new cart prices....... wow

[village dreamer]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

[Keefelane66]

You made the right choice, kept on walking

[Goldwingnut]

Try Country Village on CR471 in Webster across from the Webster Flee Market.

[CarlR33]

Did it come with air conditioning, LOL?

[michgary]

just bought a 2024 lexus es300 hybrid for 49000,,, it has AC and is 5 seater too ,,:a040:

[ThirdOfFive]

There's a reason that The Villages Golf Cars don't list prices of the units on their website.

[Topspinmo]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

Drive buy robbery. :oops:

[blueash]

Yep, it all started January 20th, 2021. Prices went sky high on everything. This did not have to happen. Should not have happened.

Please tell me what happened on that date that made the cost of a golf cart go up. As I recall we were in an economic lockdown, the world economy was frozen, thousands were dying every day from a pandemic, there had just been a riot in DC, unemployment had skyrocketed, economists were forecasting a certain recession, and the average crude oil price had jumped 250% in just nine months. That is not a typo, it went up from 21 to 53 dollars.

But for you Jan 2021 is special. In fact there was a tough time for the economy climbing out of the hole we were in on January 2021. Now we have lowered inflation, record stock prices, no recession, low unemployment. The results have far exceeded the expectations of the experts.

I think when a golf cart costs more than a new car (https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/hyundai/kona#:~:text=The%20base%202024%20Kona%20SE,dual%2D zone%20automatic%20climate%20control.)that may represent specific corporate greed, not the general state of the economy.

[metoo21]

and the average crude oil price had jumped 250% in just nine months. That is not a typo, it went up from 21 to 53 dollars.

I call fake news. :police: 21 to 53 is a 152% increase.

53 - 21 = 32

(32/21) x 100 = 152.38%

If it jumped 250% it would have been 250% higher than 21.

21 + (21 x 2.5) = $73.50

[blueash]

I call fake news. :police: 21 to 53 is a 152% increase.

53 - 21 = 32

(32/21) x 100 = 152.38%

If it jumped 250% it would have been 250% higher than 21.

21 + (21 x 2.5) = $73.50

You are correct. I should have written that the cost of crude went up by a factor of 2.5

53 / 21 = 2.52

[golfing eagles]

Please tell me what happened on that date that made the cost of a golf cart go up. As I recall we were in an economic lockdown, the world economy was frozen, thousands were dying every day from a pandemic, there had just been a riot in DC, unemployment had skyrocketed, economists were forecasting a certain recession, and the average crude oil price had jumped 250% in just nine months. That is not a typo, it went up from 21 to 53 dollars.

But for you Jan 2021 is special. In fact there was a tough time for the economy climbing out of the hole we were in on January 2021. Now we have lowered inflation, record stock prices, no recession, low unemployment. The results have far exceeded the expectations of the experts.

I think when a golf cart costs more than a new car (https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/hyundai/kona#:~:text=The%20base%202024%20Kona%20SE,dual%2D zone%20automatic%20climate%20control.)that may represent specific corporate greed, not the general state of the economy.

Not sure how directly that affects the price of what is essentially a luxury item, but is that post implying that the last 3 years have been better for America than the 4 that preceded it? Well, alrighty then:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Two Bills]

Holiday season will be coming early this year.:icon_wink:

[GoRedSox!]

Yep, it all started January 20th, 2021. Prices went sky high on everything. This did not have to happen. Should not have happened.It started long before that with QE at The Fed continuing far too long, a mistake The Fed acknowledged. There were also two stimulus checks and unemployment benefit extensions with weekly bonuses. This is a problem not specific to the US. There was global supply chain interruptions and inflation was even higher in many, many countries. The war in Ukraine made matters worse and disrupted oil supplies. There is a shortage of labor in this country that continues to this day, and there is still wage inflation pressures. And last, but not least, I think we can safely say that many, if not most corporations took full advantage of the pandemic to raise prices, and profits and stock prices are currently at all time highs. Housing appreciation was also huge.

There are some silver linings for retirees. This is the first time in more than a decade that bank savings generated any kind of significant interest. 401k’s are doing well. Social Security has gone up about 18% in the last 3 years. The wealth of those over 55 has gone up more than 30% since 2019. Meanwhile, the number of “excess retirements” which are those above the normal trend are still high and have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. These are typically early retirees. There is no question that according to all metrics, many people are doing even better financially than before the pandemic.

I understand what happened on 1-20-21, but the above is all true.

I bought a new 2023 Quietech with a good seat and several good options for $17,000. Yes, that seems like a lot to me for a golf car, but they are not made in mass production like automobiles. I’m sure there is a higher markup as there is not as much competition and these are generally viewed as luxury want-to-haves, not necessities.

[BrianL99]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

Just showed up on my FaceBook page. Brand new Kia SUV, with 100,000 mile guaranty. Under $20,000.

[Robbb]

Please tell me what happened on that date that made the cost of a golf cart go up. As I recall we were in an economic lockdown, the world economy was frozen, thousands were dying every day from a pandemic, there had just been a riot in DC, unemployment had skyrocketed, economists were forecasting a certain recession, and the average crude oil price had jumped 250% in just nine months. That is not a typo, it went up from 21 to 53 dollars.

But for you Jan 2021 is special. In fact there was a tough time for the economy climbing out of the hole we were in on January 2021. Now we have lowered inflation, record stock prices, no recession, low unemployment. The results have far exceeded the expectations of the experts.

I think when a golf cart costs more than a new car (https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/hyundai/kona#:~:text=The%20base%202024%20Kona%20SE,dual%2D zone%20automatic%20climate%20control.)that may represent specific corporate greed, not the general state of the economy.

Not so much corporate greed, more like Villages greed. Carts are much cheaper, like everything else, outside the Villages. Location, Location, Location.

[phylt]

Profit margins on golf carts in The Villages is HUUUUUUGE.

Talk about Car Dealers around the Villages gouging.... GC is much worse...

[JMintzer]

Drive buy robbery. :oops:

Is someone forcing you to buy a golf cart?

[JMintzer]

Please tell me what happened on that date that made the cost of a golf cart go up. As I recall we were in an economic lockdown, the world economy was frozen, thousands were dying every day from a pandemic, there had just been a riot in DC, unemployment had skyrocketed, economists were forecasting a certain recession, and the average crude oil price had jumped 250% in just nine months. That is not a typo, it went up from 21 to 53 dollars.

But for you Jan 2021 is special. In fact there was a tough time for the economy climbing out of the hole we were in on January 2021. Now we have lowered inflation, record stock prices, no recession, low unemployment. The results have far exceeded the expectations of the experts.

I think when a golf cart costs more than a new car (https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/hyundai/kona#:~:text=The%20base%202024%20Kona%20SE,dual%2D zone%20automatic%20climate%20control.)that may represent specific corporate greed, not the general state of the economy.

"Lowered Inflation"...

Yes, after 3 years of record setting inflation...

Lowering inflation only means prices aren't going up as fast as they were. Not that they're coming down... Prices are still sky high...

[Craig Vernon]

"Lowered Inflation"...

Yes, after 3 years of record setting inflation...

Lowering inflation only means prices aren't going up as fast as they were. Not that they're coming down... Prices are still sky high...

Nailed it...:gc:

[ThirdOfFive]

People aren't forced to buy here, and are definitely not forced to buy from Villages vendors at vastly inflated prices. Wal-mart is selling carts right here in TV with the highest I've seen, price-wise, for a four-seater is under $9,000, and that's for brand new. Gainesville for example also has numerous dealerships that sell new carts for prices several thousands of dollars under what the local merchants charge, and renting a U-haul for a couple of hundred bucks to ferry one back from Gainesville is a cheap price to pay for a legitimate deal.

