Opinions Concerning Best Villages

[Sonoftuntavern]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

[JMintzer]

https://y.yarn.co/3ecf048d-3a14-4552-827d-f3fe69c0761f_text.gif

There is no "Best Village"...

[JSR22]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

You will find everyone thinks they live in the best village. If you want a brand-new house, you need to look south of 44. If you are a Championship gofer look from 466 to 466 A. You want shopping look North of 44. If you want a lower priced home, you would look in the Historic Section North of 441.
I have never seen a ranking of Villages and I have lived here 10 years. You need to figure out what is important to you then you can select the areas that would work for you.

[Retiring]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

TV has become so large it’s impossible for a person to know the distinguishing features of every village. Some villages skew older residents and some on the younger end of the 55+ spectrum. Some you can hear a pin drop and some have a weekly block party. New construction is almost exclusively on the south end, relatively far from the current town squares. I live in the Village of St. Catherine. In my 50s I like the more youthful demographic of this village. There are villages where the silence is deafening, no thank you.

[Altavia]

Start with a Lifestyle Visit.

[Nucky]

There certainly is a best Village. The one that you live in will do the trick.

Many people think a geographical change will cure their problems but they have to remember you are bringing you with you. Get it? Good!

[MrFlorida]

You are opening a can of worms.

[RICH1]

Before we suggest an area , we need to know about every aspect of your life! So with that said , Happy Hunting and don’t let anyone tell you that you need a lightning detection system…get yourself a nice gasoline powered Yamaha golf cart, and don’t drink yourself to death!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

So they all need to fit your parameters but you haven't set any yet.

Eureka, I have the answer for you! You can stop looking. The BEST village is the one that fits your parameters.

You're welcome.

[Babubhat]

Personal preference. Each person is different

[BrianL99]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

Is there an official process to nominate a particular post, as _________ post of the year?

[Papa_lecki]

Mine is the best village….I’ll bet this a trolling post - but i will bite.

Seriously - every person has different criteria. Near a square, not near a square, which square, near pools, near golf, tennis pickle, not near golf/tennis, near your church, side walks, etc

You need to come down, spend more than a few days, and figure out where you want to live.
Most villages will be out if you want new construction

[Keefelane66]

As you drive around The Villages and find a Wi-Fi connection “CENTEROFTHE UNIVERSe” you may have found Mecca

[JD Tremor]

Bonita is terrible you wouldn't like it here.... LOL





Kidding of course!

[Joe V.]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

Your first post. Turns out to be a troll stirring the pot one.

[VApeople]

Don't buy a house that requires you to drive on Morse Road north of Route 466.

The areas south of Route 44 have some great walking/biking trails. The areas north of 44 do not have these kinds of trails.

[Bogie Shooter]

Here is a list of all villages, print it, tack it on the wall……………throw a dart….you got it!

https://www.districtgov.org/images/villages_neighborhoods.pdf

[Michael 61]

You really have to come and do a lifestyle visit. After doing my intensive online homework for almost five years, I finally came and saw The Villages for the first time this past summer. Even though I watched a ton of you tube videos, nothing compares to actually visiting in person. I then returned for a second lifestyle visit, and then rented a house for a few weeks on a third visit. During all my visits, I spent a lot of time at all three town squares, ate at virtually every non-chain restaurant, walked many trails, took the golf cart everywhere, getting lost until I finally knew my way around without a GPS. Played pickle ball, saw multiple concerts at both the Savannah Center and the Sharon, went to the movies, and most importantly talked with a ton of villagers by eating most meals at the outside open bars. By my third visit, I felt like I already lived in The Villages. I literally visited every single village, taking notes of pros and cons of each village (obviously from my biased view). I came to the conclusion that I could be happy in any of the villages, but finally decided to try for a new house in Richmond - which I finally got after 6 attempts (I close in two weeks) - I’m looking forward to living in the village of Richmond, and I am sure I will be a vocal cheerleader of my new village, but I would never tear down or talk negatively of any of the villages - they are all unique and have something special to offer in their own right. Luckily, via golf cart, I get to spend time enjoying the amenities and beauty of any of the villages.

[TOASTY]

I personally feel that the people you meet (neighbors) are the most important aspect of where you live. It is not always about location.

[Kenswing]

Your first post. Turns out to be a troll stirring the pot one.

