Did everyone downsize to one car???

[hawthorg]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

[tophcfa]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

The Villages is a very big place, and depending where you live within the bubble, your need for anything besides a golf cart can vary greatly. Where we live in the Villages we rarely use a car and wouldn’t want more than one. Last winter/early spring in the Villages, I drove our car a couple times during January and then didn’t use anything besides a golf cart again until mid April. We have two cars and a truck at our northern home and use all three frequently when there, but it’s a totally different situation, terrain and road conditions that need to be navigated, and lifestyle. I suspect you’ll find so many vehicles won’t be necessary living in the Villages. If you still feel the need to own multiple non golf cart vehicles, there are many RV storage facilities located outside the bubble. You could probably fit two or three cars in one rented RV space.

[spd2918]

I had a 2 car garage with 3 cars and a motorcycle. My stuff sat in the driveway.

[N44125]

One car, 2 golf carts works for us.

[Two Bills]

Last time my wife and I overwintered in TV, and car rental prices were ridiculous, we returned our car and used only the golf cart for the last two months without a problem.
Saved us many $$$$$'s.
A Village full-timer, fully retired, in my mind, could easily manage with one car.

[Arctic Fox]

We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all.

You might USE them all down here, but I doubt you would NEED them all. Take the opportunity to simplify your life. Once you experience the fun of using a golf cart as a major part of your transport needs you'll probably decide on just a medium-sized SUV to fill in the gaps.

[frayedends]

Found you a nice, new resale in Lake Denham with a 4 car garage. If you buy it you can give me a small finders fee. :D

I think it will be on the market for a while. Just my opinion.

Homefinder - The Villages(R) Homes and Villas for Sale (https://www.thevillages.com/homefinder/L60V.32?preowned&status&lng=-81.93728017977564&lat=28.762686441821558&lvl=6)

[JohnN]

We don't golf so we kept two cars.
Many homes seem to have a 2-1/2 car garage, which could work for you if you leave one car in the driveway

[Bogie Shooter]

The Florida insurance on 4 vehicles…..oh my!

[drpepper]

We had the same problem as you just a little more severe. We looked from Bellview to wildwood to Leesburg before we found a building that was affordable for us. My hobby is building cars and I wasn't ready to give that up. Most everything near the villages is very expensive. We found a warehouse in Leesburg that was large enough and affordable for us and in a very nice area. 17 minutes from our home near Lake Sumter. There are also some larger storage units out there. You may have to get on a waiting list to get one. Look for something away from The Villages. They are out there if you search enough.

[Shipping up to Boston]

We had the same problem as you just a little more severe. We looked from Bellview to wildwood to Leesburg before we found a building that was affordable for us. My hobby is building cars and I wasn't ready to give that up. Most everything near the villages is very expensive. We found a warehouse in Leesburg that was large enough and affordable for us and in a very nice area. 17 minutes from our home near Lake Sumter. There are also some larger storage units out there. You may have to get on a waiting list to get one. Look for something away from The Villages. They are out there if you search enough.

Now thats a dedicated hobby. Hope it's got AC!

[LeRoySmith]

We had the same problem as you just a little more severe. We looked from Bellview to wildwood to Leesburg before we found a building that was affordable for us. My hobby is building cars and I wasn't ready to give that up. Most everything near the villages is very expensive. We found a warehouse in Leesburg that was large enough and affordable for us and in a very nice area. 17 minutes from our home near Lake Sumter. There are also some larger storage units out there. You may have to get on a waiting list to get one. Look for something away from The Villages. They are out there if you search enough.

I'm in the same sort of boat, we have a car here and multiple cars, toys and projects up north. We are going to make the transition soon and letting go of all my junk is difficult. I did it once before when I moved from the Midwest to Dallas, they suffer the same dinky garage syndrome there. It stinks at first but after ripping off the bandage its kind of liberating. Now I'm trying to figure out what kind of fun project car I can squeeze in a 2 car garage beside my pickup and golf cart.

[Djean1981]

We downsized to one car. But then, we re-upsized. But it's a personal decision. If you guys both enjoy the same exact activities and stuff, one car may be fine.

[Kenswing]

We get along with one car and one cart. It takes some planning at times but we make it work.

But if you want to keep all the toys you just need the right house. There’s a house on Conservation Trail for sale with a 6 car garage.

[CFrance]

Do your and your wife's hobbies take you in different directions? My husband's SCORE volunteer work is now mostly by phone and email. It used to be face-to-face meetings at rec centers & library, and we needed two cars. Now we are down to one. We don't play golf, but we both play pickleball. Mostly we socialize together. My volunteer work + exercising the dogs takes me out in the car. So far we've made it work with few hassles.

My husband is a homebody, which leaves the car greatly free for me. If you socialize a lot, and/or in different circles, you'll need two cars, or one car and a golf cart.

[Blueblaze]

We sold off a vintage Harley, a motorhome, and its Smart car toad when we moved here. We kept our two primary vehicles, including my Ranger pickup because it fits in the garage, and bought a house with a golf-cart garage. I don't know how we would have gotten by with just a car and a cart, but most people do it. In fact, we miss the motorhome so much we've been looking for a travel trailer the Sorento could pull. And every time I hear a Harley, I wind up browsing for a project bike, although I have no idea where I'd put it (and my wife would kill me if I bought one).

I think the "developer" missed a trick when they didn't include a hobby-garage condo in every village.

[MrFlorida]

One car and one cart. Ain't downsizing great !

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

We have two cars, two golf carts. No garage, one carport. We keep my clunker in the driveway since I don't care if the sun eats the enamel off the sheet metal. The carts fit neatly under the carport sideways, and the truck slides nicely under the end of the carport just fine. He has family north of Florida, I have family in south Florida. Plus, sometimes it rains and I'd hate to need to buy toilet paper during thunderstorm season. The car is a convenience, and a necessity when I'm visiting family. The truck is a convenience and a necessity when spouse needs to take lawn equipment to friends who live in another village and need a hand with the shrubs.

But we use the golf carts for our daily mode of transportation, plus he golfs and I don't. So we need two golf carts.

It all works out fine for us. If spouse gave up the truck I'd probably be okay trading it and my car in for an SUV, so the equipment would still fit in the back, and I could still use it for things that aren't golf cart accessible.