We're victims ONLY if we choose to be victims. Enough people shopping afield for realistically-priced golf carts will drive down the prices around here right quick.

[fdpaq0580]

Is someone forcing you to buy a golf cart?

Hey! Gotta keep up with the Joneses. (Peer pressure is powerful here)

[fdpaq0580]

"Lowered Inflation"...

Yes, after 3 years of record setting inflation...

Lowering inflation only means prices aren't going up as fast as they were. Not that they're coming down... Prices are still sky high...

Yes. And?

[blueash]

"Lowered Inflation"...

Yes, after 3 years of record setting inflation...

Lowering inflation only means prices aren't going up as fast as they were. Not that they're coming down..

You must be very very young if you think we have recently had "record inflation"

The core inflation rate is available back to 1958 HERE (https://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/united-states-core-inflation-rates/)

It has been higher than the 6.2 of 2022 10 times in those years. It has been higher than the 3.6 in 2021 25 times in the prior years. And historically the 2023 rate is not high.

And look at the rates for 2023 by month

2023 5.6 5.5 5.6 5.5 5.3 4.8 4.7 4.3 4.1 4.0 4.0 3.9

Whatever forces are managing the economy are doing a fine job of creating the soft landing that no one seemed to think was possible. There has never since the Great Depression been a period in the US economy of deflation. Prices do not come down. So whining about how they haven't now suggests you'd only be happy with another Great Depression. Most would not agree with that wish.

Candy bars are no longer a nickel. Gas isn't 19.9 cents. This isn't all since 2021.

I am unable to find the cost of a one horse power golf cart from 1860.

[JMintzer]

You must be very very young if you think we have recently had "record inflation"

The core inflation rate is available back to 1958 HERE (https://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/united-states-core-inflation-rates/)

It has been higher than the 6.2 of 2022 10 times in those years. It has been higher than the 3.6 in 2021 25 times in the prior years. And historically the 2023 rate is not high.

And look at the rates for 2023 by month

2023 5.65.5 5.6 5.5 5.3 4.8 4.7 4.3 4.1 4.0 4.0 3.9

Whatever forces are managing the economy are doing a fine job of creating the soft landing that no one seemed to think was possible. There has never since the Great Depression been a period in the US economy of deflation. Prices do not come down. So whining about how they haven't now suggests you'd only be happy with another Great Depression. Most would not agree with that wish.

Candy bars are no longer a nickel. Gas isn't 19.9 cents. This isn't all since 2021.

I am unable to find the cost of a one horse power golf cart from 1860.

LOL!

Sure pick apart the small amount of hyperbole I used... Excuse me for not saying "recent history"...

I notice you ignored the inflation rates in 2022, when it hit 9.1%...

Or that prices went up over 17% from 2021-2023...

And let's look at the inflation rates by month in 2020 (since you're bragging about the 2023 rates)...

2020 2.5 2.3 1.5 0.3 0.1 0.6 1.0 1.3 1.4 1.2. 1.2 1.4

But sure, inflation is down, so it's all better...

[Normal]

Try these guys out
Country Village Power Equipment - Home (https://www.cvpeyamaha.com/)

[Coop63]

People aren't forced to buy here, and are definitely not forced to buy from Villages vendors at vastly inflated prices. Wal-mart is selling carts right here in TV with the highest I've seen, price-wise, for a four-seater is under $9,000, and that's for brand new. Gainesville for example also has numerous dealerships that sell new carts for prices several thousands of dollars under what the local merchants charge, and renting a U-haul for a couple of hundred bucks to ferry one back from Gainesville is a cheap price to pay for a legitimate deal.

We're victims ONLY if we choose to be victims. Enough people shopping afield for realistically-priced golf carts will drive down the prices around here right quick.

Brand and quality comes to mind, given big box stores propensity to sell cheap foreign manufacturing. Maybe not BMW vs Honda, but the general idea. Yamaha gas powered carts seem to retain value longer which is a sign of quality and durability. Did you research the differences? Curious really, not intending to be argumentative.

[blueash]

LOL!

Sure pick apart the small amount of hyperbole I used... Excuse me for not saying "recent history"...

I notice you ignored the inflation rates in 2022, when it hit 9.1%...

Or that prices went up over 17% from 2021-2023...

And let's look at the inflation rates by month in 2020 (since you're bragging about the 2023 rates)...

2020 2.5 2.3 1.5 0.3 0.1 0.6 1.0 1.3 1.4 1.2. 1.2 1.4

But sure, inflation is down, so it's all better...

Here are the month by month and total for 2022 which I did not ignore.
2022 6.0 6.4 6.5 6.2 6.0 5.9 5.9 6.3 6.6 6.3 6.0 5.7 6.2

In fact, basic reading, go back and you will see this sentence segment

It has been higher than the 6.2 of 2022

2020 was the covid lockdown year. The economy was in shambles, businesses were closed down, unemployment was way up, the Congress and White House were sending checks out to try to get cash moving again. The debt was increased by many trillions in that year. But you think that we should return to the economic situation that gave us that low inflation rate. I don't.

3.6 + 6.2 + 4.8 are the core inflation increases for 21 22 and 23. My math although not always perfect totals 14.6. Miss McLaughlin taught me that 14.6 is less than over 17.

[Bill14564]

...
3.6 + 6.2 + 4.8 are the core inflation increases for 21 22 and 23. My math although not always perfect totals 14.6. Miss McLaughlin taught me that 14.6 is less than over 17.

Miss McLaughlin taught you addition, not compounding (though the number is still less than 17).

[GoRedSox!]

The thing that is so often ignored, including in this thread is the other side of this recent bought of inflation.

Yes, inflation has gone up and is still running about 3% higher than last year.

But my Social Security went up 17% as well when several years in the last decade there were 0% increases.

I’m still making 5.4% on my savings when many of those years it was a fraction of 1%. In some of those years, it was barely above zero.

The stock markets are at all time highs. This positively impacts most retirement funds.

The net worth of those 55+ is up 30% since 2019.

Real estate values at least where my house is at an all time high.

Inflation can be jarring but I know that I, and many if not most of my contemporaries are doing better. Not everyone, no circumstance is 100% but the data are what they are.

And virtually everyone who wants a job can find one, there are far more job openings than people who are unemployed.

Look around, there are more young people retiring early than ever before. Late 50’s, early 60’s, some were able to retire even before being eligible for early Social Security. By my eye, Sawgrass Grove has plenty of them on any given night and the other Town Squares have them, too. Some may be telecommuting and still working but many are retired.

It’s not all positive and this is a generalization. There are still critical shortages, especially in the medical field which can cause delays in treatment. Many here used to point to delays as the biggest weakness of the Canadian system, but we have delays now here, too. Mortgage rates are still too high for those that need them. But we hope that things continue to improve.

[Randall55]

Not sure how directly that affects the price of what is essentially a luxury item, but is that post implying that the last 3 years have been better for America than the 4 that preceded it? Well, alrighty then:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:Should we all go back to lockdown? Maybe, when we return from the hiatus, the world will be even brighter.

I too, fail to see how we are living better. Moving on, yes!

I am starting to learn Villagers who have just received their 401K disbursement are easy targets. The prices they are willing to pay, without question, astounds me. With the new price of golf carts, I guess I am not the only one who has noticed.

[MrChip72]

Soon after we bought our home in TV, once I realized that I could buy a fully loaded 5-6 year old cart for 25% of the new price, we ended up going with the used option.

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

I intend to buy mine from StreetRod Golf Carts. The have a model that looks like a truck which will be perfect for me since I don’t golf and it has a back that will hold several shopping bags.