Could this be a reincarnated MartinSE/GrumpyOldMan? He claimed that he was a former Marine. Tun Tavern was the birthplace of the Marine Corps. Ops handle is sonoftuntavern. Hmmmmm

[Oldragbagger]

You really have to come and do a lifestyle visit. After doing my intensive online homework for almost five years, I finally came and saw The Villages for the first time this past summer. Even though I watched a ton of you tube videos, nothing compares to actually visiting in person. I then returned for a second lifestyle visit, and then rented a house for a few weeks on a third visit. During all my visits, I spent a lot of time at all three town squares, ate at virtually every non-chain restaurant, walked many trails, took the golf cart everywhere, getting lost until I finally knew my way around without a GPS. Played pickle ball, saw multiple concerts at both the Savannah Center and the Sharon, went to the movies, and most importantly talked with a ton of villagers by eating most meals at the outside open bars. By my third visit, I felt like I already lived in The Villages. I literally visited every single village, taking notes of pros and cons of each village (obviously from my biased view). I came to the conclusion that I could be happy in any of the villages, but finally decided to try for a new house in Richmond - which I finally got after 6 attempts (I close in two weeks) - I’m looking forward to living in the village of Richmond, and I am sure I will be a vocal cheerleader of my new village, but I would never tear down or talk negatively of any of the villages - they are all unique and have something special to offer in their own right. Luckily, via golf cart, I get to spend time enjoying the amenities and beauty of any of the villages.

Perfect response.

We did not do a ton of research or do multiple lifestyle visits. We actually signed a purchase agreement on the first day we were here. Looked at four houses, picked one, were lucky enough to get it, and Bob’s your uncle.

We knew we wanted new with warranty, so we picked from what was being released the next morning. Luckily we got our first pick in the Village of Hawkins. We literally knew nothing but we are very happy with our choice and love living here. As many folks have often said, we were buying the lifestyle. There is literally no bad area here IMHO but different people have different sensitivities or desires and we have no idea what yours are.

Many people say “don’t buy down south, you’ll go crazy from the turnpike noise, the quarry blasting, or the noise from the federal prison. Not true on any three counts at least not where I am and I can see the turnpike traffic from my front lanai. Nary a peep from the other two.

If you love golf and want to play a different course every day you might be happier up north. If you are a walker or cyclist and love having trails to ride or walk, down south might be a better choice. If you like music and food, you can get to that from anywhere. Every area has recreation centers, pools, and tons of activities. If you are a paddler we have a new recreation center down south that has a launch ramp into Lake Okahumpka.

From my perspective you could pick your house by just figuring out what you need in the way of space and going for it because there are literally no bad areas in The Villages. But judging by the amount of judging and complaining that goes on here on TOTV it’s apparently not that easy for some. Different areas do have different personalities. My husband had a Navy career. I have moved a lot over the years and have learned how to make myself at home pretty much anywhere. I gather not everyone has that ability. What kind of person are you?

So, what is it you want exactly?

[Sonoftuntavern]

I apologize if some of you took this the wrong way, and thank those of you who tried to provide useful information (thanks for detailed responses Michael & Oldragbagger). I live in a neighborhood that I am perfectly happy with, but at the same time I am also perfectly willing to acknowledge that there are nicer neighborhoods nearby, which doesn’t bother me or make me feel defensive. I am only seeking opinions, which you definitely don’t have to provide if it hurts your feelings. Maybe I should have started a little broader and asked if there is a best county to live in, and then worked down from there. There is a 2022 article at strategistico that provides some rankings of villages based on various personal preferences, while still using some objective reasoning. Without having visited, my guess is that there about 10% of villages that distinguish themselves as being more desirable for some reason (but are consequently higher priced and may be more than you are willing to pay), 10% that might distinguish themselves as being generally less desirable under some parameters (but are worth it because they are lower priced if you don’t want to spend much on a second home), and that the other 80% are pretty much indistinguishable. I don’t think it is trolling to seek information about where you are considering buying a place, but again, if you take this as a personal affront to your human dignity, I apologize. I suppose a real estate agent in the area might be willing venture a harmless opinion, but if anyone else is willing to exercise this great display of backbone and act of moral courage, I would still appreciate it. Thanks!

[RoyCooper]

...but if anyone else is willing to exercise this great display of backbone and act of moral courage, I would still appreciate it....

I was planning to offer my own friendly advice and then THIS.
Never mind.

[Ash Marwah]

Rent here for a couple of months and find out what you like. Or whether you even like living here. Have a hobby or come here and develop one. It all depends on you yourself, not the
Village you select.

[Black Beauty]

convenience..and..we can be out of the bubble in 30 seconds

[Gullwing]

QUOTE=Sonoftuntavern;2159932]I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.[/QUOTE]

I golf with people from 17-18 different villages. Everyone of them say they have the best location in the villages.

[Worldseries27]

i have never visited the villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.
get ready to be 1/30 bidders on your dream houses
unless you buy a designer

[Rwirish]

No such thing as a best village. If you enjoy more noise ( turnpike ) and more power line views then you need to look south.

[MandoMan]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

There are a couple books about The Villages that have some useful info on governance and all that. Before I moved here, I wished there was what you are describing. Now that I’ve been here a couple years, I’m less concerned. Some places are more or less attractive than others. Your budget is important. Is it $300,000 or $800,000? Do you want newer or older? Do you want pillars and bigger foyers and bigger kitchens and granite counters and fancier baths, or can you get by with less. I searched on Zillow, looking at hundreds of houses over a long time. Also Google maps of the same addresses, or Apple Maps. These, combined, will help you learn the geography of the place. Some places are closer to your favorite shopping, or restaurants, or golf courses, and some are less convenient. Some are closer to your favorite Rec centers. But you won’t know these until you are here for months.