[Stu from NYC]

Want and need are two different things, we all had to downsize here to some extent

[Shipping up to Boston]

Do your and your wife's hobbies take you in different directions? My husband's SCORE volunteer work is now mostly by phone and email. It used to be face-to-face meetings at rec centers & library, and we needed two cars. Now we are down to one. We don't play golf, but we both play pickleball. Mostly we socialize together. My volunteer work + exercising the dogs takes me out in the car. So far we've made it work with few hassles.

My husband is a homebody, which leaves the car greatly free for me. If you socialize a lot, and/or in different circles, you'll need two cars, or one car and a golf cart.

Or as I like to say....the secret to a good relationship is separation! ;)

[MX rider]

We're snowbirds for now, but we've been debating this as well.
We have 2 cars and a golf cart. But we just spent 6 months at our home in TV and only had the one car and the cart, it seemed to work fine for us.

We plan on becoming full timers in about a year, so we're trying to decide if having 2 cars there is worth the added expense. We're leaning towards going with one car and the cart.

[kkingston57]

You might USE them all down here, but I doubt you would NEED them all. Take the opportunity to simplify your life. Once you experience the fun of using a golf cart as a major part of your transport needs you'll probably decide on just a medium-sized SUV to fill in the gaps.

Personally, for me, not fun to ride around in a golf cart. No AC, bumpy slow ride, longer times, low storage space etc On plus side parking is easier

[MrChip72]

We use one car and one cart. I have found adding extra storage to our 2+2 cart has really changed things. We added a setup where we have 4 attached storage bins (one is insulated) that sit on our rear facing seat when it's not in use. Makes grocery shopping very easy.

[LeRoySmith]

I think a Miata or Fiat 124 spider might be a good 2nd car. Small and fun

[Bill14564]

We're snowbirds for now, but we've been debating this as well.
We have 2 cars and a golf cart. But we just spent 6 months at our home in TV and only had the one car and the cart, it seemed to work fine for us.

We plan on becoming full timers in about a year, so we're trying to decide if having 2 cars there is worth the added expense. We're leaning towards going with one car and the cart.

We sold the second car and bought a second cart: one car and two carts for us.


- The second cart is less expensive to operate
- We were often debating who would drive the only cart
- In the last year we have never both needed a car at the same time
- The money we have saved on car insurance will pay for a rental if we ever have a need for a second car


It has worked well for us for the past year.

[EastCoastDawg]

We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan.

Is it still a pleasure to get into and out of your low-slung Corvette? Maybe a good one to shift.

And a truck? Unless you plan to run a construction company here I'd sell that one, too.

[VApeople]

So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)?

Eight years ago we came here with two cars and we have two cars now. We do not like golf carts.

Every time I drive on a road like Meggison or Pinellas that has a golf cart lane very close to the lane with cars, I am very glad I am in a car.

[Topspinmo]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

Quit few have extended two car garage and golf cart garage. Just got to look around but not in sardine neighborhoods. ;)

Just park them in drive way and out in street like most do cause they can’t get car and in garage. Some cases can’t even get golf cart in garage dut all junk they brought with them :shocked: There are storages facilities all around villages. Need and want two different things, you won’t need all them. Vehicle and cart/ carts. Most here put more miles on golf cart than they do their vehicle’s.
But, you’ve got to have them you can build custom home with lots of garage space, there few around if got the bucks and time to wait for build?

Horse farm lots off CR42 4 plus acres you can build what ever you want there. They have their own rules.

[HIgolfers]

One car, 2 golf carts works for us.

Same here.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

We sold the second car and bought a second cart: one car and two carts for us.


- The second cart is less expensive to operate
- We were often debating who would drive the only cart
- In the last year we have never both needed a car at the same time
- The money we have saved on car insurance will pay for a rental if we ever have a need for a second car


It has worked well for us for the past year.

Totally agree with the above. In our situation, it's an extended-cab pickup truck and a little subcompact tin can. He can't move equipment in the tin can, and I am not comfortable driving the pick-up - pretty much anywhere. Looking forward to the day when we can have just one smallish car, or a SMALL pickup truck.

[Altavia]

We kept the SUV and Corvette.

[LeRoySmith]

We kept the SUV and Corvette.

My lovely bride won't entertain the idea of getting rid of our full size pickup, she's a country girl and thinks it's a Rolls. I prefer the little sports cars but they keep getting closer to the ground and gravity keeps getting stronger.

[Shipping up to Boston]

My lovely bride won't entertain the idea of getting rid of our full size pickup, she's a country girl and thinks it's a Rolls. I prefer the little sports cars but they keep getting closer to the ground and gravity keeps getting stronger.

I hope you keep that 'Untouchables' car you posted LeRoy!

[LeRoySmith]

I hope you keep that 'Untouchables' car you posted LeRoy!

Nope, it's up for sale along with all the other toys. 1950 Doge pickup, 1947 dodge 2 door sedan are the first to go. Just sold a 1941 Farmall BN a few days ago.

Letting go is tough but it's going to make me a full timer.

[EastCoastDawg]

Totally agree with the above. In our situation, it's an extended-cab pickup truck and a little subcompact tin can. He can't move equipment in the tin can, and I am not comfortable driving the pick-up - pretty much anywhere. Looking forward to the day when we can have just one smallish car, or a SMALL pickup truck.

How about a small pickup, with a trailer for the "equipment"?

[Shipping up to Boston]

Nope, it's up for sale along with all the other toys. 1950 Doge pickup, 1947 dodge 2 door sedan are the first to go. Just sold a 1941 Farmall BN a few days ago.

Letting go is tough but it's going to make me a full timer.

Hope you do well on the sales

[Altavia]

My lovely bride won't entertain the idea of getting rid of our full size pickup, she's a country girl and thinks it's a Rolls. I prefer the little sports cars but they keep getting closer to the ground and gravity keeps getting stronger.

The Vette will keep you young
:-)

But, happy wife, happy life :-)

You can never have too big a garage in FL.

[Altavia]

Nope, it's up for sale along with all the other toys. 1950 Doge pickup, 1947 dodge 2 door sedan are the first to go. Just sold a 1941 Farmall BN a few days ago.

Letting go is tough but it's going to make me a full timer.

Bummer, Paquette Farmall Tractor Museum is nearby, but think it is closed/out of business.

