Best Village & neighborhood for closest golf cart trips to shop, eat & medical?

[JenS630]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J

[Babubhat]

Look along Pinellas place

[Bogie Shooter]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J

Have you visited? Lifestyle visit? Short term rental?
If not you should, so you can answer these questions yourself.
You are going to get a lot of diverse opinions…………most likely not helpful just confusing.

Example….
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/looking-buy-area-would-best-333298/?highlight=village

[asianthree]

You are only going to get two kinds of options.

One… my village of —————— is the best to live in

Two….don’t buy south, because of the turnpike noise, the prison lights, loudspeaker, and prison breaks, and in blasts from the mine that will rattle your windows and cause cracks in your foundation. (These warnings usually comes from residence who have never lived in the area, sometimes never even visited. Or from a real estate agent who can’t sell a new home in TV)

So one really needs to visit TV, because our viewpoints will be very different from yours.

We visited 3 times before we bought our first home, in 2010, and have bought 2 homes in different villages since. Going from the small patio villa with 1.5 garage, to cottage 2 car garage, to a designer with golf cart garage. Now looking to build our 4 new home to accommodate our changing needs.

We live within 15 to 20 minutes by cart to 2 town squares, and less to grocery. Yet I drive off site to do my shopping because just not a fan of Publix or Winn Dixie. We visit squares when company comes or to have dinner. We have 5 adult or family pools and one sport pool with 5 minutes or less from our home. We use none as we go to the county clubs to use our enhanced pool membership

Life changes, TV is the easiest area to change to your advantage

[Bill14564]

Between Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood gives you access to two areas with music, shopping, groceries, dining, and medical. Proximity to the adult pool will depend on which homes are for sale.

[Papa_lecki]

Do a visit -
You described 90% of the houses in the entire villages. Depends on budget/new vs pre owned.

[vintageogauge]

I live south of 44 but I'm going to recommend that you look north if 44 very near to Brownwood as they have all the latests medical facilities including a 24 hour emergency facility, lots of restaurants, and Publix for groceries. All very near to each other for easy golf car travel.

[JMintzer]

Between Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood gives you access to two areas with music, shopping, groceries, dining, and medical. Proximity to the adult pool will depend on which homes are for sale.

I tend to agree...

When we bought 1.5 years ago, we looked south of 44 but decided it wasn't what we wanted.

We decided on Osceola Hills, but we looked a many of the Villages between 44 and 466A. Those houses were newer (4-7 years old), and had a more modern look that we wanted...

[Flyers999]

This is going to ruffle some feathers here but the best area in the Villages is between 466 and 466a. This is Robert Morse's crown jewel. I don't live there because there were better bargains in the north (among a few other things) when I bought.
That said, your "must" list is so simple that I must wonder what else are you going to be doing when you move here besides shop Publix, eat out and go to the pool? The Villages is for active seniors. Are there any of the 4000 clubs you intend to join? They are spread out all over. Every Wednesday I go to one at Saddlebrook rec, so I'm glad it's right around the corner. Good luck

[Gpsma]

Who is Robert Morse?

Seems the OP has never been to the Villages.

[JMintzer]

Who is Robert Morse?

Seems the OP has never been to the Villages.

https://imagesvc.meredithcorp.io/v3/mm/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F20%2F2022%2F04%2F21%2F robert-morse-3.jpg

[psgolf@comcast.net]

Anywhere between 466 and 466a. Best locations

[sdeikenberry]

We live just south of Spanish Springs and are very golf cart close to all we could want. Sumter Landing is 10 mins away. Spanish Springs is 3 minutes away and the area has grocery, hardware, bank, clothing stores...and more within 5 minutes golf cart ride. A 15 minute ride gets you to CHASE bank, Lowes, BJ's (like Sams), large clothing stores, Wal-Mart, Aldis, medical providers, and more. We are under 10 minutes away by golf cart from the hospital, medical offices, and medical support companies. Just sayin Spainsh Springs area has a lot to offer including mature landscape.

[RICH1]

Good Luck … The Good houses sell fast … Cell towers, Power Lines , Tennis Courts should also be a major concern ! Road noise and the Turnpike should be on your due diligence check off list…. Center yourself so your cart rides are not more than 4 miles… Happy Hour starts early. Enjoy the show

[Godfather73]

Lifestyle Preview Plan. There is no "best" location" in The Villages, only what's best for you,

[Phil9162]

Between Lake Sumter and Briwnwood

[Madisond]

The villages of St. John’s are close to absolutely everything! Our house is going to be hitting the market, soon. It’s a Tall Pines model. Be sure to keep your eye on the villages listing!

[Glowfromminnesota]

Agree. That is where my mother in law just bought a home. So close to everything.

[bowlingal]

Who is Robert Morse?

Seems the OP has never been to the Villages.

that's what I want to know....who is Robert Morse? Do you mean Gary Morse ?

[Pachine58]

The old historic area has it all and no need for a car. Everything is a short golf cart ride. The landscape is mature, the people are awesome, 2 regional rec centers, 2 Town Squares,
Tons of shopping, medical, restaurants, pools, dog park, beautiful parks, Sharon Morse center, and all the entertainment venues. 15 min to Sumter Square , 5 min to Spanish Springs by golf cart.

