When does “snowbird” season end?

[Michael 61]

I’ve only been here a few months - was just wondering at what point do most snowbirds return North?

[Gpsma]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

[bsloan1960]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.

[asianthree]

So our first two houses were investment properties. For high season one was rented to the same couple October 1 to Thanksgiving week, then December 26 to April 30.

The other home was November leaving April 30. Many renters leave March 31, but given the parking lot 1-75 becomes, have noticed the new trend is to leave end of April. Renters stay less time, usually then Owner Snowbirds.

As Owner Birds, for us we came September 25, and left May 30.

[asianthree]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

Another clueless comment about snowbirds. You should be very happy that they return to their Primary or vacation home in March or April.

I vote for every snowbird and renter to stay 12 months out of the year and then see how happy you are. Then your life can be snowbird miserable 12 months out of the year.

Just remember they pay their amenity fees higher taxes, every bill just like you, but they choose to own more than one home and can leave at any time, and also can return it anytime. We love our lake house, up north that you can swim, boat, ski, without a gator

[retiredguy123]

To me, this year it seems like we have had the worst traffic in the past 7 years. I hope it settles down in April.

[rustyp]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

I stay until mid June just to pi$$ the frogs off.

[Gpsma]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

[Papa_lecki]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

Your house would be worth half as much and your amenity fee would be double if it weren’t for the snowbirds.

[Papa_lecki]

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

When did Mr Schwartz tell you that?

[kkingston57]

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.`

Great way to look at this situation. Lived in Florida entire life and so many people knock down "snowbirds". Like them or not "snowbirds" help keep Florida from having a state income tax.

[I'm Popeye!]

`

Great way to look at this situation. Lived in Florida entire life and so many people knock down "snowbirds". Like them or not "snowbirds" help keep Florida from having a state income tax.

Maybe that's why SNOWBIRDS come to Florida, to Escape from Taxes.
Or they come here for the big hype, Sex! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Velvet]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

You are quite mistaken, Mr Schwartz, himself, invited both my uncle who lived and died in TV as full time resident, and my parents who came to see my uncle mostly, and eventually bought a seasonal home.

[BrianL99]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

I've read obnoxious, ridiculous post on this site before, but this gets my nomination for Most Obnoxious Post of 2023.

BTW, if you're a "True Villager", do you get a special tattoo or something? Is there a secret handshake?

[DALEPQ]

Just because the "year rounders" have only one house and stay here all year round, that
it some how makes them superior to others that maintain 2 homes to enjoy the best
of both worlds is totally ludicrous.
Just shows that they are extremely jealous of those that don't have to force themselves
to endure the summer "sweats", by going north and enjoying beautiful weather.
Too bad, so sad!!!!!!!!!!!!

[BrianL99]

Just because the "year rounders" have only one house and stay here all year round, that
it some how makes them superior to others that maintain 2 homes to enjoy the best
of both worlds is totally ludicrous.
Just shows that they are extremely jealous of those that don't have to force themselves
to endure the summer "sweats", by going north and enjoying beautiful weather.
Too bad, so sad!!!!!!!!!!!!

The "have nots" will always resent the "haves". It's human nature, although you'd think by retirement age, folks would have gotten over it ... what the hell, they've spent a lot of time as "have nots".

[Bogie Shooter]

I've read obnoxious, ridiculous post on this site before, but this gets my nomination for Most Obnoxious Post of 2023.

BTW, if you're a "True Villager", do you get a special tattoo or something? Is there a secret handshake?

If not most….a close second!

[billethkid]

Just remember this years "slow season" will be the same as some previous years "busy season"..........maybe 5 years ago?

__________________________________________________

:censored:

[Bikehike]

SOON. Better ask her out even sooner

[JMintzer]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

How nice...

[JMintzer]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

Even nicer!

[Jayhawk]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

That is WAY harsh. The seasonal folks make this place possible for a lot of folks. If they only had to pay amenity fees when the properties are rented, the full-timers would pay a lot more.

