Life Style Visit Now South of 44

[Pamela1130]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

[Marathon Man]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

Clam down. It is not half an hour to Brownwood. There is plenty of action in the area with lots of active people. Wait until you get here and see for yourself. Reserve all judgment until then. You cannot tell anything from videos.

[JohnN]

You do need a visit to get the lay of the land. Distance won't be that important for a visit.
If you prefer, find a short term rental instead.
Longer term, you can always buy a resale as an option if you don't like the newer areas.
There's plenty around here of whatever you want.

[Randall55]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone. They are in the process of selling the Lifestyle Villas in Brownwood. But, don't let that deter you. Plenty of things to do in the Villages.

[tophcfa]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

So sorry to hear about your dogs, that totally sucks : (

Consider a rental in the middle of the Villages that includes a golf cart and explore the entire Villages without the pressure of a property of the Villages sales person. You’re considering making what very well might be the biggest investment of your retirement years, keep your eyes wide open and explore all options. Best of luck.

[Pamela1130]

Clam down. It is not half an hour to Brownwood. There is plenty of action in the area with lots of active people. Wait until you get here and see for yourself. Reserve all judgment until then. You cannot tell anything from videos.

Thank you!! Yes, I have to see when I get there. Watch me love it, lol.

[Stu from NYC]

Enjoy your visit but suggest you not buy anything.

If you think you will like it here, arrange a rental for a month or two to get a better idea of where you want to hang your hat.

Many people purchase and than a year or so later decide they want to move at a substantial cost.

[Sparksfurn]

We just had a blast visiting for 7 days of a lifestyle visit just south of Sawgrass. Stayed in a brand new villa. Shopped for houses. Lots of Brand new 1200 sq ft houses for $300k. Listened to live music. Saw a Bad Company tribute band. Rode bikes. Drove our golf cart around on the cart paths. Ate at three Country clubs. Swam. Met one of the tennis pros. Went to a Saturday market. Sat in our screened Florida room in the morning and evenings. Saw some lighting storms. Danced to live music at two different town squares. Saw a movie at a villages movie theater. Enjoyed all of the lush flowers and landscapes. The heat and humidity didn't bother us. We want to move there the first of the year. Visited all the town squares. The landscaping is just starting in the south end but if you want a new home that is the trade off.

[Smalley]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

Are you planning to shop for a new house or just look around The Villages? If it's to explore, you will be far from much of TV down there. Did you ask if that location is the only option? Your other choice is to rent a house that will include a golf cart and a guest pass. If you do that, you can pick your area for the visit. The Villages Fitness rooms are fine but they lack certain equipment that genesis would offer.

[Kenswing]

So sorry to hear about your dogs, that totally sucks : (

Consider a rental in the middle of the Villages that includes a golf cart and explore the entire Villages without the pressure of a property of the Villages sales person. You’re considering making what very well might be the biggest investment of your retirement years, keep your eyes wide open and explore all options. Best of luck.

Pressure of a salesperson? When we did our Lifestyle visit, after taking us to our accommodations our assigned rep pretty much said “Call me if there’s anything I can do for you.” They don’t need high pressure tactics. They’re selling everything they build.

[Marathon Man]

Are you planning to shop for a new house or just look around The Villages? If it's to explore, you will be far from much of TV down there. Did you ask if that location is the only option? Your other choice is to rent a house that will include a golf cart and a guest pass. If you do that, you can pick your area for the visit. The Villages Fitness rooms are fine but they lack certain equipment that genesis would offer.

Far is a matter of opinion. I don't think anything is far when taking a car. I have lived in places that it was 20 minutes minimum to anything. Every place in The Villages has things close to it and other things not so close. No big deal. I'm retired and enjoy the drive.

[asianthree]

The regional center gym is nothing more that a glorified weight room. We had Lifetime fitness up north, 24/7 indoor pools every possibility of classes and equipment. Haven’t found anything close near TV to rival our old gym

[PersonOfInterest]

The South of 44 location for the LS villas is only 10 minutes to Brownwood by golf Cart or about 15 minutes by Car. The Gym at Ezell is a smaller gym and has a membership fee paid to the villages for use. Genesis gym in Brownwood is a Large, non-Villages gym. There is also an Anytime Fitness gym very close to Brownwood.