I looked in the South, almost bought a house then found a brand new house in the historic area looking at a beautiful lake. So happy I choose this location. No 30 min drive from south to get to all the North has. Everything I do is by golf cart, never use my car.

[Remembergoldenrule]

Location! Location! Location! Per Google maps - Manatee Recreation Center 0.4 mi. - Dunedin Adult Pool 0.4 mi. - Bradenton Recreation Center 0.6 mi. - Eisenhower Regional 1.8 mi. - Colony Regional Center 1.9 mi. - Publix 1.9 mi. - Lowe’s 2.0 mi. - Walmart Neighborhood Market 2.1 mi. - Brownwood Paddock Square 2.3 mi. - Lake Sumter Landing 4.3 mi conveniently located near Bonifay (1.2 mi.), Evans Prairie (2 mi.) , & Belle Glade (2 mi.) Country Clubs , with shopping nearby at Colony 2.5 mi., Pinellas 2.3 mi, & Lake Denton 4.3 mi.
This stretched Begonia is on our cul d sac on corner lot with peek a boo water views. It is listed with non village agent. $625k kehawkins@yahoo.com is owner.

[jayteadunn]

All good info. Can you elaborate on the pool membership?

You are only going to get two kinds of options.

One… my village of —————— is the best to live in

Two….don’t buy south, because of the turnpike noise, the prison lights, loudspeaker, and prison breaks, and in blasts from the mine that will rattle your windows and cause cracks in your foundation. (These warnings usually comes from residence who have never lived in the area, sometimes never even visited. Or from a real estate agent who can’t sell a new home in TV)

So one really needs to visit TV, because our viewpoints will be very different from yours.

We visited 3 times before we bought our first home, in 2010, and have bought 2 homes in different villages since. Going from the small patio villa with 1.5 garage, to cottage 2 car garage, to a designer with golf cart garage. Now looking to build our 4 new home to accommodate our changing needs.

We live within 15 to 20 minutes by cart to 2 town squares, and less to grocery. Yet I drive off site to do my shopping because just not a fan of Publix or Winn Dixie. We visit squares when company comes or to have dinner. We have 5 adult or family pools and one sport pool with 5 minutes or less from our home. We use none as we go to the county clubs to use our enhanced pool membership

Life changes, TV is the easiest area to change to your advantage

[Bilyclub]

All good info. Can you elaborate on the pool membership?


Golf The Villages (https://www.golfthevillages.com/tee-times/membership.asp)

[mrf0151]

Within close proximity of 466 is the best area. Publix, Walmart, Fresh Market, Sprouts coming. Laural Manor center with large lap pool. Many doctors and dentist's offices along 466. Walgreens and CVS. The Villages Library. Tons of restaurants of all varieties. Several executive golf courses. Six banks along 466.
By golf cart, 10 mins to Lake Sumter Landing and 18 mins to Spanish Springs.
Most homes in this area either have no bond or very little bond left to pay.

[jbrown132]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J
I would look at at Virginia Trace or Creek Side Landing. From here you can pretty much walk into Lake Sumter where there are restaurants, shops and a grocery store. However, as some people have suggested it would probably be wise to visit because no one really knows what your personal tastes are.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

The areas just outside of Spanish Springs Town Square are a short golf cart ride from everything. Other areas might be nicer but you can’t beat that area for getting to places by golf cart.

[OhioBuckeye]

I didn’t think TV had a bad area to do anything!

[Psacc0]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J

Near the high school on 466 is convenient. It’s the Southern Trace, Wedgewood area

[njbchbum]

Between Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood gives you access to two areas with music, shopping, groceries, dining, and medical. Proximity to the adult pool will depend on which homes are for sale.

Doesn't everything between Lake Sumter Landing and Spanish Springs town square ALSO give "you access to two areas with music, shopping, groceries, dining, and medical."?

[collie1228]

I had the same question when I was deciding ten years ago, and have been extremely pleased with my selection of a courtyard villa near Spanish Springs. But that was ten years ago, and obviously much has changed since then. While I am still pleased and have no regrets, the growth of The Villages has been so unbelievable, that almost any area would be good, given enough time.

[gmpipi@aol.com]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J

Village of Pinellas by far

[rogerk]

Find the house you like, including new or pre-owned. Don't worry about the'best' Village; they are all good; most things people believe are most important before moving here change after awhile. That is why so many people move within the Villages. I repeat myself, focus on the home. There isn't really a bad neighborhood/Village.

Amenities are constantly being added or improved. Your basic home wants and needs don't usually change, unless you decide to downsize or upsize.

[DaleDivine]

that's what I want to know....who is Robert Morse? Do you mean Gary Morse ?

The OP did NOT SAY Robert Morse. Look at post #9. Robert Morse Crown Jewel???
:grumpy::grumpy:

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

We live just south of Spanish Springs and are very golf cart close to all we could want. Sumter Landing is 10 mins away. Spanish Springs is 3 minutes away and the area has grocery, hardware, bank, clothing stores...and more within 5 minutes golf cart ride. A 15 minute ride gets you to CHASE bank, Lowes, BJ's (like Sams), large clothing stores, Wal-Mart, Aldis, medical providers, and more. We are under 10 minutes away by golf cart from the hospital, medical offices, and medical support companies. Just sayin Spainsh Springs area has a lot to offer including mature landscape.

