the older homes built before 2006, I think, they are not built to newer construction standards as regards hurricanes. It may or may not be an issue. You do get a house in an established neighborhood with mature plantings and a home, possibly, with many upgrades you won't have to do yourself.

On the other hands in the new neighborhoods everyone is moving in at the same approximate time and meeting and greeting each other. It's far easier to get involved in a golf group, for instance, or any kind of recreational gathering when you're forming them from scratch. In an older neighborhood the golf groups are pretty well established. It won't matter if you're a gregarious person, I imagine, and know how to take the bull by the horns, but if you're laid back, like me, it could be harder to fit in easily.

In the end though, TV is such a beautiful place and the people are, almost without question, some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. We're almost all people with a positive attitude who are willing to take chances and meet new people with an open hand. Think about it, we've all left our homes and gone on an adventure with our hopes for a better future. At our age? Who could imagine?

[zcaveman]

The better looking women north of 466.
.

We all know that is true!!!! Been here nine years and haven't seen finer!!!

[dillywho]

[QUOTE=RichieLion;299689]There are a couple of things you can consider. On the older homes built before 2006, I think, they are not built to newer construction standards as regards hurricanes.
QUOTE]

I think someone may have given you some flawed information. We live north of 466 and our house was built to hurricane standards. I can't say when the changes came, but our house was completed in January, 2004 and they were in place then. We had the additional inspection the state offered done a couple of years ago (don't remember exactly when this was) and as a result, got a substantial reduction in our insurance. Several things go into this wind-whatever-it-is inspection such as the construction itself, the attic, the type roof (hip vs gable), etc. We've been here since Feb. 2004 and have had no issues except for the drywall residue in the kitchen plumbing which was resolved through the warranty department with no fuss whatsoever (cracking, siding, etc.).

[RichieLion]

[QUOTE=RichieLion;299689]There are a couple of things you can consider. On the older homes built before 2006, I think, they are not built to newer construction standards as regards hurricanes.
QUOTE]

I think someone may have given you some flawed information. We live north of 466 and our house was built to hurricane standards. I can't say when the changes came, but our house was completed in January, 2004 and they were in place then. We had the additional inspection the state offered done a couple of years ago (don't remember exactly when this was) and as a result, got a substantial reduction in our insurance. Several things go into this wind-whatever-it-is inspection such as the construction itself, the attic, the type roof (hip vs gable), etc. We've been here since Feb. 2004 and have had no issues except for the drywall residue in the kitchen plumbing which was resolved through the warranty department with no fuss whatsoever (cracking, siding, etc.).

You're right. I don't know why 2006 was in my head, but it was 2002 that Florida instituted the new building codes.

http://www.housingpolicy.org/toolbox/strategy/policies/regulations_planning.html?tierid=113289

[K9-Lovers]

We're almost all people with a positive attitude who are willing to take chances and meet new people with an open hand. Think about it, we've all left our homes and gone on an adventure with our hopes for a better future. At our age? Who could imagine?

You said it, RichieLion! Most everyone who moves here had to give up either family, friends, or roots of some sort seeking a new adventure! We are all from somewhere else -- and so, it is easy to make friends no matter which neighborhood or village you choose.

[Pturner]

We all know that is true!!!! Been here nine years and haven't seen finer!!!

:a040: Thanks, neighbor.

[golf2140]

[QUOTE=RichieLion;299689]There are a couple of things you can consider. On the older homes built before 2006, I think, they are not built to newer construction standards as regards hurricanes.
QUOTE]

I think someone may have given you some flawed information. We live north of 466 and our house was built to hurricane standards. I can't say when the changes came, but our house was completed in January, 2004 and they were in place then. We had the additional inspection the state offered done a couple of years ago (don't remember exactly when this was) and as a result, got a substantial reduction in our insurance. Several things go into this wind-whatever-it-is inspection such as the construction itself, the attic, the type roof (hip vs gable), etc. We've been here since Feb. 2004 and have had no issues except for the drywall residue in the kitchen plumbing which was resolved through the warranty department with no fuss whatsoever (cracking, siding, etc.).


Our home was built in 2000, we had the same inspection and passed with flying colors. Our insurance went down by 1/3.