[toeser]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.


Totally in the eye of the beholder depending upon individual preferences and tastes. It makes little sense to take someone else's ranking. It has to be something you determine for yourself.

[banjobob]

The best village is all of them if you want snob appeal go for the high end homes , if you want convenience any village will fill the bill if you want the younger 55 stay in the undeveloped fully southern end if you want a nice mature landscape stay in the northern section, the clamoring and entering lotteries for some Villages is insane the entire Villages is wonderful , pick a home style you like in your budget and enjoy.

[bark4me]

You will find everyone thinks they live in the best village. If you want a brand-new house, you need to look south of 44. If you are a Championship gofer look from 466 to 466 A. You want shopping look North of 44. If you want a lower priced home, you would look in the Historic Section North of 441.
I have never seen a ranking of Villages and I have lived here 10 years. You need to figure out what is important to you then you can select the areas that would work for you.
Very well put. In my opinion you can't go wrong picking any Village. You need to come down here, take the trolly tours, talk to some residents at the Squares and go from there.

[Yellowrose]

Once you narrow your search down, put a Plus by any locations in Sumter County. They have lower taxes, lower bond & lower utilities. I think any Village around hwy 44 or 466A allows you easy access to all the amenities.

[lawgolfer]

You will find everyone thinks they live in the best village. If you want a brand-new house, you need to look south of 44. If you are a Championship gofer look from 466 to 466 A. You want shopping look North of 44. If you want a lower priced home, you would look in the Historic Section North of 441.
I have never seen a ranking of Villages and I have lived here 10 years. You need to figure out what is important to you then you can select the areas that would work for you.
Retiring gave you a good summary. For convenience to restaurants, the LSL town square, stock brokers, and golf courses, stay "between the 6's". Even better is to stay within a box made up of Morse to Buena Vista and 466 to 466A.

If a new house is your desire, you will have to go south. For a "newer" house, anything south of 466A will do.

[Marathon Man]

I apologize if some of you took this the wrong way, and thank those of you who tried to provide useful information (thanks for detailed responses Michael & Oldragbagger). I live in a neighborhood that I am perfectly happy with, but at the same time I am also perfectly willing to acknowledge that there are nicer neighborhoods nearby, which doesn’t bother me or make me feel defensive. I am only seeking opinions, which you definitely don’t have to provide if it hurts your feelings. Maybe I should have started a little broader and asked if there is a best county to live in, and then worked down from there. There is a 2022 article at strategistico that provides some rankings of villages based on various personal preferences, while still using some objective reasoning. Without having visited, my guess is that there about 10% of villages that distinguish themselves as being more desirable for some reason (but are consequently higher priced and may be more than you are willing to pay), 10% that might distinguish themselves as being generally less desirable under some parameters (but are worth it because they are lower priced if you don’t want to spend much on a second home), and that the other 80% are pretty much indistinguishable. I don’t think it is trolling to seek information about where you are considering buying a place, but again, if you take this as a personal affront to your human dignity, I apologize. I suppose a real estate agent in the area might be willing venture a harmless opinion, but if anyone else is willing to exercise this great display of backbone and act of moral courage, I would still appreciate it. Thanks!

Please don't choose my village.

[SusanStCatherine]

The taxes are much higher in Lake County (Newell). Brand new homes come with a bond often over $30k. The brand new houses are getting put up very quickly and the quality of supplies and workmanship has gone down. If you are looking at new homes you need a villages salesperson. If you are looking at previously owned homes you need a realtor for some of those. Good luck!

[NoMo50]

Most folks here think their village is the best, which is as it should be. Every village/area has a vibe, and it is impossible to get that vibe via remote viewing...you simply have to be here. The single best way to conduct an informed search is to do a lifestyle visit. Or, even multiple lifestyle visits. Have a sales agent take you around to get the overall big picture. Take the golf cart they provide and go everywhere, and talk with people. Try to figure out what is important to you, and what is not. Keep in mind that your life here will be different from wherever you are now. Whatever you may have heard about there being a "best" village, or a "worst" village is hogwash. That also goes for the 10% this or that nonsense. It's not like you have Beverly Hills over here, and some slum over there.

No one posting here can identify a future home for you, as that is a deeply personal decision. You just need to take that first step and come visit. Only then will you be able to truly understand what The Villages is all about. One caveat, though: if you come, and decide this is the place for you, be in a position to act now. Homes on the market typically do not last long, so you have to be prepared to pull the trigger if you find one that suits you. Good luck.

[dtennent]

More Important than which village is the house itself. You need to consider storage since there are no basements and what you can put into an attic is limited by heat. There are other threads you can read that go through all of this plus more. Good luck.

