Great house, but near power lines

[azcindy]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

[PilotAlan]

There’s no danger from power lines. None.
A lot of people have convinced themselves that there is, and there are many conspiracy theories on the internet. But there’s no evidence of any problems despite decades of data.

[villagetinker]

Worked for a power company for over 40 years, no danger, except for public perception.....

[Ruger2506]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

I wouldn't hesitate for one second. Ideally you border the lines and have no neighbors. Could work in your favor. The tinfoil hat crowd may have lowered the price for you.

[Bjeanj]

No, I wouldn’t buy it, only because there seems to be a widespread opinion that it could affect one’s health. This could affect resale value. Sad, but true, IMHO.

[Stu from NYC]

All things being equal i would not buy it. Storm could knock down lines might be harder to sell.

[Aces4]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

Never.. I can't ever remember a house looking great that was by or under power lines. Ugly!

[MarshBendLover]

Those tall power lines are defiantly a health hazard. You have to wear an aluminum foil hat to keep it from reaching your brain and make sure that you don't accidentally climb too high touching a wire or using metal wire and not string to fly your kite.

You have more of a chance of electrical issues coming from your phone.

Those houses are good deals if the current owner actually thinks they are a health hazard. We looked at one with great view and wires above (no structure straight out on view). Ended up being sold before we got a chance to hit their price.

[Topspinmo]

Only if the tower close enough to hit the house. Power lines are good neighbors. They never complain or back stab you by reporting some frivolous violation…:duck:

[Altavia]

You won't notice them after living there for a while.

They provide some level of lightening protection. Especially if located less than the same distance away as they are tall.

But they could be a negative at time of resale.

[Rainger99]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Please define close. Are the powerlines 50 feet away, 50 yards, 100 yards?

Or attach a picture.

[BobnBev]

How about the wind noise, Dave? Those towers are mighty high, just sayin.

[mtdjed]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy
L would guess you are referring to High Power lines. Regarding health issues there is some concern (Not definitive) regarding EMFs (Electric and Magnetic fields). While health issues may not be an issue, you don't see houses built under the lines. The following link discusses that issue.

High Voltage Overhead Line Side Effects: Health Risks and Safety Tips (https://www.allfitwell.com/high-voltage-overhead-line/)

I personally would shy away from the site because despite whether there is a health or safety issue, there is a perception of risk. If the issue is a concern for you, it will be to others.

[tedquick]

My wife and I have power lines behind our house, and we love it! We are FAR from the homes behind us. In fact, I couldn't hit one of them with my driver! We enjoy watching the wildlife living behind us. We watch 2 or 3 new osprey-families every year "nested" wonderfully behind our home, (well, actually behind and "up"). My wife and I would pay a premium to get the same thing again if we ever decided to move, which we probably will not do.

[Velvet]

Read up on electric and magnetic fields and health from reputable journals like for example, Lancet. Do your own research and draw your own conclusions. I believe some people are susceptible but not everyone. In my home I know the field of all my appliances and also the nearest power line. I think knowledge is power.

People like to make fun of it, they did the same with Fukushima. The magnitude of its impact is only now starting to be appreciated.

I would never buy near a power line. I hate the way it looks. I don’t even like to play golf near them. But we need these things until better things are developed.

[Ruger2506]

Read up on electric and magnetic fields and health from reputable journals like for example, Lancet. Do your own research and draw your own conclusions. I believe some people are susceptible but not everyone. In my home I know the field of all my appliances and also the nearest power line. I think knowledge is power.

People like to make fun of it, they did the same with Fukushima. The magnitude of its impact is only now starting to be appreciated.

I would never buy near a power line. I hate the way it looks. I don’t even like to play golf near them. But we need these things until better things are developed.

I used to love hunting under powerlines in MN. Long open lanes. A guy could easily take 1000 yard shots. Tons of fun.

[tophcfa]

It’s a buyers market, why risk it, with all the homes currently on the market you have lots of options. It might not be a sellers market someday when you, or your heirs, have to dump the place.