Discover the Paquette Farmall Tractor Museum in Florida (https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/arts-history-paquette-farmall-tractor-museum/)

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

How about a small pickup, with a trailer for the "equipment"?

That defeats the purpose of having a pickup in the first place. The only stuff we need it for is things like the electric trimmer, bags for brush and hedge trimmings and weeds, toolbox, the stepladder, etc.

[LeRoySmith]

Bummer, Paquette Farmall Tractor Museum is nearby, but think it is closed/out of business.

Discover the Paquette Farmall Tractor Museum in Florida (https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/arts-history-paquette-farmall-tractor-museum/)

We found them in hopes of donating it but they were gone before we got here. Their tractors didn't all go to the same place or we may have tried to follow them. We sold it to a young man that is starting his own collection of Farmalls in Western Carolina.

It was sad to see it go, it's been in my wife's family forever. She mowed the family farm with it starting when she was 10 or 11 years old.

[Topspinmo]

Nope, it's up for sale along with all the other toys. 1950 Doge pickup, 1947 dodge 2 door sedan are the first to go. Just sold a 1941 Farmall BN a few days ago.

Letting go is tough but it's going to make me a full timer.

In few years When koolaid wears off you’ll have regrets :throwtomatoes:

[ColtsFan]

We have 2 cars and a golf cart. I am so glad we have 2 cars because quite often we both might need a car at the same time. I would look for a house that has a 3 car garage plus golf cart garage. They do exist.

[LeRoySmith]

In few years When koolaid wears off you’ll have regrets :throwtomatoes:

I hope not, when did the shine wear off for you and do you have plans to go back to your old life?

I wonder what the rate of people rethinking their decision is and how many stay versus going back home. My wife and I have discussed that possibility and we don't think we'd go back. If we changed our mind I think we would likely go on a different adventure.

[Rwirish]

Those cars simply are not needed.

[PaulWerner]

There are houses here in the villages that have tandem garages that can accommodate up to eight cars.

[westernrider75]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

There are quite a few 3 car garages, even one in our courtyard villa neighborhood, you just have to look. Also you might find a corner lot where a garage could be added on, there is one of those happening in Marsh Bend currently.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I hope not, when did the shine wear off for you and do you have plans to go back to your old life?

I wonder what the rate of people rethinking their decision is and how many stay versus going back home. My wife and I have discussed that possibility and we don't think we'd go back. If we changed our mind I think we would likely go on a different adventure.

Not sure if the poster was talking about you letting your car collection go (my guess)....or TV in general. He can clarify

As far as your question, I’ve followed a lot of your posts and you and your family seem to be making well thought out decisions. It’s not easy, I’m sure, to pack up and leave behind everything you’ve known....to go somewhere else, less known to you...lock, stock and barrel. I’m in the younger demo here, still work, have family/friends up north and still love my life there. Many, not all, choose to split time between both residences. It’s not feasible for some but it’s really the best of both worlds for others. I’ve always enjoyed summers in NH and ME on the lakes and just having that contrast is very important to me and my family. It’s an ongoing topic on this forum. A very personal decision and as long as you stay happy and healthy...whatever your decisions going forward, I for one am rooting for you LeRoy!

[Cliff Fr]

I'm in the same sort of boat, we have a car here and multiple cars, toys and projects up north. We are going to make the transition soon and letting go of all my junk is difficult. I did it once before when I moved from the Midwest to Dallas, they suffer the same dinky garsyndrome there. It stinks at first but after ripping off the bandage its kind of liberating. Now I'm trying to figure out what kind of fun project car I can squeeze in a 2 car garage beside my pickup and golf cart.

88 Fiero formula?

[Minigirl]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

I think it would depend on your planned lifestyle once you move to TV. We bought a two car plus golf cart garage home. We too had multiple vehicles that we drove regularly. For our move, we sold two vehicles and came here with two. We purchased two golf carts after we moved. We are finding that having two cars and two carts is plenty. Plus keeping them in the garage saves them from the Florida sun. We find ourselves driving our carts more than our cars. Most things we need to get to are accessible by cart. I’m sure there is a Corvette club in the villages that you could join. We drive Mini Coopers and quickly found a Villages Mini Club. Good luck with your choices.

[LeRoySmith]

88 Fiero formula?

I had a buddy several years ago that swapped an LS1 into a bright yellow 85 Fiero GT. I loved that car. I had a 99 Miata with a supercharger on it, good times.

[LeRoySmith]

Not sure if the poster was talking about you letting your car collection go (my guess)....or TV in general. He can clarify

As far as your question, I’ve followed a lot of your posts and you and your family seem to be making well thought out decisions. It’s not easy, I’m sure, to pack up and leave behind everything you’ve known....to go somewhere else, less known to you...lock, stock and barrel. I’m in the younger demo here, still work, have family/friends up north and still love my life there. Many, not all, choose to split time between both residences. It’s not feasible for some but it’s really the best of both worlds for others. I’ve always enjoyed summers in NH and ME on the lakes and just having that contrast is very important to me and my family. It’s an ongoing topic on this forum. A very personal decision and as long as you stay happy and healthy...whatever your decisions going forward, I for one am rooting for you LeRoy!

Ah, letting go of the cars will be easy. I've made that transition multiple times in my life and I hope to continue but on a much smaller scale.

We thought we'd like being snowflakes but anytime I'm at home I'm just looking forward to coming back here. Balancing 2 homes isn't what I thought it would be, I think we will go back to having a home base for most of the year and spend the ugly season somewhere else. I'd rather rent a house for a couple of months up north than the other way around (I'm looking forward to a few months in Montana, Idaho, Maine etc. during the hot months - talk about a social wasteland :laugh: that's going to make Lake Denham look like Michigan Ave).

[bowlingal]

keep in mind, if you need to go to a hospital quickly, you will need a car. Anywhere off the villages property, you will need a car. You CAN NOT cross 466, 466A, 44, 301 in a golf cart, let alone drive on them. But, you also do not need 4 cars. If you can't part with them, there are storage facilities available.

[opinionist]

Beware of some "two car" garages in Florida. You may be able to park two cars but getting out of the car can be difficult. Many homes have a combined two car garage and golf cart garage. Plenty of room to park and get out of the car. The golf cart is optional. I don't think more than two cars in TV is needed but if you got lots of money, there are options available.