I don't think they are the entitled ones in this thread.

Mirror mirror on the wall....

[Jayhawk]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

Must be a tough life to be so damn miserable to others.

And somebody should be shunned, but it isn't snowbirds.

Adios.



By the way, how long did you know old Harold?

[kcrazorbackfan]

I’ve only been here a few months - was just wondering at what point do most snowbirds return North?

There are so many residents moving in that it will seem like they don’t leave.

[Michael 61]

Ugh - I‘m sorry I posted this question - I should have realized it would turn ugly - I simply was asking at about what time do many of the snowbirds leave, and nothing more than a simple answer would have sufficed without the commentary. I’ll know better next time.

[BrianL99]

Ugh - I‘m sorry I posted this question - I should have realized it would turn ugly - I simply was asking at about what time do many of the snowbirds leave, and nothing more than a simple answer would have sufficed without the commentary. I’ll know better next time.

I think most leave around 7:00 - 8:00 am to get a decent jump on traffic.

[Garywt]

I think it would be great if all homeowners could stay year round and keep things busy all year. What would the current full time residents complain about then.

[I'm Popeye!]

Just because the "year rounders" have only one house and stay here all year round, that
it some how makes them superior to others that maintain 2 homes to enjoy the best
of both worlds is totally ludicrous.
Just shows that they are extremely jealous of those that don't have to force themselves
to endure the summer "sweats", by going north and enjoying beautiful weather.
Too bad, so sad!!!!!!!!!!!!

Are you implying that you have MORE MONEY than those living here year-round?
I retired in 2009 and left a city home only to the working class or those looking to get killed. I moved to Florida to enjoy the days I have left and not run around from state to state like some gypsy.
Most of these snowbirds go back North or whatever to babysit the out-of-school brats anyway, but they will not admit it: it's the reason they go wild when they return to the Villages! :ho:

[Garywt]

Are you implying that you have MORE MONEY than those living here year-round?
I retired in 2009 and left a city home only to the working class or those looking to get killed. I moved to Florida to enjoy the days I have left and not run around from state to state like some gypsy.
Most of these snowbirds go back North or whatever to babysit the out-of-school brats anyway, but they will not admit it: it's the reason they go wild when they return to the Villages! :ho:
Not a very nice way to talk about grandchildren, sorry you think so little of them. I love my grandchildren and they are the best medicine for me including the one that lives with me and the one that was born yesterday. I would take my grandsons over just about anything.

[Worldseries27]

you are looking at the snowbird population backwards. They aren't in tv clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are away for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and not using the amenities they are still paying every month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you snowbirds.
good point

[Worldseries27]

ugh - i‘m sorry i posted this question - i should have realized it would turn ugly - i simply was asking at about what time do many of the snowbirds leave, and nothing more than a simple answer would have sufficed without the commentary. I’ll know better next time.
one bad op does not a consensus make. Good ask imho.

[Villages Kahuna]

Whatever you do, stay off I-75 around the 1st of the month!

[BrianL99]

Are you implying that you have MORE MONEY than those living here year-round?
I retired in 2009 and left a city home only to the working class or those looking to get killed. I moved to Florida to enjoy the days I have left and not run around from state to state like some gypsy.
Most of these snowbirds go back North or whatever to babysit the out-of-school brats anyway, but they will not admit it: it's the reason they go wild when they return to the Villages! :ho:

Many of the vilified "Snow Birds" didn't come here from "working class city homes" where they were waiting to be killed. Many (or most) come from fancy, expensive homes, in exclusive suburbs, that they have no need to escape from.

Perhaps if your life was more accomplished, you'd think differently about those who are in a position to enjoy the best of both worlds.

[Rwirish]

So you don’t like gators?

[banjobob]

True comment the exodus to the north begins in April . Truck stops are overloaded with RV’s

[La lamy]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

Such an ignorant, backwards comment. Shame on you.