[jimhoward]

In the new sections there are a lot of power lines. The cut a huge swath thought the villages. Some of the best houses with the best views lots in, for example, Water's Edge, have power lines in them.

I think most real estate agents will tell you, that power lines are, on balance, a negative for resale, if they are in view.

However if you totally rule out power lines, you will miss out on some great houses that you might really like. I would buy a house with power lines, and have done so. Its a slight negative, but not a deal killer.

[margaretmattson]

In the new sections there are a lot of power lines. The cut a huge swath thought the villages. Some of the best houses with the best views lots in, for example, Water's Edge, have power lines in them.

I think most real estate agents will tell you, that power lines are, on balance, a negative for resale, if they are in view.

However if you totally rule out power lines, you will miss out on some great houses that you might really like. I would buy a house with power lines, and have done so. Its a slight negative, but not a deal killer.I have seen people lose money on the resale of homes near power lines. Homes too close to noisy streets seem to lose money on resale as well. If you do not believe the home will be your forever home, PASS! It will save you money and headaches in the long run.

[Mike123]

i disagree there is danger near power lines its called lines of flux created by current passing thru the lines, these fields of energy are admittley within the area of the power lines . The fields have been known to cause cancer.

[Rwirish]

Never. You will always notice them and they are plain ugly.

Keep looking.

[azcindy]

In the new sections there are a lot of power lines. The cut a huge swath thought the villages. Some of the best houses with the best views lots in, for example, Water's Edge, have power lines in them.

I think most real estate agents will tell you, that power lines are, on balance, a negative for resale, if they are in view.

However if you totally rule out power lines, you will miss out on some great houses that you might really like. I would buy a house with power lines, and have done so. Its a slight negative, but not a deal killer.

Yep. This is my situation. The view in the house I was interested in was so good (pond/open space views in back and side of house) I did not notice the power lines at first. They are mainly across the street, but I can see they run near the house with the towers spread apart so I don't see them from the backyard/lanai. But they are there.

[ithos]

i disagree there is danger near power lines its called lines of flux created by current passing thru the lines, these fields of energy are admittley within the area of the power lines . The fields have been known to cause cancer.

Could you please provide a reference to substanitate your claim?

[RICH1]

I love the humming of power lines..overpowers the ringing in my ears.. Personally I would be more concerned about Turnpike noise, the marsh the house was built on, the prison, and the proximity to the VA. Evidently High Taxes and Home Insurance hasn't scared you off.

[kayak]

In my area there are plenty of eagle's nests on the power line towers. Such a springtime sight to see as the young grow and prepare for that first flight.
If you view the power lines, not everything is ugly.

[ithos]

They can not rule out child leukemia.
ScienceDirect (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935123011246)

Remember this classic TV movie?
OHMS (TV Movie 1980) - IMDb (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081257/)

[Snakster66]

Could you please provide a reference to substanitate your claim?

Beat me to it.

[SoCalGal]

I wouldn't hesitate for one second. Ideally you border the lines and have no neighbors. Could work in your favor. The tinfoil hat crowd may have lowered the price for you.

Unless the house is also in the path of chemtrails, then you're in trouble. <kidding!>

[dolphin]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

No. For aesthetic reasons not fear of power

[Cuervo]

The only reason I would be reluctant is because of the myth you would be looking at a reduced market and price if you try to sell it in the future. Just make sure you get a good price buying price going in.

[SoCalGal]

In the new sections there are a lot of power lines. The cut a huge swath thought the villages. Some of the best houses with the best views lots in, for example, Water's Edge, have power lines in them.

I'm surprised the TV developers haven't buried the power lines like in Irvine, CA, a planned unit development (PUD), probably due to cost. Southern California Edison has a program to bury power lines in Irvine and other high-fire-risk areas in Orange County to reduce wildfire risk. This is part of a larger initiative to underground distribution lines in targeted areas. SCE estimates it costs between $3 million and $5 million per mile to take a power line underground. To compare, it costs around $900,000 per mile to cover lines with fire-resistant material through Edison's “covered conductor” program. I love the landscape in Irvine.