[thelegges]

February of 2023 2 seat Yamaha everything possible except moon roof was $23,500. Before discounts. So not much change in a year unless OPs window shopping was a base

[tophcfa]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

Prices are head scratching? Very happy we have three really good carts that will hopefully last the rest of our lives. Not happy that both of our cars are racking up high miles, good new cars are a thing of the past as we really don’t want to drive overpriced computers on wheels.

[Two Bills]

Interesting article regarding US and other economies.

Why US economy is powering ahead of Europe'''s - BBC News (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68203820)

[Normal]

February of 2023 2 seat Yamaha everything possible except moon roof was $23,500. Before discounts. So not much change in a year unless OPs window shopping was a base

2022 Yamaha Quiet Tech 4 seat 10,580 New 2 years ago in Daytona at Ace of Carts. Inventory - Ace of Carts (https://aceofcarts.com/cars/)

[PoolBrews]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

Go to Botero Carts in Ocala. Their forward facing 4 seater, the Evolution D5, has more features than the Star and is $12K with the standard lithium battery, and $14K with the larger battery (205ah). This pricing is more inline with what I would expect given the build and technology for golf carts. I absolutely love mine!

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/poolbrews-55982/albums/evolution-d5/10358-01-right.jpg

[UpNorth]

Ah yes, - here in The Villages we can buy an overpriced golf cart, then play overpriced "championship" golf courses where they don't provide a golf cart for you to use unless you pay extra. Such a deal.

[golfing eagles]

Ah yes, - here in The Villages we can buy an overpriced golf cart, then play overpriced "championship" golf courses where they don't provide a golf cart for you to use unless you pay extra. Such a deal.

There are alternatives.....just sayin'

[Topspinmo]

You are correct. I should have written that the cost of crude went up by a factor of 2.5

53 / 21 = 2.52

And then it when back down, but the golf cart price didn’t.:wave:

[Dusty_Star]

Go to Botero Carts in Ocala. Their forward facing 4 seater, the Evolution D5, has more features than the Star and is $12K with the standard lithium battery, and $14K with the larger battery (205ah). This pricing is more inline with what I would expect given the build and technology for golf carts. I absolutely love mine!

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/poolbrews-55982/albums/evolution-d5/10358-01-right.jpg


What is the range of your Evolution D5? Thanks!

[JMintzer]

Here are the month by month and total for 2022 which I did not ignore.
2022 6.0 6.4 6.5 6.2 6.0 5.9 5.9 6.3 6.6 6.3 6.0 5.7 6.2

In fact, basic reading, go back and you will see this sentence segment



2020 was the covid lockdown year. The economy was in shambles, businesses were closed down, unemployment was way up, the Congress and White House were sending checks out to try to get cash moving again. The debt was increased by many trillions in that year. But you think that we should return to the economic situation that gave us that low inflation rate. I don't.

3.6 + 6.2 + 4.8 are the core inflation increases for 21 22 and 23. My math although not always perfect totals 14.6. Miss McLaughlin taught me that 14.6 is less than over 17.

The CPI is up just over 17% since the start of 2021 thru the end of 2023...

In the 3 years 2017-2019 (leaving out your excuse of 2020), inflation was right around 2%...

And I like how you limit inflation to "core inflation", which leave out food and energy prices... You know, things most people need to live...

Facts matter...

[JMintzer]

People aren't forced to buy here, and are definitely not forced to buy from Villages vendors at vastly inflated prices. Wal-mart is selling carts right here in TV with the highest I've seen, price-wise, for a four-seater is under $9,000, and that's for brand new. Gainesville for example also has numerous dealerships that sell new carts for prices several thousands of dollars under what the local merchants charge, and renting a U-haul for a couple of hundred bucks to ferry one back from Gainesville is a cheap price to pay for a legitimate deal.

We're victims ONLY if we choose to be victims. Enough people shopping afield for realistically-priced golf carts will drive down the prices around here right quick.

Those $9000 (actually $9999) carts at Walmart (I think you mean Home Depot) are garbage. They can't get out of their own way and have a very limited range...

[Topspinmo]

Is someone forcing you to buy a golf cart?

Nope I got my 13995 cart for 4500 and I thought was OUTRAGEOUS for riding lawn mower without mower.

[JMintzer]

Nope I got my 13995 cart for 4500 and I and I thought was OUTRAGEOUS.

I bought a used loaded QuieTech, as well... a 2017. Less than 1/2 the price of a new one...

In a few years, I'll by a used 2020-ish cart and keep the one I have as a 2nd cart...

[Pairadocs]

You made the right choice, kept on walking

Right, LOL, walk or run. Seriously, guess the old "anything the law will allow" applies", put any price on something, and then wait for "offers", same seems to go with houses, stick a price on it and.... when someone offers your bottom line, well !

[Pairadocs]

Should we all go back to lockdown? Maybe, when we return from the hiatus, the world will be even brighter.

I too, fail to see how we are living better. Moving on, yes!

I am starting to learn Villagers who have just received their 401K disbursement are easy targets. The prices they are willing to pay, without question, astounds me. With the new price of golf carts, I guess I am not the only one who has noticed.

Just guessing but... maybe those villagers who just got their 401distributions ( and never bother reading price tags) have NOT yet reached the age of the Mandatory Required Distribution ? Putting $$ away tax deferred is a real advantage but when it's time to "pay the piper", opens the eyes to the many negative aspects of having a substantial addition to income and all the repercussions of that !

[shut the front door]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

A lot of people move here and are so infatuated with TV, that they think any business owned by the developers must be good. The fact is, any developer owned business is going to be more expensive. TV insurance, Citizens bank (higher interest rate on mtg), the golf cart stores..... you will pay more. I thinkthat those who are still on the Koolaid high get a warm, fuzzy feeling to pay more for the same product because it says "The Villages" on it.

[Randall55]

A lot of people move here and are so infatuated with TV, that they think any business owned by the developers must be good. The fact is, any developer owned business is going to be more expensive. TV insurance, Citizens bank (higher interest rate on mtg), the golf cart stores..... you will pay more. I thinkthat those who are still on the Koolaid high get a warm, fuzzy feeling to pay more for the same product because it says "The Villages" on it.My wife's bucket list includes lots of travel. She arranges trips to anywhere USA. Last year, when in TN, we happened to come across a small offroad vehicle shop. They sold some new Yamaha quiet techs. We bought one for a little less than $13,000. Nephew was willing to haul it to Florida in exchange for a room and all he can eat of my wife's cooking. Golf carts do not cost as much in other states. The Villages and surrounding areas are gouging because they know they can. Pretty much the same scenario with most products in the Villages.

I'm waiting for sandwich gouging like in NYC. I nearly fell over when the touted "best burgers in the city" bill for two was $73 without tip. And, don't even get me started on Vegas! If anyone wants to open a $28 burger place, I'm willing to invest. Fries of course, must be $12 a plate. Sodas? $5 (a can, no refills) What is this world coming to?

[PoolBrews]

What is the range of your Evolution D5? Thanks!

Around 70-75 miles. I live in Phillips Villas - just off Hwy 42 near the VA - as far north and east as you can get in The Villages. I have driven to Southern Oaks (the farthest south championship golf course), played golf, and still had 25% battery left.

[Normal]

If you buy a cart from The Villages, you are just a plain lazy shopper looking to burn cash. There are plenty of places to buy new and used where you literally save thousands of dollars and many deliver right to your doorstep!

[golfing eagles]

If you buy a cart from The Villages, you are just a plain lazy shopper looking to burn cash. There are plenty of places to buy new and used where you literally save thousands of dollars and many deliver right to your doorstep!

True.

How many of those can service your cart?
How long does it take to get it serviced?
How many give you a free loaner?

There's always a down side to everything.

My wife bought her cart from Carts and Clubs, Ocala. They come out for annual service---if something is wrong, they tow it away (for a fee) and return it some number of days later, no loaner.