Yeah I was thinking the DelMar area is the best if you're looking to be surrounded by all the stores, restaurants, commerce in general, AND medical facilities you could possibly need to live out your retirement.

[DaleDivine]

Doesn't everything between Lake Sumter Landing and Spanish Springs town square ALSO give "you access to two areas with music, shopping, groceries, dining, and medical."?

As does the area between Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood..
:bigbow::coolsmiley::bigbow:

[DaleDivine]

Find the house you like, including new or pre-owned. Don't worry about the'best' Village; they are all good; most things people believe are most important before moving here change after awhile. That is why so many people move within the Villages. I repeat myself, focus on the home. There isn't really a bad neighborhood/Village.

Amenities are constantly being added or improved. Your basic home wants and needs don't usually change, unless you decide to downsize or upsize.

:agree::agree::bigbow:

[GpaVader]

For us, the deciding factor was Gas appliances, so we went South. Lot's of things close but not everything, but they keep on building things....

[Djean1981]

You can do your best to decide. However, over the years, restaurants and other services come and go. Also, the South is still being developed. The best location for your needs now may not be the best later on..

[Stu from NYC]

https://imagesvc.meredithcorp.io/v3/mm/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F20%2F2022%2F04%2F21%2F robert-morse-3.jpg

Brilliant:eclipsee_gold_cup:

[Stu from NYC]

Ask 10 people this question and you will get at least 11 answers.

We came for a few short visit and liked what we saw but not sure where to move into.

We than rented for a month to give us enough time to explore. If anything would have done a longer rental.

[coffeebean]

This is going to ruffle some feathers here but the best area in the Villages is between 466 and 466a. This is Robert Morse's crown jewel. I don't live there because there were better bargains in the north (among a few other things) when I bought.
That said, your "must" list is so simple that I must wonder what else are you going to be doing when you move here besides shop Publix, eat out and go to the pool? The Villages is for active seniors. Are there any of the 4000 clubs you intend to join? They are spread out all over. Every Wednesday I go to one at Saddlebrook rec, so I'm glad it's right around the corner. Good luck
You didn't ruffle my feathers. I live south of 466 and north of 466A in Mallory Square. There is no better location.

Mallory is close enough to Lake Sumter Landing and very close to two sports pools, those being Colony Cottage and Lake Miona. Those two pools are less than 10 minutes in a golf cart. This location is a nine minute golf cart ride to Publix at Colony Plaza. Go north on Morse Blvd in a car and we are a hop skip and a jump to the 441/27 corridor of big box stores, all sorts of restaurants and retail stores, medical offices and The Villages Regional Hospital. THAT is the most important advantage of this location.

I agree with others who say that you should come on down and do a lifestyle visit and find the area that will appeal to YOU. YOU are the only one who will be able to make that determination of which village will meet your needs and wants the best.

Best of luck in your search for your new home.

[coffeebean]

https://imagesvc.meredithcorp.io/v3/mm/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.onecms.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F20%2F2022%2F04%2F21%2F robert-morse-3.jpg

That face could only mean "The Brotherhood of Man".

[coffeebean]

Between Lake Sumter and Briwnwood

That would be Brownwood.

[coffeebean]

The villages of St. John’s are close to absolutely everything! Our house is going to be hitting the market, soon. It’s a Tall Pines model. Be sure to keep your eye on the villages listing!

Where is the Village of St. John located?

[joelfmi]

Gray hair is glorious crown won by a righteous life. where is the free community travel transpiration for seniors that cannot drive anyone

[SeaCros]

this simple question will get you many overly complicated answers. Good luck on your search. Yes you will need to do your research

[JMintzer]

Where is the Village of St. John located?

On Meggison Rd, a bit south of 44...

[Stu from NYC]

Gray hair is glorious crown won by a righteous life. where is the free community travel transpiration for seniors that cannot drive anyone

Exactly why should it be free and if so who should pay for it?

[Bogie Shooter]

Gray hair is glorious crown won by a righteous life. where is the free community travel transpiration for seniors that cannot drive anyone

Exactly why should it be free and if so who should pay for it?

This guy doesn’t live in The Villages.

[golfnut]

The villages of St. John’s are close to absolutely everything! Our house is going to be hitting the market, soon. It’s a Tall Pines model. Be sure to keep your eye on the villages listing!

St Johns may be next to everything but one of the things it is next is the turnpike, not for me.

[rsibole]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J

Neighbors are more important than neighborhoods. I would suggest that most areas tend to have a similar age demographic, with exceptions of course. As an example, the “historic” area, Orange Blossom, 90+ yr olds, Spanish Springs neighborhoods maybe 80-90 yr olds, Fenny area 60 & under, etc.

Perhaps when you find a house you might like, knock on doors close by. People here are friendly and will talk enough to give you an insight into the neighborhood. And if you run across someone unwilling to talk to you or who complains too much it could be a red flag. Just don’t be shy, shy definitely does not work well here in TV.

We happen to have a GREAT neighborhood and TERRIFIC neighbors who visit, play and socialize together constantly. . . . sorry, it’s a secret which Village we live in but good luck finding your own paradise.

