Looking for opinions on the value of moving into a new community, vs. established

[TommyBoy9]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks

[dewilson58]

Good Luck with some of the following posts.

:ho:

[villagetinker]

Tommyboy9, I doubt anyone can answer your question, however think what is important to you and what type of house you are interested in. Then contact both Villages sales agents and MLS agents and see what they have to offer. If you find a home you like go for it. As for meeting people, there are so many activities that you can easily be overwhelmed, so pick a few that you really like and see what develops.

[Stu from NYC]

First rent for a month or more and decide what is best for you as you explore this place.

Conventional wisdom is buy new and your neighbors are your friends as all are looking to make friends.

Buy a resale and not so easy to make friends but do what we did and join lots of clubs and now we go out more evenings than we have ever done before.

[Papa_lecki]

First rent for a month or more and decide what is best for you as you explore this place.

Conventional wisdom is buy new and your neighbors are your friends as all are looking to make friends.

Buy a resale and not so easy to make friends but do what we did and join lots of clubs and now we go out more evenings than we have ever done before.

Not our experience. We bought re-sale, are youngest in the neighboorhood by 10 to 15 years, and made great friends with our neighbors.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Not our experience. We bought re-sale, are youngest in the neighboorhood by 10 to 15 years, and made great friends with our neighbors.

When we bought in the Historic section over 4 years ago we were the youngest in our neighborhood. We're not anymore, because a house sold early last year to someone who is younger than we are now.

When you're looking for people around your age - and you're already 50, and you're moving to a 55+ senior community, then you're going to need to look for people between 55-65. Those are the "young folks" in the community. The 50-year-old single male is an outlier.

In the Historic area, all the people who bought in the late 1970's when THEY were 55, are now either a) close to 100 years old, b) living in assisted living/memory care/a "home", or c) dead. They've been replaced by people who were 55-65 back in the early 2000s. THOSE people are now 75-85 years old, and still going strong for the most part, but some are either b, or c. The ones who are c - their homes are now occupied by people who moved in within the past 10 years, and are around 65 years old, give or take - probably not b, and probably not c.

There's a lot of younger people moving in to the Historic area because EVERYONE eventually dies, and their homes become occupied by the next batch of 55+ homebuyers, usually coming in at the younger side of retirement.

[Bogie Shooter]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks

You have been a member of TOTV a couple months. These questions have been debated to the ninth degree. Try a search on those topics of interest.

[Velvet]

Well, personally, I like to know my neighbors in general. Do I fit in? Some neighbors may sell or pass away but not the whole neighborhood.

I’ve travelled too much in my life since I was a young child, different countries, different languages, different cultures. I’m tired of adjusting all the time. It’s now nice to find my own “tribe” and I did. Very happy.

I guess I’m not into the new areas, I’ve gone down once in 6 years to see and that was enough for the time being.

[Randall55]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? ThanksIt is easy to find friends that share your interests by joining clubs.I believe you will find everyone is friendly no matter which Village you choose. Most of the neighborhoods have planned get togethers and welcome newcomers with open arms. Do a drive by in the neighborhood BEFORE purchasing. Talk to the neighbors and ask questions that concern you. From the get go, you will know if that neighborhood is your perfect fit.

I lived in the south and have returned to the north to be closer to amenities and commercial. I did not enjoy the amount of daily travel required in the south. This may change once Eastport is complete. Do a drive by in the new areas to see all that is available. Keep in mind, it will take several years to attain what is available in the north. Some things planned may never reach fruition. You can't force businesses to open shop. Or, obtain needed professionals from thin air. Especially in the medical field. Do you want to wait? If not, I suggest buying a home north of 44 about 10 miles or so from Eastport. There you will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Be careful.of Villages Sales Reps and outside real estate agents who may blow smoke in your face. Their motive is profit not your well being. Research EVERY area carefully before buying. An example of this is homes in Moultrie Creek. You may be told the homes are selling like hot cakes. But, if you look on VLS and do a drive-by through that area, you will see hundreds of spec homes are sitting. If you buy in a rush, months later, the Developer may slash prices.This happened in Lake Denham and Dabney. Folks who paid $30-50K more than their neighbors are not happy.

Several commercial buildings have been built but are not occupied. RESEARCH and pay careful attention to the surroundings.

[Dilligas]

Your friendships and active life in TV are dependent upon on you…….don’t wait & expect things to happen…..jump in feet first.

[Two Bills]

Rent in different areas for about 6 months.
More haste, less speed.

[Susan1717]

I’d see what squares you enjoy hanging at and live within a short golf cart ride. You certainly don’t want to be 30-40 minutes from any of your favorite things.

[huge-pigeons]

Just the opposite, so much better living south of 44 for many many reasons. Since you are in your 50’s, you will find more people in your age range south of 44 than the other areas combined. Somebody did some statistics on this over a year ago.
Why would you want to move to the north where the houses are old, outdated, no natural gas, horrendous traffic, just to move to shopping? How often are you going to Best Buy or target? Once every 6 months? 441 has been a terrible area to drive thru for years now.
I know people that have moved to an established area and were treated like outcasts because of existing clicks that have been established. They moved to a brand new area where everybody else was looking for friends and had no existing groups.
Where we live, we have around 50-60 pickleball courts in a couple mile radius, where we play 95% of the time. We belong to many different pb groups, card groups, and other sport groups down south of 44. Now with Bexley bridge open and golf cart paths open to go to any of the southern golf courses in a few minutes, along with TV building 5 or 6 more golf courses down there, the need to go up north is waning

[Markus]

Honestly you won't know unless you go into a neighborhood and physically meet people living there. We wondered the same thing. We bought a brand new Courtyard Villa in Lake Denham and just moved in a week ago. We met the neighbors next door on day two. Last night we met 3 other neighbors and all are very friendly. Two weeks ago our little neighborhood had a block party that we just missed.

[La lamy]

I'm in my 50s and in the historic section. I love the well established area. Mature nature is important to me, but it might not be to you. I love to work on my home so being near Home Depot is a must to me, might not be to you. I love advanced pickleball play and my home courts have more advanced play in early morning most of the time. Otherwise, it's easy to go to afternoon dedicated reserved advanced groups. Again, you have to decide what's important to you. Good luck and enjoy!

[mrf0151]

I do recall all the whining and crying about when are the convenient services coming to the Finney and Marsh Bend area. When those homes sold those folks had to wait for years for a Publix, restaurant, gas station, bank, etc. to be built. For the first few years it may feel like you are living out in western Kansas.
Living closer to 466 or 466A you really want for nothing as you have huge selection of retail store of every type and lots of restaurant choices. Easy to fuel and bank.
Buying new you will be dealing with a more expensive home, not to mention the massive bond to pay. Quiet possibly your property taxes will be higher as some areas you also pay city tax on top of the county.

[bowlingal]

Be aware of high bonds ,taxes, the prison in the newer areas. Also check out the Daily Sun and see how many resales there are in the southern section . Must be a reason why??

[LarryL]

I agree. However, You will find more pools and golf courses between 466 and 466a.