[MX rider]

Most folks here think their village is the best, which is as it should be. Every village/area has a vibe, and it is impossible to get that vibe via remote viewing...you simply have to be here. The single best way to conduct an informed search is to do a lifestyle visit. Or, even multiple lifestyle visits. Have a sales agent take you around to get the overall big picture. Take the golf cart they provide and go everywhere, and talk with people. Try to figure out what is important to you, and what is not. Keep in mind that your life here will be different from wherever you are now. Whatever you may have heard about there being a "best" village, or a "worst" village is hogwash. That also goes for the 10% this or that nonsense. It's not like you have Beverly Hills over here, and some slum over there.

No one posting here can identify a future home for you, as that is a deeply personal decision. You just need to take that first step and come visit. Only then will you be able to truly understand what The Villages is all about. One caveat, though: if you come, and decide this is the place for you, be in a position to act now. Homes on the market typically do not last long, so you have to be prepared to pull the trigger if you find one that suits you. Good luck.

Very well said!

[golfing eagles]

The taxes are much higher in Lake County (Newell). Brand new homes come with a bond often over $30k. The brand new houses are getting put up very quickly and the quality of supplies and workmanship has gone down. If you are looking at new homes you need a villages salesperson. If you are looking at previously owned homes you need a realtor for some of those. Good luck!

Are you one of the builders??? If not, how do you know this?????

[Rodneysblue]

You will find everyone thinks they live in the best village. If you want a brand-new house, you need to look south of 44. If you are a Championship gofer look from 466 to 466 A. You want shopping look North of 44. If you want a lower priced home, you would look in the Historic Section North of 441.
I have never seen a ranking of Villages and I have lived here 10 years. You need to figure out what is important to you then you can select the areas that would work for you.
Well said!

[jmaccallum]

Many people coming to the Villages are told that the age group in the North is older than that of other areas. I’d like to clarify that is not true.

Yes, the villages in the North were built first, so one could assume all those people that bought houses 20 - almost 30 years ago are ancient people still living there.

In reality many of those folks have “aged out” and the homes subsequently resold/bought by “New Retirees” and therefore young, such as you.

I live in a North village, and the majority of my neighborhood and golf friends are in their 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, and they all live in villages around me up here in the North. So don’t let the supposedly “ancient age” stories scare you off from villages north of 466. It’s not true.

[airstreamingypsy]

Hi, Not sure why so many people are being snarky, it can be like that here. My thoughts. If you are coming with a fist full of dollars, and can afford it, buy in Bridgeport, or Edgewater. Walking distance to Lake Sumter Landing. The center of the action. If you are buying a regular house, buy close to one of the major roads like Morse Blvd or Buena Vista. If you buy deep into a Village you will wind around forever to get to a major road. I would buy a house with the bond paid. What might be a downfall to bond paid is established neighborhoods are full of cliques, so people have reportedly not been welcoming to newcomers. The good news about the new sections down south is everyone is new, so no established cliques. (Down south is south of 44) If you have a dog, there are some neighborhoods with yards, I know Pine ridge has them, there probably are more. TV and Internet is provided by certain carriers in each area. I use Spectrum cable Internet.... excellent. I stream TV. Sumter taxes are lower than Lake and Marion counties. Different cellphone companies work better some places rather than others. I hope some of that helps.

[mikeycereal]

So you visit for a certain amount of time and find the village best for you.

Some like being close to the town square for music, bars, restaurants and other outdoor enjoyment. I like that I'm a short 10-min golf cart ride to Brownwood. Or some may like a golf course near their backyard.

Some like being close to doctors. I like that I'm a 5 min car drive away from the health clinic. There's even an ER clinic at the end of my main street.

Some like being close to stores. That one I had to adjust. 5 min from a Publix, 16 min from Walmart. I do the closer one for a quick pickup, but for other things I have to do the 32 min round trip for Walmart or the 1-2 hour (24 min away) for Sam's. An adjustment from having stores 5 min away from me at where I used to live.

Some have complained about the turnpike noise. I live close to it and it hasn't bothered me at all.

Maybe you want brand new (my choice) or maybe you want older and established.

There's plus and minuses, maybe pick more pluses.

My initial visit was last year Thanksgiving vacation and I was given the tour.

[bluecenturian]

Only you can rank the villages. Depends if you want to be close to stores, restaurants, entertainment, golf. Villages with alot of open space (ie) golf courses, have a higher bond since it gets distributed by number of rooftops in an area. Do you want to exclusively use a golf cart or is a car to get around ok.

You also really need to consider the home and lot you want, which to me is more important. You may have a harder time finding a home/lot in certain villages. If you want to be on a cul de sac or a pond or a larger lot for a pool will be more important than the village your in.

Finish you list of parameters first to narrow your search and make it easier.

[Regorp]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.
Stay away from DeLuna. Too much fun, close to shopping/Brownwood. You would not like it. LOL!!

[golfing eagles]

Stay away from DeLuna. Too much fun, close to shopping/Brownwood. You would not like it. LOL!!

I would suggest San Francisco:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[joelfmi]

Location! location! and due diligence is very important

[Lottoguy]

FYI they just finished installing the new walking trail by the Lake Miona rec ctr.