[lisahathy]

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.
Your comment is exactly right. Snowbirds pay a full year of property taxes, trash removal, amenity fees and only use these services for part of the year. The people that now live here full time and whine about snowbirds should be thanking them for subsidizing their retirement.

[hoot2602]

I’ve only been here a few months - was just wondering at what point do most snowbirds return North? Most of the permanent residents in TV are ignoring the fact that the permanent population of TV is increasing rapidly. This means that, on average, demand for services is going up daily. Then, add the Snowbirds and you have peak population and demand during the winter months. Ever wonder why there are new grocery stores, restaurants, etc., coming into TV? There are a few businesses that rely on the Snowbirds for survival/profits. But, you don't build a $100 million grocery store hoping that you will make a profit during 25% (3 months) of the year. The simple fact is that the population of TV is now more than 130,000 and it takes a lot of businesses to satisfy the needs and demands of that many people. Hence, growth begats growth. Thus, don't look forward to a significant drop in traffic or restaurant occupancy, etc., when the Snowbirds are gone because there are more of us permanent residents than ever before.

[Duppman]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.
Hmm. Never took a 3+ month vacation while I was working. Please tell us more about Harold's vision! Shun away!

[WingedFoot78]

The traffic is going to get worse with every year as long as the developer keeps building new houses.

[TeresaE]

Snowbirds are welcome as long as they remember that this is not a resort, this is our HOME. Please treat it as such.

[seecapecod]

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.

Finally - the voice of reason!

[Aviva]

Now that's a nice twist on the snowbird hate......and absolutely the truth!! If they stayed as they do own the house it would be busy ALL YEAR. You are lucky to have snowbirds to lower your amenity fees and free up space at pools and clubs for you in "off season"

[bowlingal]

when do the snowbirds leave? depends on how far north their other home is. They can leave anywhere from mid April to beginning of June. People from Canada can only be here 1 day less than 6 months. If they stay longer than 6 months, they lose their health insurance in Canada and also must pay taxes in 2 countries. As far as renters, usually March 31, as they rent for 3 months for the most part. So, April 1 ( on this Saturday) you should be seeing less congestion.

[defrey12]

The "have nots" will always resent the "haves". It's human nature, although you'd think by retirement age, folks would have gotten over it ... what the hell, they've spent a lot of time as "have nots".

I guess you’re one of those who doesn’t put his pants on one leg at a time. Just because we choose NOT to burden ourselves with the additional debt of owning and maintaining a second home somehow makes us inferior. You some how imply that $$$ makes you better…talk to God about that.

[MandoMan]

Ugh - I‘m sorry I posted this question - I should have realized it would turn ugly - I simply was asking at about what time do many of the snowbirds leave, and nothing more than a simple answer would have sufficed without the commentary. I’ll know better next time.

There isn’t a specific date when they come and go. Snowbird owners may stay longer than snowbird renters. The owners come any time they like and leave any time they like. Snowbird renters are more likely to be here in monthly blocks and be here during the worst of winter.

Snowbirds start trickling in at the end of October, and like migrating birds, the increase is heavier week by week and through December. Plenty come right after Thanksgiving or right after Christmas. January and February is when we have the best golf weather and the most snowbirds. A sizable number leaves at the end of February if they are renting by the month, and a much bigger number at the end of March. In April most of the rest flock North and West.

The traffic now is already much less than it was a month ago, and this time next month it will be much less, nearing the low point. I spend a lot of time playing music in jams in The Villages, and throughout this month various friends have left for the summer as their summer homes warm up. I miss them. It’s always nice to have them back.

[ehendersonjr]

I’ve only been here a few months - was just wondering at what point do most snowbirds return North?

The Villages is the closest place to heaven I’m ever gonna get. Judging from some of the comments, I suspect the same is true for some of you. So I can’t fault anyone else for wanting to be here. If I had my way, The Villages would encompass the entire state and I could take a golf cart from Pensacola to Key West, with nightly stops at tiny home rest areas. So let the part-timers come. I’m happy, they’re happy. All is well.