[Nell57]

We kept the SUV and Corvette.

Agree.
There are 2-3 Corvette Clubs in TV that you may want to check out.
You might initially keep the truck, until you get the house furnished and yard set up the way you want it. After that anything you want to move you can do in the SUV.
This is just the first of many tough decisions.
You won’t need half of all that other stuff you’re thinking about bringing.

[Professor]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

Rented a storage garage for my sports car for the first year or two, then bought a condo on the water for vacation property and got a gargae with it, so now the sports car stays there and my main car stays in The Villages. Truth is, you can only drive one at a time anyway...

[airstreamingypsy]

I pay over $300.00 a month for an SUV and an F-250..... both are older and not worth a lot. Four vehicles would put me in the poor house in Florida.

[Marine1974]

Found you a nice, new resale in Lake Denham with a 4 car garage. If you buy it you can give me a small finders fee. :D

I think it will be on the market for a while. Just my opinion.

Homefinder - The Villages(R) Homes and Villas for Sale (https://www.thevillages.com/homefinder/L60V.32?preowned&status&lng=-81.93728017977564&lat=28.762686441821558&lvl=6)
Is that right $565 a square foot ? Seems high .

[damvillages]

If you find yourself in need of cheaper rental car Turo rents for much cheaper. I had a car last year for $35 a day. It was an older model but in good shape and got us all over.

[G.R.I.T.S.]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

Karma did it for us. One car broke down on a trip back home; didn’t replace it and never regretted it.

[Pat2015]

Same for us.

[Jayhawk]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

Here you go. Multi-car and RV space.


Homefinder - The Villages(R) Homes and Villas for Sale (https://www.thevillages.com/homefinder/L12.2888?new&preowned&pool&map&lng=-81.98019326735313&lat=28.86591360951103&lvl=2)

[Justputt]

We have a midsize crew cab truck (mine), a Jeep Compass (wife's), and an electric cart. While my wife and I travel mostly together, but she likes to do her own thing (usually shopping, cardio-drumming, etc.) in her Jeep and I pass on all of it. We're in the south away from cart accessible reasonably priced shopping and more active areas, so I jump in my truck. The cart is fun when it's not hot, not buggy (e.g. buggy nights), or there's enough cloud cover to limit the direct sun exposure burning me up, but I prefer A/C when driving any significant distance (>20mins via cart). As for TV garages I can only suggest maximum stretch on both length and width if building because our 2 car + cart with a 2' length stretch feels small (someone's door will hit the wall and/or the other vehicle). The garage doors are a bit narrow for my taste. I would definitely downsize to not more than 2 cars, since there's really no need for all-weather vehicles (no snow) or hauling vehicles (yards are generally small, our designer sits on 0.15 acre). If you need to haul anything locally, you can rent a U-Haul pickup from around $20/day. I joked with my wife about trading my truck for a way past mid-life crisis corvette, but they're as wide as my truck and would only save on the length in the garage, and at 6'4" I might not fit it so well, especially when getting out! We're still downsizing out of our much larger home to this 2k sq ft designer, and change is hard but necessary. As I have told my kids, separate "needs" from "wants".

[cwmmfink]

10 years full time. 1 car and 1 cart has worked well for us.

[Nana2Teddy]

Parking on the street is frowned upon, and in some areas not allowed overnight. We live in the City of Wildwood down south of 44 where it’s illegal to park on the street overnight. Most will not park in street during day either because streets are too narrow and there’s no sidewalks so all walking is done in the street. It’s inconsiderate to take up space on the street with a vehicle other than briefly if needed. There are CDD rules as to what you can park in your driveway, so check those out carefully. We have only one vehicle and until recently had only one golf cart, but now have two, one with AC. All fit comfortably in our two car plus golf cart garage. Down south of 44 almost all homes except villas have two car + golf cart sized garages, and there are a handful of four car garages available on Designer or Premier homes only

[TheWarriors]

If you are a car guy or gal, moving here won’t change that desire. It is safe to venture that almost all the people downsizing to one vehicle aren’t car people but rather just view it as transportation. Same analogy as someone that will spend $50. for dinner and someone that won’t spend over $15. They both eat but experiences will differ as well as expectations.

[Deedle]

I guess you will not really know if you need/want to keep all of them until you get here. My husband and I brought an SUV and car with us and have a golf car. However, after living here for 6 months we sold the second car. One car and a golf car are all we need.

[T&SMiller]

You must be looking in the older sections....our village primary has 2 car with a golf cart garage or a 3 car garage. We do have several that have 4 car. Although, my husband and I love cars as well. We have 2 homes with 5 cars total and 3 golf carts, but you do realize that you do not drive much here in the villages- primarily use a golf cart. Most of our cars are for "fun" and not for necessity. You may be able to get an extra tall garage and put a lift in it. There are homes that were custom built that way to accomondate a camper or a lift. But unless you custom build, you will have to search for a pre-owned that has that. Might not be easy. My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

[Dotneko]

A couple of friends have lifts in their garages to stack two cars. Garage needs to be extra height though.
We downsized to one car, one golf cart in out 2car/1 golf cart garage. The golf cart side is where the lawnmower and his other yard stuff lives.

[banjobob]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

One car is all you need most things and activities are golf cart accessible cars only for trips or local errands

[Runway48]

I hope not, when did the shine wear off for you and do you have plans to go back to your old life?

I wonder what the rate of people rethinking their decision is and how many stay versus going back home. My wife and I have discussed that possibility and we don't think we'd go back. If we changed our mind I think we would likely go on a different adventure.

We are also considering moving to TV full time and wonder about the decision. We have also looked at some areas in TN. There they say they see a lot of couples who are looking to leave FL and head more north. They call them Half-Backs. I know we would not move back to LI. It's high on conveniences and medical but ridiculously high on traffic and property taxes.

[JerryLBell]

Went from two cars to one car and one golf cart. In seven years, we've felt a little limited by the lack of a second car perhaps once or twice. Make friends and get to know your neighbors and you can generally give a ride or ask for a ride on such an occasion with no problems.

[LeRoySmith]

We are also considering moving to TV full time and wonder about the decision. We have also looked at some areas in TN. There they say they see a lot of couples who are looking to leave FL and head more north. They call them Half-Backs. I know we would not move back to LI. It's high on conveniences and medical but ridiculously high on traffic and property taxes.