[CybrSage]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

They are completely safe. The question to ask is, can you hear the lines buzzing? If not, then go for it. If so, you will be irritated forever.

[asianthree]

Our first thought before we buy a house is “how hard will it be to sell” power lines, a hard sell for us

[CybrSage]

i disagree there is danger near power lines its called lines of flux created by current passing thru the lines, these fields of energy are admittley within the area of the power lines . The fields have been known to cause cancer.

The electromagnetic field does exist around the lines. But unless you are close enough to touch the lines, they cannot affect you at all.

Hold up a fluorescent bulb. If it lights up without power, the EMF is too strong there.

[CybrSage]

Our first thought before we buy a house is “how hard will it be to sell” power lines, a hard sell for us

Compared to other houses you have sold, how much harder was the one by the power lines?

[BackintheVillage]

Wouldn’t happen to be the patio villas on Willy Way in waters edge would it? We toured those last week. Amazing views but the power lines are there. Not obstructed at all and with the villa design they put there (Garnet) the lanai views are incredible. Tempting but we thought of resale as well. I tried to get a family member to purchase and they said “radiation” as they spoke from their smart phone on their ear, Bluetooth and wireless radios active on it as well. I think we got lots more radiation around us than we realize.

[vintageogauge]

If you are not concerned about re-sale go for it as if you ever have to move it might be sitting on the market for a very long time.

[RobertScott]

When I ride my bike under the Citrus Grove power lines, and forget to keep my hands fully on the grips, meaning some portion of them are touching metal, I get zapped, every time.

So no I would not want a house close to the power lines.

[jim@jedward.com]

From an appraisal perspective, the situation you describe is called an "adverse extenal influence" or "external obsolescence". Typically, an AEI has a negative impact on marketability and value. If you love the house, you may still want to buy it. Just be aware of the external factors.

[HJBeck]

Safety issue should not concern you one bit. The electromagnetic fields you get from the power lines is substantial less than what you get from your electric appliances in your home. I was an electrical engineer for a power company for 40 years. The reasons for my statement above are somewhat technical and won’t bore you with the details.

[CybrSage]

They can not rule out child leukemia.
ScienceDirect (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935123011246)

I found it odd they measured the EMF so far away from people and then forgot the Earth and humans are 3D and not 2D.

They also considered other factors but failed to state how they mitigated them. They study is assuming correlation is causation, which is a bad assumption to make. I can show graphs that match ice cream sales to shark attacks and they almost perfectly line up. This means ice cream sales cause shark attacks, right? Nope, the factor which was not mitigated is that both items increase in the summer when more people are in the ocean. One must show the methods of mitigation of the other factors...the 'study" only mentioned they exist. Heck, one of the factors listed was having the literal high to residential power transformer in the basement of the residence!

A study's results are only as good as the study. That study is not very good, and is not even in the US, which has different height, voltage, frequency, etc, requirements.

A good layman's test is to hold one of those bar style flourescent bulbs in your hand, without power to it. If it glows, the EMF is too high. If not, no worries.

[CybrSage]

When I ride my bike under the Citrus Grove power lines, and forget to keep my hands fully on the grips, meaning some portion of them are touching metal, I get zapped, every time.

So no I would not want a house close to the power lines.

Hold a flourescent light under the lines where you get shocked and take a pic of it being lit up for us. That is always a cool site to see. I have some of my from way back, cannot remember where those pictures are stored.