[merrymini]

Rent a car and drive everywhere. You will see what you like and know it.

[asianthree]

So sorry to hear about your dogs, that totally sucks : (

Consider a rental in the middle of the Villages that includes a golf cart and explore the entire Villages without the pressure of a property of the Villages sales person. You’re considering making what very well might be the biggest investment of your retirement years, keep your eyes wide open and explore all options. Best of luck.
Pressure consists of here’s my phone number, call if you would like a tour.

Enjoy your visit but suggest you not buy anything.

If you think you will like it here, arrange a rental for a month or two to get a better idea of where you want to hang your hat.

Many people purchase and than a year or so later decide they want to move at a substantial cost.

We have made great profits from selling all of our TV homes. Moving, less than $800, for 2000sf packed, moved and on to next house.

[Amohernyikes]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

This is my opinion. When you do a Lifestyle Visit, they put you in the newest areas and the Village Realtors show you the newest areas. That does not mean you have to purchase new. My realtor was not pushy at all, and took his time with us. Like others have suggested, if you could possibly come down and rent for about a month, you would get a much better feel for the area. I do live S of 44 and although it does not have all the shopping as the Northern area does, I still like it. Cons: You have to travel to shop up North or go to Ocala (about a 35 minute drive), landscaping not as mature. Pros: Younger group of people, they are building more south, so we will eventually be more of the middle of the villages. Ezell is not a "gym" in my opinion. It's a room they have placed some equipment in and charge a fee. Genesis gym in Brownwood is more of a real gym atmosphere. They also have Planet Fitness in Leesburg which is about 20 minutes away. If your husband is a real gym rat, either of those two would be more conducive to work out at to get the gym feel. You can find a previously owned house North of 44, with lower bond. The bonds in the newer area are ranging about 47K, ridiculous! If I had to do it all over again, we would have rented for 3 or 4 months before purchasing our home.

[Altavia]

In case not mentioned before, spend a half day visiting open houses in different parts of the Villages.

You may even meet a Sales Rep you "click" with.
.

[asianthree]

In case not mentioned before, spend a half day visiting open houses in different parts of the Villages.

You may even meet a Sales Rep you "click" with.
.

We loved our first rep, He moved up the ladder, we truly disliked the next one, and found a great person at an open house, that we have been with since 2013

[Randall55]

Pressure consists of here’s my phone number, call if you would like a tour.



We have made great profits from selling all of our TV homes. Moving, less than $800, for 2000sf packed, moved and on to next house. You forgot to mention closing costs, realtor commission, possible higher bond/taxes, and fixing up expenses of your new home. I think those were the high moving costs the other poster was referring to.

[asianthree]

You forgot to mention closing costs, realtor commission, possible higher bond/taxes, and fixing up expenses of your new home.

Many sell on their own, bond wasn’t paid on any previous homes , so only few thousand dollar differences, what we spend on this house will we will more than recoup at resale in 2 years. 2 homes here are up for sale for $150,000 more than original cost one year ago, plus they used them as a rental. We didn’t have closing costs on the last 2 homes, other than taxes, bond,. Lots of options out there for last 3 years. If you are coming from Lake to Sumter taxes are definitely less

Higher interest, but we pay down 2/3 of mortgage between 2-6 months, so interest is a non issue. Some like us buy then sell every couple of years, each home paying for the next. Better return rate than some of stocks. We still have our up north lake home, for some have 3 houses at a time can be daunting. But not for us

[MidWestIA]

I had a house in Pine Hills great spot went to Texas (great place too) but couldn't build new above 44 so I found a preowned with a layout I like but I miss my sycmore front look. Ezell is a long cart ride to squares and not much down there.
The Villages lifestyle is all about driving a golf cart to most things you do hopefully in 15-20 minutes. So above hwy 44 or around hwy 466a or 466.

BUT heck 2030 they build fast fast you may be building 10 miles out or Orlando or 1 mile from Leesburg

[skippy05]

Cancel the LS visit south of 44 because it is close to nothing except the Turn Pike Service Plaza dining options of Wendy's and KFC. Only accept a LS visit north of 44 or create your own.