[defrey12]

Not a very nice way to talk about grandchildren, sorry you think so little of them. I love my grandchildren and they are the best medicine for me including the one that lives with me and the one that was born yesterday. I would take my grandsons over just about anything.

Well, how sweet…teach them some manners! Something we find SORELY lacking in “birds.”

[GizmoWhiskers]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.
Agreed!

[GizmoWhiskers]

Your house would be worth half as much and your amenity fee would be double if it weren’t for the snowbirds.
Ahhhh, no.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.
Doubt A B n B s were his vision either.

[dschneider]

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.
Finally someone talking sense.

[Windguy]

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.
I would gladly pay more for amenity fees if it meant I could get into restaurants and other venues year round. I’ve had to go outside TV for dining since last fall. I avoid the squares other than going to the gym, which is so crowded this time of year that it’s difficult to get time on the equipment—even during the (normally) slower afternoons.

The number of restaurants available is determined by the off-season population—not the peak population. If y’all stayed year round we would have more choices and they would have better staff because more of them would have permanent jobs. The best employees are ones with permanent jobs. Better employees make for a more-pleasant dining experience.

Infrastructure would be greatly improved. Roads might have more lanes. We might have more golf courses and they wouldn’t get so overused until they have to close them for repairs. We might even get more than two tee times per week.

No. You aren’t doing us any favors. Please stay year round.

[Akremer]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.
Sounds like someone has a case of the crabbies

[Beyond The Wall]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

No snowbirds equals high fees everywhere, less business and Resturant’s . Yes it gets a little and hectic at times but we’ll worth it.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Most of the permanent residents in TV are ignoring the fact that the permanent population of TV is increasing rapidly. This means that, on average, demand for services is going up daily. Then, add the Snowbirds and you have peak population and demand during the winter months. Ever wonder why there are new grocery stores, restaurants, etc., coming into TV? There are a few businesses that rely on the Snowbirds for survival/profits. But, you don't build a $100 million grocery store hoping that you will make a profit during 25% (3 months) of the year. The simple fact is that the population of TV is now more than 130,000 and it takes a lot of businesses to satisfy the needs and demands of that many people. Hence, growth begats growth. Thus, don't look forward to a significant drop in traffic or restaurant occupancy, etc., when the Snowbirds are gone because there are more of us permanent residents than ever before.
Would love to know how many homes actually sit empty when snowbirds head north. I am sure most put renters or A B n B their homes. To say full time residents should be grateful for snowbirds seems pretty inflated. Owners using A B n B to make money have little if no regard for their full time neighbors. They are simply covering their costs to be absent. In the end its all a wash.

Full time residents experience the waves of people year round coming and going. There is a definite noticeable change that snowbirds don't experience... until they eventually stay year round when the shoe is on the other foot.

T V expanding number of houses faster than the local area can handle... that's a whole other thread.

[MayaC]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

What DID Mr. Schwartz intend? From what I can find, he was a shrewd businessman who knew how to sell property. He ended up creating a unique business model and was (and continues to be) successful.
Anyone who lives in The Villages has come from someplace else. Why divide people up between ‘snowbirds’ and ‘“True Villagers”? What is the point?

If you want no traffic, fewer lines for restaurants, open tee times and perfect weather year round - not sure that really exists. However, The Villages is as close as you can get if one looks at all the good there is rather than all the ‘inconvenience’.

Embrace the SnowBird.

[jtmedma]

Would love to know how many homes actually sit empty when snowbirds head north. I am sure most put renters or A B n B their homes. To say full time residents should be grateful for snowbirds seems pretty inflated. Owners using A B n B to make money have little if no regard for their full time neighbors. They are simply covering their costs to be absent. In the end its all a wash.

Full time residents experience the waves of people year round coming and going. Their is a definite noticeable change that snowbirds don't experience... until they eventually stay year round when the shoe is on the other foot.