[MandoMan]

It is easy to find friends that share your interests by joining clubs.I believe you will find everyone is friendly no matter which Village you choose. Most of the neighborhoods have planned get togethers and welcome newcomers with open arms. Do a drive by in the neighborhood BEFORE purchasing. Talk to the neighbors and ask questions that concern you. From the get go, you will know if that neighborhood is your perfect fit.

I lived in the south and have returned to the north to be closer to amenities and commercial. I did not enjoy the amount of daily travel required in the south. This may change once Eastport is complete. Do a drive by in the new areas to see all that is available. Keep in mind, it will take several years to attain what is available in the north. Some things planned may never reach fruition. You can't force businesses to open shop. Or, obtain needed professionals from thin air. Especially in the medical field. Do you want to wait? If not, I suggest buying a home north of 44 about 10 miles or so from Eastport. There you will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Be careful.of Villages Sales Reps and outside real estate agents who may blow smoke in your face. Their motive is profit not your well being. Research EVERY area carefully before buying. An example of this is homes in Moultrie Creek. You may be told the homes are selling like hot cakes. But, if you look on VLS and do a drive-by through that area, you will see hundreds of spec homes are sitting. If you buy in a rush, months later, the Developer may slash prices.This happened in Lake Denham and Dabney. Folks who paid $30-50K more than their neighbors are not happy.

Several commercial buildings have been built but are not occupied. RESEARCH and pay careful attention to the surroundings.

You make good points. However, I know several still-working couples who have purchased in new developments, where everyone is new, and there is definitely a tendency for all these new people to make new neighborhood friends and throw get-togethers in a way I haven’t seen elsewhere. They may have twenty or thirty people show up. They borrow tools from each other and help each other with repairs. I’m shy, single, and divorced, and I have no neighborhood friends at all. Even in new neighborhoods, some couples are leery of single guy neighbors. I have lots of acquaintances I see at rec centers, but we don’t get together elsewhere. It’s nice to have some human contact, though.

[Raywatkins]

We are Brits and can only be here for 6 months a year. We bought just by Glenview CC.
We have great neighbours and they are always so pleased when we get back. They are of mixed ages - but we have some great times together. So integrating into a community is probably not your biggest issue. Like Villagetinker said look at what interests you and where those interests are most likely to be served. We found our bit of paradise where we bought. Nobody can say where yours will be. But the advice to rent for a month is sound. Have a good look around first. Good luck and hope you find your bit of paradise.

[motherflippinpicker]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks

Hi. We just went through this process. For us, insurance was an issue with the preexisting homes. Two sales fell through due to insurance. We really wanted to be in the North because of everything already established.

Now that we are in the South, I can't imagine being anywhere else because everyone is new and making friends and the social events are non stop. We also have 3 rec centers within 1 mile. We love it here and are so happy.

With that said, you'll know where you're meant to be eventually. It took us 15 months and countless visits before we felt ready to make an offer on anything. Good luck!

[Villagesgal]

You can make friends anywhere you move in the Villages. Homes north of even 466 are turning over quickly as original owners are leaving for back home and assisted living and new young people in their 59s and 60s are moving in, all looking for new friends. Find a house you love at a price you're ok with and you’ll be happy anywhere in the Villages, but keep in mind all the amenities are in North of 44, not yet so for the areas south.

[Ptmcbriz]

We moved into the new area where there is A LOT of younger neighbors. Seeing anyone 75+ is not the norm down here. In a new neighborhood everyone is looking to establish new friends. Our next door neighbors lived within walking distance of Sumter Landing and sold their house to move south of 44 in a new neighborhood because all their neighbors didn’t want to do anything after 7PM, no driveway parties, rarely went out, not that physically active. They found exactly what they were looking for in the new area and we are so happy living in Hawkins. The key when you move in is to have driveway parties (a version of cocktail hour) to meet your neighbors and get to know them. Form groups for your interests (Golf, pickleball, cards, etc) and put a flyer on your immediate neighbors within the block to sign up to the group. The ladies formed a group of 18 women on a WhatsApp group for monthly Luncheons. We have cards every Wednesday night at rotating homes, Samba every two weeks in rotating homes, water aerobics in the backyard pool twice a week, Bunco once a month in rotating homes, men have a gathering twice a month at different bars or restaurants in the evening, and many other events.

[jrref]

Another thing to think about is in the newer areas, couples mostly buy. You probably won't find a lot of singles. Also the bonds and taxes are significantly higher in the newer areas.

At the end of the day, getting your neighbors to be social friends is hit-or-miss, but you will find the friends and networks you do make will be through the clubs and activities you join. And don't worry about homes without natural gas. No loss since gas is not that cheap anymore and your HVAC runs on electric using a heat pump technology. If you like cooking with gas get a convection stove. Basically the same results without the fumes, etc...

[coleprice]

Golfers shopping for homes in The Villages should NOT purchase a New Home in the Southern Areas, which lack enough Executive Golf Courses. Rather, they should buy a pre-owned home in the Middle or Northern areas which have plenty of Executive golf courses nearby. Also, the Bond is usually paid off on homes in the North and Middle areas, plus you are MUCH CLOSER to Shopping & Restaurants and the landscaping, along with other improvements have been added. Make sure that you include the cost of the BOND when shopping for a home in The Villages, because it is DEBT that you will be assuming that is over and above the purchase price when you buy your home.

[Pat2015]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks
If I was just coming to TV in the next year as a 50 something single female, I’d be buying a new home in the Eastport area as that’s going to be the place to be! It’s going to be an exciting and beautiful new square there. Good luck in your search!

[sallyg]

We lived in the Historic and the (what was) the newest section south of 44. There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to both. You will make friends wherever you live, esp if you are active and involved in any of the clubs, play golf, volleyball etc. It appeared to us the facilities - pools, pickleball courts, various classes were all very crowded in the southern villages - much more so than the older northern facilities. Best advice - rent before you buy.

[MSGirl]

Just the opposite, so much better living south of 44 for many many reasons. Since you are in your 50’s, you will find more people in your age range south of 44 than the other areas combined. Somebody did some statistics on this over a year ago.
Why would you want to move to the north where the houses are old, outdated, no natural gas, horrendous traffic, just to move to shopping? How often are you going to Best Buy or target? Once every 6 months? 441 has been a terrible area to drive thru for years now.
I know people that have moved to an established area and were treated like outcasts because of existing clicks that have been established. They moved to a brand new area where everybody else was looking for friends and had no existing groups.
Where we live, we have around 50-60 pickleball courts in a couple mile radius, where we play 95% of the time. We belong to many different pb groups, card groups, and other sport groups down south of 44. Now with Bexley bridge open and golf cart paths open to go to any of the southern golf courses in a few minutes, along with TV building 5 or 6 more golf courses down there, the need to go up north is waning

I bought new in an established Village. For me, I love that the amenities were built first, houses after. The landscape north of 44 with the established golf courses is absolutely beautiful. Easy access ability by golf cart was also important to me. And all the pools found between 466 and 44. Regarding people, cliques form wherever you go. I found if you want to join a golf group, you’re very welcome if they have spots and they usually do. It’s not all about the shopping. But it sure is nice to have access a grocery store close by for a quick stop. Come down and you will get the feel of the entire area. Your gut will let you know what’s best for you. And you will love it here regardless.