[margaretmattson]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone. You have received many posts advising you to create your own LSV. To do this, check out the website villagershomes4rent. You will find many types of homes that are available to rent in an area you prefer. Most rentals come with a golf cart to use throughout your stay. You will receive a guest pass that will allow you to use any amenities throughout the Villages. Book early. November is when the snowbirds start to return. Good Luck and Have Fun!

[Michael 61]

Cancel the LS visit south of 44 because it is close to nothing except the Turn Pike Service Plaza dining options of Wendy's and KFC. Only accept a LS visit north of 44 or create your own.

Skippy, my friend, that is simply your own opinion, which many disagree with. Glad you are happy living north of 44 - so you have no need to take the energy and time to bash the south. Focus on how much you enjoy living North. Many (maybe not you), are looking into the future 10,15 years from now and seeing all the potential and development coming to Eastport, Middleton, and beyond.

[MSGirl]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

Where you stay will give you an idea of what is happening here. Ezell gym is not bad at all. Has more equipment than some. But if you prefer Genesis, it’s just a golf cart ride away. And there is nothing better than traveling through the Villages in a golf cart! There are 3 town squares here, each offering its own flavor of The Villages and each is so much fun. You will want to experience it all! If you want new, then south of 44 is where you want to live. Just enjoy and have fun! Don’t stress how you are going to get somewhere ..just get in the golf cart and go.

[FloridaLady]

Cancel the LS visit south of 44 because it is close to nothing except the Turn Pike Service Plaza dining options of Wendy's and KFC. Only accept a LS visit north of 44 or create your own.

They only offer a lifestyle visit south of 44. You can not request to go north

[Emkay56]

I think the gym at Ezell is like the other gyms at Rec Centers….you have to pay a daily or monthly fee to go. If you have a Medicare advantage plan that includes Silver Sneakers or Renew Active, then Genesis or other fitness clubs are free.

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

[Marathon Man]

I had a house in Pine Hills great spot went to Texas (great place too) but couldn't build new above 44 so I found a preowned with a layout I like but I miss my sycmore front look. Ezell is a long cart ride to squares and not much down there.
The Villages lifestyle is all about driving a golf cart to most things you do hopefully in 15-20 minutes. So above hwy 44 or around hwy 466a or 466.

BUT heck 2030 they build fast fast you may be building 10 miles out or Orlando or 1 mile from Leesburg

I don't agree. I know many who do not golf. They use the two cars they moved here with to get to anything and everything that they want to do. No problem.

[JoMar]

So sorry to hear about your dogs, that totally sucks : (

Consider a rental in the middle of the Villages that includes a golf cart and explore the entire Villages without the pressure of a property of the Villages sales person. You’re considering making what very well might be the biggest investment of your retirement years, keep your eyes wide open and explore all options. Best of luck.

Some not so good advice and information here.

[JoMar]

I don't agree. I know many who do not golf. They use the two cars they moved here with to get to anything and everything that they want to do. No problem.

I don't agree.....you don't use golf carts for golf, you use to expand your lifestyle. If you drive everywhere you don't experience everything only that which cars restrict you to. We drove cars everywhere we lived and all tied to schedules, trying to find shortcuts, playing chicken with all the other drivers. Of course if that is what you consider fun then drive.

[Pommom91]

Ezelle does have a gym but it’s not very well equipped and it’s pricey to join. If you’re over 65 and have a Medicare plan, you may be able to join Silver Sneakers for free and go to Anytime Fitness on 44 near Brownwood.

[MrChip72]

Cons: You have to travel to shop up North or go to Ocala (about a 35 minute drive)

They also have Planet Fitness in Leesburg which is about 20 minutes away.

Your travel times don't make sense from the area the OP will be staying in. 10 mins to Leesburg. No point in travelling to Ocala when Clermont is under 30 mins and Orlando is 40 mins away.

[Pat2015]

Pressure consists of here’s my phone number, call if you would like a tour.



We have made great profits from selling all of our TV homes. Moving, less than $800, for 2000sf packed, moved and on to next house.

We have also moved several times here in TV, and we almost doubled our money from our last house which we built new and had for 2 years. All of the villages are great in their own way.

[JMintzer]

I don't agree. I know many who do not golf. They use the two cars they moved here with to get to anything and everything that they want to do. No problem.

Plenty of people who don't play golf own golf carts...

[JMintzer]

Some not so good advice and information here.

What's not good about it?