[wlou]

Back to the thread question...My vote is for south of 466 and here are our reasons..We like the larger ,newer cart paths on the south side. Because you spend a large amt of time on your golf cart, this helps a lot. Also, the golf cart tunnels are larger also. We also like being , what will soon be, in the middle . When Brownwood is finished, our area ( village of Amelia) will be in the middle with about equal north/south distances from SS and Brownwood. We do find that the crowds are a little bit younger at LSL versus SS which of course makes sense becasue the northern part is the most established. One thing I would do if we could have a "do-over" is to rent a few times in different areas first, to figure out exactly where we want to be. The Villagers I have spoken with that have moved a few times since becoming FT, have said they moved due to location. (wanted to be closer to where they seemed to spend most of their time. ex: swims laps for excercise so closer to a sport pool, likes the Odell pickleball league so wants to be closer to that court) ..Just some (hopefully) helpful things...

[AnonChick]

After my visit this past week, I've really come to like the layout of the "old" Villages - Spanish Springs area and points east and northeast. I've been a New Englander all my life and I just can't wrap around the idea of -not- having lots of mature shade trees around. So the oaks all over that area is particularly appealing to me. The newer section is gorgeous, but it's just too sparse and cookie-cutter for my taste.

My concern is about the manufactured homes, and this bond stuff. I understand there are bonds, amenities fees, and CDD fees, and they're all different from each other, serve different functions, and that the bonds get paid up after 30 years.

So if I were to buy a home that was built 10 years ago, does that mean I'll only have 20 years left to pay on the bond? And what are the average monthly bond fees, for people who still have to pay them? Also, I understand some people have paid their bonds off prior to the 30 year period. So I'm wondering, do you get the impression that if we were to buy 5 years from now (which is when we're likely to be fully retired and ready to make that move), there will be a significant increase in homes that have had the bonds already paid off in full?

As for the manufactured homes themselves, well - where I come from, that means "trailer park" and for the most part they're not all that stable and tend to be lower quality, and can blow over in a stiff wind. I am pretty sure that isn't the case for the ones in the Villages, but I'd love it if someone can address that concern.

Thanks! I know wherever we end up in the Villages, we'll have some awesome neighbors. Last week was filled with some pretty terrific people and you all made us feel very welcome, so thanks again!

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Re: the bonds. You pretty much have to ask/check/verify what the outstanding bond amount is, property by property. The general suggestion from many folks is to not pay the bond off when you buy a home in TV - mindset being that you'll never realize that money when you would sell. If you know you're going to be there til they drag you out toes-up, then it might make sense to pay it off up front if you'd like. For some reason, prevailing mentality seems to be that many buyers don't bother to factor the outstanding bond amount into the purchase price of a home......which makes no sense to me. But that's just me! :) I view it as an outstanding obligation for the house - call it a bond or whatever you'd like. It's money you owe for the property. Regardless - - - to the original point, verify what the bond amount is.

Re: the manufactured homes. I don't know it to be fact personally but I've heard from several people that the cost of insurance will be higher for a manufactured home than for a site built home (of equal selling price/valuation), probably due to the fact that they would be more susceptible to damage in severe weather. Also - again, from what others have said - some insurance companies might not be willing to cover a manufactured home built prior to a specific year. Might be related to construction techniques, etc. from back when it was manufactured. Verify all this with your insurance agent.

Bill

[golfnut]

IMO, one of the bigger differences between north or south of 466 is the number of rec centers and pools. There are approx 40 pools south of 466 and 15 pools north of 466....gn

[Pturner]

IMO, one of the bigger differences between north or south of 466 is the number of rec centers and pools. There are approx 40 pools south of 466 and 15 pools north of 466....gn

Who knew? Soon as I need more than 15, I'm heading south! :)

[AnonChick]

It seems to me that proportionately, the spread is nearly even. Pool-space and rec-center-space per resident isn't that much different between north and south, if you consider there are more homes south than there are north. Also, the polo fields and Savannah are north of dead center, so people living north of 446 have the advantage over people living at the far south (such as Colony Center) when it comes to watching/playing in a Polo match or using the computer lab.