[B-flat]

Within close proximity of 466 is the best area. Publix, Walmart, Fresh Market, Sprouts coming. Laural Manor center with large lap pool. Many doctors and dentist's offices along 466. Walgreens and CVS. The Villages Library. Tons of restaurants of all varieties. Several executive golf courses. Six banks along 466.
By golf cart, 10 mins to Lake Sumter Landing and 18 mins to Spanish Springs.
Most homes in this area either have no bond or very little bond left to pay.

Good answer that is the area of our preference too. The Life Style visit is a must.

[coffeebean]

On Meggison Rd, a bit south of 44...

Thank you.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Find the house you like, including new or pre-owned. Don't worry about the'best' Village; they are all good; most things people believe are most important before moving here change after awhile. That is why so many people move within the Villages. I repeat myself, focus on the home. There isn't really a bad neighborhood/Village.

Amenities are constantly being added or improved. Your basic home wants and needs don't usually change, unless you decide to downsize or upsize.

Sounds like marketing woo.

In real estate, location is EVERYTHING.

Don't worry about the house. Worry more about where the property is located. You can always build the house you like on the property, if you can afford it.

If you want amenities more suitable for the CURRENT generation of 50-somethings, then you'll want somewhere in the southern area of the Villages. If you want mature landscaping throughout the area and don't want to have to wait 10 years for everything to be grown in, anywhere north of 466A will be fine.

If you want a wide variety of shopping/dining options within a 20-minute golf cart ride, I'd say Southern Trace and points northeast would be great, though due north into Lopez territory would be stretching it.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Neighbors are more important than neighborhoods. I would suggest that most areas tend to have a similar age demographic, with exceptions of course. As an example, the “historic” area, Orange Blossom, 90+ yr olds, Spanish Springs neighborhoods maybe 80-90 yr olds, Fenny area 60 & under, etc.

Perhaps when you find a house you might like, knock on doors close by. People here are friendly and will talk enough to give you an insight into the neighborhood. And if you run across someone unwilling to talk to you or who complains too much it could be a red flag. Just don’t be shy, shy definitely does not work well here in TV.

We happen to have a GREAT neighborhood and TERRIFIC neighbors who visit, play and socialize together constantly. . . . sorry, it’s a secret which Village we live in but good luck finding your own paradise.

Orange Blossom has a lot of dead 90-year-olds, or 90-year-olds living in memory care or assisted living or even rest homes, whose houses have been purchased and now being occupied by 50-60-somethings. The same with Spanish Springs. Same with Silver Lake and Country Club Hills.

[kkingston57]

We live in Hacienda North. 1/2 mile from Spanish Srings, 3 miles to Sumter Landing. 2 Publixes less than 1 mile away. Hospital 1/2 mile away. Numerous chain restaurants less than 1 mile away and most accessible by golf cart BJ's less than 1 mile.

On other side of coin, houses are 20+/- years old, but do have mature trees/landscaping.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

We live in Hacienda North. 1/2 mile from Spanish Srings, 3 miles to Sumter Landing. 2 Publixes less than 1 mile away. Hospital 1/2 mile away. Numerous chain restaurants less than 1 mile away and most accessible by golf cart BJ's less than 1 mile.

On other side of coin, houses are 20+/- years old, but do have mature trees/landscaping.

I lived in a house up north back in the 1980's, that was built in the 1800's. Not sure why houses in Florida are considered "old" if they're 20+ years old, unless they are structurally inferior. Florida doesn't get the weather extremes that can destroy wood and concrete like the north does. And yet - those old New England homes can last hundreds of years with the usual expected code upgrades and new roofs every couple of decades.

My manufactured home here in the "historic" section was rolled in from the manufacturer in 1985. That's almost 40 years ago. Has a few soft spots under the floorboards and could use a paint job but is otherwise in great shape.

[jmaccallum]

[QUOTE=Pachine58;2115189]The old historic area has it all and no need for a car. Everything is a short golf cart ride. The landscape is mature, the people are awesome,

Woot Woot! for the Historic District and the other Villages in Lady Lake/Lake County. We have more shopping by golf cart than any of the other Villages could dream of having! No Bonds cos there never were any. No CDD to put up with cos there never was one. No Annual Maintenance Fees cos there ain’t no CDD. And we enjoy the use of everything Villages wide!

Wait a minute! Shhhh! Don’t tell anyone! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Woodbear]

We enjoy the outdoor trails so south of 44 was the place for us. For some reason, the Pine Hills/Pine Ridge area has appealed to us after being here a year. I do not foresee us every moving, but who knows

[gradnjw]

Look along Pinellas place

Collier is immediately adjacent to Brownwood Paddock Square, has 3 executives courses, is adjacent to Evan’s Prairie Championship course, next to Eisenhower Regional Rec center, and very close to Pinellas Plaza with plenty of shopping in the plaza and across the street on 466a. Brownwood health center is growing rapidly, and many doctors are nearby along 44. Lake Sumter Landing is a 10 minute drive away as well. Our house Is for sale in this lovely village - PM me if you want more info🙂🙂

[bern916]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J

We wanted close to everything too so we bought in Polo Ridge - we are near Southern Trace Plaza. We have just a couple/few minutes golf cart ride ride to EVERYTHING... banking, shopping, dining, medical and 2 different Adult pools. Polo Ridge is right at 466 ... other options could be Summerhill, Belvedere, Lynnhaven. We're about 10-15 minutes (by golf cart) to Spanish Springs or LSL town squares. Another reason we bought on the northern end was because the bond was already paid on our home. I recommend coming down and staying in a few different areas - there are lots of short term rental options - I think that's the only way you'll get a true sense of what area has everything you want. Message me if you want anymore info about our location. Good Luck and happy house hunting!