I can tell you from first hand experience that the cost of living and home ownership in East Tennessee is ridiculously low compared to Dallas or The Villages. Annual utilities and property taxes combined on a $400,000 house is less than $4,000.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I can tell you from first hand experience that the cost of living and home ownership in East Tennessee is ridiculously low compared to Dallas or The Villages. Annual utilities and property taxes combined on a $400,000 house is less than $4,000.

Where exactly is that? For a 400K valuation anywhere, 4K for utilities/property taxes all inclusive) seems like the home is a custom or the area is short on services (Police, Fire, DPW, Schools etc) In New England, a seasonal RV site (May to Oct) is around 4K.....

[LeRoySmith]

Where exactly is that? For a 400K valuation anywhere, 4K for utilities/property taxes all inclusive) seems like the home is a custom or the area is short on services (Police, Fire, DPW, Schools etc) In New England, a seasonal RV site (May to Oct) is around 4K.....

It's real, check just outside town near Maryville TN. Utilities are rarely over $120 a month for water, sewer, trash. electric combined (all electric house). $1200 a year for property tax. Schools are pretty good, roads are good county services are ok, very conservative government.

The most sophisticated thing is the local college performing arts center. There is a fairly low ratio of toof to person...

[Topspinmo]

I hope not, when did the shine wear off for you and do you have plans to go back to your old life?

I wonder what the rate of people rethinking their decision is and how many stay versus going back home. My wife and I have discussed that possibility and we don't think we'd go back. If we changed our mind I think we would likely go on a different adventure.

About 7 years for me. Problem for me I can’t buy back what I had due inflated housing market right now.

[Shipping up to Boston]

It's real, check just outside town near Maryville TN. Utilities are rarely over $120 a month for water, sewer, trash. electric combined (all electric house). $1200 a year for property tax. Schools are pretty good, roads are good county services are ok, very conservative government.

The most sophisticated thing is the local college performing arts center. There is a fairly low ratio of toof to person...

Shhhhhhh!!

[Shipping up to Boston]

It's real, check just outside town near Maryville TN. Utilities are rarely over $120 a month for water, sewer, trash. electric combined (all electric house). $1200 a year for property tax. Schools are pretty good, roads are good county services are ok, very conservative government.

The most sophisticated thing is the local college performing arts center. There is a fairly low ratio of toof to person...

That’s amazing. I just looked quickly and I’m most impressed that the majority of residents own their own homes.

[jmaccallum]

We have been here going on 4 years and have a truck - Ford F-150 4x4 4 Door and a Ford Fusion. We also have 2 golf carts. Fusion and 2 golf carts are kept in the 2 car garage. Ford F-150 parks in the driveway. We use the golf carts here 90% of the time. Fusion gets used when wife shops outside the Bubble. Ford F-150, I just can’t let it go - love that truck! :shrug:

[jimjamuser]

I'm in the same sort of boat, we have a car here and multiple cars, toys and projects up north. We are going to make the transition soon and letting go of all my junk is difficult. I did it once before when I moved from the Midwest to Dallas, they suffer the same dinky garage syndrome there. It stinks at first but after ripping off the bandage its kind of liberating. Now I'm trying to figure out what kind of fun project car I can squeeze in a 2 car garage beside my pickup and golf cart.
For a project car......a around 1980 Volvo or Saab would be very narrow and not very long. Plus, it would be very unique and probably a great challenge to find the parts.

[LeRoySmith]

About 7 years for me. Problem for me I can’t buy back what I had due inflated housing market right now.

Oh gosh, if I can go 7 years I'll consider that long term. I have a short attention span. I'd guess in 7 years I'll be ready for a new adventure, maybe much sooner based on the direction our leadership takes.

[jimjamuser]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.
Look into the retirement community north of Crossville, Tn. There is more room for cars and about as much to do as at a single Village here.

[LeRoySmith]

For a project car......a around 1980 Volvo or Saab would be very narrow and not very long. Plus, it would be very unique and probably a great challenge to find the parts.

If this is what you're thinking I can certainly get behind that.

volvo drag car - Google Search (https://www.google.com/search?client=ms-android-tmus-us-revc&sca_esv=74c740cd3a771c52&sca_upv=1&sxsrf=ADLYWIKqAUSqJbVEOcDCZjsk3FZ6Uk611Q:171519019 8816&q=volvo+drag+car&uds=ADvngMhBIBYYlJyAlgv8XZEyQY-ME5Jx6OZRQioyu5pD_fIVuqI9dnSPH-yNn13oYoFLvh6hbvpJQwKmo9xFND0CjkMV097w1IyHQ0pMiudQ 5t8bJzuEidrRCSTDvAMuxDjCs1AQ6zWVL-Lvo6MbD6tyVPN2Iq2sbXTANj3pJslbwIPU3AdUGkhXTuVBaaZ0 yFEYP8G6pgDLKAqVN83ZzYyn1AfFeNOgpiHBQCHzlLMkKSANdS NeDdSi4eQmokpEWVGBvEkWterWSnbmR55Dk29uoB-1YSP1WSP0zPcWkkAoOYq3J3lY5_nICpdngU2Q-hA13FFEJLEQ&udm=2&prmd=isvnbmtz&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjX7pa0zf6FAxXRSjABHdjNDPAQtKgLegQIIxAB&biw=360&bih=670&dpr=3#vhid=k1Ddkan6JfLDyM&vssid=mosaic)

I watched that car ever run at sick week 22 and 23

[jimjamuser]

Plus, if golf cart is gas, it will be noisy, smelly, and needs to be re-fueled from time-to-time.

[jimjamuser]

Is it still a pleasure to get into and out of your low-slung Corvette? Maybe a good one to shift.

And a truck? Unless you plan to run a construction company here I'd sell that one, too.
Another factor to consider is vehicle color. If you are here for the summer, you would want a car, truck, or golf cart to be a light color like white or silver so that you don't burn your hand after the vehicle sits in the sun. Also, something to think about is the degraded vision of the drivers around you in TV Land. Look sometime at a dark green Yamaha golf cart coming toward you from a distance, if they don't have their lights on during the day, they are hard to see. Same thing is true for other dark colors. So, for maximum personal safety, you should plan on not having dark colors and try to have a bright yellow golf cart and a light color car or truck. I know that many people like the looks of a BLACK vehicle, but that can get you hurt in TV Land ----- the land of poor eyesight.
.........If you have a favorite dark color car, maybe paint it a lighter color when you get to The Villages.