[MollyJo]

Look for the perfect house, bigger garage if you need storage. Do you want a fenced backyard? Do you like open spaces for walking/jogging/bike riding? How often do you need to shop? Are you a golfer? The socializing will come thru your activities & clubs you are interested in. Take your time deciding. Good luck.

[Boilerman]

Here’s my advice:

- You can make friends easily living anywhere. If you buy in an established area and the neighborhood is not so active, the clubs you join, including some huge singles clubs, will give you ample social opportunities.

- Don’t believe the sales hype in the new area that the commercial development is anytime soon. It’ll take 10 years for shopping and restaurants to be developed to look anything like what it is north of 44.

- Most amenities and entertainment is north. Medical offices, big box stores, theaters (Savanna, The Sharon, movie theaters), most golf courses are all a long drive from the new area. Yes with the bridges open you can drive in your golf cart to many of these but only if you don’t mind daily 40 minute one way rides.

- Rent for several months before you buy. No hurry, they’re not running out of new or pre owned houses.

[LoisR]

Want to travel for groceries, house needs, Dr appts., other shopping, banks, gas, golf, etc. Then buy new.
Be smart. Buy "old "

[LucyP]

Do a Life Style stay 7 days. Get an idea what we are about. Many singles living here and clubs. What activities are you interested in? Pickle ball, golf, dancing…. South is setup different from other areas. Check all town squares, Sawgrass and Edna’s in Green for entertainment and shops. Down load The Village appt will help. I’m single but like North of 466 then a good friend lived in Fenney she loves it there. My TV realtor Chris Smith , he very helpful, I lived out of town gave him information what I was looking for. Reach him 352-391-3587.
MLS listing you would need outside realtor from TV ones. Very different here. Turn key home is with furniture. There are Bonds in home you need to look at too. My had none left since older home. The TV app. you start looking at homes too.

[Normal]

New appearance and emotional attachment to a home only lasts so long, but the house needs little maintenance if you buy new. My question is why even buy? Rent for a while, house prices are almost at their implosion point in the market. Pick something up for 20% less in six months?

[ElDiabloJoe]

I cannot believe that three pages into this thread, and no one has suggested the OP watch Rusty Nelson's YouTube videos - specifically the one linked below (and it's part II) about being single in The Villages. Rusty is in your same shoes, a single guy in The Villages. The singles club is less about making matches into couples and more about singles getting together to do things where they don't feel like a third wheel. Hope this helps!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKGmRdMzvCg

[Switter]

Just the opposite, so much better living south of 44 for many many reasons. Since you are in your 50’s, you will find more people in your age range south of 44 than the other areas combined. Somebody did some statistics on this over a year ago.
Why would you want to move to the north where the houses are old, outdated, no natural gas, horrendous traffic, just to move to shopping? How often are you going to Best Buy or target? Once every 6 months? 441 has been a terrible area to drive thru for years now.
I know people that have moved to an established area and were treated like outcasts because of existing clicks that have been established. They moved to a brand new area where everybody else was looking for friends and had no existing groups.
Where we live, we have around 50-60 pickleball courts in a couple mile radius, where we play 95% of the time. We belong to many different pb groups, card groups, and other sport groups down south of 44. Now with Bexley bridge open and golf cart paths open to go to any of the southern golf courses in a few minutes, along with TV building 5 or 6 more golf courses down there, the need to go up north is waning

I am 58 and live in the far north (Woodbury). I have natural gas. I don't at all feel like an outcast in my neighborhood (although I am younger than most here). Within a couple weeks of moving here I got invited to coffee with a some of the neighbors and everybody I've met so far has been super friendly. Maybe I got lucky.

The houses are older up here but mine was built in 2002. The only people I've ever heard who think that's "old" for a house are people from The villages. It's actually the newest house I've ever owned. My pervious houses were built in the 1930s, 1917, and 1986 respectively.

As for traffic, I find traffic gets worse as you go south of me. North of 466 it's nothing. Hwy 441 has its busy times but it's nothing like Orlando or other major metropolitan/suburban areas. After 7 PM it's practically empty. It's only bad down by Leesburg because of all the construction. That said, all the stores are north of that anyway.

I guess it's all a matter of preference but I much prefer it north of 466. Less traffic, a ton of mature oak trees that shade the multimodal paths, fewer airbnb's and rentals (from what I understand), and it is much quieter up here.

Opinions on this are gonna be all over the map. There are just way too many variables at play.

[juddfl]

My husband and I moved to a new development in Oct. of 2001. I was 51 years old and wanted to meet the neighbors. We got the house together and in Dec., I put an invitation on the door of each neighbor inviting them to a, "Meet your new neighbors" gathering. It was just supposed to be appetizers and drinks. So many of the neighbors brought wine and food. We had a great time getting to know each other. It was the best way to meet your neighbors. My husband passed away and I couldn't ask for better neighbors. They were there for his service and to help me in any way that they could. If you move into a new development everyone is looking to meet their neighbors.

[Normal]

There are currently about 1500 new and used homes for sale. There are also many, many, many rentals. Take your time moving through the weeds to find the perfect nest. Temporary stays in rentals should give you a good idea of your place here.

[craarmy]

You can meet people anywhere you live. After joining a few activities you will probably be running around the Villages. Does it have a bond payment with the house? Inferstructure down south is alot higher. Have heard sometimes the bond is almost as much as the morgauge. Add in insurance and amedities. Some people moving south are moving again because they can't afford it.

Living south of 44, you have to travel north for most of your shopping and eating. Living up by the historical side or around 466 or 466A you have more shopping and eating places closer by to choose from. South of 44 it seems more like the houses are rubber stamped, track housing, no varity. North off 44 more vegatation around the houses, more space between the house in certain areas. Broaden your horizon in what your looking for, for now and the future.

[mikemalloy]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks
We moved into Lake Deaton when it was a new neighborhood and got to meet others like outselves new to the area. We moved a couple of years ago to St. John's but have still kept in touch with our "old" friends while we've met new ones in our neighborhood.
Amenities are important to many especially those younger. It appears to me that there are few in the area of Lake Denham and Dabney. On the other hand, eventually there will be a number of choices below the turnpike. That area may be best for you.

[Shipping up to Boston]

Good Luck with some of the following posts.

:ho:

:1rotfl:

[Stu from NYC]

New appearance and emotional attachment to a home only lasts so long, but the house needs little maintenance if you buy new. My question is why even buy? Rent for a while, house prices are almost at their implosion point in the market. Pick something up for 20% less in six months?

Wow that is some crystal ball you must have. Can you also predict the weather?

[Marmaduke]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks
In going to be boldly honest about our FIRST HAND experience. We bought btw 466 &466a because we liked the house, the street, the Rec Ctrs and other established Amenities.

Here's what we have found with old and established... as opposed to New Construction, which we are very familiar with, from our past:

We had a $$$Home Inspection done, which was recommended by a Village Top Seller salesperson.

Now, we get it, he wasn't going to be a DEAL BREAKER, so he told us everything was A-OK, almost perfect!
Not at all true.