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

The villages of St. John’s are close to absolutely everything! Our house is going to be hitting the market, soon. It’s a Tall Pines model. Be sure to keep your eye on the villages listing!

You have evidently never lived anywhere else in The Villages. I live in St John's and it is not close to anything by golf cart.

I lived in the Spanish Springs area and had a five minute golf cart ride to the Town Square, Target, many restaurants, Publix, Winn Dixie, Ace Hardware, Villages Golf Carts, and many, many other businesses. I could also take a ten minute trip over the bridge and get to Lowes, Wal Mart, Beals, Aldi, the Dollar Store and several businesses.

In St John's I'm 15 minutes by golf cart to Publix and Brownwood. There is no closer golf cart accessible shopping.

I like St John's and believe that there will be much more golf cart convenient businesses in the future but for now, it's not close to anything by golf cart.

[rsmurano]

South of 44 is best! It has the best infrastructure and is close to Brownwood and sumter is a 40 min golf cart ride. I hate driving north to 441. I have Sams club ship all my items for free so I don’t have to drive there. From 466 north, it is dangerous riding in a golf cart next to cars on Morse blvd. I know many people that have moved from the north villages areas to south of 44, I don’t know anybody that has sold in the south to move north. There is a Publix at magnolia. If you move south of 44 today, in a few years, you will be located in the middle of the villages.
We take the golf cart to most places we want to go in the villages, but when we HAVE to go north/way north, we drive the car

[Mistymom]

There are also many other factors to your decision. It will be several years before the far southern area is developed with a square, hospital, etc. Also, the bond on the houses there are much higher. If you plan to live in The Villages several years, this may be the place for you because we have been told that that area will eventually be the center of The Villages.

Personally, we have found that we have to go all over the area to find specialists, dentists, VA etc, from Summerfield to Brownwood. If you lived in some areas south of 44, Summerfield would be at least 45 minutes!

We live just south of Colony which is OK, but would prefer to live between 466A and Sumpter Landing. There are tons of golf courses and much more convenient. Yes, the houses are a little older, but they still have all of the modern decor.

[Mushkie]

I live south of 44 but I'm going to recommend that you look north if 44 very near to Brownwood as they have all the latests medical facilities including a 24 hour emergency facility, lots of restaurants, and Publix for groceries. All very near to each other for easy golf car travel.

I am not sure where you live “south of 44” but I live in Fenney and we have everything you listed and more - the 24 ER is golf cart accessible with its own golf cart parking lot even!! With Sawgrass being open now (it is awesome- good music and food and cocktails) and Eastport opening in the next 1-2 years, South of 44 is the hip and happening place PLUS lots of the natural beauty preserved and enhanced.
We have a resorts beach entry pool at Fenney Recreation Center PLUS a restaurant and bar that services the pool, nature trails galore. We have a new strip mall golf cart accessible on corner of 301 and Warm Spring and one across the street that isn’t golf cart accessible. We Magnolia Plaza that has Publix, McDonalds, Reveille- the best breakfast place ever- must have their cinnamon swirl pancakes- AWESOME, Willy Jewels BBQ, Chinese food, The Villages Golf Cart store and service, salon Jaylee and a nail salon, Citizens bank and The Villages insurance, Dental offices, Roberto’s flooring and remodel, Quest labs. Coming soon is the 7-11 that will have golf cart gas too, CVS pharmacy, coffee shop, KB landscaping and home design- and a veterinary clinic!!!
And I didn’t even mention yet Edna’s on the Green- a great wine and beer bar with good food trucks and daily live music and dancing with views and access to the Marsh Bend pitch and put and the Cattail Pool and Lowland golf course and the Hogeye Preserve walking trail.

Even though I am a woman, I am not a “shopper” so not having department stores, discount shopping store, Big Box Stores close by or close by short golf cart ride is not a minus for me- it’s a plus. i will take the natural beauty of Fenney over the shopping Mecca of Spanish Springs, any day.

But for sure- the great think about The Villages - everyone thinks they live in THE BEST Village and inTHE BEST home - and they are all right- it’s best for them.

[Bogie Shooter]

There are also many other factors to your decision. It will be several years before the far southern area is developed with a square, hospital, etc. Also, the bond on the houses there are much higher. If you plan to live in The Villages several years, this may be the place for you because we have been told that that area will eventually be the center of The Villages.

Personally, we have found that we have to go all over the area to find specialists, dentists, VA etc, from Summerfield to Brownwood. If you lived in some areas south of 44, Summerfield would be at least 45 minutes!

We live just south of Colony which is OK, but would prefer to live between 466A and Sumpter Landing. There are tons of golf courses and much more convenient. Yes, the houses are a little older, but they still have all of the modern decor.