I bought mine from Villages Carts, Brownwood. I drive it 1.5 miles for service, get a loaner, and pick it up after they call that it is ready, whether or not it's the same day or not.

Bottom line, you always pay for convenience.

[Bay Kid]

True.

How many of those can service your cart?
How long does it take to get it serviced?
How many give you a free loaner?

There's always a down side to everything.

My wife bought her cart from Carts and Clubs, Ocala. They come out for annual service---if something is wrong, they tow it away (for a fee) and return it some number of days later, no loaner.

I bought mine from Villages Carts, Brownwood. I drive it 1.5 miles for service, get a loaner, and pick it up after they call that it is ready, whether or not it's the same day or not.

Bottom line, you always pay for convenience.

The after purchase care is worth a lot. I have bought several carts from Village Carts and they are always there to help.

[Normal]

True.

How many of those can service your cart?
How long does it take to get it serviced?
How many give you a free loaner?

There's always a down side to everything.


Bottom line, you always pay for convenience.

If you live in a 2 cart home, all that doesn’t really matter. The Cart Guy is usually out within a day or two.

[golfing eagles]

If you live in a 2 cart home, all that doesn’t really matter. The Cart Guy is usually out within a day or two.

It matters if you have tee times with different groups on different courses at the same time.

[Normal]

It matters if you have tee times with different groups on different courses at the same time.

Not really for us. We usually buddy up and ride two to a cart. If I don’t want to drive, one of my friends is more than willing. Cart repair service is annual and cost a whole lot less than the thousands extra to buy a cart in the villages. We almost always golf foursomes this time of year.

[Robbb]

True.

How many of those can service your cart?
How long does it take to get it serviced?
How many give you a free loaner?

There's always a down side to everything.

My wife bought her cart from Carts and Clubs, Ocala. They come out for annual service---if something is wrong, they tow it away (for a fee) and return it some number of days later, no loaner.

I bought mine from Villages Carts, Brownwood. I drive it 1.5 miles for service, get a loaner, and pick it up after they call that it is ready, whether or not it's the same day or not.

Bottom line, you always pay for convenience.

How much service do these things really require? Maybe change the 8 oz of oil every year or so, thats about it. What else is needed?

[Normal]

How much service do these things really require? Maybe change the 8 oz of oil every year or so, thats about it. What else is needed?

Exactly and the cart repair can be done right at your home. You drive nowhere.

[golfing eagles]

It matters if you have tee times with different groups on different courses at the same time.

Not really for us. We usually buddy up and ride two to a cart. If I don’t want to drive, one of my friends is more than willing. Cart repair service is annual and cost a whole lot less than the thousands extra to buy a cart in the villages. We almost always golf foursomes this time of year.

How much service do these things really require? Maybe change the 8 oz of oil every year or so, thats about it. What else is needed?

Exactly and the cart repair can be done right at your home. You drive nowhere.

So typical on TOTV

One poster owns 2 carts from the two vendors in question and deals with the purchase price and after market service on a regular basis. Then others jump in and offer an "opinion", based on what???? Speculation? Hearsay? Fantasy?????

Unless someone who owns the two carts from the two different vendors wants to chime in, the rest of those opinions mean NOTHING.

[biker1]

The maintenance schedule is in your owner's manual. If you don't have a hard copy then you can find it on-line. For Yamaha gas carts, the most popular in The Villages, it actually takes a quart of oil (10 mins to change, most of that time is waiting for it to fully drain). If you are driving around with 8 ozs of oil, you won't be driving around for very long ;-) Regarding frequency of oil changes, it depends on how much you use your cart (see your owner's manual).

Regarding what else is needed for a Yamaha, here is a sample:

-lube the clutches (2 mins)
-check belts for wear and replace when needed (varies)
-replace air filters (not as frequently as you would think, 2 mins)
-replace spark plug (not as frequently as you would think, 2 mins)
-check free play in brake cable (2 mins)
-change differential fluid (10 mins)
-check front end toe (2 mins )
-etc.

These things are actually easy to do yourself.

How much service do these things really require? Maybe change the 8 oz of oil every year or so, thats about it. What else is needed?

[MX rider]

How much service do these things really require? Maybe change the 8 oz of oil every year or so, thats about it. What else is needed?

Just had my 2018 Yamaha serviced by Todd Casey. Did it at my house. $117. Took about 30 minutes. Takes a quart of oil. They change oil, spark plug and air filter, and inspect other items like belts etc.

I would have done it myself but my floor jack is back in Indiana, so I would have a tough time getting the skid plate off and on.

$117 isn't terrible, imo.

[biker1]

Apparently, a number of people are pumping oil out through the dip stick hole instead of bothering to remove the skip plate and draining via the drain plug. I don't have that issue with an older Yamaha.

Just had my 2018 Yamaha serviced by Todd Casey. Did it at my house. $117. Took about 30 minutes. Takes a quart of oil. They change oil, spark plug and air filter, and inspect other items like belts etc.

I would have done it myself but my floor jack is back in Indiana, so I would have a tough time getting the skid plate off and on.

$117 isn't terrible, imo.

[LeRoySmith]

Go to Botero Carts in Ocala. Their forward facing 4 seater, the Evolution D5, has more features than the Star and is $12K with the standard lithium battery, and $14K with the larger battery (205ah). This pricing is more inline with what I would expect given the build and technology for golf carts. I absolutely love mine!

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/poolbrews-55982/albums/evolution-d5/10358-01-right.jpg

I recently bought an Evolution D5 from Hidden Creek golf carts, $13900 (including tax) out the door with a 205aH battery. We get about 6 miles per 10% charge (a little over 65 miles per full charge) at 20mph with 2 people. This was a good way to dip my toe in the electric vehicle world with not a lot of investment or risk. I like the quiet and performance so far but it's very early, time well tell.

[Bill14564]

I recently bought an Evolution D5 from Hidden Creek golf carts, $13900 (including tax) out the door with a 205aH battery. We get about 6 miles per 10% charge (a little over 65 miles per full charge) at 27mph with 2 people. This was a good way to dip my toe in the electric vehicle world with not a lot of investment or risk. I like the quiet and performance so far but it's very early, time well tell.

You may want to be careful about publicly admitting to operating a vehicle that is illegal in Florida, or calling out the business that sold it.

[Normal]

You may want to be careful about publicly admitting to operating a vehicle that is illegal in Florida, or calling out the business that sold it.

It can go that fast, you just can’t drive it that fast. Cars can do 100 plus, but you will get ticketed if you continue at that speed.

[4$ALE]

You may want to be careful about publicly admitting to operating a vehicle that is illegal in Florida, or calling out the business that sold it.

;) I agree ..... but then I'm "NOT" Normal. :rolleyes:

[Bill14564]

It can go that fast, you just can’t drive it that fast. Cars can do 100 plus, but you will get ticketed if you continue at that speed.

That is not how the Florida law is written.

If it *can* go no more than 20mph then it can be considered a golf cart and requires no registration.
If it *can* go no more than 25mph then it can be considered a low speed vehicle (LSV) and does require registration.
If it *does* go 27mph then it is neither a golf cart nor an LSV. I don't know what Florida would consider it to be but it would certainly require registration if it was allowed on the roads at all.

Perhaps the 27mph vehicle *is* registered
Perhaps the 27mph vehicle was operated *only* on private property and not on the MMPs (since it would require operation on public roads to get to the MMPs)
Perhaps the 27mph was an exaggeration
In any case, being careful is a good idea.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

If you buy a cart from The Villages, you are just a plain lazy shopper looking to burn cash. There are plenty of places to buy new and used where you literally save thousands of dollars and many deliver right to your doorstep!