[Veracity]

My personal experience was in another state before moving here. We lived in a beautiful master-planned family community where a massive power line ran next to it through a field, much like here. During an EXTREMELY windy day, many homes on streets near the field caught on fire. We were told that the fire was due to the high winds causing the power lines to arc. At the time, we were experiencing drought conditions and the sparks from the arc ignited a fire in the dry vegetation below. The high winds also flamed the fire and caused it to rapidly move towards those homes, engulfing them in flames before firefighters could save them. Although many conditions contributed to those houses burning down, I can see it happening here, so I wouldn't buy a house near any of those power lines.

[La lamy]

I wouldn't live close to a bunch of power lines.

[MollyJo]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

I used to say never, but after looking for homes over the years & TV close proximity, I am now a YES. It is a ‘view lot’ which is maintained & if you love the house, even more reason.
If you stay until you croak, resale won’t matter to you…

[ithos]

When one allows for bias reflected in source of funding, the evidence that magnetic fields increase risk of cancer is neither inconsistent nor inconclusive. Furthermore adults are also at risk, not just children, and there is strong evidence for cancers in addition to leukemia, particularly brain and breast cancer.
ScienceDirect (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935119304852?via%3Dihub)

It wouldn't have been the first time the public have been misled due to corporate interests.

1. Tobacco and Lung Cancer
Hazard: Cigarette smoking causing cancer and heart disease.
Downplayed by: Tobacco companies.
How: For decades, internal studies confirmed health risks, but companies publicly denied the dangers, funded biased research, and lobbied governments.
Government role: Delayed regulations and warning labels due to industry pressure.
Exposure: 1950s–1990s.
Result: Massive public health crisis; eventually led to lawsuits and large settlements.
2. Lead in Gasoline and Paint
Hazard: Lead poisoning, especially in children.
Downplayed by: Lead industries (e.g., Ethyl Corporation, Sherwin-Williams).
How: Promoted lead as safe despite known neurotoxic effects.
Government role: Delayed regulations due to industry-funded research and lobbying.
Exposure: 1920s–1970s.
Result: IQ deficits, behavioral disorders, and lifelong health issues; eventual bans.
3. Asbestos
Hazard: Causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Downplayed by: Asbestos manufacturers.
How: Suppressed data on health risks; continued use despite knowledge of dangers.
Government role: Lag in regulation enforcement.
Exposure: 1900s–1980s (still in some products today).
Result: Hundreds of thousands of deaths; widespread litigation.
4. PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")
Hazard: Linked to cancer, hormone disruption, liver damage.
Downplayed by: DuPont, 3M.
How: Internal memos revealed knowledge of toxicity since the 1970s.
Government role: Slow regulation despite mounting evidence.
Exposure: 1940s–present.
Result: Global contamination of water supplies; active lawsuits and regulation underway.
5. Agent Orange
Hazard: Dioxin contamination, causing cancer and birth defects.
Downplayed by: Chemical companies (Dow, Monsanto).
How: Concealed risks from U.S. military and public.
Government role: Approved its use during Vietnam War; long delay in recognizing veterans' llnesses.
Exposure: 1960s–1970s.
Result: Ongoing health issues in veterans and Vietnamese civilians.

[LoisR]

Wrong. Very wrong. Stay at least 700-1,000 feet from any power line due to their electromagnetic fields.

[Retiredsteve]

L would guess you are referring to High Power lines. Regarding health issues there is some concern (Not definitive) regarding EMFs (Electric and Magnetic fields). While health issues may not be an issue, you don't see houses built under the lines. The following link discusses that issue.

High Voltage Overhead Line Side Effects: Health Risks and Safety Tips (https://www.allfitwell.com/high-voltage-overhead-line/)

I personally would shy away from the site because despite whether there is a health or safety issue, there is a perception of risk. If the issue is a concern for you, it will be to others.
You don't see houses built under the lines is a property ownership issue. The power company has the right of way and I know from a maintenance standpoint they don't want houses underneath

[MarshBendLover]

I had an uncle that worked on those lines for years. When we would go to visit him, he had soaked up so much electricity that he could put a bulb in his mouth and make it light up. I think the electricity was just festering in him. :D

[nhtexasrn]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

We have lived near power lines for 8 years now and we are still alive and kicking! We have a great view of the preserve and love watching the Ospreys that nest in the powerlines. I wouldn't trade our house for one just like it on an inside lot away from the power lines.