Sumter.:wave:

[Vermilion Villager]

Marsh Bend....if you can find something. Big mature oaks, new type construction and smart homes, option for natural gas appliances, nature trails, MMP's, Edna's and 13 min cart ride to Brownwood.

[maynebonnie]

The one thing we knew for sure was that we didn’t want to hear pickleball from our house ! The rest was easy, anywhere in the Villages is great. We bought in St. James and loved it .

[justjim]

We have lived in four different villages and owned rental property in a fifth. No plans to move from
our designer we bought new in LaBelle and It meets all your criteria and ours. We have great neighbors - yes, you can pick your Village and your home but you can’t pick your neighbors. Of the three, your neighbors are most important. Good luck. IMH0 you have found the best Active adult retirement community in the USA. Fore

[coffeebean]

You have evidently never lived anywhere else in The Villages. I live in St John's and it is not close to anything by golf cart.

I lived in the Spanish Springs area and had a five minute golf cart ride to the Town Square, Target, many restaurants, Publix, Winn Dixie, Ace Hardware, Villages Golf Carts, and many, many other businesses. I could also take a ten minute trip over the bridge and get to Lowes, Wal Mart, Beals, Aldi, the Dollar Store and several businesses.

In St John's I'm 15 minutes by golf cart to Publix and Brownwood. There is no closer golf cart accessible shopping.

I like St John's and believe that there will be much more golf cart convenient businesses in the future but for now, it's not close to anything by golf cart.
I was wondering about that and that is why I asked where the Village of St. John's is. I was a bit confused by the comment that it is close to everything. Glad you cleared that up.

[coffeebean]

South of 44 is best! It has the best infrastructure and is close to Brownwood and sumter is a 40 min golf cart ride. I hate driving north to 441. I have Sams club ship all my items for free so I don’t have to drive there. From 466 north, it is dangerous riding in a golf cart next to cars on Morse blvd. I know many people that have moved from the north villages areas to south of 44, I don’t know anybody that has sold in the south to move north. There is a Publix at magnolia. If you move south of 44 today, in a few years, you will be located in the middle of the villages.
We take the golf cart to most places we want to go in the villages, but when we HAVE to go north/way north, we drive the car
When hubby and I drove around the areas south of 44, I noticed that the MM Paths that are separate from the street where cars and trucks are, are not meant for golf carts; those paths are for walkers and bikers. I'm not one to walk outside on paths so I much prefer to ride a golf cart on the MM Paths that are separate from larger vehicles such as cars and trucks. Keep that in mind, if you are not a "walker", those folks who ride in golf carts all the time south of 44, are not as safe along the larger roads such as Meggison. If you would like to see what I'm trying to explain, you must ride a golf cart along Morse Blvd and Buena Vista Blvd, north or 44, and you will see that those cart paths have a huge separation from the the main roads, therefore, not riding along side those larger vehicles.

[Pachine58]

You do t need to post this multiple times all over . Grow up.

[Bogie Shooter]

You do t need to post this multiple times all over . Grow up.

What is “this”?

[coffeebean]

I am not sure where you live “south of 44” but I live in Fenney and we have everything you listed and more - the 24 ER is golf cart accessible with its own golf cart parking lot even!! With Sawgrass being open now (it is awesome- good music and food and cocktails) and Eastport opening in the next 1-2 years, South of 44 is the hip and happening place PLUS lots of the natural beauty preserved and enhanced.
We have a resorts beach entry pool at Fenney Recreation Center PLUS a restaurant and bar that services the pool, nature trails galore. We have a new strip mall golf cart accessible on corner of 301 and Warm Spring and one across the street that isn’t golf cart accessible. We Magnolia Plaza that has Publix, McDonalds, Reveille- the best breakfast place ever- must have their cinnamon swirl pancakes- AWESOME, Willy Jewels BBQ, Chinese food, The Villages Golf Cart store and service, salon Jaylee and a nail salon, Citizens bank and The Villages insurance, Dental offices, Roberto’s flooring and remodel, Quest labs. Coming soon is the 7-11 that will have golf cart gas too, CVS pharmacy, coffee shop, KB landscaping and home design- and a veterinary clinic!!!
And I didn’t even mention yet Edna’s on the Green- a great wine and beer bar with good food trucks and daily live music and dancing with views and access to the Marsh Bend pitch and put and the Cattail Pool and Lowland golf course and the Hogeye Preserve walking trail.

Even though I am a woman, I am not a “shopper” so not having department stores, discount shopping store, Big Box Stores close by or close by short golf cart ride is not a minus for me- it’s a plus. i will take the natural beauty of Fenney over the shopping Mecca of Spanish Springs, any day.

But for sure- the great think about The Villages - everyone thinks they live in THE BEST Village and inTHE BEST home - and they are all right- it’s best for them.

I much prefer to be close to the shopping "mecca'. I like being close to Target, Best Buy, JoAnn Fabrics, Michaels, Staples, Home Depot, Kohl's, Bed Bath and Beyond and Belk, just to name a few. This 441/27 shopping "mecca" has a slew of restaurants also which are different than restaurants you will find at town squares. Restaurants such as Miller's Ale House, Texas Roadhouse, Long Horn Steak House, Bamboo Bistro, Applebees, Chilis, First Watch and many more. Yes, these restaurants are mostly chain restaurants but that is what was so familiar to me and that is exactly what I wanted when we considered moving to The Villages.