Also, thanks SO much for the tip on insurance for manufactured homes - it never even occurred to me to consider insurability and insurance costs. That definitely rules out a couple of neighborhoods I had for my first choice! It's okay though. Second choice is just as gorgeous. I just will have to accept that I won't be allowed to put a family of tacky pink flamingos on my front yard. Le sigh <sniff>

[AnonChick]

Thanks SO much for the tip about insurability in the mfg. homes vs. site-built. I never would've thought of that. As for the bonds, I'm not sure why the -sellers- don't include it in their selling price, or the listing itself doesn't include a caveat specifying the bond price, if any. I have to guess that the vast majority of buyers have never lived in a community that required bonds before, so some might not even know to ask about them.

It seems to me that proportionately, the spread is nearly even. Pool-space and rec-center-space per resident isn't that much different between north and south, if you consider there are more homes south than there are north. Also, the polo fields and Savannah are north of dead center, so people living north of 446 have the advantage over people living at the far south (such as Colony Center) when it comes to watching/playing in a Polo match or using the computer lab.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

No problem, AnonChick.

The mindset on the bonds really does confound me. Like you said, many times it's just referenced that there is a bond but the amount is not stated. We've gone to several open houses for pre-owned homes in TV and have found that some agents will list the actual amount of the bond in the sales document(s) they hand out - that's nice! You'll be surprised how much the amounts will vary.

Hope you're able to find something you like, regardless of where it is in TV!!

Bill

[golfnut]

Anon, pool space/rec ctr space is TOTALLY different north vs south of 466, south of 466 closest rec ctr/pool is usually within a 1/2 mile at the most, north of 466 it could be several miles. I'm not aware of any neighborhoos rec ctenters north of 466, but there are about 10 of them south of 466. Look at the back of any rec center newspaper and you will see the difference......gn

[graciegirl]

Who knew? Soon as I need more than 15, I'm heading south! :)

P, my treasure. I sense you feel about your lovely northern part of paradise the same way I feel about the age thing.

One age, part of TV is just as lovely as another age, part of TV.

We are gonna have to beat the crap outta someone P.:1rotfl:

[redwitch]

Anon, pool space/rec ctr space is TOTALLY different north vs south of 466, south of 466 closest rec ctr/pool is usually within a 1/2 mile at the most, north of 466 it could be several miles. I'm not aware of any neighborhoos rec ctenters north of 466, but there are about 10 of them south of 466. Look at the back of any rec center newspaper and you will see the difference......gn

I know that at the very least Chatham, Saddlebrook, Tierra del Sol, Chula Vista and El Santiago are all neighborhood rec centers. There may be more. And while they're not neighborhood rec centers, there's also Hacienda, Paradise and Mulberry. Plus, Savannah has been known to be used as a rec center for club meetings, classes, dances, etc. We also have country clubs -- some even right by or very near the rec centers. I doubt that anyone north of 466 has to go more than 2 miles to find a rec center.

And the reality is that most of the time you're traveling all over TV to get to the rec center holding your event or the pool holding your exercise class; there are only 5 sports pools, so, unless you live in the "right" village, you're going to be traveling to get to one regardless. (I play bridge at Laurel Manor -- 8 min cart right at most; Lake Miona -- 10 mins unless I get a TV rental cart in front of me; and Colony -- 25 mins.)

[Russ_Boston]

GN is right about distance. I have 3 pools within easy walk (Pennecamp, Buttonwood and Fish-hawk family pool).

My nearest sport pool is Seabreaze about 1.25 miles.

But no matter where you are you'll have easy access to a pool.

[Bogie Shooter]

It seems to me that proportionately, the spread is nearly even. Pool-space and rec-center-space per resident isn't that much different between north and south, if you consider there are more homes south than there are north. Also, the polo fields and Savannah are north of dead center, so people living north of 446 have the advantage over people living at the far south (such as Colony Center) when it comes to watching/playing in a Polo match or using the computer lab.

Also, thanks SO much for the tip on insurance for manufactured homes - it never even occurred to me to consider insurability and insurance costs. That definitely rules out a couple of neighborhoods I had for my first choice! It's okay though. Second choice is just as gorgeous. I just will have to accept that I won't be allowed to put a family of tacky pink flamingos on my front yard. Le sigh <sniff>

If you have not checked this out with an insurance agent , I would not be too quick in ruling out anything.
BTW not just anyone can play polo.