T V expanding number of houses faster than the local area can handle... that's a whole other thread.
Sounds like you should be mad at "The Villages" for building more houses than the amenities can handle, not the snowbirds.

[Pgcacace]

I am not a snowbird, but the Villages would be hurting if there were none!

[cphague]

Well said regarding the snowbirds paying their amenity fees year round. I'm not a snowbird, but I appreciate them making it so I can afford to live here.

[oldtimes]

Ugh - I‘m sorry I posted this question - I should have realized it would turn ugly - I simply was asking at about what time do many of the snowbirds leave, and nothing more than a simple answer would have sufficed without the commentary. I’ll know better next time.

Will you?

[Glowfromminnesota]

I am willing to bet majority of the posters are not from Florida and come in from other states. Have you ever asked a true Floridian how they feel about folks coming in to their state? Seems like a similar concept to ask.

[BrianL99]

I guess you’re one of those who doesn’t put his pants on one leg at a time. Just because we choose NOT to burden ourselves with the additional debt of owning and maintaining a second home somehow makes us inferior. You some how imply that $$$ makes you better…talk to God about that.

Anyone who has to "burden themselves with the additional debt of owning a second home" in their retirement years, should have worked harder in their non-retirement years, so they could afford as many homes as they want, without any debt.

[BrianL99]

Your house would be worth half as much and your amenity fee would be double if it weren’t for the snowbirds.

Ahhhh, no.


Perhaps taking an Economics class during the summer when all the despicable Snowbirds leave, you'll glean some understanding of "markets" & "demands".

[wsachs]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.
The largest states in population in The Villages are NY, NJ, OH, MI WI and Canada. Northern states where people had good paying jobs, health care, pensions who could afford to live here and spend their money. In fact, two men from Michigan created this place. Snowbirds still pay amenity fees and taxes year round, even if they aren't here. And how many Villagers originally were from FL? or surrounding southern states?

[Laker14]

When people blame "The Developer" for making TV too big, they ignore the fact that were the Morse family not growing TV with their model of development, some other developers would be. All you have to do is look at what is going on behind the Trailwinds commercial block (Lowes, Publix et. al.) at the non-Villages development to see what that looks like.
Since the squares and restaurants are not "amenities" provided exclusively to TV residents, they are open to anyone. They'd be at least as crowded with people from the non-TV developments as they are with what are instead people from the newer areas of TV. Likewise all of the establishments outside The Bubble. Those new Villages wouldn't still be open fields. They'd be developed by someone else.

As far as when the 'Birds leave, as previously mentioned, it varies. Renters come later, and leave earlier than owners. IF they wanted to stay longer, they'd probably buy in, because after about 5 months, the cost of renting gets pretty close to the cost of owning. DW and I are of the migratory species. When we decided mid-October -mid-May would be our cup of tea we made the plunge.

For those of you who feel inconvenienced by my presence for 7 months in the home I pay the freight for 12 months to own, well, you can stuff it. Too bad, Charlie. Enjoy my absence to the fullest. If you couldn't tell by the density of homes being built that it would be a tad crowded when all of the homes are occupied, and if you thought people would buy those homes and NOT use them during the winter months, well, that was just plain stupid on your part. Fortunately for you, you are free to try to find a place where people will help pay your bills, but not want to ever show up and use what they are paying for.

[NormaKW]

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.

It is not only them here in the winter months but friends and relatives of residents coming to visit them and using the facilities free. I appreciate the snowbirds vacating in the summertime.

[dlebuis]

I agree with DALPO. I’m a full time resident but the rude comments aren’t necessary.