[Lottoguy]

If I had to pick just ONE VILLAGE with the best location then I would pick TALL TREES. Close to many golf courses, 10 minutes by golf cart to Lake Sumter Square, close to shopping and restaurants, close to the Polo Field where they hold many events, close to the baseball fields. Also has multiple exits you can choose from.

[sowtime444]

Do you like kayaking? Live near Lake Miona since that is one of the only bodies of water that you can take a kayak out on within the Villages. Buy a house with your own dock for only $2 million.

There is a little park called Live Oaks Park right next to the Haciendas of Mission Hills. Haven't been but it looks nice in photos. Having something like that nearby seems like a nice retreat.

We looked at a house right across the street from Spanish Springs town square once. Luckily we went and looked right at 5pm when the music started in the town square (every day at 5pm-9pm) and you could hear it. That was a little too close to the town square for us.

In some neighborhoods every house is painted a gross orange-brown color (for a "southwest" theme) which hurts my head.

I think choosing something between Spanish Springs and Lake Sumter is a good idea. I talked to a realtor and he said this is where he lives, and he chose it for the proximity to either square.

I personally would also choose a neighborhood that has been around long enough to have mature trees growing. My in-laws have a 30 foot high loquat tree in their private courtyard backyard and we eat loquats with them every winter. You won't find that in a new build.

I would also avoid being too close to power lines (easy to see the big wide line in google maps views) or the turnpike.

I personally would also not want to live east of 441 in the older area. The yards are big and the trees are nice (and the pools are bigger I think) but it seems a bit separated from the rest of the Villages, even if just psychologically. And I'm not sure about the "manufactured home" thing.

If you look at the Villages recreation map, you can see that the density of pools is lower in the older (northern) areas. This might be a slight consideration. Also, in the newest section they built a resort-style zero-entry pool which is nice.

[Darield]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.
I don't have time to read all the responses so I apologize if this is a repeat. We moved here about 5.5 years ago and here is my take. In my opinion there are 3 main areas. Orange Blossom, the first district they built. They are eventually replacing all the pre-fab housing with new builds but there are still a lot. Not as many restrictions so yards aren't as neat, but more reasonably priced with most have no bond fee. I live in the 3rd district built near the Polo fields (north end of the Villages near Buena Vista. about half the bond fees have been paid and many are almost paid off.) Many of the houses have been remodeled are have additions. We enjoy this area.The new builds on the South end are preferred by a lot of people with nice long walking trails and ponds.. Some say they are not build as well as the older areas. I think younger retires are more attracted to the South areas. Bonds are high, make sure to ask the sales people. Personally, (a 4th North area) I am not a fan of the Morse Rd area near 466. Not because it's a bad area but because the traffic is a complete nightmare just North of 466 for about the next mile. Hope this helps.

[Bogie Shooter]

Hi, Not sure why so many people are being snarky, it can be like that here. My thoughts. If you are coming with a fist full of dollars, and can afford it, buy in Bridgeport, or Edgewater. Walking distance to Lake Sumter Landing. The center of the action. If you are buying a regular house, buy close to one of the major roads like Morse Blvd or Buena Vista. If you buy deep into a Village you will wind around forever to get to a major road. I would buy a house with the bond paid. What might be a downfall to bond paid is established neighborhoods are full of cliques, so people have reportedly not been welcoming to newcomers. The good news about the new sections down south is everyone is new, so no established cliques. (Down south is south of 44) If you have a dog, there are some neighborhoods with yards, I know Pine ridge has them, there probably are more. TV and Internet is provided by certain carriers in each area. I use Spectrum cable Internet.... excellent. I stream TV. Sumter taxes are lower than Lake and Marion counties. Different cellphone companies work better some places rather than others. I hope some of that helps.

Don’t all homes have a yard? Some small, some big…………

[sallyg]

Come and visit. Best if you can rent before purchasing. Each village has its advantages and disadvantages. You may prefer to be close to shopping, or golf, or one of the many other offerings. I have lived in the oldest part and the newest and can tell you it is hard to compare. Lots to chooses from. Best of luck.

[DALEPQ]

I agree there is no "Best Village" it is personal choice as to what is important to you.
Suggest renting to start, so you can get a feel for what you might like.
Better to do that than spend many $100k's only to find out it is not what you wanted.

[davefin]

There is no "Best Village"...


Oh yes there is !

[Worldseries27]

could this be a reincarnated martinse/grumpyoldman? He claimed that he was a former marine. Tun tavern was the birthplace of the marine corps. Ops handle is sonoftuntavern. Hmmmmm
elementary my dear ...

[JMintzer]

Are you one of the builders??? If not, how do you know this?????

Did you miss the thread about the quality of her new home in St Catherine?

Let's just say she's "less than thrilled" with how it turned out...

[golfing eagles]

Did you miss the thread about the quality of her new home in St Catherine?

Let's just say she's "less than thrilled" with how it turned out...