[AnonChick]

I got lost enough in my week's visit last week, to be able to run my golf cart into the wall of just about every rec center and down the steps into every pool in the Villages. I can assure you there are plenty north of 466. However frustrating it may be to only -have- a week, and be instructed that it takes at -least- a month to learn your way around...and spend most of your travel time being lost...it was actually the absolute best way in the world to see all the neighborhoods.

Eventually I stopped trying to find the shorter route to Sumter Landing from St. Charles, and just took Bailey to Buena Vista and hung a right into the Square. But all that time trying to find Bonita, and going through Bailey til it changed its name, looking for Stillwater - was actually great for sightseeing.

I felt like SUCH a voyeur too - some of you have such nice pools in your screened lanais! It's because of people like me that I'd never want the back of my house facing open space, heh. Am I the only "finely aging brandy" in the world who prefers to enjoy lounging in her own home, sans the housecoat? I'd feel as though I had to be fully dressed with my face completely made up for the public, before I even opened the curtains for the day. To me, that isn't a retirement lifestyle choice. It's what you do when you have to be at work in 20 minutes.

Why is it, that the developers decided that senior citizens are not worthy of privacy? It's as though they said, "You can have privacy, but no yard. Or, you can have a yard, but no privacy. We'll toss you a bone and let you put up shrubs but if they're the wrong kind or the neighbors can't see your poker hand through the branches, you're SOL."

[golfnut]

Thanks Red I stand corrected on the rec center issue north of 466, they have the one's you mentioned I totally forgot about them, for what it's worth they do appear to be putting in more pools in the newer developments IMO....gn

[Pturner]

We are gonna have to beat the crap outta someone P.:1rotfl:

:boxing2: ready when you are. :1rotfl:

[golfnut]

and who is going to be the recipient of this whooping....gn

[redwitch]

PT and GG, I may have to help you on this one. And, GN, 3 guess as to whom (and the first 2 don't count).

Sadly, I do have to admit that you're right about the pool issue. Give the Morses credit -- they do learn from their mistakes. So, the new villages all have their own pool. It would be nice if we had a few more but the ones we do have are quite nice with friendly people and rarely overcrowded. And there still aren't enough sports pools at either end of TV.

[golfnut]

OK, just checkin', guess I'll have to keep an eye in the rear view mirror...gn

[Pturner]

OK, just checkin', guess I'll have to keep an eye in the rear view mirror...gn

Wow, Red's joining us too!

Be afraid. Be very afraid.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

gn - Probably best to get the battle gear on and batten down the hatches. :icon_wink: They're a tough gang - I wouldn't want to mess with 'em!! Heh-heh!

Bill

[thistrucksforyou]

:boxing2: ready when you are. :1rotfl:

I think Gracie can take you :boom:

[thistrucksforyou]

I have rented north of 466 many times and I will say one thing about there pool...The adult pool has a hot tube that I couldn't find anywhere else...I met people from the south side there that came north just for the hot tube///Great place for conversation !!!!

[Russ_Boston]

I have rented north of 466 many times and I will say one thing about there pool...The adult pool has a hot tube that I couldn't find anywhere else...I met people from the south side there that came north just for the hot tube///Great place for conversation !!!!

I'm not going to say it:)

[graciegirl]

I'm not going to say it:)

Boy Howdy!

[Bill-n-Brillo]

I'm not going to say it:) Come on Russ - you just KNOW you want to say it..............:a20: Step up to the plate!!! :)

Bill

[golfnut]

which adult pool has a hot tub? and yes Russ say it as i'm clueless...gn

[Russ_Boston]

The adult pool has a hot tube that I couldn't find anywhere else

In the words of Steve Carell "That's what she said!".

[graciegirl]

Or....favorite line in our family......

"The girl said to the sailor".:angel:

[golfnut]

OK, so is there an adult pool north of 466 that has a hot tub (i know they all have hot tubes).....gn

[duffysmom]

.

[Barefoot]

Why is it, that the developers decided that senior citizens are not worthy of privacy? It's as though they said, "You can have privacy, but no yard. Or, you can have a yard, but no privacy. "

The Developers have offered lots of houses with privacy and big yards. Many back on golf courses. Some back on Lake Sumter (in Bridgeport). Of course you will pay a hefty premium to buy this type of home.