[Tonnib]

Yes, the crowds are annoying. But this “new” resident’s question is really the sign of wrongful targeting on a portion of our population. It’s more about all these “new” people coming every year…. Makes you feel wanted doesn’t it? (no, it’s not about the new people, just making a point) Every person living in The Villages pays towards the better good. Yes, even renters, because a portion of their rent is for amenities fees. I heard we are “Florida’s Friendliest Town” let’s be tolerant. Let’s be kind. Let’s think of others and be less self absorbed. Let us love our neighbors and slow down. If you are unhappy and don’t like it here, you are free to leave whenever you choose. We make our community as a whole population. This hatred for snowbirds is miss placed. Look in the mirror. Are you self absorbed and driving like a moron? Are you kind or rude to everyone? Ands what’s your big hurry? If you don’t like lines at restaurants, learn to cook. We all make the life great at The Villages. Yes even the very fortunate snowbirds.

[merrymini]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

These good people are our neighbors and friends.

[jparsoneau@aol.com]

It is amazing how many people have love for their neighbors on here. Completely retired not a thing to worry or bitch about but here are most of them every day still bitching and complaining about something.
Absolute amazing the problems we almost endure living in the villages.

[cagedbirdflies]

Just because the "year rounders" have only one house and stay here all year round, that
it some how makes them superior to others that maintain 2 homes to enjoy the best
of both worlds is totally ludicrous.
Just shows that they are extremely jealous of those that don't have to force themselves
to endure the summer "sweats", by going north and enjoying beautiful weather.
Too bad, so sad!!!!!!!!!!!!
And in most cases enjoying their families. We do have the best of both worlds. In my case I return to my home state that also has no income tax AND no sales tax. Too bad there is so much hate on this thread.

[Laker14]

I agree with DALPO. I’m a full time resident but the rude comments aren’t necessary.

Fortunately, unlike the percentages that one experiences on these threads, the percentage of rude people one encounters while out and about in TV is very very small. Anyone who only knows what they know about TV from visiting TOTV and reading the attitudes and comments here would have a very distorted impression of what people are really like here.

[merrymini]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

I had that commitment, as a snowbird, because of family and children. Obviously some people do not understand that. So be it.

[RedChariot]

When do snowbirds leave you ask? NOT SOON ENOUGH!!!

[NoMo50]

Ugh - I‘m sorry I posted this question - I should have realized it would turn ugly - I simply was asking at about what time do many of the snowbirds leave, and nothing more than a simple answer would have sufficed without the commentary. I’ll know better next time.

Ha Ha! You could start a thread asking what day it is, and you would still wind up with at least a dozen snarky comments from the Legion of Gloom that trolls this forum.

[Bilyclub]

The largest states in population in The Villages are NY, NJ, OH, MI WI and Canada. Northern states where people had good paying jobs, health care, pensions who could afford to live here and spend their money. In fact, two men from Michigan created this place. Snowbirds still pay amenity fees and taxes year round, even if they aren't here. And how many Villagers originally were from FL? or surrounding southern states?

Wisconsin has less than 2000 households here, so not even in the top ten.

[Tom M]

Oh please with the nonsense argument about snow birds paying their amenity fees..big deal. They own a house, they pay. How about the renter snowbirds? They pay just rent to enrich home owners that arent true Villagers.

Snowbirds are merely vacationers, renter snowbirds are tourists.

Harold Schwartz never intended the Villages to be like this. Snowbirds should be shunned by all true full-time residents.

So what if the snowbird is staying just over 6 months in the Villages? Are they still "vacationing" in Florida? Why wouldn't you say that they are vacationing up north and are residents that are on an extended summer vacation? I wonder if the neighbors of their 2nd home up north moan when they return in the summer and celebrate them leaving in the fall?

[Bilyclub]

Sounds like someone has a case of the crabbies


Welcome to TOTV. :22yikes:

[MayaC]

Imagine Florida without any tourism…

No snow birds
No tourists
No Cruise industry.

[Bilyclub]

I would not lump snowbirds in with the lower rungs of monthly renters or even lower AIRBNB day by day stuff.

[Lisanp@aol.com]

Maybe you’re so grumpy because it’s starting to get hot out and you are anxious about the sweltering Florida summer?