Missed it. So, in other words, she extrapolated her one home as representative of thousands. Hmmmm......

And as we all "know", there were never any problems when SS was built out or 466-466A or 466A to 44 :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[geobar]

We moved to "The Villages} back in 2009 after visiting for 4 to 5 years to learn about the communities as far as where we wanted to live. Our decisions were made as Gary Morse at that time said he would not build South of466A for our first home then a few yrs. later only down to CR-44 only for our 2nd home.

In our 11 years there. We actually moved out of TV due to overcrowds as the Morse Clan is not providing any more town squares, major shopping, and restaurants as their predecessors had to attract buyers. The originator was "Harold Schwartz" and "Gary Morse".
.
2009 is definitely not what "The Villages" is today. Many things were taken away that enticed our move to TV like "Kattie Bells Night Club,/Cattle Baron Restaurant", "The Church on the Square", and 2 rec centers each with restaurants. Plus more are gone forever. They first wanted The Communities to buy one of the Rec Centers with no deal. Then, the building was too old to remodel so the "Morse Clan" decided to knock it down to build more residents.
.
It is hard for people to enjoy their retirement years if living south of CR-44 until if ever the Morse Clan builds. Actually, they are way better off today as it took about 3 years to get their only one Publix store to buy groceries for just how many thousands of people?
.
Today is a totally different story as the 3rd generation of the Morse family is building too many miles south to actually still call it "The Villages" as far as I'm concerned. They are only concerned with building new homes to make even more money that they actually do not need. Perhaps only a money pit for them.
.
When we moved in we had all we needed close by not needing to drive north for our enjoyment as the newbies south of CR-44 needed to do.
.
If we ever decide to move back to The Villages" we would purchase (a resale, only available) between 466 and 466A, nearer 466A.
.
Reading that within the next 3 months, you will see the prices of used homes drop considerably nationwide thanks to the Feds and present high inflation both driving prices down.
.
Read that recently Multiple Listing in TV had no sales for about 6 days showing the beginning of lacking sales in "The Villages". MLS is not affiliated with the Morse Clan. Contact an MLS Broker for their perspective.
.
Sales will continue to grow in TV as the cost to live up North as the costs to reside continues to get out of control bringing thousands of people to Florida.
.
Wish you well in your endeavors.
.
I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

[golfing eagles]

We moved to "The Villages} back in 2009 after visiting for 4 to 5 years to learn about the communities as far as where we wanted to live. Our decisions were made as Gary Morse at that time said he would not build South of466A for our first home then a few yrs. later only down to CR-44 only for our 2nd home.

In our 11 years there. We actually moved out of TV due to overcrowds as the Morse Clan is not providing any more town squares, major shopping, and restaurants as their predecessors had to attract buyers. The originator was "Harold Schwartz" and "Gary Morse".
.
2009 is definitely not what "The Villages" is today. Many things were taken away that enticed our move to TV like "Kattie Bells Night Club,/Cattle Baron Restaurant", "The Church on the Square", and 2 rec centers each with restaurants. Plus more are gone forever. They first wanted The Communities to buy one of the Rec Centers with no deal. Then, the building was too old to remodel so the "Morse Clan" decided to knock it down to build more residents.
.
It is hard for people to enjoy their retirement years if living south of CR-44 until if ever the Morse Clan builds. Actually, they are way better off today as it took about 3 years to get their only one Publix store to buy groceries for just how many thousands of people?
.
Today is a totally different story as the 3rd generation of the Morse family is building too many miles south to actually still call it "The Villages" as far as I'm concerned. They are only concerned with building new homes to make even more money that they actually do not need. Perhaps only a money pit for them.
.
When we moved in we had all we needed close by not needing to drive north for our enjoyment as the newbies south of CR-44 needed to do.
.
If we ever decide to move back to The Villages" we would purchase (a resale, only available) between 466 and 466A, nearer 466A.
.
Reading that within the next 3 months, you will see the prices of used homes drop considerably nationwide thanks to the Feds and present high inflation both driving prices down.
.
Read that recently Multiple Listing in TV had no sales for about 6 days showing the beginning of lacking sales in "The Villages". MLS is not affiliated with the Morse Clan. Contact an MLS Broker for their perspective.
.
Sales will continue to grow in TV as the cost to live up North as the costs to reside continues to get out of control bringing thousands of people to Florida.
.
Wish you well in your endeavors.
.

How hard does one have to work to have so many things wrong in one post?

Please show, in writing, where Gary Morse ever definitively stated he would not build south of 466A and then 44. Good luck.

No more town squares??? How about Eastport, under construction, and the mini-venue of Sawgrass Grove??

Katie Belle's failed because cheapskates sat there drinking water with lemon all night for the entertainment---we all know restaurants and night clubs make their money on drinks.
The church on the square was replaced with the Sharon. Hacienda Hills is being rebuilt, just without a restaurant, no residential units. And as far as the rest, the Morse family rents out commercial space, they don't own restaurants or stores, it is up to those businesses to be successful

Prices here might drop a bit, but not "considerably". Despite your bleak view, this is one of the most desirable retirement communities in the country and the demographics of retiring baby boomers will drive sales. Not much different than the housing crisis of 2008--The Villages emerged just better than ever.