[Stu from NYC]

Plenty of people who don't play golf own golf carts...

And some of us who do play dont.

[Altavia]

We have also moved several times here in TV, and we almost doubled our money from our last house which we built new and had for 2 years. All of the villages are great in their own way.

This is a good reason to buy early and take advantage of the appreciation rather than spending too much time looking.

[jimjamuser]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.
Are you going to be full time here or winter only because advice depends on if you plan 1 home here or have 2 homes?

[jimjamuser]

We just had a blast visiting for 7 days of a lifestyle visit just south of Sawgrass. Stayed in a brand new villa. Shopped for houses. Lots of Brand new 1200 sq ft houses for $300k. Listened to live music. Saw a Bad Company tribute band. Rode bikes. Drove our golf cart around on the cart paths. Ate at three Country clubs. Swam. Met one of the tennis pros. Went to a Saturday market. Sat in our screened Florida room in the morning and evenings. Saw some lighting storms. Danced to live music at two different town squares. Saw a movie at a villages movie theater. Enjoyed all of the lush flowers and landscapes. The heat and humidity didn't bother us. We want to move there the first of the year. Visited all the town squares. The landscaping is just starting in the south end but if you want a new home that is the trade off.
This is just a joke. If the heat and humidity have NOT bothered you, you MUST be moving here from Ecuador. OK with that out of my system.......I will try to give good advice. Buy a house on a cul de sac or on some street with low traffic. Visit where you want to purchase at about 10 or 11 PM to see if there is any excessive noise. Drive on the streets in a golf cart and go less than 15 MPH - if too many people scream at you, give you the finger, and threaten your 1st born grandchildren, then pick another neighborhood. This is like a tolerance and empathy test.
........Note....many neighborhoods may fail that test.

[jimjamuser]

They only offer a lifestyle visit south of 44. You can not request to go north
In that case, I, personally, would say "forget that" and do my own thing.

[Kenswing]

This is just a joke. If the heat and humidity have NOT bothered you, you MUST be moving here from Ecuador. OK with that out of my system.......I will try to give good advice. Buy a house on a cul de sac or on some street with low traffic. Visit where you want to purchase at about 10 or 11 PM to see if there is any excessive noise. Drive on the streets in a golf cart and go less than 15 MPH - if too many people scream at you, give you the finger, and threaten your 1st born grandchildren, then pick another neighborhood. This is like a tolerance and empathy test.
........Note....many neighborhoods may fail that test.
No neighborhood will fail that test. As for the heat and humidity, everyone’s tolerance is different. Once the heat index is over 102 I’m done. Under that I’m fine as long as I stay hydrated.
If you really want to leave The Villages what’s stopping you. If you need help let me know. But until then why not dial down all the doom and gloom. Most of it’s just an exaggeration of the obsession rattling around in your mind.

[JMintzer]

No neighborhood will fail that test. As for the heat and humidity, everyone’s tolerance is different. Once the heat index is over 102 I’m done. Under that I’m fine as long as I stay hydrated.
If you really want to leave The Villages what’s stopping you. If you need help let me know. But until then why not dial down all the doom and gloom. Most of it’s just an exaggeration of the obsession rattling around in your mind.

:bigbow::bigbow::bigbow:

[2newones]

There are several houses like mine that are for sale near Sawgrass. Two years old and walking distance to Ezell. Lower bond and taxes too! Check them out on The Village Properties “Preowned”

[LianneMigiano]

Enjoy your visit but suggest you not buy anything.

If you think you will like it here, arrange a rental for a month or two to get a better idea of where you want to hang your hat.

Many people purchase and than a year or so later decide they want to move at a substantial cost.
I think that's the way it's typed... We rented in 2009 for a month and looked all around The Villages and then came back in 2010 and went to open houses. We found a perfect one that's central to The Mulberry Grove shopping, the Southern Trace shopping, and the 27/441 shopping. We love it here even more every single day after more than 13 years! We have also been fortunate to have 2 of our former CT children move here in the past 3 years, too!
And they love it, too!!!!

[Pamela1130]

Thank you! Is this the area you are going to buy in? With the new house comes a higher bond. I like the Brownwood Square and have rented a place in there for January and February so we will see how it goes. I have waited so long to go, I know I am going to like it! November can't come fast enough. I'd be going in October but having a new granddaughter coming early October and then a big family wedding we have to travel to at the end of October. Thanks again for your insight.