When we first came to The Villages for our lifestyle visit back in December of 2008, I was over the moon when I saw the close proximity to all the shopping and restaurants, not to mention the medical offices and hospital. South of 466A wasn't even beginning to be developed at that time.

The Villages has grown so much since we first arrived here. North from the south has a completely different feel. I highly recommend the OP come on down and get a feel for the different areas.

[MandoMan]

You are only going to get two kinds of options.

One… my village of —————— is the best to live in

Two….don’t buy south, because of the turnpike noise, the prison lights, loudspeaker, and prison breaks, and in blasts from the mine that will rattle your windows and cause cracks in your foundation. (These warnings usually comes from residence who have never lived in the area, sometimes never even visited. Or from a real estate agent who can’t sell a new home in TV)

So one really needs to visit TV, because our viewpoints will be very different from yours.

We visited 3 times before we bought our first home, in 2010, and have bought 2 homes in different villages since. Going from the small patio villa with 1.5 garage, to cottage 2 car garage, to a designer with golf cart garage. Now looking to build our 4 new home to accommodate our changing needs.

We live within 15 to 20 minutes by cart to 2 town squares, and less to grocery. Yet I drive off site to do my shopping because just not a fan of Publix or Winn Dixie. We visit squares when company comes or to have dinner. We have 5 adult or family pools and one sport pool with 5 minutes or less from our home. We use none as we go to the county clubs to use our enhanced pool membership

Life changes, TV is the easiest area to change to your advantage

When I moved here a couple years ago I thought I was going to be driving my golf cart around all the time. But it seems like it’s usually too hot, or getting dark, or threatening rain, or I’m playing at a jam that is an hour drive by cart, and I have a lot of instruments to haul. In short, I bought a beautiful new cart, found I put only fifty miles on it in a year, and sold it last month. I drive a Prius and use about eight gallons of gas a month for everywhere I need to go, including an airport run.

[Stu from NYC]

You do t need to post this multiple times all over . Grow up.

No idea who or what you are talking about but remember this, Peter Pan did not want to grow up either.

[Lottoguy]

I would suggest the villages of Tall Trees, Polo Ridge and Santo Domingo.

[Lottoguy]

This area on 466 is a real favorite of mine too. Loads of restaurants, shopping and the new Hobby Lobby is coming next year. Tall Trees and Polo Ridge locations cannot be beat!

[JMintzer]

On other side of coin, houses are 20+/- years old, but do have mature trees/landscaping.

That 20+ year old figured into our decision...

Many of those houses are now out of date (style wise) and need significant investments in order to bring them up to current tastes... Or not... YMMV...

But there are some that have already been updated. You'll pay a significant premium for that...

Those things played a significant role when we were looking. Did we want to buy farther north and have to remodel, or did we want to buy farther south (between 44 and 466A) and not have to worry about those things?

We chose the latter... And that's a decision only the new buyer can make...

[JMintzer]

Marsh Bend....if you can find something. Big mature oaks, new type construction and smart homes, option for natural gas appliances, nature trails, MMP's, Edna's and 13 min cart ride to Brownwood.

Marsh Bend IS a beautiful area!

[Topspinmo]

Good Luck … The Good houses sell fast … Cell towers, Power Lines , Tennis Courts should also be a major concern ! Road noise and the Turnpike should be on your due diligence check off list…. Center yourself so your cart rides are not more than 4 miles… Happy Hour starts early. Enjoy the show

Why tennis courts? According to pickleball players the tennis courts aren’t used and should be turned into pickleball courts…:oops:

[Topspinmo]

South of 44 is best! It has the best infrastructure and is close to Brownwood and sumter is a 40 min golf cart ride. I hate driving north to 441. I have Sams club ship all my items for free so I don’t have to drive there. From 466 north, it is dangerous riding in a golf cart next to cars on Morse blvd. I know many people that have moved from the north villages areas to south of 44, I don’t know anybody that has sold in the south to move north. There is a Publix at magnolia. If you move south of 44 today, in a few years, you will be located in the middle of the villages.
We take the golf cart to most places we want to go in the villages, but when we HAVE to go north/way north, we drive the car

You realize there only short stretch of blvd Morse in district 2 that has diamond lanes heading towards HH off 466.

Just cause you don’t know anybody don’t mean there are moving from south, I have two neighbors that moved from south of 466a to way up north where traffic way less and stores are not packed like sardines. Plus you’re not 30 plus in line to just get through stop light.

[Topspinmo]

That 20+ year old figured into our decision...

Many of those houses are now out of date (style wise) and need significant investments in order to bring them up to current tastes... Or not... YMMV...

But there are some that have already been updated. You'll pay a significant premium for that...

Those things played a significant role when we were looking. Did we want to buy farther north and have to remodel, or did we want to buy farther south (between 44 and 466A) and not have to worry about those things?


We chose the latter... And that's a decision only the new buyer can make...