[Bogie Shooter]

We moved to "The Villages} back in 2009 after visiting for 4 to 5 years to learn about the communities as far as where we wanted to live. Our decisions were made as Gary Morse at that time said he would not build South of466A for our first home then a few yrs. later only down to CR-44 only for our 2nd home.

In our 11 years there. We actually moved out of TV due to overcrowds as the Morse Clan is not providing any more town squares, major shopping, and restaurants as their predecessors had to attract buyers. The originator was "Harold Schwartz" and "Gary Morse".
.
2009 is definitely not what "The Villages" is today. Many things were taken away that enticed our move to TV like "Kattie Bells Night Club,/Cattle Baron Restaurant", "The Church on the Square", and 2 rec centers each with restaurants. Plus more are gone forever. They first wanted The Communities to buy one of the Rec Centers with no deal. Then, the building was too old to remodel so the "Morse Clan" decided to knock it down to build more residents.
.
It is hard for people to enjoy their retirement years if living south of CR-44 until if ever the Morse Clan builds. Actually, they are way better off today as it took about 3 years to get their only one Publix store to buy groceries for just how many thousands of people?
.
Today is a totally different story as the 3rd generation of the Morse family is building too many miles south to actually still call it "The Villages" as far as I'm concerned. They are only concerned with building new homes to make even more money that they actually do not need. Perhaps only a money pit for them.
.
When we moved in we had all we needed close by not needing to drive north for our enjoyment as the newbies south of CR-44 needed to do.
.
If we ever decide to move back to The Villages" we would purchase (a resale, only available) between 466 and 466A, nearer 466A.
.
Reading that within the next 3 months, you will see the prices of used homes drop considerably nationwide thanks to the Feds and present high inflation both driving prices down.
.
Read that recently Multiple Listing in TV had no sales for about 6 days showing the beginning of lacking sales in "The Villages". MLS is not affiliated with the Morse Clan. Contact an MLS Broker for their perspective.
.
Sales will continue to grow in TV as the cost to live up North as the costs to reside continues to get out of control bringing thousands of people to Florida.
.
Wish you well in your endeavors.
.

Why would you ever consider to return to The Villages? Your hate of so many things is most obvious. The ashes from you burnt bridges is still smoldering.

[Flyers999]

Everybody's always asking "Which village is the best?"

Of course it's Tall Trees!

[Marathon Man]

...

In our 11 years there. We actually moved out of TV due ...



And yet, here you are. Staying connected to a community that you claim made you unhappy. Tell me you miss TV without saying you miss TV.

[Babubhat]

100 thousand plus others say otherwise. Thank goodness for the ignore list

[Worldseries27]

we moved to "the villages} back in 2009 after visiting for 4 to 5 years to learn about the communities as far as where we wanted to live. Our decisions were made as gary morse at that time said he would not build south of466a for our first home then a few yrs. Later only down to cr-44 only for our 2nd home.

In our 11 years there. We actually moved out of tv due to overcrowds as the morse clan is not providing any more town squares, major shopping, and restaurants as their predecessors had to attract buyers. The originator was "harold schwartz" and "gary morse".
.
2009 is definitely not what "the villages" is today. Many things were taken away that enticed our move to tv like "kattie bells night club,/cattle baron restaurant", "the church on the square", and 2 rec centers each with restaurants. Plus more are gone forever. They first wanted the communities to buy one of the rec centers with no deal. Then, the building was too old to remodel so the "morse clan" decided to knock it down to build more residents.
.
It is hard for people to enjoy their retirement years if living south of cr-44 until if ever the morse clan builds. Actually, they are way better off today as it took about 3 years to get their only one publix store to buy groceries for just how many thousands of people?
.
Today is a totally different story as the 3rd generation of the morse family is building too many miles south to actually still call it "the villages" as far as i'm concerned. They are only concerned with building new homes to make even more money that they actually do not need. Perhaps only a money pit for them.
.
When we moved in we had all we needed close by not needing to drive north for our enjoyment as the newbies south of cr-44 needed to do.
.
If we ever decide to move back to the villages" we would purchase (a resale, only available) between 466 and 466a, nearer 466a.
.
Reading that within the next 3 months, you will see the prices of used homes drop considerably nationwide thanks to the feds and present high inflation both driving prices down.
.
Read that recently multiple listing in tv had no sales for about 6 days showing the beginning of lacking sales in "the villages". Mls is not affiliated with the morse clan. Contact an mls broker for their perspective.
.
Sales will continue to grow in tv as the cost to live up north as the costs to reside continues to get out of control bringing thousands of people to florida.
.
Wish you well in your endeavors.
.
going to the gulf and beyond

[Garywt]

Everyone likes something different. New or old, busy or quiet, close to thinks or away from the world.