[Pamela1130]

Thank you! Is this the area you are going to buy in? With the new house comes a higher bond. I like the Brownwood Square and have rented a place in there for January and February so we will see how it goes. I have waited so long to go, I know I am going to like it! November can't come fast enough. I'd be going in October but having a new granddaughter coming early October and then a big family wedding we have to travel to at the end of October. Thanks again for your insight.

[Pamela1130]

Are you planning to shop for a new house or just look around The Villages? If it's to explore, you will be far from much of TV down there. Did you ask if that location is the only option? Your other choice is to rent a house that will include a golf cart and a guest pass. If you do that, you can pick your area for the visit. The Villages Fitness rooms are fine but they lack certain equipment that genesis would offer.

Thank you! I have to see if we like it first before we want to buy. I haven't been there yet. But I KNOW I am going to like it so I already told hubby I want to get a house. I was told that Genesis is 20-30 minutes away? I just thought the LS visit would be fun and more organized than winging it on our own when I don't know about anything there. But I think you are right. Right now I am leaning on trying to get a rental with a golf cart. I did see someone do a video of a golf cart ride from down south to Brownwood and it was much longer than I thought. I really have to think about this and contact my host. Thank. you very very much.

[Pamela1130]

Thank you. the gym is very important to my husband. It would be a deal breaker. Maybe that is crazy, but that's how he is. He's been working out since he was a teenager. It's his hobby. He doesn't golf. He would be interested in pickelball, but who wouldn't! lol.

[Pamela1130]

Thank you. We will be renting a car and not just going around by golf cart.

[Pamela1130]

Thank you. We will be renting a car and not just going around by golf cart.

Thanks, defiitely plan on renting a car for sure.

[Pamela1130]

Thank you! There is an Anytime Fitness Gym? How did I not know this?? Thank you so very much!!

[Pamela1130]

Thank you, I do have a rental in the Brownwood area for Jan an Feb so that will give us a feel, I am sure. I am renting a car so I will look into all the surrounding gyms, such as Genesis, Planet Fitness and Anytime Fitness.

[Pamela1130]

Great advice. Thank you!!

[GoRedSox!]

I didn’t feel like the LSV was just winging it on our own. We got free tickets to Eaglemania at The Savannah Center and the Philharmonic Orchestra at The Sharon. We took a tour on a bus that looked like a trolley. We had a choice of a pickle ball lesson, archery, air guns, or bocce and shuffleboard. We had two bikes and helmets and a golf car with a full tank of gas. We had a pass to use all the amenities including the neighborhood pool and Rec centers. We went to the squares every night and the music was great. We played golf, went to Edna’s, walked on amazing trails. We met a lot of people. We stayed in a 1945 sq foot bungalow in December for $149 a night, tax included. It was so much fun and I would recommend it to anyone. The Christopher Villas are very nice and not that far from Brownwood. Your experience will be what you make of it. There is no sales pressure at all. We had a blast and it was also amazing taking that golf car out at night to various neighborhoods looking at Christmas decorations and lights. Can you tell we loved our LSV?

[Pamela1130]

Honestly, I haven't seen much down there at all. Thank you! I'm weighing all the replies but I am think I am leaning towards asking if there is a possibility in Brownwood. And then trying to get a rental in Brownwood.

[Pamela1130]

Really, regarding the Silver Sneakers Medicare plan. I think we do have that. That would be so amazing because $85.00 a month is also a difficult pill to swallow for a gym. Thank you so much!!

[Pamela1130]

Ezelle does have a gym but it’s not very well equipped and it’s pricey to join. If you’re over 65 and have a Medicare plan, you may be able to join Silver Sneakers for free and go to Anytime Fitness on 44 near Brownwood.

Thank you so much!! Didn't know about anytime gym.

[Pamela1130]

Probably not be here in the summer and probablly keep our home up north at least for a while.

[Pamela1130]

Semper Fi!! My oldest son is a combat Marine veteran. He was in the Iraqi invasion in the 3rd LAR out of 29 Palms. Just wanted to say, thank you for your service!