The Developer also decided to offer some very affordable homes with smaller lots and less privacy. Luckily, there is a home to fit every need in The Bubble. :thumbup:

[AnonChick]

Never mind. This is just a pretty irritating discussion. I don't understand why the developers, and the residents, have so little value for privacy. It's not that I need a fence. It's that I don't like being told I'm not -allowed- to put one up if I want one. Not even if it's identical to the fences they already -have- at specific areas and around courtyard villas. I don't want to buy a fence with a house attached. I want to buy a home, and I want to know that IF I want a fence between my backyard and your back yard, I am allowed.

[SALYBOW]

"I don't want to buy a fence with a house attached. I want to buy a home, and I want to know that IF I want a fence between my backyard and your back yard, I am allowed."

If you feel strongly about this you might consider looking somewhere else. I doubt this will ever change. Most people use landscaping in lieu of fences and it looks lovely.:thumbup:

[Bill-n-Brillo]

I want to buy a home, and I want to know that IF I want a fence between my backyard and your back yard, I am allowed.

I'd suspect the developers do it the way they do it to maintain a consistent look. It's pretty much like any other development that has some sort of deed restrictions in place. Been there, done that, seen it work (and not work where it's not monitored and enforced). Granted, some are more restrictive than others.

You might put up the perfect fence yet your neighbor puts up something that they think looks wonderful..............yet concensus of others could be that your neighbor's fence isn't real attractive.

Definitely not a perfect world. But at least you're aware of the fence issue up front! :)

Bill

[Russ_Boston]

Remember that a fence, by definition, isn't just your fence when you put it on property lines. For an interior lot you are now putting a fence in three neighbors yards that they didn't consent to.

I'll take the tougher deed restrictions.

[graciegirl]

Never mind. This is just a pretty irritating discussion. I don't understand why the developers, and the residents, have so little value for privacy. It's not that I need a fence. It's that I don't like being told I'm not -allowed- to put one up if I want one. Not even if it's identical to the fences they already -have- at specific areas and around courtyard villas. I don't want to buy a fence with a house attached. I want to buy a home, and I want to know that IF I want a fence between my backyard and your back yard, I am allowed.

Hi there AnonChick!

Welcome to you. Hope you hang around and ask a lot of questions. Your question about fences is very typical and frequently debated.

We have lived in a restricted community for a long time in Ohio and you have to get approval for almost everything there from swing sets to satellite dishes.

I agree with Bill-n-Brillo that when enforced it makes for a nice, neat neighborhood. On the other hand I can see why people like their privacy too.

There are a lot of choices for landscaping and things grow VERY quickly here. Once you scrape off the tough Zoysia grass, the sand is easy to dig and if you throw in a bottle brush available at Lowes and Home Depot and Walmart you have six foot of privacy in a year! I love to get my hands dirty, and I would volunteer to help you. I know I will like you, your comment about old brandy won me immediately.

Just keep asking questions, a lot of us love to type, (and to others about to make a comment about ME, don't start!!)

I think that if you can, coming down and renting for several months makes it easier to choose just the right place. The section you are thinking about is lovely with mature trees and the right to do a little more to your yard with decorations than south of there. I have visited in a beautiful home in that area and it had many features not seen in most of the newer homes here.

You will find the right place for you....here with us other aged brandies!:wave:

[Pturner]

Hi AnonChick,
Most of us do feel that the deed restrictions contribute to the beauty and quality of life in TV. As others have said, there are homes in TV with private yards. (I have one.)

If you are interested in purchasing a home here, let your Realtor or TV Sales Agent know that privacy is a requirement for you. I'm betting you can find what you're looking for.

[chuckinca]

GG - you are just too nice for words! I am available for adoption.

Anon - We have always had small 6 ft high fenced in backyards (land in the SF Bay Area is at a premium). The back yards were very private and let you store all kinds of stuff outside.

Here in TV we have a much bigger back yard but because it is open to all it is basically useless for storage or hanging out laundry or letting the dog roam around. However, you get a lanai in TV that we didn't have before and it provides a lot of things that a fenced in yard did and we switched to in door cats. Plus, if you buy on a golf course, you get a large expanse of grass that someone else cuts and your back yard neighbors are too far away to disturb you.