Or, you're new to the Villages, know that you need to get a golf cart, and don't know your way around very well yet. And you don't realize that golf cart shops outside the Villages deliver, it just doesn't occur to you that it's an option so you don't seek your new cart outside the Villages. You know you can't drive it home, if you buy it outside the Villages since you know you can't drive on the major roads outside the community with a golf cart.

We got our first golf cart at the Villages Golf Car store, because we had JUST moved in and didn't know any better. We didn't know to even ask in advance. We just assumed everyone in the area got them from that store.

It was a used one, hadn't even been cleaned up yet, didn't have a price tag on it yet. But it worked, and it was under $6000 so we drove it home. It turned out to be a terrific little buggy. Our second one we got from a neighbor - and the neighbor bought it new at The Villages Golf Car store.

We weren't lazy. Just uninformed, and we didn't know what we didn't know, and didn't know that we should've asked, or even what questions to ask.

We have learned, however, that people who assume everyone who does something a certain way is lazy - is just judgmental and possibly ignorant or has a profound lack of self confidence that they have to make up for by putting other people down.

[Topspinmo]

Just had my 2018 Yamaha serviced by Todd Casey. Did it at my house. $117. Took about 30 minutes. Takes a quart of oil. They change oil, spark plug and air filter, and inspect other items like belts etc.

I would have done it myself but my floor jack is back in Indiana, so I would have a tough time getting the skid plate off and on.

$117 isn't terrible, imo.

IMO if you’re able just buy cheap floor Jack at harbor freight or Walmart. First oil costs you about 48 bucks the second one 5 to 8 bucks depending on what oil you use.

[Bogie Shooter]

Or, you're new to the Villages, know that you need to get a golf cart, and don't know your way around very well yet. And you don't realize that golf cart shops outside the Villages deliver, it just doesn't occur to you that it's an option so you don't seek your new cart outside the Villages. You know you can't drive it home, if you buy it outside the Villages since you know you can't drive on the major roads outside the community with a golf cart.

We got our first golf cart at the Villages Golf Car store, because we had JUST moved in and didn't know any better. We didn't know to even ask in advance. We just assumed everyone in the area got them from that store.

It was a used one, hadn't even been cleaned up yet, didn't have a price tag on it yet. But it worked, and it was under $6000 so we drove it home. It turned out to be a terrific little buggy. Our second one we got from a neighbor - and the neighbor bought it new at The Villages Golf Car store.

We weren't lazy. Just uninformed, and we didn't know what we didn't know, and didn't know that we should've asked, or even what questions to ask.

We have learned, however, that people who assume everyone who does something a certain way is lazy - is just judgmental and possibly ignorant or has a profound lack of self confidence that they have to make up for by putting other people down.

:boom:

[Topspinmo]

That is not how the Florida law is written.

If it *can* go no more than 20mph then it can be considered a golf cart and requires no registration.
If it *can* go no more than 25mph then it can be considered a low speed vehicle (LSV) and does require registration.
If it *does* go 27mph then it is neither a golf cart nor an LSV. I don't know what Florida would consider it to be but it would certainly require registration if it was allowed on the roads at all.

Perhaps the 27mph vehicle *is* registered
Perhaps the 27mph vehicle was operated *only* on private property and not on the MMPs (since it would require operation on public roads to get to the MMPs)
Perhaps the 27mph was an exaggeration
In any case, being careful is a good idea.


If your LSV goes more than 25 MPH on roads less than 35 miles per you breaking the law. But just like in both cases you have to get caught. Which IMO NOBODY registered golf cart for 5 extra MPH. The do it so they can go 30 Plus and have outrageous low chance of getting caught just like carts that not registered.

[Topspinmo]

:boom:

Boo!

[metoo21]

IMO if you’re able just buy cheap floor Jack at harbor freight or Walmart. First oil costs you about 48 bucks the second one 5 to 8 bucks depending on what oil you use.

And get this Fumoto F109SX M12-1.5 Sx Series Drain Valve (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HP5UU7K?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details) to make future changes easier.

[Dusty_Star]

I recently bought an Evolution D5 from Hidden Creek golf carts, $13900 (including tax) out the door with a 205aH battery. We get about 6 miles per 10% charge (a little over 65 miles per full charge) at 27mph with 2 people. This was a good way to dip my toe in the electric vehicle world with not a lot of investment or risk. I like the quiet and performance so far but it's very early, time well tell.

Did they deliver the cart to you?

[Bill14564]

If your LSV goes more than 25 MPH on roads less than 35 miles per you breaking the law. But just like in both cases you have to get caught. Which IMO NOBODY registered golf cart for 5 extra MPH. The do it so they can go 30 Plus and have outrageous low chance of getting caught just like carts that not registered.

Wrong.

If the vehicle is capable of going faster than 25mph then it is NOT an LSV. FS 320.01(41) (https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2023/0320.01)

The chances of getting caught may be low but become greater if you announce on social media that you are operating such a vehicle, particularly if you call out the business that sold it.

[Robbb]

That is not how the Florida law is written.

If it *can* go no more than 20mph then it can be considered a golf cart and requires no registration.
If it *can* go no more than 25mph then it can be considered a low speed vehicle (LSV) and does require registration.
If it *does* go 27mph then it is neither a golf cart nor an LSV. I don't know what Florida would consider it to be but it would certainly require registration if it was allowed on the roads at all.

Perhaps the 27mph vehicle *is* registered
Perhaps the 27mph vehicle was operated *only* on private property and not on the MMPs (since it would require operation on public roads to get to the MMPs)
Perhaps the 27mph was an exaggeration
In any case, being careful is a good idea.

I recently read this is the excact reason the built the supermax in Colorado. You have been warned!

[Topspinmo]

Wrong.

If the vehicle is capable of going faster than 25mph then it is NOT an LSV. FS 320.01(41) (https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2023/0320.01)

The chances of getting caught may be low but become greater if you announce on social media that you are operating such a vehicle, particularly if you call out the business that sold it.

They’re all capable.
So not breaking law going over 25 MPH in LSV. ON street? Wow no wonder no one get tickets in villages.

[BigDawgInLakeDenham]

Last time I checked I was living in TV surrounded by millionaires with fancy European and muscle cars, and a golf car is just another toy, and cost is no issue. We buy what we want because we can. When you're dead your bank account no longer matters

[LeRoySmith]

You may want to be careful about publicly admitting to operating a vehicle that is illegal in Florida, or calling out the business that sold it.

Thanks for pointing this out, it was a typo, fixed it in the original post.

[LeRoySmith]

Did they deliver the cart to you?

Yes.

[PoolBrews]

What is the range of your Evolution D5? Thanks!

My range is 70-75 miles. I live as far north in The Villages as you can get - just off hwy 42 near the VA in Phillips Villas. I've taken it down to play Southern Oaks. After driving there, playing 18, and driving back, I still had 25% battery left.

[PoolBrews]

Botero Carts is located in Ocala. They deliver the cart to you, and have mobile cart service. They are located in 5 states now, have 5 star ratings from all of those locations, and only deal in Evolution for new cart sales.

[LeRoySmith]

Botero Carts is located in Ocala. They deliver the cart to you, and have mobile cart service. They are located in 5 states now, have 5 star ratings from all of those locations, and only deal in Evolution for new cart sales.

I understand there will be an Evolution new cart dealer near Brownwood by the end of March so service should be a little easier.

[Dusty_Star]

Yes.


Thanks for the info. It looks like they are about 50 miles away, so delivery is important.

[JohnWW]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.
I just got an electric cart from Botero Ocala and I'm loving it. Had a minor issue and they sent DJ to fix it at my house. He was great and I was more than happy with his work. He went above and beyond the reason for his call and I give him five stars. The downside for Botero is it seems really busy right now and it took a month+ to get delivery of my cart, but it's half the price you quoted.