Yes, we know you’re hard to please :eclipsee_gold_cup::shrug:

[mikeycereal]

:mornincoffee:

[JMintzer]

Yes, we know you’re hard to please :eclipsee_gold_cup::shrug:

You've obviously never met my wife... :22yikes::loco::1rotfl:

[Mhoey]

We are trying to decide the best location for selecting our new home. A close golf cart ride for grocerys, dining out and other basic errands is our main priority. If the adult pool was super close that would be a plus too. Thanks in advance for all your suggestions....J

I have been coming to the Villages for seven years and have rented in different part of the Villages. I just moved this October and bought a house in Polo Ridge. I love it because I am close to everything. Restaurants, Walmart, Publix, Marshals, home goods, cvs, Walgreen, Bealls, liquor store.

[Crookedbreeze]

The village of Winifred seems to handle your requirements.

[ThehappypeopleLOL]

Between 466 and 466a is okay. However, be warned that wherever you live expect to be right on top of your neighbors and in the likely event you need medical or dental care we guarantee their service is inferior to where you came from.

[Stu from NYC]

Between 466 and 466a is okay. However, be warned that wherever you live expect to be right on top of your neighbors and in the likely event you need medical or dental care we guarantee their service is inferior to where you came from.

We think our assortment of specialists is pretty good.

[Bogie Shooter]

Between 466 and 466a is okay. However, be warned that wherever you live expect to be right on top of your neighbors and in the likely event you need medical or dental care we guarantee their service is inferior to where you came from.

Guarantee, maybe you not us.

[ThehappypeopleLOL]

Guarantee, maybe you not us.
Every single advanced pickleball and golfers, family members, and neighbors ALL advise to seek quality medical care elsewhere:plane:. All of us ONLY schedule routine medical and dental appointments, as a last resort, in the Villages. Just a quick review of the poor grades by most of the Villages medical providers says it all for us. As such, we all travel out of state for proper treatment and quality care. Despite your best efforts, it is understood we are all fallible, stubborn and make mistakes. Some of these mistakes are trivial, while others are serious, and even fatal. We've learned the best course of action to take for superior medical care of our families. We pray you seek it too. :wave:

[jebartle]

For us, the deciding factor was Gas appliances, so we went South. Lot's of things close but not everything, but they keep on building things....

Gas (appliances, giggle) available in LaZamora but very seldom are homes on the market (no bond in lady lake)

[JMintzer]

Gas (appliances, giggle) available in LaZamora but very seldom are homes on the market (no bond in lady lake)

Several of our friends have a buried propane thank in their yard to supply gas for cooking...

It's another option that's available...

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Between 466 and 466a is okay. However, be warned that wherever you live expect to be right on top of your neighbors and in the likely event you need medical or dental care we guarantee their service is inferior to where you came from.

I'm guessing the health care where I lived up north, is superior to where most people lived before coming to the Villages. And yes it's absolutely superior to the health care in the Villages.

But I'm not about to fly up to Tufts for a dental cleaning, just because Tufts is better than Lifetime Dentistry 6 blocks from my house.

And no I won't be going to Boston or New Haven for my hip replacement, because I can't afford it and why should I? That'd be silly. I'd need a place to stay for a week, and someone to drive me around, and I'd need someone to provide food or groceries so I can cook for myself, and I'd need need need need everything I already have right here at home.

So I'll accept "second-rate" hip replacement from a surgeon who specializes in hip replacements on senior citizens right here in the Villages. I've spoken to several people who've had it done from that surgeon and every single one has had a positive experience and excellent outcome.

[Timothyimitchell]

.I guess between the 6's if it is shopping... that you seek. I haven't seen a bad area or village yet. They're all great.

[rjm1cc]

Try Google Earth to get a good look at the areas you think you will like.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I was wondering about that and that is why I asked where the Village of St. John's is. I was a bit confused by the comment that it is close to everything. Glad you cleared that up.
Most people that live down here have not lived in other places in TV. They think that being 15 minutes to Publix and 15 minutes to Brownwood by golf cart is close to everything. There is almost no shopping here for anything other than groceries. There’s no Wal Mart, Target, Lowes or any other major retailer. There are plenty of dining options and an ER that are golf cart accessible but If you want anything else you have to get in your car. People that have not lived in TV for a long time don’t fully understand what a golf cart lifestyle can mean.

[VApeople]

People that have not lived in TV for a long time don’t fully understand what a golf cart lifestyle can mean.

My wife and I have lived here for six years. We do not own a golf cart and have no plans to buy one.

So we definitely do not "understand what a golf cart lifestyle can mean".

We can drive our cars everywhere we want. We are in our mid-70's and are definitely able to walk the par-3 Exec courses. So what do we not understand?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

My wife and I have lived here for six years. We do not own a golf cart and have no plans to buy one.

So we definitely do not "understand what a golf cart lifestyle can mean".

We can drive our cars everywhere we want. We are in our mid-70's and are definitely able to walk the par-3 Exec courses. So what do we not understand?

The OP stated that a close golf cart ride to everything was a priority.

You have chosen not to have a golf cart. That's perfectly fine but it puts you in a very small minority. It also takes away any credibility that you have for making suggestions to someone that is looking for convenient golf cart accessibility.

I don't understand why when a question like this is asked that some people feel the need to mention how close things are by car. The OP specifically asked about getting to places by a short golf cart ride.