.

[mulligan]

Why not hang out laundry??

[otherbruddaDarrell]

Why not hang out laundry??

If you have a CYV you can. As long as it is back....nobody can see it..........then again you can also get a very good tan!

[Challenger]

We just bought in TV. A significant consideration in our decision was the existence of strong deed restrictictions and architectural control. We love the ambience and want to preserve it. I find the whining about the protective controls including speed limits for golf carts to be annoying. There are plenty of places to live in Florida if you desire to have neighbors with pickup trucks in the front yard and race tracks in the front street.

I have found that when developers complete the project and relinquish control to the carry on owners group, the folks administering the rules get worn down by the whiners and give in. We become our own worst enemies. I and I hope others who feel that the rules are important will retain the will to resist the easy answer.

[chuckinca]

Why not hang out laundry??


Against CC&R's and it distracts from the country club atmosphere.

(our son is teaching English in Spain this year under a Spanish Govt program - many of the US English teachers in the program mention in their blogs the lack of clothes dryers in Spain as something they really miss from the US.)


.

[mulligan]

May be against CC&R's, but FL statutes supersede, and they allow it, and forbid other governing bodies to restrict it. Not that it is particularly attractive, but it is a money saver.

[Tom Hannon]

Challenger said:
We just bought in TV. A significant consideration in our decision was the existence of strong deed restrictictions and architectural control. We love the ambience and want to preserve it. I find the whining about the protective controls including speed limits for golf carts to be annoying. There are plenty of places to live in Florida if you desire to have neighbors with pickup trucks in the front yard and race tracks in the front street.

I agree. In NY we have a neighbor from hell running a car business out of his garage. He has three junked cars in his driveway, car parts on the side of his house and works to late hours at night which keep me awake. We have a few other neighbors with the most hideous lawn decorations and others who do little (nothing) to keep up their lawn and property. And then we have Mr. Ed who plays his radio loud. In TV you wouldn't get away with that stuff.

[windylou]

We bought new south of 466... because we found the right house for us.
Our definites were 2 car plus golf cart garage, larger lanai than 9'deep,
and we didn't want to be able to hear our neighbors talking quietly in their lanai... meaning not too close . Also, my husband wanted the Amarillo ranch.
We have friends who simply love the cosy-ness of the historic area, and the trees etc of north of 466. We also have friends who say that their established neighborhood
has not welcomed them ..... and friends in NEW neighborhoods who say the same thing.
My theory is ... if your neighbor doesn't come to you... Introduce yourself .. and have a party . It 's good to know your neighbors so you can help them when needed ... or they can help you if you need them .. but your best friends quite likely will be someone you meet at an activity of your choosing.
Just make yourself a list of what you like , choose your house/lot and get on down to
enjoy this lifestyle !
God's blessings on your choice.

[golfnut]

we too bought because of the strict CCR's, challenger's post was right on, whiner's have a lot of other options within 25 miles....gn

[golfnut]

bump and i'd like to ask my question again, where is the pool north of 466 that has a hot tub....gn

[Bill-n-Brillo]

bump and i'd like to ask my question again, where is the pool north of 466 that has a hot tub....gnLooks like the Southside Village Rec Center (on the Historic area) is the one with the hot tub:
http://www.districtgov.org/images/RecGuide.pdf
Reference p.7 of the pdf.

Bill

[Rob Stevens]

The oven is under the stove

[Bill-n-Brillo]

The oven is under the stove

?

Bill

[chuckinca]

Paradise Rec Center used to have a restaurant and bar before the Rec Center was remodeled.

Do any Rec Centers still have restaurants?


.

[redwitch]

Chuck, not that I know of, although some do have kitchens of some sort for catering, large functions, etc.

[Russ_Boston]

Chuck, not that I know of, although some do have kitchens of some sort for catering, large functions, etc.


I think all the new ones have kitchen centers for catering. I know the new one in Buttonwood (Fish hawk?) has two kitchens that serve two large function rooms.

[champion6]

bump and i'd like to ask my question again, where is the pool north of 466 that has a hot tubI'm sure there is a hot tub at the Orange Blossom Hills Country Club pool.