[ton80]

I can tell you from first hand experience that the cost of living and home ownership in East Tennessee is ridiculously low compared to Dallas or The Villages. Annual utilities and property taxes combined on a $400,000 house is less than $4,000.

According to TN Comptroller Online info re property taxes indicate that property taxes for Maryville TN area are higher than your quote. Need lots more info to compare to Sumter County unincorporated, Wildwood etc. to your Maryville quote.

Your quote was $4,000 for $400,000 house assessed? or 4/400 or 1%.
For 2022, Maryville town property tax was quoted at 1.5% for City tax and 1.59 % for county for the assessed value. The total is 3.09%.

Now there are undefined tax forgiveness for retired people with income limits.
1. Are you referring to an unincorporated property outside Maryville city limits? County only tax is still 1.59%
2. What is the assessed value of your example property?
3. Does your example benefit from the retirement discount.
4. Utilities are not included in the numbers above. Typical values online suggest energy bill at $138 and water at $43 per month for about $180 per month > $2000 per year.

Your quote of $4000 for property tax and utilities seems much too low.

[jimjamuser]

I hope not, when did the shine wear off for you and do you have plans to go back to your old life?

I wonder what the rate of people rethinking their decision is and how many stay versus going back home. My wife and I have discussed that possibility and we don't think we'd go back. If we changed our mind I think we would likely go on a different adventure.
Some people sell and return north so that they can see the grandchildren often. They thought that the grandkids would often visit The Villages, but as they got older they lost interest. I wonder what the % of people that would apply to.

[jimjamuser]

I hope not, when did the shine wear off for you and do you have plans to go back to your old life?

I wonder what the rate of people rethinking their decision is and how many stay versus going back home. My wife and I have discussed that possibility and we don't think we'd go back. If we changed our mind I think we would likely go on a different adventure.
A big problem with staying here is that the summer heat has increased radically in the last 5 to 8 years. And it is worldwide. Some people actually love 95 degrees with high humidity and no wind. But, for others, not so much. There are so many great activities here, but in the summer, you must switch to indoors in the A/C.

[sdeikenberry]

We've lived in TV for 14 years now, close to Spanish Springs. My wife prefers the car, and she takes it for all her activities. I prefer the golf cart (Yamaha gas) and I take it everywhere. I run two champ golf groups and we play all champ courses in TV...I take my cart regardless of the distance or weather. I like the idea of not dealing with traffic even if it takes me a little longer, and I like having my cart with my stuff as I want it when I golf. I do have a hard side enclosure and luxury seating...I put on over 3500 miles a year in my cart...love it and only take the car when she insists. We have not missed having only one car one iota.

[LeRoySmith]

According to TN Comptroller Online info re property taxes indicate that property taxes for Maryville TN area are higher than your quote. Need lots more info to compare to Sumter County unincorporated, Wildwood etc. to your Maryville quote.

Your quote was $4,000 for $400,000 house assessed? or 4/400 or 1%.
For 2022, Maryville town property tax was quoted at 1.5% for City tax and 1.59 % for county for the assessed value. The total is 3.09%.

Now there are undefined tax forgiveness for retired people with income limits.
1. Are you referring to an unincorporated property outside Maryville city limits? County only tax is still 1.59%
2. What is the assessed value of your example property?
3. Does your example benefit from the retirement discount.
4. Utilities are not included in the numbers above. Typical values online suggest energy bill at $138 and water at $43 per month for about $180 per month > $2000 per year.

Your quote of $4000 for property tax and utilities seems much too low.

I'll send you proof if you will come back here and confirm I'm telling the truth.

[ton80]

I'll send you proof if you will come back here and confirm I'm telling the truth.

I will look at what information and data you send to me and compare it to your original quote and the TN comptroller info. I would need to see what the assessed value is and what if any discounts etc. apply to the taxes.

Same for utilities.

I will respond as to what the data indicates. Does it confirm your original statement and under what conditions or assumptions, etc.

[jimjamuser]

Ah, letting go of the cars will be easy. I've made that transition multiple times in my life and I hope to continue but on a much smaller scale.

We thought we'd like being snowflakes but anytime I'm at home I'm just looking forward to coming back here. Balancing 2 homes isn't what I thought it would be, I think we will go back to having a home base for most of the year and spend the ugly season somewhere else. I'd rather rent a house for a couple of months up north than the other way around (I'm looking forward to a few months in Montana, Idaho, Maine etc. during the hot months - talk about a social wasteland :laugh: that's going to make Lake Denham look like Michigan Ave).
I would prefer Idaho and Montana to northern Maine because Maine is flat with lots of mosquitoes.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I would prefer Idaho and Montana to northern Maine because Maine is flat with lots of mosquitoes.

Maine is flat? Those mountains that I thought I was skiing on must’ve been landfills all these years!

(711 mountains over 1000 feet)

[jimjamuser]

We are also considering moving to TV full time and wonder about the decision. We have also looked at some areas in TN. There they say they see a lot of couples who are looking to leave FL and head more north. They call them Half-Backs. I know we would not move back to LI. It's high on conveniences and medical but ridiculously high on traffic and property taxes.
Tn. has a retirement homes and activities area north of Crossville. You can get bigger lots and about as many activities as one Village here. Good softball facilities in Crossville with some pickleball and tennis. Small, but nice library and a pretty good hospital. Lower cost area than The Villages.

[LeRoySmith]

Tn. has a retirement homes and activities area north of Crossville. You can get bigger lots and about as many activities as one Village here. Good softball facilities in Crossville with some pickleball and tennis. Small, but nice library and a pretty good hospital. Lower cost area than The Villages.

the best part about Crossville is the bigfoot festival and an old girlfriend (and bakery outlet)

[Triker]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

Before moving here the wife and I had a convertible, a SUV, and a full size truck. Sold the convertible and truck before moving down and now have 2 golf cars and the SUV. The first year we were here we put more miles on the two carts than we did on the car.

[bark4me]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.
Well either you have a designer home built with a 4 car garage or find a home with a big enough lot to add a 2, 4 or 6 car garage which there are several done here already.