My D5 has bluetooth, a special lighting package, backup camera, turn signal lights that turn off automatically and I got a battery upgrade to 160 ah which can take me anywhere I want to go (it goes about 2 miles per 3% of battery usage implying 60 mile or so range).

The people at Botero Ocala are really good and with electric I don't have to worry about gasoline fill ups, noise or a smelly garage from exhaust fumes. BTW, it seems to charge at about 13% per hour using standard 120V outlet.

[Topspinmo]

Yes. And?

Lowered by .003% for month.

[Topspinmo]

Last time I checked I was living in TV surrounded by millionaires with fancy European and muscle cars, and a golf car is just another toy, and cost is no issue. We buy what we want because we can. When you're dead your bank account no longer matters

fancy European and muscle cars

The only toy I seen that I’d consider was that 55 pink white crown Victoria. Pink not great but any color on 55 CV good.

[Gatorfan1]

just bought a 2024 lexus es300 hybrid for 49000,,, it has AC and is 5 seater too ,,:a040:

And serial number

[Robnlaura]

The best is to just buy from China plenty of good buying sites online. Most have free shipping.. seems most of these dealers buy them and sell for three times the cost.

[Robbb]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

In MHO this is not a sign of inflation, its a sign of a monoploy. There is a reason they have shut out any other provider of carts in the Villages....its so they can charge $27,800 for a cart that in a competitive environment would be 40% less.

[mickey100]

In MHO this is not a sign of inflation, its a sign of a monoploy. There is a reason they have shut out any other provider of carts in the Villages....its so they can charge $27,800 for a cart that in a competitive environment would be 40% less.

Exactly. It's run by the Villages, so the prices are inflated over what you'd normally pay. the Villages is very good at eking out extra from the residents. The Villages has their fingers in the financial pie so to speak in any number of local businesses, to cash in. If people do their homework, they will always find cheaper prices elsewhere.

[Gatorfan1]

walking past the cart shop in brownwood tonight, a star 4 seat forward ele. for only $27,800. cars dont cost that much with more features.

Wait till you get an insurance quote on a new golf cart.

[Villager1234]

I love my overpriced star. It is a pleasure to get over the bridge without accelerating. My kids bought it for me. (It’s less money they get when I go)
😏

[MorTech]

Stupid ain't it...Considering you can purchase a BYD Dolphin for $15K...Oh, wait!

[Eg_cruz]

Please tell me what happened on that date that made the cost of a golf cart go up. As I recall we were in an economic lockdown, the world economy was frozen, thousands were dying every day from a pandemic, there had just been a riot in DC, unemployment had skyrocketed, economists were forecasting a certain recession, and the average crude oil price had jumped 250% in just nine months. That is not a typo, it went up from 21 to 53 dollars.

But for you Jan 2021 is special. In fact there was a tough time for the economy climbing out of the hole we were in on January 2021. Now we have lowered inflation, record stock prices, no recession, low unemployment. The results have far exceeded the expectations of the experts.

I think when a golf cart costs more than a new car (https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/hyundai/kona#:~:text=The%20base%202024%20Kona%20SE,dual%2D zone%20automatic%20climate%20control.)that may represent specific corporate greed, not the general state of the economy.
Wow……so funny how some see things. Lower inflation, where do you shop, maybe if we were able to finish the pipelines we wouldn’t be over paying today and low employment really…….people are so under employed.
Time to remove the rose color glasses
Yes prices started raising on cars, golf karts, and major appliances in the early part of 2021 because of supply chain.
So YES everything is over priced since 2020 when you know who started.

[JRcorvette]

Cart prices are crazy in the Villages… rip-off. You can get the same one in AL for under $10k and have it delivered for $500 and no sales tax.

[Robbb]

I love my overpriced star. It is a pleasure to get over the bridge without accelerating. My kids bought it for me. (It’s less money they get when I go)
😏

This is not a criticism, but this is exactly how these village monopoly’s thrive. They prey on senior’s caviler attitude toward money, and our desire to make a purchase easy and simple.

[Villager1234]

Something is worth what someone is willing to pay for it

[Villager1234]

Anything is worth what someone is willing to pay for it

[tophcfa]

"Lowered Inflation"...

Yes, after 3 years of record setting inflation...

Lowering inflation only means prices aren't going up as fast as they were. Not that they're coming down... Prices are still sky high...

Inflation over the last three years is truly a game changer. We were extremely lucky to have retired before this all happened and purchase all the big ticket items we will hopefully need for the rest of our lives (with the exception of automobiles). I feel sorry for the recently retired that need to live on a fixed income.

[jimbomaybe]

It started long before that with QE at The Fed continuing far too long, a mistake The Fed acknowledged. There were also two stimulus checks and unemployment benefit extensions with weekly bonuses. This is a problem not specific to the US. There was global supply chain interruptions and inflation was even higher in many, many countries. The war in Ukraine made matters worse and disrupted oil supplies. There is a shortage of labor in this country that continues to this day, and there is still wage inflation pressures. And last, but not least, I think we can safely say that many, if not most corporations took full advantage of the pandemic to raise prices, and profits and stock prices are currently at all time highs. Housing appreciation was also huge.

There are some silver linings for retirees. This is the first time in more than a decade that bank savings generated any kind of significant interest. 401k’s are doing well. Social Security has gone up about 18% in the last 3 years. The wealth of those over 55 has gone up more than 30% since 2019. Meanwhile, the number of “excess retirements” which are those above the normal trend are still high and have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. These are typically early retirees. There is no question that according to all metrics, many people are doing even better financially than before the pandemic.

I understand what happened on 1-20-21, but the above is all true.

I bought a new 2023 Quietech with a good seat and several good options for $17,000. Yes, that seems like a lot to me for a golf car, but they are not made in mass production like automobiles. I’m sure there is a higher markup as there is not as much competition and these are generally viewed as luxury want-to-haves, not necessities.
" And last, but not least, I think we can safely say that many, if not most corporations took full advantage of the pandemic to raise prices, and profits and stock prices are currently at all time highs. Housing appreciation was also huge."
Corporation singly or as a group can not control inflation, the money supply or interest rates or inflation, if their prices go up so will the prices they charge for their products, competition limits raising prices, its that fine line between being competitive and losing market share, for the most part they respond to economic changes

[MX rider]

Something is worth what someone is willing to pay for it

Exactly!
Nobody is forcing people to buy them locally. But people are willing to pay more for the convenience. If I was buying new I would shop around, but many buyers don't want to do that.

[BrianL99]

Exactly!
Nobody is forcing people to buy them locally. But people are willing to pay more for the convenience. If I was buying new I would shop around, but many buyers don't want to do that.

They all have "strategies" & processes to shop everywhere within 500 miles to buy a Toyota Camry for $30,000 ... but they'll step up and pay a bunch of crooks, $25,000 for a glorified lawn mower.

[GoRedSox!]

There is no question from reviewing objective economic data that these past 3 years have been very good to a lot of Americans, especially Baby Boomers. Let's start with Social Security payments. The cost of living increase in Social Security has been 17.8% over the last three years. Arguably, Social Security has kept up with the rate of inflation. Next, there is now significant income on cash savings. For much of the past decade, CD interests rates hovered around 1%, and in some of those years, you could get almost no interest at all. Now, savings provides a significant income. Next we have the large increase in home values. This has added to the net worth of many Americans. Finally, for those invested in the stock market, the markets are at an all-time high. Even those who don't invest directly have seen their 401(k) values soar.

The average and median Boomer net worth and income has increased significantly. Does that mean 100% of people are doing better? No, but many are.

I could not look someone straight in the eye and complain about inflation because of these facts above. My Social Security increases were pretty much on par with inflation. We finally earn interest on our savings. It's a new revenue stream, really, which I haven't had for more than a decade. My home value went up by at least 40%. And both our normal investments and mine and my wife's retirement accounts are benefiting by a market at an all-time high.