[Sandabern]

I have ZERO scientific proof of this other than discussions with the people who lived there, but when I lived in Ohio, there were power lines about two miles from my house. Out of about 25 houses that lived within 50 yards or so of the power lines, two of those families had children with cancer. It might have been a coincidence, but I always thought it was a strange coincidence. Both families tried to take legal action and nothing ever came of those legal actions.The families in both cases, said the oncologists told them it was due to the power lines. Again, I have zero science to back up the claims, but I always thought it can’t be good.

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy

[Angelhug52]

I would wonder about mobile phone service and internet service being adequate? Do the lines interfere with reception?

[jimmy o]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy
I spent my career in the high voltage electric industry and speak from experience: it is totally 100% safe to live near power lines. Radio Frequency Fields scare is hogwash, you get more of that wearing headsets and using laptops and notepads. In fact using blue tooth and wireless wi-fi surrounds you in RFs. Also if you’re really close to power lines you also get total protection from lighting strikes. But pros and cons to consider… con: resale and aesthetics. Pro: open views and discount on purchase. Discounted purchase price gets offset by discounted sales price when you sell, so that washes out.

[kendi]

Could you please provide a reference to substanitate your claim?

Or do your own research.

[jrref]

I have ZERO scientific proof of this other than discussions with the people who lived there, but when I lived in Ohio, there were power lines about two miles from my house. Out of about 25 houses that lived within 50 yards or so of the power lines, two of those families had children with cancer. It might have been a coincidence, but I always thought it was a strange coincidence. Both families tried to take legal action and nothing ever came of those legal actions.The families in both cases, said the oncologists told them it was due to the power lines. Again, I have zero science to back up the claims, but I always thought it can’t be good.

Agreed, why would you ever take a chance. I would never buy a home near powerlines.

[MrLonzo]

Why even consider it? Think ahead about the resale value. Whether true or not, a large proportion of prospective buyers believe there are safety issues near the power lines and wouldn't consider buying there.

Equally important, consider the 'view'. Do you really want to look out your window every day and look at power lines? And even if you're ok with it, it knocks out another big proportion of prospective buyers on resale.

[jrref]

Why even consider it? Think ahead about the resale value. Whether true or not, a large proportion of prospective buyers believe there are safety issues near the power lines and wouldn't consider buying there.

Equally important, consider the 'view'. Do you really want to look out your window every day and look at power lines? And even if you're ok with it, it knocks out another big proportion of prospective buyers on resale.

I think this sums it up.

[azcindy]

I'm surprised the TV developers haven't buried the power lines like in Irvine, CA, a planned unit development (PUD), probably due to cost. Southern California Edison has a program to bury power lines in Irvine and other high-fire-risk areas in Orange County to reduce wildfire risk. This is part of a larger initiative to underground distribution lines in targeted areas. SCE estimates it costs between $3 million and $5 million per mile to take a power line underground. To compare, it costs around $900,000 per mile to cover lines with fire-resistant material through Edison's “covered conductor” program. I love the landscape in Irvine.

Yep. I lived in California most of my life and they buried the high power lines where I lived so this is a new "concern" for me. Arizona (west of Phoenix where I just moved from) also buried the lines. My concern is #1) whether it will effect my health since the lines are 100-200 ft from the house, and #2) how much would it effect resale value - ideally I wouldn't have to think about this one for a long time.

Cindy

[Risuli]

Power lines are good neighbors. They never complain or back stab you by reporting some frivolous violation…:duck:

Yeah, they also never hang wind chimes...

[bgonzen]

The Villages doesn’t own the power transmission lines. Some utility company like Duke Energy own them. The Villages has no say where high voltage transmission lines are located.