[Marsha11]

Merry take wher

E ever the will send you to stay. Contact separated MLS realtor and tell him where you want to go. If you want village.sales rep, insist. It's up north

[asianthree]

Merry take wher

E ever the will send you to stay. Contact separated MLS realtor and tell him where you want to go. If you want village.sales rep, insist. It's up north

Or they may like the neighborhoods near Brownwood. North isn’t for everyone, we started @LSL for house #1 and #2, then #3 between LSL and Brownwood. #4 south of Brownwood

[Pamela1130]

We just had a blast visiting for 7 days of a lifestyle visit just south of Sawgrass. Stayed in a brand new villa. Shopped for houses. Lots of Brand new 1200 sq ft houses for $300k. Listened to live music. Saw a Bad Company tribute band. Rode bikes. Drove our golf cart around on the cart paths. Ate at three Country clubs. Swam. Met one of the tennis pros. Went to a Saturday market. Sat in our screened Florida room in the morning and evenings. Saw some lighting storms. Danced to live music at two different town squares. Saw a movie at a villages movie theater. Enjoyed all of the lush flowers and landscapes. The heat and humidity didn't bother us. We want to move there the first of the year. Visited all the town squares. The landscaping is just starting in the south end but if you want a new home that is the trade off.

Sounds like you had a great time. What was the name of the Village you stayed in? Were you able to do things such as play pickelball or take some water aerobics classes? I have been told a week is not enough time to get involved in the various activities. We are renting a place in Jan/Feb., so hopefully then. Thank you for answering me.

[kkingston57]

I had a LS visit scheduled for last year. I had to cancel because my beloved dog got terminal cancer, and then my elderly dog went downhill fast after his death and we took care of him 24/7 for several months until he passed last month. Our LS visit was to be in Brownwood area. I finally made a new reservation for November and now the LS visit is in the new area south of 44. Of course they want to push the newer houses. Though I haven't been to the Villages, I have watched lots and lots of videos and that section just doesn't appeal to me. Nothing against anyone's opinion who loves that area, it's just not my cup of tea. I like busy. Anyway, if anyone has taken a LS visit there, what did you do? How far is it to Brownwood. Seems like about 1/2 hour. My host says that there is a gym at Ezell. Hubby goes to the gym 6 days a week and I was counting on Genesis and hoping the gym at Ezell is top notch as I have to get hubby on board to get a place there.
Thanks everyone.

Read your note and agree with you. My brother just told me that he was coming for a visit and we live in Spanish Springs. Visiting him will be like going to a brand new city. Old villas were fabulous and were <1/2 mile from the newest square, Brownwood. Be open minded. If you do not like the new area, your rep can help you buy a resale home. However, unless things have changed, that rep can only sell Villages listed properties. They might have house you like, but can not sell a property that is being sold through MLS. Remember it is only a reasonably priced tour of The Vilages.

[pokeefe45@aol.com]

Fascinating to re-read this thread after we (Mrs. 45 and I) impulsively just purchased a new house south of Sawgrass in Lake Denham, after living in Polo Ridge for the past 2 years. An upgrade of old for new, for sure-a cash-in of appreciation for sure-a sunset/golf view that can't be beat. FYI I'm told that there is a section of patio villas off of Meggison that TV will now be using for 'LS' visits-yes-patio villas-most well appointed. Thought is that no one stays in their house during an LS, so the smaller PV works fine-Makes some sense-and as for the location of the LS? I think what is missing in this post is any discussion about Eastport (opening in July?) , and the 3 new championship golf courses to be opened in the new developments between Sawgrass and Middleton, over the turnpike. This will be the 'mega' square of all squares in a few years and people will be clamoring to buy the house I just purchased down there for millions more than I paid for it. Or at least, that's the plan. Seriously though-My wife and I LOVE this north of 466 area-it's beautiful, serene, mature and restful. I will now be relegated to watching pitch and putters from my lanai, rather than bogey golfers on a par 5-I'll be watching 3 foot high magnolia's grow painfully slowly instead of marveling at twisted oaks that seem to go on and on, and podocarpus galore making their way upwards, barely looking like real bushes for a few years. But there's a unique excitement to being a trailblazer in a new community. We couldn't pass that up. I look forward to the day when I begin to say that 'this place is not like it used to be'-but for NOW-I find myself still amazed at the possibilities of what it is still becoming, and indeed might become.