[villages07]

There are hot tubs at three country club pools ... Orange Blossom, Hacienda, and Glenview. But, you have to be priority golf or tennis or have the pool only membership to use them

The Southside pool, on the historic side is the only amenity supported pool with a hot tub/jacuzzi that is available to all residents and their guests.

[kofficer]

Changes came actually in March of 2003, because my house in Tampa, had to be held up while they made design changes to conform and get them them through the County, here.

Lee and Richard in Tampa

[Pturner]

bump and i'd like to ask my question again, where is the pool north of 466 that has a hot tub....gn

Geez, and all this time I thought you were looking for hot tubes.

[graciegirl]

Geez, and all this time I thought you were looking for hot tubes.

I have thought about this a lot P, and I think I love you mostly because you're bad.:thumbup:

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Geez, and all this time I thought you were looking for hot tubes.

Does your mother know you turned out this way, p? :thumbup:

Bill

[rubicon]

The three most mportant considerations for buying a home are location, location, location. I moved here in August 2006 and cannot tell you the number of people I have met who have purchased a home and moved again to another location in TV. Name a reason for doing so and I probably heard it said. All these theories and rationales as to why I located to this part of town or this Village. Of course it all boils down to personal perference. For me buying in a time when TV was not as negotiable as it is now I made it clear what I was looking for and my saleswoman located it to the letter. so my advice for those on this thread still looking for a place is to choose carefully and if you have people living in the neighborhood visit with them. The Villages built out will be 32 square miles I have found no matter where you live there is a pool, rec center town square or golf course near by. If I had to chose ne prefeence it would be my neighbors and in my case the neighbors are truly good fun loving people. Finally I have say north or south east or west the women in TV are gorgeous.:thumbup:

[Tbugs]

Personally, I found the better deals on homes are North of 466. I bought about 18 months ago and purchased a home built in 2002 in Glenbrook - backing up on Glenview golf course. I was able to negotiate with the seller, the home had everything we wanted plus wonderful upgrades. Being an older home, the bond remaining was very, very low. I saved well over $200,000 from buying a similar new house with a similar view - including the much higher bond.

However, you cannot go wrong buying a home anywhere in The Villages.

As far as the location of the most beautiful women, it will be wherever my wife happens to be standing - and I hope that will be next to me forever.

[Minnesotalyn]

There are a couple of things you can consider. On the older homes built before 2006, I think, they are not built to newer construction standards as regards hurricanes. It may or may not be an issue. You do get a house in an established neighborhood with mature plantings and a home, possibly, with many upgrades you won't have to do yourself.

On the other hands in the new neighborhoods everyone is moving in at the same approximate time and meeting and greeting each other. It's far easier to get involved in a golf group, for instance, or any kind of recreational gathering when you're forming them from scratch. In an older neighborhood the golf groups are pretty well established. It won't matter if you're a gregarious person, I imagine, and know how to take the bull by the horns, but if you're laid back, like me, it could be harder to fit in easily.

In the end though, TV is such a beautiful place and the people are, almost without question, some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. We're almost all people with a positive attitude who are willing to take chances and meet new people with an open hand. Think about it, we've all left our homes and gone on an adventure with our hopes for a better future. At our age? Who could imagine?

I like what you said

[jebartle]

North now has

sweet tomatoes
Aren't you all glad I joined the TOTV family...giggle, giggle, snort, snort

It took years to develop this attitude.....Nah, Na, Nah, Na, Na, Na!!!
My mother would not be proud of me now!!!!!

[llaran]

I think you mean 44 - they are not selling homes right now southof 466a. the next areas will be south of 466a and north of 44 . i believe most people are afraid of Wildwood, because of talk! We have crime in all of the villages but it RARELY is reported in the Daily Sun which people call the "happy paper"

there have been burgleries, when people have been home or not. golf clubs and or carts stolen, domestic battery, armed robbery of retail stores, we even had a murder!

This is not utopia! it is a town of 80,000 + people and you have to be aware.

[hedoman]

[QUOTE=AnonChick;300618]I got lost enough in my week's visit last week, to be able to run my golf cart into the wall of just about every rec center and down the steps into every pool in the Villages. I can assure you there are plenty north of 466. However frustrating it may be to only -have- a week, and be instructed that it takes at -least- a month to learn your way around...and spend most of your travel time being lost...it was actually the absolute best way in the world to see all the neighborhoods.