Not everyone has benefited, however. If you are a first time homebuyer, 7% mortgage rates and prices where they are have closed the housing market to many and driven rent prices sky high, which also increases inflation. It was just announced today that the interest rate on student loans is higher than it has been in many years. I do think that the median 40 year old's net worth, adjusted for inflation, has not increased and may have decreased.

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

Just showed up on my FaceBook page. Brand new Kia SUV, with 100,000 mile guaranty. Under $20,000.

But it’s a Kia.

[Topspinmo]

Wrong.

If the vehicle is capable of going faster than 25mph then it is NOT an LSV. FS 320.01(41) (https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2023/0320.01)

The chances of getting caught may be low but become greater if you announce on social media that you are operating such a vehicle, particularly if you call out the business that sold it.

Then there lot of non LSV in villages cause about 99.999999999999999999999999% goes faster than 25MPH.

[Topspinmo]

Exactly!
Nobody is forcing people to buy them locally. But people are willing to pay more for the convenience. If I was buying new I would shop around, but many buyers don't want to do that.

Many have no clue what they’re buying anyway. Besides 25K for golf cart chicken feed for some.

[Bill14564]

Then there lot of non LSV in villages cause about 99.999999999999999999999999% goes faster than 25MPH.

Interesting. I own two carts that do not go faster than 25mph. If mine were the only two then for even 99.9999% to go faster than 25mph there would need to be 2,000,000 carts in the Villages. There simply aren't that many. So are you sure your number is anything more than an exaggeration based on no facts at all?

In four years I have seen many carts (though certainly not 2M) but NONE that were going faster than 25mph.

[GoRedSox!]

Inflation over the last three years is truly a game changer. We were extremely lucky to have retired before this all happened and purchase all the big ticket items we will hopefully need for the rest of our lives (with the exception of automobiles). I feel sorry for the recently retired that need to live on a fixed income.If you have cash savings, you have real interest income for the first time in over a decade. If that fixed income is Social Security, it’s gone up 17.8% in the last 3 years. If you own a home, the value is up significantly. If you have stock investments, the market is at an all time high. If your IRA or 401k is invested in the market, that all time high has likely boosted the value a lot, which increases the annual distribution you can take. I think it’s fair to say that the last few years have been financially good for many seniors.

[Bill14564]

If you have cash savings, you have real interest income for the first time in over a decade. If that fixed income is Social Security, it’s gone up 17.8% in the last 3 years. If you own a home, the value is up significantly. If you have stock investments, the market is at an all time high. If your IRA or 401k is invested in the market, that all time high has likely boosted the value a lot, which increases the annual distribution you can take. I think it’s fair to say that the last few years have been financially good for many seniors.

Not exactly.

Social Security doesn't keep up with inflation. It may have increased but those relying on it lost ground.

Home value is irrelevant unless you own a second home that you are willing to sell. Any increase in your primary home is a wash since selling for a profit would require purchasing a home that has also increased in value.

The market has been good for the last 12 months or so but that has only been sufficient to recover from the losses in the 18 months before that. By leaving my investments and 401K alone, it has finally climbed back to where it was at the end of 2021. If any seniors had found it necessary to make withdrawals during those 18 months when the market was down then their accounts have not regained the lost value.

SS has lost ground, increases in home prices are a wash, and investments that have taken withdrawals have not recovered. The last 12 months have been better than the previous 18 but the last few years have not been good to seniors at all.

[GoRedSox!]

Not exactly.

Social Security doesn't keep up with inflation. It may have increased but those relying on it lost ground.

Home value is irrelevant unless you own a second home that you are willing to sell. Any increase in your primary home is a wash since selling for a profit would require purchasing a home that has also increased in value.

The market has been good for the last 12 months or so but that has only been sufficient to recover from the losses in the 18 months before that. By leaving my investments and 401K alone, it has finally climbed back to where it was at the end of 2021. If any seniors had found it necessary to make withdrawals during those 18 months when the market was down then their accounts have not regained the lost value.

SS has lost ground, increases in home prices are a wash, and investments that have taken withdrawals have not recovered. The last 12 months have been better than the previous 18 but the last few years have not been good to seniors at all.There is plenty of economic data that shows how much the average and median net worth of Boomers has gone up, and it's a lot. You left out commentary on interest on savings. Many folks were not entirely invested in the market or other at-risk securities. There is a significant income stream now available to may who like to keep at least some assets in cash deposits, insured by the FDIC. The stock market is at an all-time high. I also disagree about the value of homes. It's not a complete wash, it's far better to have an increase in home equity rather than a decrease...when the value of my home goes down 20%, I don't say it's a wash. It's real equity that is part of your net worth. Some or all of those appreciated funds can be accessed by downsizing, or selling. And I know some prices have gone up more than the rate of inflation (e.g. homeowner's and car insurance), but 17.8% increase in Social Security is roughly equal to the stated inflation by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for this period. There are so many more millionaires in America now than before the pandemic, and lots of data to back up what I am stating here.

I am specifically referring to Boomers, though....it's a different story for folks half our age.

[melpetezrinski]

Not exactly.

Social Security doesn't keep up with inflation. It may have increased but those relying on it lost ground.

Home value is irrelevant unless you own a second home that you are willing to sell. Any increase in your primary home is a wash since selling for a profit would require purchasing a home that has also increased in value.

The market has been good for the last 12 months or so but that has only been sufficient to recover from the losses in the 18 months before that. By leaving my investments and 401K alone, it has finally climbed back to where it was at the end of 2021. If any seniors had found it necessary to make withdrawals during those 18 months when the market was down then their accounts have not regained the lost value.

SS has lost ground, increases in home prices are a wash, and investments that have taken withdrawals have not recovered. The last 12 months have been better than the previous 18 but the last few years have not been good to seniors at all.

Ah, the master of spin:

1. "18 months before the last 12 months" of a stock market that is at ALL TIME HIGHS.
2. SSA ensures that benefits keep up with inflation through COLA adjustments but "those relying on SS lost ground"
3. "Home value is irrelevent" unless you want to simply downsize and reap the profits or do what thousands of villagers do and buy new, sell in two years for a significant profit and then rinse and repeat.

[golfing eagles]

Interesting. I own two carts that do not go faster than 25mph. If mine were the only two then for even 99.9999% to go faster than 25mph there would need to be 2,000,000 carts in the Villages. There simply aren't that many. So are you sure your number is anything more than an exaggeration based on no facts at all?

In four years I have seen many carts (though certainly not 2M) but NONE that were going faster than 25mph.

And I have another 2 that might get to 21 downhill. Now we're up to 4 million. OP: hyperbole much??????

[GoRedSox!]

Ah, the master of spin:

1. "18 months before the last 12 months" of a stock market that is at ALL TIME HIGHS.
2. SSA ensures that benefits keep up with inflation through COLA adjustments but "those relying on SS lost ground"
3. "Home value is irrelevent" unless you want to simply downsize and reap the profits or do what thousands of villagers do and buy new, sell in two years for a significant profit and then rinse and repeat.Thank you for these points and I agree. I am not putting up my points to be an irritant, but there is plenty of objective economic data to back up the fact that most Boomers have fared extremely well since the pandemic. Net worth is meaningful, it's not a wash. The average 401(k) balance increased substantially and that includes and withdrawals during that period. And I'm surprised more folks are not acknowledging the interest they now make, it's the first time in over a decade that it's been meaningful.