[GizmoWhiskers]

Perhaps taking an Economics class during the summer when all the despicable Snowbirds leave, you'll glean some understanding of "markets" & "demands".
Are you implying that all the "lottery ticket" purchasers in T V are snow birds? Or that the ONLY people who would want to live in TV are snowbirds? Those choosing to move out of other states are ALL snowbirds? Economics and statistic consider ALL formulated possibilities. Snowbirds are not the end all saviors of the great State of Florida.

[GATORBILL66]

I’ve only been here a few months - was just wondering at what point do most snowbirds return North?

Once the snowbirds leave, the streets and golf courses will be a lot cleaner. While the snowbirds are here there are so many cigarette butts and cigar butts all over the streets and golf courses. They just don't seem to care about how The Villages look. Come June you won't see their mess all over the place.
Not mention they won' be throwing their dog waste in the garbage cans at the pools and rec centers.
Full time residents seem to care so much more about the appearance of The Villages.

[Regorp]

I’ve only been here a few months - was just wondering at what point do most snowbirds return North?

In DeLuna, the pool is so crowded there is not an inch of empty space, so once these snowbirds fly away, I will once again have my pool back, as I did last September. Not to mention the crowded roads and my beloved Aldi's. Bye bye!

[Vermilion Villager]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.
Interesting (polite word for ironic) that you opt to weave the word "Easter" amongst the hateful "entitled" and "good riddance" comments.:BigApplause:

[GizmoWhiskers]

Sounds like you should be mad at "The Villages" for building more houses than the amenities can handle, not the snowbirds.
Didn't say ammenities. T V does a great job with keeping up with the ammenities.

What I was referring to is that outside of T V the municipalites are not able to keep up with the growth if the very well oiled Developer machine. The infrastructure, outside of the bubble.

One look at all the surrounding roads of the bubble will clearly show what I am referring to. Year round there is evidence they cannot keep up. Good news is eventually N of the turnpike will catch up to the growth of T V over the last 4 years.

Sadly, the for now quiet areas S of the turnpike / 470 toward Clermont, will experience the same infrastructure pains that you see outside of T V to the N of 470 that is what I am referring to.

[Marine1974]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.


Sounds like not a friendly comment. Must have some other issues bothering them .
Can you imagine how housing prices would drop and amenity
fees would go up with no snowbirds ? The state of Florida would have to start collecting state tax if there were no snowbirds coming every year . Many have the luxury of 2 houses , one to avoid the heat and enjoy the nice summers up north and the other to escape the cold winters . Very unfriendly comments .

[Veiragirl]

My observations are the first flock of restaurant clogging snow birds leave the emd of March. Probably renters who rent by the month and arent renting for april.

The second big flock of these entitled birds leaves after Easter.

Good bye and good riddance.

Oh you mean the ones who can't drive a golf cart, beep their horns,some are very rude. Just wanted to make sure we were talking about the same people. Snowbirds taste like chicken

[collie1228]

You are looking at the Snowbird population backwards. They aren't in TV clogging up everything for 1/2 a year- they are AWAY for 1/2 a year making things less crowed. If they were year round residents it would be crowed all the time. During the months they are away- and NOT using the amenities they are still Paying EVERY month. If they didn't pay while they were gone your amenity fees would possibly double. So, they pay year round, every month, and stay away freeing up space for half a year. Thank you Snowbirds.

Exactly. We should be thanking the snowbirds as we smile as they are leaving.

[rustyp]

Sounds like someone has a case of the crabbies

Once the snowbirds leave, the streets and golf courses will be a lot cleaner. While the snowbirds are here there are so many cigarette butts and cigar butts all over the streets and golf courses. They just don't seem to care about how The Villages look. Come June you won't see their mess all over the place.
Not mention they won' be throwing their dog waste in the garbage cans at the pools and rec centers.
Full time residents seem to care so much more about the appearance of The Villages.

And the pulitzer prize is awarded to the author for intertwining snowbirds and dog poo in the same post. Honorable mention for snowbird's butts.