Were going on our 3rd year...
•Roof had to be replaced to get Insurance
•Hot water tank had to be replaced, as others all around us were beginning to fail.
• HVAC REPLACED after several service calls, due to system fails

The neighbors are just okay...but we've adjusted right from the start.

They are older, have been there and done it all, so the proverbial statements prevail...
Ohhh, it's so____, so we don't do that anymore. (FILL in the blanks.) Etc.

Here's what we've found with established neighbors in OUR otherwise lovely established neighborhood, to be truthful.

They're old, and REALLY act like it.
Please don't shoot the truth teller.
NOW, does it matter to us?
Not really, but we'd much rather place ourselves around vibrant, happy people.

We join the neighbors in their driveway to sit out and the social time is spent talking about their medical conditions and frailities.
I world much rather hear about a nice club, a good restaurant, recent experience, a Florida treasure, a fun town, than stories about doctors. OMG.

Now, we take Full Responsibility because we've been coming to TV to visit friends for many years, so we saw this pattern with people, as they age out of doing Fun Stuff.
I'd Buy a New Constuction in a N.Y. Minute, If I had it to do over again. The Village Developers are so Awesome, they will catch it up with Shopping, dining, Amenities. You have the time to be in the ground floor. YOU'LL love it!!
Good Luck to you!!
* I waited...to write this to you because the established TOTV readers usually read this site with their morning coffee... so we're past that period.
I didn't want to hear a lot of... well, if you dislike your neighbors so much- move statements.
It's not 'dislike', it's more that we're where they were 10-20 years ago... enjoying early retirement and having fun.
(Don't mean to insult anyone. )

[Shipping up to Boston]

Choosing neighbors/neighborhoods is not easy anywhere. There’s enough on here for you to digest so I guess my only constructive advice is....if you can identify them, stay away from those that tell you not to move to a neighborhood who’s 20 year neighbor (USP Coleman) has been housed long before TV developed their side of the acreage. Your a younger guy, I think you understand my point!

[Velvet]

In going to be boldly honest about our FIRST HAND experience. We bought btw 466 &466a because we liked the house, the street, the Rec Ctrs and other established Amenities.

Here's what we have found with old and established... as opposed to New Construction, which we are very familiar with, from our past:

We had a $$$Home Inspection done, which was recommended by a Village Top Seller salesperson.

Now, we get it, he wasn't going to be a DEAL BREAKER, so he told us everything was A-OK, almost perfect!
Not at all true.

Were going on our 3rd year...
•Roof had to be replaced to get Insurance
•Hot water tank had to be replaced, as others all around us were beginning to fail.
• HVAC REPLACED after several service calls, due to system fails

The neighbors are just okay...but we've adjusted right from the start.

They are older, have been there and done it all, so the proverbial statements prevail...
Ohhh, it's so____, so we don't do that anymore. (FILL in the blanks.) Etc.

Here's what we've found with established neighbors in OUR otherwise lovely established neighborhood, to be truthful.

They're old, and REALLY act like it.
Please don't shoot the truth teller.
NOW, does it matter to us?
Not really, but we'd much rather place ourselves around vibrant, happy people.

We join the neighbors in their driveway to sit out and the social time is spent talking about their medical conditions and frailities.
I world much rather hear about a nice club, a good restaurant, recent experience, a Florida treasure, a fun town, than stories about doctors. OMG.

Now, we take Full Responsibility because we've been coming to TV to visit friends for many years, so we saw this pattern with people, as they age out of doing Fun Stuff.
I'd Buy a New Constuction in a N.Y. Minute, If I had it to do over again. The Village Developers are so Awesome, they will catch it up with Shopping, dining, Amenities. You have the time to be in the ground floor. YOU'LL love it!!
Good Luck to you!!
* I waited...to write this to you because the established TOTV readers usually read this site with their morning coffee... so we're past that period.
I didn't want to hear a lot of... well, if you dislike your neighbors so much- move statements.
It's not 'dislike', it's more that we're where they were 10-20 years ago... enjoying early retirement and having fun.
(Don't mean to insult anyone. )

You certainly have lucked into a lousy neighborhood, and that is why you should get to know your neighbors before you move in. When you have an emergency or need something it isn’t your pickleball club etc from the rec center that is going to come and help you. It’s going to be the people next door. You better get to know them.

[daldredge]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks

Go to the area where you enjoy your surroundings, the “atmosphere.” We don’t own there but have been renting for years. We always rent in the Lake Sumter area bc we love the beauty of the mature trees and other vegetation. Spanish Springs is lovely too. Last year we took a tour south of Brownwood and it was like a different world. I’m sure you have or will see what I am talking about.You will make friends wherever you settle.

[Papa_lecki]

New appearance and emotional attachment to a home only lasts so long, but the house needs little maintenance if you buy new. My question is why even buy? Rent for a while, house prices are almost at their implosion point in the market. Pick something up for 20% less in six months?

Or, in january, interest rates drop and prices don’t drop

[Velvet]

Go to the area where you enjoy your surroundings, the “atmosphere.” We don’t own there but have been renting for years. We always rent in the Lake Sumter area bc we love the beauty of the mature trees and other vegetation. Spanish Springs is lovely too. Last year we took a tour south of Brownwood and it was like a different world. I’m sure you have or will see what I am talking about.You will make friends wherever you settle.

Not necessarily. I know of two people who have been run out of their neighborhood in The Villages, one was in the historic area and she moved to the very north part. The other one, actually a couple, was in the north west area of the Villages and that family moved to Mallory. I think it was how they treated their dogs because we saw it at Mallory too. But ours is a different neighborhood and after months of “gentle nudging” by neighbors they started to fit in. Everyone’s back to being content again. They are now invited to all the socials etc.

[sdeikenberry]

North of 466, and to some extent north of 466A, there is no bond to worry about on the property. Def south of 44 all homes have bonds to pay also, plus you'll either be in Wildwood or Lady Lake jurisdiction and have to pay city tax in addition to county tax. Amenities like shopping, grocery, and restaurants will be slow to come way south because entities wait until there is sufficient population to support them investing themselves. The amenities like golf, rec centers, etc., will be in place when they start selling homes. If you want mature landscaping and areas with good growth of community landscaping you'll want to consider north of 44. South you'll have far less large mature landscaping and a lot of new homes will have very basic landscaping, which will be an additional cost to you if you want to upgrade. I live near Spanish Springs and have every shopping entity I need within a 10 minute golf cart ride, with grocery, pharmacy, and restaurants within 3-4 mins by golf cart. You'll find the majority of golf courses north of 44 also if golf is a strong interest of yours. Same for entertainment venues. The reason to move south is because you just want a new home...otherwise consider looking in the more mature areas north of 466A. As far as meeting people and gaining friends, I think anywhere you move in The Villages you'll find people you can associate with...we're all very friendly here for the most part.

[Normal]

Or, in january, interest rates drop and prices don’t drop

For sure drops can happen either way. Home price drops could be gradual in a month or two. An interest rate cut by the Fed could be immediate or next Spring.

[Normal]

Wow that is some crystal ball you must have. Can you also predict the weather?