[Pamela1130]

We just had a blast visiting for 7 days of a lifestyle visit just south of Sawgrass. Stayed in a brand new villa. Shopped for houses. Lots of Brand new 1200 sq ft houses for $300k. Listened to live music. Saw a Bad Company tribute band. Rode bikes. Drove our golf cart around on the cart paths. Ate at three Country clubs. Swam. Met one of the tennis pros. Went to a Saturday market. Sat in our screened Florida room in the morning and evenings. Saw some lighting storms. Danced to live music at two different town squares. Saw a movie at a villages movie theater. Enjoyed all of the lush flowers and landscapes. The heat and humidity didn't bother us. We want to move there the first of the year. Visited all the town squares. The landscaping is just starting in the south end but if you want a new home that is the trade off.

The houses are cheaper but the bonds are very expensive I hear.

[Pamela1130]

Are you going to be full time here or winter only because advice depends on if you plan 1 home here or have 2 homes?

Two homes actually. At least that is my plan.

[asianthree]

The houses are cheaper but the bonds are very expensive I hear.

One should already know what bond amounts are if one has a good VLS agent.

[Bogie Shooter]

One should already know what bond amounts are if one has a good VLS agent.
Bond amounts thru district 15 are available at Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org)

[asianthree]

Bond amounts thru district 15 are available at Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org)

True, but if someone is making money on my choices, I expect them to give me that info.

[Stu from NYC]

Fascinating to re-read this thread after we (Mrs. 45 and I) impulsively just purchased a new house south of Sawgrass in Lake Denham, after living in Polo Ridge for the past 2 years. An upgrade of old for new, for sure-a cash-in of appreciation for sure-a sunset/golf view that can't be beat. FYI I'm told that there is a section of patio villas off of Meggison that TV will now be using for 'LS' visits-yes-patio villas-most well appointed. Thought is that no one stays in their house during an LS, so the smaller PV works fine-Makes some sense-and as for the location of the LS? I think what is missing in this post is any discussion about Eastport (opening in July?) , and the 3 new championship golf courses to be opened in the new developments between Sawgrass and Middleton, over the turnpike. This will be the 'mega' square of all squares in a few years and people will be clamoring to buy the house I just purchased down there for millions more than I paid for it. Or at least, that's the plan. Seriously though-My wife and I LOVE this north of 466 area-it's beautiful, serene, mature and restful. I will now be relegated to watching pitch and putters from my lanai, rather than bogey golfers on a par 5-I'll be watching 3 foot high magnolia's grow painfully slowly instead of marveling at twisted oaks that seem to go on and on, and podocarpus galore making their way upwards, barely looking like real bushes for a few years. But there's a unique excitement to being a trailblazer in a new community. We couldn't pass that up. I look forward to the day when I begin to say that 'this place is not like it used to be'-but for NOW-I find myself still amazed at the possibilities of what it is still becoming, and indeed might become.

An interesting thing about the villages. We come here excited about coming to the squares to listen to music and go to dinner and over time many of us (including us) make friends, join clubs and very very rarely go to the squares. We have found restaurants outside the bubble that we prefer and even rarely have dinner at the squares.

Dont get me wrong this is a great place to live and we go out more than we ever have before, but our activities keep surprising us.

[JoMar]

Cancel the LS visit south of 44 because it is close to nothing except the Turn Pike Service Plaza dining options of Wendy's and KFC. Only accept a LS visit north of 44 or create your own.

No clue

[Normal]

Just enjoy your time. We like the the Ezel/Sawgrass area. There is a lot to do “south of 44”. In the not too distant future 44 will be a lot like 466 and 466A. To the west you have the town of Wildwood which is exploding with construction and retail development. To the East you have Leesburg. Heck rumor has it, there is even a Walmart going up near Villages Grown.

If the area and the newer development isn’t your cup of tea, it’s about 25 minutes by car to the northern most end via Morse, Buena Vista or 301. The landscaping and homes are 20 years older, but there is a lot to do there too. We enjoy the Glenview and Lopez country clubs as well as going to the Bonefish or Carrabbas.


The real thing you should enjoy most are the people. We go everywhere and the trusting secure feeling of living here always seems to be, no matter where you go. Wave and say hello to a total stranger and it always seems to come back to you. Have fun and savor your time with others.