[spd2918]

To anyone thinking the U.S. inflation rate has been lowered, it technically has gone from horrible to not so horrible. It is still very bad. By the years:

2017, 2.1
2018, 1.9
2019, 2.3
2020, 1.4
(7.7.in 4 years)

2021, 7.0
2022, 6.5
2023, 3.4
2024 (12 month based prediction) 3.4
(20.3 in 4 years, or 16.9 in 3)

Anyone trying to put a good face on this economy is a propagandist and wants it to fail.

[Topspinmo]

If you have cash savings, you have real interest income for the first time in over a decade. If that fixed income is Social Security, it’s gone up 17.8% in the last 3 years. If you own a home, the value is up significantly. If you have stock investments, the market is at an all time high. If your IRA or 401k is invested in the market, that all time high has likely boosted the value a lot, which increases the annual distribution you can take. I think it’s fair to say that the last few years have been financially good for many seniors.


You forgot to add cost of everything including taxes, food, utilities, and every other needed items. So, probably in negative.

[Topspinmo]

Interesting. I own two carts that do not go faster than 25mph. If mine were the only two then for even 99.9999% to go faster than 25mph there would need to be 2,000,000 carts in the Villages. There simply aren't that many. So are you sure your number is anything more than an exaggeration based on no facts at all?

In four years I have seen many carts (though certainly not 2M) but NONE that were going faster than 25mph.

So you own two don’t mean all that way and beside we was taking about LSV’s, you know they type you licenses to gain 5 MPH and NOT to exceed 25MPH.

[Bill14564]

So you own two don’t mean all that way and beside we was taking about LSV’s, you know they type you licenses to gain 5 MPH and NOT to exceed 25MPH.

You quoted the number, I just did the math for you, then GE proved your number even more wrong.

If you are talking about LSVs on the street, I can't tell an LSV from a Smart car; if either one is traveling 30mph it looks the same to me.

If you are talking about LSVs on the MMPs, my statement stands - I have seen none that I would say are traveling greater than 25mph.

[Bill14564]

Ah, the master of spin:

1. "18 months before the last 12 months" of a stock market that is at ALL TIME HIGHS.
2. SSA ensures that benefits keep up with inflation through COLA adjustments but "those relying on SS lost ground"
3. "Home value is irrelevent" unless you want to simply downsize and reap the profits or do what thousands of villagers do and buy new, sell in two years for a significant profit and then rinse and repeat.

No spin at all.

1. The stock market hit an all time high a few days ago then dropped a bit. I'm not sure if it has fully recovered yet. Still, the value of my investments today is very close to the value they had in December 2021 and since I did not remove or add anything during that time, this shows me the market has recovered to what it once was, it has not done really well the last few years.

2. SSA does not ensure benefits keep up with inflation. SSA calculates a COLA that helps but does not necessarily keep up. Just look at the calculation to see how this plays out.

3. If I want to "downsize" then I am accepting that the value in my home has NOT increased relative to the same home. Sure, I can always take money out of my home, buy something smaller, then declare I have made money but in the end, I own something smaller. As others have pointed out, your primary home is not an investment.

[Robnlaura]

Nah you can buy as many as you like from the villages. I’ll stick to getting mine from China.. at a 1/4 of the price and it’s shipped complete.. look it up on YouTube. Otherwise don’t moan just pay 🤣🤣🤣

[golfing eagles]

Nah you can buy as many as you like from the villages. I’ll stick to getting mine from China.. at a 1/4 of the price and it’s shipped complete.. look it up on YouTube. Otherwise don’t moan just pay ������������������

Written like a true American.

I'll stick with made in the USA by American companies-----like Yamaha :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[dewilson58]

To anyone thinking the U.S. inflation rate has been lowered, it technically has gone from horrible to not so horrible. It is still very bad. By the years:

2017, 2.1
2018, 1.9
2019, 2.3
2020, 1.4
(7.7.in 4 years)

2021, 7.0
2022, 6.5
2023, 3.4
2024 (12 month based prediction) 3.4
(20.3 in 4 years, or 16.9 in 3)

Anyone trying to put a good face on this economy is a propagandist and wants it to fail.

With today's release of inflation numbers, came this report.......over the last three years:

Price increases in the following items:

Shelter costs 21%
Insurance 52%
Fuel 52%
Food 22%
Utilities 30%
Auto repair 41%

The items that really hit your pocket.

[PoolBrews]

Then there lot of non LSV in villages cause about 99.999999999999999999999999% goes faster than 25MPH.

I am willing to bet my life savings that this is an incorrect statement. No where near close. The number of carts that go over 25 is much closer to 5-10%.

Based on the number of .9's you used, if even ONE cart is slower than 25mph you lose.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

This is not a criticism, but this is exactly how these village monopoly’s thrive. They prey on senior’s caviler attitude toward money, and our desire to make a purchase easy and simple.

All depends upon how much money one has and how they value it: saving it or spending it.

Which is why in finance one gets $ size blind, doesn't matter how you have or make or use. . it just is what it is and nothing more, no judgements towards as nothing is equal nor fair, however you want to interpret that word

[kkingston57]

Interesting. I own two carts that do not go faster than 25mph. If mine were the only two then for even 99.9999% to go faster than 25mph there would need to be 2,000,000 carts in the Villages. There simply aren't that many. So are you sure your number is anything more than an exaggeration based on no facts at all?

In four years I have seen many carts (though certainly not 2M) but NONE that were going faster than 25mph.

Had same thought, but do feel that the 99.999% was an exaggeration. Mine will not go over 20 and 1-2 might pass me on some open areas. Most are going 20+/- mph.

[kkingston57]

If you have cash savings, you have real interest income for the first time in over a decade. If that fixed income is Social Security, it’s gone up 17.8% in the last 3 years. If you own a home, the value is up significantly. If you have stock investments, the market is at an all time high. If your IRA or 401k is invested in the market, that all time high has likely boosted the value a lot, which increases the annual distribution you can take. I think it’s fair to say that the last few years have been financially good for many seniors.


Agree as I watch the DOW go over 40K, oops it dropped to 39,997

[kkingston57]

Not exactly.

Social Security doesn't keep up with inflation. It may have increased but those relying on it lost ground.

Home value is irrelevant unless you own a second home that you are willing to sell. Any increase in your primary home is a wash since selling for a profit would require purchasing a home that has also increased in value.

The market has been good for the last 12 months or so but that has only been sufficient to recover from the losses in the 18 months before that. By leaving my investments and 401K alone, it has finally climbed back to where it was at the end of 2021. If any seniors had found it necessary to make withdrawals during those 18 months when the market was down then their accounts have not regained the lost value.

SS has lost ground, increases in home prices are a wash, and investments that have taken withdrawals have not recovered. The last 12 months have been better than the previous 18 but the last few years have not been good to seniors at all.

Depends upon where your money was invested.

[Topspinmo]

My wife's bucket list includes lots of travel. She arranges trips to anywhere USA. Last year, when in TN, we happened to come across a small offroad vehicle shop. They sold some new Yamaha quiet techs. We bought one for a little less than $13,000. Nephew was willing to haul it to Florida in exchange for a room and all he can eat of my wife's cooking. Golf carts do not cost as much in other states. The Villages and surrounding areas are gouging because they know they can. Pretty much the same scenario with most products in the Villages.

I'm waiting for sandwich gouging like in NYC. I nearly fell over when the touted "best burgers in the city" bill for two was $73 without tip. And, don't even get me started on Vegas! If anyone wants to open a $28 burger place, I'm willing to invest. Fries of course, must be $12 a plate. Sodas? $5 (a can, no refills) What is this world coming to?

About Everything costs less than in Florida

[Topspinmo]

I am willing to bet my life savings that this is an incorrect statement. No where near close. The number of carts that go over 25 is much closer to 5-10%.

Based on the number of .9's you used, if even ONE cart is slower than 25mph you lose.

Again NOBODY buys/licenses LSV to go 5 extra MPH over 20 MPH.