Moodys housing market analytics, integration of FRED stats, inventory and the compressed aggregation of US Treasury bills vs Fed lending rates with broader payroll data all help model pricing moves.

Anyone that tells you the market is going to be better in six months is a liar. Note Tampa and the Miami Lauderdale market problems. Other negative impacts on our Florida market are the condo and insurance issues.

It ain’t gettin any sweeter anytime soon.

Maybe you should buy right now? I’ll bet almost all say ,”NO”

In fact EVERYONE’S crystal ball should say,”Now is not the time to sell or buy..”

[Pairadocs]

Tommyboy9, I doubt anyone can answer your question, however think what is important to you and what type of house you are interested in. Then contact both Villages sales agents and MLS agents and see what they have to offer. If you find a home you like go for it. As for meeting people, there are so many activities that you can easily be overwhelmed, so pick a few that you really like and see what develops.

Totally agree with this post. Others can only offer suggestions, but bottom line, only you can really decide. Existing homes have many advantages (just had dinner with a real estate agent friend last week who related the enormous cost of bonds on the new homes, but to many this is of no concern). We found a new home had a long list of expenditures that are not always considered, just small things like additional shelving, knee walls or enclosed lanai's, driveway additions, landscaping over and above the minimum of a new model, and much more. Some will advise a new home in a new village for neighbor's of similar age; but that is often misleading too. Many existing homes in older neighborhoods have changed metrics, plus, NEVER buy a home due to the neighbors/neighborhood, can change totally in a matter of months. Go with the "when I see it I'll know it's the one for me". So many groups and activities for socializing, I'd advise you not rely on that as a major variable, go more on your interests: travel, golf, scuba, tennis, photography, ballroom dance, or softball to name a TINY few. Changes are your social life will revolve around your interests not your address, but by posting you will certainly get enough replies to confuse you...LOL !

[Velvet]

Totally agree with this post. Others can only offer suggestions, but bottom line, only you can really decide. Existing homes have many advantages (just had dinner with a real estate agent friend last week who related the enormous cost of bonds on the new homes, but to many this is of no concern). We found a new home had a long list of expenditures that are not always considered, just small things like additional shelving, knee walls or enclosed lanai's, driveway additions, landscaping over and above the minimum of a new model, and much more. Some will advise a new home in a new village for neighbor's of similar age; but that is often misleading too. Many existing homes in older neighborhoods have changed metrics, plus, NEVER buy a home due to the neighbors/neighborhood, can change totally in a matter of months. Go with the "when I see it I'll know it's the one for me". So many groups and activities for socializing, I'd advise you not rely on that as a major variable, go more on your interests: travel, golf, scuba, tennis, photography, ballroom dance, or softball to name a TINY few. Changes are your social life will revolve around your interests not your address, but by posting you will certainly get enough replies to confuse you...LOL !

You know that I disagree. The person who will give you a ride if you need it to the bus depot is not going to be the guy you played water volleyball with. It’s going to be the lady next door. The person who lends you a part to your AC in an emergency is not going to be your pickle ball buddy, but the guy across the street. The person who brings you the AED should something happen, my husband needed it at age 62 when he had never had any health issues to that day, is going to be the closest neighbor who has one. And so on. A few neighbors may change but not your whole street in your life time.

[Stu from NYC]

Moodys housing market analytics, integration of FRED stats, inventory and the compressed aggregation of US Treasury bills vs Fed lending rates with broader payroll data all help model pricing moves.

Anyone that tells you the market is going to be better in six months is a liar. Note Tampa and the Miami Lauderdale market problems. Other negative impacts on our Florida market are the condo and insurance issues.

It ain’t gettin any sweeter anytime soon.

Maybe you should buy right now? I’ll bet almost all say ,”NO”

In fact EVERYONE’S crystal ball should say,”Now is not the time to sell or buy..”

I can see housing prices drop some more but not as much as your prediction. Happy in house and see no reason to buy another one

[END OTT]

Good Luck with some of the following posts.

:ho:

I noticed that no one mention location of Orlando or the Orlando airport. probably 20-25 miles closer south of 44 or Warm Springs

[Oneiric]

You will easily make numerous friends in The Villages wherever you live. More important that you like your house and its location, the older areas being closer to businesses which you will use. Since you are in your 50's, you may be able to wait the 10+ years for major stores below the turnpike. It took 5 years just to get a gas station at Magnolia Plaza.

[Altavia]

Plenty of good, fun people here. Everybody has an interesting life story.

Suggest to be careful building your social circle around neighbors.

I've seen several instances where the entire neighborhood were good buddies, then some start getting too much in your business, feelings get hurt, things get nasty and people have to move.

[JMintzer]

First rent for a month or more and decide what is best for you as you explore this place.

Conventional wisdom is buy new and your neighbors are your friends as all are looking to make friends.

Buy a resale and not so easy to make friends but do what we did and join lots of clubs and now we go out more evenings than we have ever done before.

I'll be your friend, Stu...:p

[JMintzer]

Not our experience. We bought re-sale, are youngest in the neighboorhood by 10 to 15 years, and made great friends with our neighbors.

While not the same age difference, we also had no problems making friends in our (re-sale) home...

Of course, it's my wife who is the social director, so she meets our new neighbors first (probably a good thing...:o)

[JMintzer]

Just the opposite, so much better living south of 44 for many many reasons. Since you are in your 50’s, you will find more people in your age range south of 44 than the other areas combined. Somebody did some statistics on this over a year ago.
Why would you want to move to the north where the houses are old, outdated, no natural gas, horrendous traffic, just to move to shopping? How often are you going to Best Buy or target? Once every 6 months? 441 has been a terrible area to drive thru for years now.
I know people that have moved to an established area and were treated like outcasts because of existing clicks that have been established. They moved to a brand new area where everybody else was looking for friends and had no existing groups.
Where we live, we have around 50-60 pickleball courts in a couple mile radius, where we play 95% of the time. We belong to many different pb groups, card groups, and other sport groups down south of 44. Now with Bexley bridge open and golf cart paths open to go to any of the southern golf courses in a few minutes, along with TV building 5 or 6 more golf courses down there, the need to go up north is waning

So much incorrect information in that post...

But let the North/South bashing begin!

[JMintzer]

You make good points. However, I know several still-working couples who have purchased in new developments, where everyone is new, and there is definitely a tendency for all these new people to make new neighborhood friends and throw get-togethers in a way I haven’t seen elsewhere. They may have twenty or thirty people show up. They borrow tools from each other and help each other with repairs. I’m shy, single, and divorced, and I have no neighborhood friends at all. Even in new neighborhoods, some couples are leery of single guy neighbors. I have lots of acquaintances I see at rec centers, but we don’t get together elsewhere. It’s nice to have some human contact, though.

We have those same block parties monthly in my village just north of 44... My neighbor across the street and another down the street have loaned me tools and offered to help with my DYI projects...

People are people where ever you go...

[frayedends]

So much incorrect information in that post...

But let the North/South bashing begin!

I call this the war of Northern aggression.

[Shipping up to Boston]

So much incorrect information in that post...

But let the North/South bashing begin!