[huge-pigeons]

Most newer homes have 2.5 car garages. I know of many homes that have 5 and 6 car garages. There’s 1 home for sale that has a 6+ car garage for $3.2M. I know of others with 5 car for < than $1M.
We tried to downsize to 1 car twice, and we were successful for about a year each time. It all depends on what you do, where you live, where you have to go, if you need multiple cars. If you are a homebody and don’t do much, 1 car and 1 golf cart will be fine. But if 1 of you have to go to Spanish springs for a club activity, and your spouse has to go to Sumter at the same time, and you live in sawgrass grove area or soon Eastport, then you will need 2 cars or 1 of you will be in a golf cart for hours a day.
1 more thing to watch out for, depending on where you have to go in the afternoons in the summer, you don’t want to be in a golf cart when there are lightning storms overhead, the golf cart won’t protect you like a car will. We have been spooked a couple of times coming home from golf when lightning is all around us

[Dusty_Star]

I would prefer Idaho and Montana to northern Maine because Maine is flat with lots of mosquitoes.


Maine is flat???!!!???

[LeRoySmith]

I would prefer Idaho and Montana to northern Maine because Maine is flat with lots of mosquitoes.

We've spent time in Utah and Wyoming so I think south east I-da-hoe would be our next stay up that way.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Maine is flat???!!!???

He may be taking topography pointers from Kylie Irving! ;)

[Shipping up to Boston]

He may be taking topography pointers from Kylie Irving! ;)

*Kyrie

[thelegges]

We have the cute sports car, for short driving in and near bubble. A full size 7 passenger SUV, that we use for drive to Gainesville and Disney every 3 weeks. Two golf carts.

We have over size garage with over size golf cart garage. Everything fits with for storage.

We keep a Rover and Jeep at the northern home. When we choose to sell the cabin and family home those cars will go.

[nancyre]

We kept 2 cars because we were both driving and I was working - when he stopped driving 1 car was enough - shipped the second back up north for when we travel.

[mtdjed]

You can easily find a home that can accommodate two cars and a golf cart. We like two cars, a VW golf and a Hyundai Kona and have a golf cart and all fit in our expanded garage.

A couple of thoughts,

MY guess is that most people would prefer to have neighbors that garage their vehicles.

At some point in your life, you have to downsize. When we retired and decided to move to The Villages, we recognized that we did not need a house with 3000 sq ft of living area with 2500 feet of basement and attic space. We were buying a 2000 Sq ft home with little storage. If you have the desire to keep the fleet a can afford a premier home, you might be able to find homes for all.

There is also off-site storage. Best wishes.

[hawthorg]

We will look into the corvette club. One of our other cars is in my man cave and is a 68 Camaro. No time to play with it while I work so I'm looking forward to tinkering once I retire. But the vette and camaro can't be daily cars so I was hoping to hear about a nearby auto hobby and storage place or other ideas. Most just tell us to downsize and dramatically change our lifestyle and goals.

[hawthorg]

Very well said. It seems most folks would frown at a gearhead. One other car I have is a 68 Camaro and that's my tinker and sanity hobby car. Most think I need to give that up if I want to live in TV.

[dpmers]

Our neighbor has 4 cars, one collector kept in the oversize 2 car garage with his riding mower etc. 1 car and 1 pickup in the driveway and the last one in the street. We can hardly see to back out of our garage. He is not violating any rules or laws.

[Papa_lecki]

1 car is fine.
Even if you don’t golf, you can get to most activities via golf cart, car is to get off campus for dinner and maybe groceries.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Very well said. It seems most folks would frown at a gearhead. One other car I have is a 68 Camaro and that's my tinker and sanity hobby car. Most think I need to give that up if I want to live in TV.

‘68 Camaro....that’s a keeper. Don’t get rid of it

[Bay Kid]

Only 1 car here. 3 golf carts.

[Snakster66]

MY guess is that most people would prefer to have neighbors that garage their vehicles.

And why, exactly, would anyone care where their neighbors prefer they keep their vehicle?

[Keninches]

We get along with one car and one cart. It takes some planning at times but we make it work.

But if you want to keep all the toys you just need the right house. There’s a house on Conservation Trail for sale with a 6 car garage.
This house sold for $1.4 mil on 4/24/24

[Packer Fan]

A big problem with staying here is that the summer heat has increased radically in the last 5 to 8 years. And it is worldwide. Some people actually love 95 degrees with high humidity and no wind. But, for others, not so much. There are so many great activities here, but in the summer, you must switch to indoors in the A/C.

Seriously?? What proof do you have of that. We have been down EVERY summmer since 2015 for at least a month (every year longer, 8 weeks this summer) and I sure don't see any difference AT ALL. Nice in the morning, Pool or home by 10-2 or so becuase it gets HOT, and then it rains and the evenings are warm and nice most of the time. I would say that there has been zero change. Kind of like the people who say the hurricane activity is going to increase every year even though it has actually decreased in the past 20 years.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Seriously?? What proof do you have of that. We have been down EVERY summmer since 2015 for at least a month (every year longer, 8 weeks this summer) and I sure don't see any difference AT ALL. Nice in the morning, Pool or home by 10-2 or so becuase it gets HOT, and then it rains and the evenings are warm and nice most of the time. I would say that there has been zero change. Kind of like the people who say the hurricane activity is going to increase every year even though it has actually decreased in the past 20 years.

The same proof he has that the State of Maine is flat! Remember, this forums membership is based on having a temperature and a pulse....it’s not solely based on factual information

[Kenswing]

This house sold for $1.4 mil on 4/24/24
The one I’m referring to is listed now for $3.2M.

[jimjamuser]

Maine is flat? Those mountains that I thought I was skiing on must’ve been landfills all these years!

(711 mountains over 1000 feet)
Sorry, thanks for setting the record straight. I was there about 8 years ago and I seem to remember only flatness and mosquitoes.My bad must have seen some sort of memory malfunction.

[Dusty_Star]

.... It seems most folks would frown at a gearhead. One other car I have is a 68 Camaro and that's my tinker and sanity hobby car. Most think I need to give that up if I want to live in TV.

I don't think so. There are many car clubs in The Villages, where you might find kindred spirits. The issue is the houses, properties, & garages are on the small side. What you might want would take some funds, but you might need to purchase or rent outside of The Villages, somewhere you could store your cars. Moving the current project into the garage as needed.