We love our Villas as the are very quiet and away from everything. This leads to many long golf cart rides which is perfect for us.

[Margterrymcg]

The only way to determine the best fit for you is to visit. A few times.

[MX rider]

How hard does one have to work to have so many things wrong in one post?

Please show, in writing, where Gary Morse ever definitively stated he would not build south of 466A and then 44. Good luck.

No more town squares??? How about Eastport, under construction, and the mini-venue of Sawgrass Grove??

Katie Belle's failed because cheapskates sat there drinking water with lemon all night for the entertainment---we all know restaurants and night clubs make their money on drinks.
The church on the square was replaced with the Sharon. Hacienda Hills is being rebuilt, just without a restaurant, no residential units. And as far as the rest, the Morse family rents out commercial space, they don't own restaurants or stores, it is up to those businesses to be successful

Prices here might drop a bit, but not "considerably". Despite your bleak view, this is one of the most desirable retirement communities in the country and the demographics of retiring baby boomers will drive sales. Not much different than the housing crisis of 2008--The Villages emerged just better than ever.

Well said!

[PersonOfInterest]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.

The NEXT village they will be building will be the BEST village, but don't worry about it. Statistics show that you'll move within the Villages, two more times after the initial house.

[ndf888]

Do some window shopping by attending open houses. This will give you a good idea about your parameters, acceptable trade offs, and budget limitations. You don’t need a realtor to do that. In fact, it may be beneficial to do so before you engage a realtor because they may inadvertently put pressure on you.

If you want to live in a pretty box go south, if landscaping or shopping is important to you consider looking at villages located north of 44. Also check out distances to gyms, golf driving ranges, etc.

[karenzeee]

The best village is where you find your happy place. All of them are wonderful. Take the time to look around. After our Lifestyle visit, we rented for a month at a time in different areas to see which area would best suit our needs. It's all about finding what works for you. Have fun checking out TV!

[Carlsondm]

What are your hobbies. Do you golf, fish, bike, dance, run, party at the squares, etc. The Villages is growing so the center is moving south. Are you concerned about hurricanes/wind .. buy newer with upgraded building specs or see if you can upgrade. Sinkhole and flooding .. look at maps. Lake Sumter Landing is very popular and busy. Has medical facilities as does Spanish Springs to the north. Shopping is in north or Leesburg.
We are south of 44 in a quiet area with lots of biking, and not too far from Leesburg medical facilities. They are preferred to TV facilities.

I recommend staying a distance from heavily traveled roads, pickle ball courts, and utility transfer stations or other views that may affect resale and your view of the sunset or space launches. Yes, we see the launches easily when the clouds cooperate.

Good luck. Renting is highly recommended so you can become your own relocation expert.

[RCMill531@comcast.net]

It depends on what you are looking for. The new villages tend to have a younger, more active group of people (50’s, 60’s and 70’s). We bought in a new village and we have a very active community with monthly couples dinners, ladies luncheons, corn hole tournaments, driveway parties, Halloween party, Christmas party, etc. We are late 60’s and we are having more fun and being more active than we ever have. Love, love, love it here!

[golfing eagles]

The best village is wherever my wife is at the moment. (at least 50 brownie points for that one)

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The best village is wherever my wife is at the moment. (at least 50 brownie points for that one)

You are correct. That is all.

[yankygrl]

It depends on what you are looking for. The new villages tend to have a younger, more active group of people (50’s, 60’s and 70’s). We bought in a new village and we have a very active community with monthly couples dinners, ladies luncheons, corn hole tournaments, driveway parties, Halloween party, Christmas party, etc. We are late 60’s and we are having more fun and being more active than we ever have. Love, love, love it here!
12 yrs ago when I moved here -buttonwood, we were all 55+ to mid 60’s and did the same, now 12 yrs later not so much.

[rogerk]

I have never visited the Villages but have been looking at homes there. I am trying to find a method to identify the best house within my parameters, all of which havent been set yet. I imagine certain villages might be considered preferable to others, so a good starting point might be to rank various villages, and then search from there. I have only been able to find one article on the internet where villages are ranked. It would be greatly appreciated if those of you who live there could provide some opinions as to what the top 5 or 10 villages to live in are, and even more appreciated if you provide brief reasons why you rank them that way. Alternatively, if you have opinions about other better methods to identify a suitable home, please let me know.
First of all don’t worry about which Village, everyone believes they live in the ‘best Village. Get connected with a Village’s real estate agent. Be upfront with them, they can show the best opportunities among both new and preowned. This not like most communities, it is bigger and more diverse. Let a qualified person get you started, then if you want talk to an MLS agent.

[coffeebean]

There is no "Best Village"...


Oh yes there is !

Agree.....location, location, location and you need to decide what is important to you. OP, do you love the view of power lines and the sound of traffic hum from the turnpike?

Come visit and decide what you prefer.

[MorTech]

I would say almost any village off Hillsborough Trail just for the convenient location.