Not the old North v South historical battles either. It's now shrunk to a North of 44 v South of 44 geographical one. Phew!

[TommyBoy9]

Thanks for all the great info - lots of good points. I have lots of interests, so I expect i'll get to know folks through various activities. Plus I have a very good friend who already lives there. I agree with some that in a pinch its your close neighbors that might be the most 'useful', or that I might be the most useful to; plus its them that you do the impromptu driveway happy hours with, and the ones that watch you house while your away. So great neighbors are important. Its a good suggestion to make a point to actually meet them prior to buying.

I have visited TV twice, for a total of ~9 days. Plus I am a native Floridian who went to the Mid-east for a few decades for career/family/divorce, but is ready to return to the more care-free Fl lifestyle. So I have a good feel for what I'm getting in to. I am working with a TV realtor. At this point, thanks to your inputs, I think i'm as torn between the North/South, new-neighborhood/old, as much as before. ...Heh. No knock on your comments, but they seem to balance each other out pretty well. It'll likely come down to the first house I find that meets my requirements. But your opinions helps solidify that decision!

I'm not sure if it's the couple White Russians I've had (my current drink of choice), the fantastic weather I am experiencing here in NVa right now, your great responses, or what, but I'm super pumped to get down there and start having some fun with you folks! Thks again for sharing your opinions. Hope to see you later this year

[JMintzer]

I call this the war of Northern aggression.

Except the poster to whom I responded to was from the south, bashing the north...

[JMintzer]

Not the old North v South historical battles either. It's now shrunk to a North of 44 v South of 44 geographical one. Phew!

And just like the old war, I'm right on the border, living just north of 44 in TV (my home in MD is just outside of DC, which is actually south of the Mason-Dixon line).

[Stu from NYC]

Except the poster to whom I responded to was from the south, bashing the north...

Minor detail. lol

[buzzy]

///////////////

[HIgolfers]

You certainly have lucked into a lousy neighborhood, and that is why you should get to know your neighbors before you move in. When you have an emergency or need something it isn’t your pickleball club etc from the rec center that is going to come and help you. It’s going to be the people next door. You better get to know them.

And how exactly do you do that?

[wamley]

Learn to play, if you don't know already, pickleball, softball and golf. You'll do great.

[Velvet]

And how exactly do you do that?

I spent time at the neighborhood pool talking to the residents. Talked to people walking around with or without their dogs, in the neighborhood. Asked around. Watched and observed. I got a good sense of what kind of people lived around, and their politics (I don’t take sides) the kind of work they retired from, and a bit of their values, their favorite activities etc. For example, we have almost no “swingers”. We do have one couple but they are super discreet. We have singles but “not looking” types and mostly happily married couples.

[Shipping up to Boston]

I spent time at the neighborhood pool talking to the residents. Talked to people walking around with or without their dogs, in the neighborhood. Asked around. Watched and observed. I got a good sense of what kind of people lived around, and their politics (I don’t take sides) the kind of work they retired from, and a bit of their values, their favorite activities etc. For example, we have almost no “swingers”. We do have one couple but they are super discreet. We have singles but “not looking” types and mostly happily married couples.

All this as a lay person?
Herbert Hoover had nothing on you! ;)

[MidWestIA]

The old story is buy new and everybody is new like you and looking to meet someone. But not much below hwy 44 just houses compared to golf stores restaurants above. BUT get into your neighborhood golf groups and other groups and meet people. But if you are a snowbird maybe you won't get here until Eastport is flying years later

[Shipping up to Boston]

All this as a lay person?
Herbert Hoover had nothing on you! ;)

*J. Edgar Hoover

[Velvet]

All this as a lay person?
Herbert Hoover had nothing on you! ;)

All it took was talking to a few individuals. Everyone seems to know everyone. One time I complimented a lady I didn’t know, on her choice of little dogs. The next day there was a knock on my door, one of our regular “walkers” came by to tell me the lady sent me the name of the breeder she got the dog from - in case I was interested. Everyone knows everybody pretty well, here. If you want to be “private” this probably isn’t your area.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I noticed that no one mention location of Orlando or the Orlando airport. probably 20-25 miles closer south of 44 or Warm Springs

Proximity to the Turnpike can be a game changer, if you do a lot of travelling, or if you have family in other parts of Florida. In the Dabney area, you'll be just a few minutes from the highway entry. Where I am (in the Historic section) it takes me almost an hour to get to the Turnpike for travel south, mostly because traffic between us and Leesburg on 441 is horrendous.

[Markus]

Golfers shopping for homes in The Villages should NOT purchase a New Home in the Southern Areas, which lack enough Executive Golf Courses. Rather, they should buy a pre-owned home in the Middle or Northern areas which have plenty of Executive golf courses nearby. Also, the Bond is usually paid off on homes in the North and Middle areas, plus you are MUCH CLOSER to Shopping & Restaurants and the landscaping, along with other improvements have been added. Make sure that you include the cost of the BOND when shopping for a home in The Villages, because it is DEBT that you will be assuming that is over and above the purchase price when you buy your home.

Three new golf courses will be opening up in the South very soon.

[skippy05]

Finding friends here is not a problem in either situation. Best focus on all the other pros and cons that will be mentioned in the replies here and decide which of those are important to you. It boils down to the North side being convenient to everything as well as buying an overpriced resale will need extensive and costly renovations while the south side is the reverse on both of those while also having turn Pike noise and high power transmissions lines to experience on a daily basis.

[virtualcynthia]

Keep in mind it’s easy to move within The Villages. It’s not as if this has to be your forever home. I would probably rent for a year in an area where you think you would want to buy. You don’t have to worry about maintenance or insurance and you have an opportunity to really get a feel for the Villages, what It’s like owning here, Which areas have the highest cost, and maybe even find a good deal. Good luck.������

[Mistymom]

I would like to give you a tale of two stories.
My sister moved to TV 16 years ago into a new neighborhood. Their whole street made instant friends and a social club and most were in their early to mid sixties. Of course, my sister and her husband "weeded out" a few people, but overall they have retained their friendships. This has really been helpful having a support group as there were several deaths during COVID.
Now the second story. My husband and myself moved here 3 years ago into an established community between 466a and 44 of residents younger than us. Our community is very active socially, with a golf league and driveway parties throughout the year. We have attempted to join in, but although the people are very nice, we can't seem to break into any the established circles of "friends". We have been able to make friends outside of our neighborhood through meeting people on the golf courses.

[Justputt]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks

I would focus on the house as much as the location. Some homes up north were built before the last round of building code changes and may be problematic to insure. Factor in age of the roof and HVAC too. The upper area has more mature growth and looks nice, but, IMO, designs (footprints, finishes, etc.) are somewhat dated, but there are many pretty areas. We purchased well south, since we wanted newer floorplans and that's the direction TV is growing. Golf is sparser atm and golfcart accessible shopping is more limited, but we all spent most of our lives without a golfcart, so not a big deal IMO. I don't think it matters much where you live when it comes to meeting people. We've found that you almost have to be hiding to not meet people. There are so many clubs, pools, activities, Town Squares, etc.! As for the Squares, I think you'll have many more rental homes near them, so consistent fulltime neighbors were a concern for us. Good luck, and meeting people shouldn't be high on your concerns.