[ThirdOfFive]

Kept the Rav4 and sold the Ranger...no need for high clearance and 4WD in Florida, at least not to the extent that it was needed back in Minnesota. Odd, though...the car gets very little use. Most of our shopping and recreational travel is done with the golf cart.

Also sold the bike. Had it shipped here and rode it locally for a month before I sold it. Had more close calls here in that month than I had the the previous ten years of riding back in Minnesota...motorcycles and geezers do not belong on the same road.

Gas and insurance bills went down commensurately.,

[Shipping up to Boston]

Kept the Rav4 and sold the Ranger...no need for high clearance and 4WD in Florida, at least not to the extent that it was needed back in Minnesota. Odd, though...the car gets very little use. Most of our shopping and recreational travel is done with the golf cart.

Also sold the bike. Had it shipped here and rode it locally for a month before I sold it. Had more close calls here in that month than I had the the previous ten years of riding back in Minnesota...motorcycles and geezers do not belong on the same road.

Gas and insurance bills went down commensurately.,

That said. How's your experiences been with 'geezers' and golf carts? ;)

[ThirdOfFive]

That said. How's your experiences been with 'geezers' and golf carts? ;)
Sketchy. But carts go (arbitrarily) 20 mph and I did install seat belts on our cart, so the risks are more manageable. There is nothing that tightens the ol' sphincter muscle than being on a bike and having a car driven by an old person scarcely able to see over the steering wheel trying to cut in front of you because she missed her exit.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Sketchy. But carts go (arbitrarily) 20 mph and I did install seat belts on our cart, so the risks are more manageable. There is nothing that tightens the ol' sphincter muscle than being on a bike and having a car driven by an old person scarcely able to see over the steering wheel trying to cut in front of you because she missed her exit.

Thanks for the reply....and the mental image! :a20:

[ohiosbestus]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

They are building new storage facility on Rt 25 which is just past the historical area of the Villages, which you have to take 441/27 to Griffin Road, then turn Left on County Rd 25 go approximately 2 miles and look for an entrance on your left to all the different sized storage sheds, by the way it is my understanding some are air cooled sheds of garages.

[Chuck1674]

Moving in this summer with two cars, two motorcycles, two ebikes, two kayaks and one golf car. Unfortunately, sold the boat, and will sell my enclosed trailer after we finish moving. We have a 2.5 car garage. One car will have to sit in the driveway. I would be willing to find a property and put up a pole barn or metal garage. Maybe just outside of the villages. Maybe six or ten units and rent out cheap, not to make money but just cover expenses. Any suggestions. TIA. Sure would like another boat or maybe a jetski. I need to attract the grandkids. Cheers

[villagetinker]

Moving in this summer with two cars, two motorcycles, two ebikes, two kayaks and one golf car. Unfortunately, sold the boat, and will sell my enclosed trailer after we finish moving. We have a 2.5 car garage. One car will have to sit in the driveway. I would be willing to find a property and put up a pole barn or metal garage. Maybe just outside of the villages. Maybe six or ten units and rent out cheap, not to make money but just cover expenses. Any suggestions. TIA. Sure would like another boat or maybe a jetski. I need to attract the grandkids. Cheers

Good luck with finding a plot of ground anywhere near the villages for a decent price, there are several existing storage facilities that have outdoor, covered, enclosed and A/C storage so one of these may be a short-term alternative. This would give you some time to find a plot of land. Also, with current building codes not sure if you would be able to do a "pole barn" type structure, most of what I see going up is concrete block or concrete panels. You might get lucky and find an existing structure that could work.

[Blueblaze]

Odd that nobody mentioned "Atomic", those little electric cars that look like a smart car and have A/C , but can go on either the street or the golf course. We have an 2-1/2 garage with my wife's SUV for traveling, my Ranger pickup, and a golfcart that mostly just gets used for golf and picking up the mail. If we were forced to get by with just a car and a golf cart, I think the cart would be "Atomic".

[patfla06]

We just went down to 1 car in 2022. Also have 1 golf cart.
During Covid we found we don’t need 2 cars.
Our Son was the happy recipient of one of our SUVs.
Mileage was only 63,000 miles. :wave:

[rjn5656]

we have an suv, 1 toy car (which we don't use a lot), and 2 golf carts.

Be sure to have at least a 2 car garage, and a deep golf cart so you can park both carts in there behind each other.

we drive the carts more than the cars

[Kelevision]

My wife and I have our lifestyle visit starting his week. We noticed most houses have only a 2-car garage. We have several cars, including a corvette, SUV, truck, and commuter sedan. We use them all. So how do we move to TV and not have to buy a 5-car garage (I don't think those even exist)? Did everyone downsize all of their cars, too, in order to move into TV? Or are there some alternatives to reasonably priced storage or extra parking areas? Any good suggestions are appreciated.

I don’t think most people ever had 5 cars to begin with. The only suggestions would be get rid of 3 cars or put them in storage.

[Ignatz]

Odd that nobody mentioned "Atomic", those little electric cars that look like a smart car and have A/C , but can go on either the street or the golf course. We have an 2-1/2 garage with my wife's SUV for traveling, my Ranger pickup, and a golfcart that mostly just gets used for golf and picking up the mail. If we were forced to get by with just a car and a golf cart, I think the cart would be "Atomic".

No thanks. They have absolutely no appeal to us.

To answer OP’s question, we came here with one vehicle. I flew back home to drive her vehicle down here. It basically sat outside in the driveway unused for two months before we had to decide to insure and register it in FL.

Meanwhile we bought our cart and use that for a lot of travel in TV.

Just sold the second vehicle last week.

[hawthorg]

‘68 Camaro....that’s a keeper. Don’t get rid of it

That's why I'm trying to understand the various options around the Villages. I can't be the only guy that has a classic muscle car they like to tinker with.

[Shipping up to Boston]

That's why I'm trying to understand the various options around the Villages. I can't be the only guy that has a classic muscle car they like to tinker with.

You won’t find anything (reasonably priced) thru traditional methods. You gotta get out on the road and cold call existing mom/pop garages/businesses within the radius you’re willing to travel to ....to continue the hobby. It’s not a perfect science but better than attaching yourself to an agent or bigger leasing company.

[Freehiker]

No.