We found that out on our visit too. It did get easier to get around as they days passed. There was always a friendly villager to help giude us :)

[hedoman]

bump and i'd like to ask my question again, where is the pool north of 466 that has a hot tub....gn

Our house! In Polo Ridge

[Mudder]

Golfnut - some of the country club pools north of 446 have hot tubs. Orange Blossom Hills and Hacienda Hills have them and I think Glenview does too. You need to be priority to use them. Orange Blossom has a beautiful waterfall too and the pool is large.

[rubicon]

llaran like that you have not been overcome by the disney dust spread by some. Built out this development will be in excess of 102,000 plus renters, guests and business people doing business in TV. There is no question that TV has many fine qualities. But I find whenever someone speaks to issues that need correction or are unfair some residents view such complaintants as being naysayers, negative, etc. I take the opposite view I want to hear their concerns because they may well have a point and by seeking its remedy perserve the Lifestyle for which we paid a premium. What is especially tricky is our form of government and we all have an obligation to maintain a watchful eye on what our representatives are or are not doing.:police:

[JAV0108]

Originally Posted by golfnut View Post
bump and i'd like to ask my question again, where is the pool north of 466 that has a hot tub....gn

Southside Village Rec. Center. It is awesome.
I didn't tell you, it's a best kept secret.
Check your maps folks.

[Pturner]

Originally Posted by golfnut View Post
bump and i'd like to ask my question again, where is the pool north of 466 that has a hot tub....gn

Southside Village Rec. Center. It is awesome.
I didn't tell you, it's a best kept secret.
Check your maps folks.

V07 answered previously. Is this what you are looking for?

There are hot tubs at three country club pools ... Orange Blossom, Hacienda, and Glenview. But, you have to be priority golf or tennis or have the pool only membership to use them

The Southside pool, on the historic side is the only amenity supported pool with a hot tub/jacuzzi that is available to all residents and their guests.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Reminds me of an old Saturday Nite Live skit:

:click: (http://www.hulu.com/watch/97800/saturday-night-live-james-browns-celebrity-hot-tub-party)

Bill :)

[jackz]

Reminds me of an old Saturday Nite Live skit:

:click: (http://www.hulu.com/watch/97800/saturday-night-live-james-browns-celebrity-hot-tub-party)

Bill :)

Bill:
One minor disadvantage about our living in Rome, Italy for the next 18 months is that when I click on your link for the Hot Tub skit I get a message that the streaming of Hulu is not permitted outside the USA.

I am guessing the clip is the one where Eddie Murphy does his James Brown impression.

I guess we can wash away our sorrows over the loss of Hulu with another glass of outstanding Italian Red....

Jack

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Bill:
One minor disadvantage about our living in Rome, Italy for the next 18 months is that when I click on your link for the Hot Tub skit I get a message that the streaming of Hulu is not permitted outside the USA.

I am guessing the clip is the one where Eddie Murphy does his James Brown impression.

I guess we can wash away our sorrows over the loss of Hulu with another glass of outstanding Italian Red....

Jack

Jack - Sorry about the Hulu issue - I wasn't aware of the limitation.

Try this one - same thing via NBC's site. Longer up-front ad message, though..... http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/james-browns-celebrity-hot-tub-party/1160071/

Bill

[waterman1952]

Bill:


I guess we can wash away our sorrows over the loss of Hulu with another glass of outstanding Italian Red....

Jack

Montepulciano for me please!

[jackz]

Montepulciano for me please!

Great wine, have you had the nobile wines from there? Or a good bottle of Montefalco Rosso.

[jackz]

Jack - Sorry about the Hulu issue - I wasn't aware of the limitation.

Try this one - same thing via NBC's site. Longer up-front ad message, though..... http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/james-browns-celebrity-hot-tub-party/1160071/

Bill

No problem Bill, tried the clip and received a message "not available in your location". Unfortunately, our IP (Internet provider) is identified as being in Italy. Amazing how the USA can protect their copyright overseas but can't stop the illegal immigration....

Very familiar with the skit from SNL and one of my favorites.

Jack