[Velvet]

I would like to give you a tale of two stories.
My sister moved to TV 16 years ago into a new neighborhood. Their whole street made instant friends and a social club and most were in their early to mid sixties. Of course, my sister and her husband "weeded out" a few people, but overall they have retained their friendships. This has really been helpful having a support group as there were several deaths during COVID.
Now the second story. My husband and myself moved here 3 years ago into an established community between 466a and 44 of residents younger than us. Our community is very active socially, with a golf league and driveway parties throughout the year. We have attempted to join in, but although the people are very nice, we can't seem to break into any the established circles of "friends". We have been able to make friends outside of our neighborhood through meeting people on the golf courses.

I’m sorry to hear you were not invited into your neighborhood social circles. That is exactly why I checked to see if I fit in with my neighbors before I moved in. If they are in a newer area, that sounds good too. Wherever your tribe is, it’s good. I find people use the word “friends” quite loosely, where I would use the term “acquaintances”. It takes a minimum of 200 hours of people interacting mostly with each other, same interests, same place, etc to make friends according to a Wall Street Journal article, 1000 plus hours to make “best friends” for most people. But you can see people all the time and if your values and interests are different it’s never going to work.

Real estate people aren’t going to comment on your neighbors, “This one is a drunk, that one is a snob” etc. The only things they can say, location of place, number of rooms, type of kitchen counter - like that is going to matter when you need help which you will as we are older.

When you are young the rule of real estate is; “location, location, location”. When you are old it should be; “people, people, people”. Why do you suppose they advertise TV as the “friendliest” home town, instead of the most value of your money, the safest location or …?

[Marmaduke]

You certainly have lucked into a lousy neighborhood, and that is why you should get to know your neighbors before you move in. When you have an emergency or need something it isn’t your pickleball club etc from the rec center that is going to come and help you. It’s going to be the people next door. You better get to know them.
WE DID MEET M before we moved in and we DO know them, so sorry not to clarify that.
We like them okay, but they're all ready for "Assisted Living", so we're helping them and acutely aware of their medical conditions.
That is what I was alerting the OP to be aware of, because we as new retirees have already taken care of 2 sets of aging parents, 2 Aunts and are ready to enjoy a relaxed retirement, which we believe we Earned.

We're very good neighbors, but a LOT can happen in 3 years. People were in great health when we moved in, but are NOT now, due to their age and lifestyle choices.
Half of our family and Good friends are here and very nearby, so don't worry, we're A-OK.
I think the OP realized that New Neighborhoods slow you to age GRACEFULLY together. That's All.
When a neighborhood turns over, new people move in... and that is the cycle of life.
We're newly retired, and have things of friends

[JMintzer]

And how exactly do you do that?

When you see them, walk over and introduce yourself. Take walks in the neighborhood and say hello to anyone you meet along the way. Have an open house, wine & cheese party. Join your village FB page (most have them) or get on the social email list...

We did all of those things and have a nice group of friends, despite only being "snowflakes"... Every time we come back they ask when we'll be "Frogs"...

"As soon as possible!", I tell them...

[JMintzer]

Proximity to the Turnpike can be a game changer, if you do a lot of travelling, or if you have family in other parts of Florida. In the Dabney area, you'll be just a few minutes from the highway entry. Where I am (in the Historic section) it takes me almost an hour to get to the Turnpike for travel south, mostly because traffic between us and Leesburg on 441 is horrendous.

That can be a problem. Going south, I can be on the turnpike (by 470) in 10 minutes. Going north on 75, I shoot out 44 and get on just past 301, maybe 10-15 minutes...

It's one of the reasons I like my location so much... That, and there is only one gate/road in/out. No "pass thru traffic", very few "Lookie Lous"...

I do remember one time, when I was working an a sprinkler head in the front yard, a couple in a rental golf cart stopped and asked "How do we get to Brownwood Square?'" I asked them, "How the hell did you end up in here?"

They replied, "We have no idea!? :1rotfl:

[JMintzer]

I spent time at the neighborhood pool talking to the residents. Talked to people walking around with or without their dogs, in the neighborhood. Asked around. Watched and observed. I got a good sense of what kind of people lived around, and their politics (I don’t take sides) the kind of work they retired from, and a bit of their values, their favorite activities etc. For example, we have almost no “swingers”. We do have one couple but they are super discreet. We have singles but “not looking” types and mostly happily married couples.

The pools are another great way to meet people. Just strike up a conversation with some questions, telling them you're new. 99% of the people will be more than happy to give you their opinions... Which MAY be a double edged sword...:p

[JMintzer]

Three new golf courses will be opening up in the South very soon.

Ignore the poster to whom you responded. He posts the -exact- same post in every thread about buying in the villages south of 44...

[Birdrm]

I will likely be moving to TV within the year. I'm an active, single (divorced) man in my upper 50s. I am going back and forth between the idea of buying in the more established areas (in/around the 466/466A areas), or the newer areas down South. I'm wondering how many of you find/found that getting in with new neighbors, where everyone is likely to be more interested in establishing new friendships, is/was a great experience; vs. finding friends through the various clubs and going out, wherever they might live.

The first method is a bit more random but extremely convenient, but I just wonder if on average the excitement of the new neighborhood friendships tends to diminish after a year or two. Also please comment on what you see happening down south regarding development of activity centers (pools, pickle ball courts, golf course, Bocce ball, restaurants, pubs, etc) - does it appear that the activity center density will be as high down south as it is up north? Thanks

I moved here 2 years ago as a 61 year old divorced man and I decided to move to a new area down south (Hammock at Fenney). I enjoyed being in a new neighborhood and meeting new people as they were moving in and also met new friends at the many block parties that were held that first year.

[Lanieb]

I like my courtyard villa in the old section near Chula Vista rec center and Spanish springs.
It will be for sale in July. You can connect with me at necks2new@gmail.com.
Lanie

[Nana2Teddy]

Proximity to the Turnpike can be a game changer, if you do a lot of travelling, or if you have family in other parts of Florida. In the Dabney area, you'll be just a few minutes from the highway entry. Where I am (in the Historic section) it takes me almost an hour to get to the Turnpike for travel south, mostly because traffic between us and Leesburg on 441 is horrendous.
As Disney passholders we are thankful to have the turnpike onramp on 301 just 5 minutes or so from our home in DeLuna. Great also for trips to MCO to fly back home to California to visit our kids and toddler grandson.

[GoRedSox!]

I am 63, my wife is turning 59 this week. We were looking at new and pre-owned simultaneously. We were consistently told that when buying new, folks are closer to our age and all moving in at the same time, so it is easier to meet people.

We eventually opted for pre-owned near Brownwood. Familiarity with the area, proximity to the town square, and other stores and amenities guided our choice. But we didn't know what to expect regarding meeting people.

The day we closed on our house, neighbors appeared on the Welcome Wagon with a basket of cookies and other goodies. We were given a list of everyone who lived in our village with their emails and phone numbers, at least the folks who consented to be on a distribution list. We were given a handout with the address for the website for our village, the Facebook page, and the groups available on Whats App. We were happy to donate to the fund to buy another AED for the village and will get training in the future to know how to use one. We could not have been more warmly welcomed to The Villages and are very appreciative of our neighbors for having such a community spirit.

Good luck, I am one of the glass 7/8ths full people who think you pretty much can't go wrong no matter what choice you make in The Villages.

[Velvet]

I am 63, my wife is turning 59 this week. We were looking at new and pre-owned simultaneously. We were consistently told that when buying new, folks are closer to our age and all moving in at the same time, so it is easier to meet people.

We eventually opted for pre-owned near Brownwood. Familiarity with the area, proximity to the town square, and other stores and amenities guided our choice. But we didn't know what to expect regarding meeting people.

The day we closed on our house, neighbors appeared on the Welcome Wagon with a basket of cookies and other goodies. We were given a list of everyone who lived in our village with their emails and phone numbers, at least the folks who consented to be on a distribution list. We were given a handout with the address for the website for our village, the Facebook page, and the groups available on Whats App. We were happy to donate to the fund to buy another AED for the village and will get training in the future to know how to use one. We could not have been more warmly welcomed to The Villages and are very appreciative of our neighbors for having such a community spirit.

Good luck, I am one of the glass 7/8ths full people who think you pretty much can't go wrong no matter what choice you make in The Villages.

I bet, with your attitude, you’d be welcome just about anywhere.

[Stu from NYC]

I am 63, my wife is turning 59 this week. We were looking at new and pre-owned simultaneously. We were consistently told that when buying new, folks are closer to our age and all moving in at the same time, so it is easier to meet people.

We eventually opted for pre-owned near Brownwood. Familiarity with the area, proximity to the town square, and other stores and amenities guided our choice. But we didn't know what to expect regarding meeting people.

The day we closed on our house, neighbors appeared on the Welcome Wagon with a basket of cookies and other goodies. We were given a list of everyone who lived in our village with their emails and phone numbers, at least the folks who consented to be on a distribution list. We were given a handout with the address for the website for our village, the Facebook page, and the groups available on Whats App. We were happy to donate to the fund to buy another AED for the village and will get training in the future to know how to use one. We could not have been more warmly welcomed to The Villages and are very appreciative of our neighbors for having such a community spirit.

Good luck, I am one of the glass 7/8ths full people who think you pretty much can't go wrong no matter what choice you make in The Villages.

Wow you got lucky, folks here are nice but after 7 pm done for the day for the most part. Luckily for us we are in some great clubs

[JMintzer]

I am 63, my wife is turning 59 this week. We were looking at new and pre-owned simultaneously. We were consistently told that when buying new, folks are closer to our age and all moving in at the same time, so it is easier to meet people.

We eventually opted for pre-owned near Brownwood. Familiarity with the area, proximity to the town square, and other stores and amenities guided our choice. But we didn't know what to expect regarding meeting people.

The day we closed on our house, neighbors appeared on the Welcome Wagon with a basket of cookies and other goodies. We were given a list of everyone who lived in our village with their emails and phone numbers, at least the folks who consented to be on a distribution list. We were given a handout with the address for the website for our village, the Facebook page, and the groups available on Whats App. We were happy to donate to the fund to buy another AED for the village and will get training in the future to know how to use one. We could not have been more warmly welcomed to The Villages and are very appreciative of our neighbors for having such a community spirit.

Good luck, I am one of the glass 7/8ths full people who think you pretty much can't go wrong no matter what choice you make in The Villages.

Sounds like you had a similar experience to what we had. We have some great neighbors, as well...

[Normal]

New may seem optimal because of fiber optic internet and brand new infrastructure, these are things that won’t ever be available in the older villages. In addition, neighbor connections are new for everyone and cliques are seldom. On the flip side though, with a new home you have to undergo all those home improvement projects like landscaping, light tubes and painted floors. For me it’s a no brainer if I was new to the Villages. I would go new.

[MightyDog]

But you can see people all the time and if your values and interests are different it’s never going to work.

That is an almost 100% true statement , right there. Shared values and interests are what a person needs to focus on when looking for friends or sweethearts.

[SoCalGal]

<< But, if you look on VLS and do a drive-by through that area, you will see hundreds of spec homes are sitting. >>

What does "VLS" stand for in this context?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

<< But, if you look on VLS and do a drive-by through that area, you will see hundreds of spec homes are sitting. >>

What does "VLS" stand for in this context?

VLS = Villages Listing Service

as opposed to

MLS = Multiple Listing Service.


VLS is exclusive - it means the Villages own real estate group is doing the selling on behalf of the owner. On new construction, that means you won't see Re/MAX selling those homes, because the Developer owns its own real estate company and isn't interested in farming out or sharing the sales, or profits, to outside companies.

MLS is inclusive. Those are only resales, and only those resales that the seller hasn't contracted with VLS agents. So you might see a Re/MAX agent bringing a buyer to look at a house being sold through a Coldwell-Banker agency.

VLS agents are not allowed to show MLS homes to potential buyers.

[SoCalGal]

You know that I disagree. The person who will give you a ride if you need it to the bus depot is not going to be the guy you played water volleyball with. It’s going to be the lady next door. The person who lends you a part to your AC in an emergency is not going to be your pickle ball buddy, but the guy across the street. The person who brings you the AED should something happen, my husband needed it at age 62 when he had never had any health issues to that day, is going to be the closest neighbor who has one. And so on. A few neighbors may change but not your whole street in your life time.
<< The person who brings you the AED should something happen >>

What does "AED" mean in this context?

[Marathon Man]

Be aware of high bonds ,taxes, the prison in the newer areas. Also check out the Daily Sun and see how many resales there are in the southern section . Must be a reason why??

There is a reason. Owners are selling for big profits and buying in the latest village. I know several friends who move every two years.

But you already knew this. You were told this the other nine times you said 'must be a rwason why'.

[Marathon Man]

You can meet people anywhere you live. After joining a few activities you will probably be running around the Villages. Does it have a bond payment with the house? Inferstructure down south is alot higher. Have heard sometimes the bond is almost as much as the morgauge. Add in insurance and amedities. Some people moving south are moving again because they can't afford it.

Living south of 44, you have to travel north for most of your shopping and eating. Living up by the historical side or around 466 or 466A you have more shopping and eating places closer by to choose from. South of 44 it seems more like the houses are rubber stamped, track housing, no varity. North off 44 more vegatation around the houses, more space between the house in certain areas. Broaden your horizon in what your looking for, for now and the future.

I really don't understand how some people come up with the things they say.

[Velvet]

<< The person who brings you the AED should something happen >>

What does "AED" mean in this context?

The unit a neighbor brings to start your heart. You may think you won’t need it. We didn’t either. My husband had a perfect annual medical checkup as needed by his job. At age 62 one morning, just as we were about to go to the golf course, he laid back on the couch and closed his eyes. He never opened them again. The AED came too late.

[JMintzer]

<< The person who brings you the AED should something happen >>

What does "AED" mean in this context?

"Automated external defibrillator"...

Many Villages have several scattered around the neighborhood and have a system set up to act as first responders, hopefully getting there before the paramedics arrive...