[azcindy]

House in question just went pending. Was only on the market a day. Anyway, thanks all for the good discussion.

Cindy

[HappyTraveler]

When one allows for bias reflected in source of funding, the evidence that magnetic fields increase risk of cancer is neither inconsistent nor inconclusive. Furthermore adults are also at risk, not just children, and there is strong evidence for cancers in addition to leukemia, particularly brain and breast cancer.
ScienceDirect (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935119304852?via%3Dihub)

It wouldn't have been the first time the public have been misled due to corporate interests.

1. Tobacco and Lung Cancer
Hazard: Cigarette smoking causing cancer and heart disease.
Downplayed by: Tobacco companies.
How: For decades, internal studies confirmed health risks, but companies publicly denied the dangers, funded biased research, and lobbied governments.
Government role: Delayed regulations and warning labels due to industry pressure.
Exposure: 1950s–1990s.
Result: Massive public health crisis; eventually led to lawsuits and large settlements.
2. Lead in Gasoline and Paint
Hazard: Lead poisoning, especially in children.
Downplayed by: Lead industries (e.g., Ethyl Corporation, Sherwin-Williams).
How: Promoted lead as safe despite known neurotoxic effects.
Government role: Delayed regulations due to industry-funded research and lobbying.
Exposure: 1920s–1970s.
Result: IQ deficits, behavioral disorders, and lifelong health issues; eventual bans.
3. Asbestos
Hazard: Causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Downplayed by: Asbestos manufacturers.
How: Suppressed data on health risks; continued use despite knowledge of dangers.
Government role: Lag in regulation enforcement.
Exposure: 1900s–1980s (still in some products today).
Result: Hundreds of thousands of deaths; widespread litigation.
4. PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")
Hazard: Linked to cancer, hormone disruption, liver damage.
Downplayed by: DuPont, 3M.
How: Internal memos revealed knowledge of toxicity since the 1970s.
Government role: Slow regulation despite mounting evidence.
Exposure: 1940s–present.
Result: Global contamination of water supplies; active lawsuits and regulation underway.
5. Agent Orange
Hazard: Dioxin contamination, causing cancer and birth defects.
Downplayed by: Chemical companies (Dow, Monsanto).
How: Concealed risks from U.S. military and public.
Government role: Approved its use during Vietnam War; long delay in recognizing veterans' llnesses.
Exposure: 1960s–1970s.
Result: Ongoing health issues in veterans and Vietnamese civilians.


Good post. ^^^
I'll take the expertise of people like this. Arthur Firstenberg, author of bestseller, The Invisible Rainbow. He makes the case that many prominent diseases are the result, at least in part, from electrical pollution.

Also, Dr Devra Davis, an epidemiologist and toxicologist, is world-renowned for her work in this area. There are many of her speeches available online as well as interviews. Here is a short, 5 min interview. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0ZW-TWO0C0

She frequently points-out the risk of wearing your cellphone on your body and that the manufacturers of the phones advise against it. Two quick stories I personally know about that are:
-- Woman in her late 50s was a jogger and would carry her cellphone in her sports bra. Eventually, she was diagnosed with breast cancer which was caught early and she recovered from it but, the tumor was exactly where the phone was carried at the side of one breast.

-- Man in his early 70s began developing heart issues. I think it was a racing heart and sometimes intermittent heart beats. Naturally, he was concerned, sought medical help and they did tests and tried to figure out his problem but, weren't succeeding. Randomly, he went on a two week vacation and didn't take the kind of shirts he typically wore with a breast pocket nor did he need his phone when out of the country. After a week, he realized he'd had no problems with his heart. Amazing! He was so intrigued he started analyzing how that could have resolved. He realized that he had not been carrying his phone in the pocket directly in front of his heart! So, that was it -- the electromagnetic field from the phone was affecting the function of his heart. His heart problems completely resolved by him no longer carrying the phone on his body.

Smile...now, who would like large electrical transmission towers in their backyard to experience 24/7/365? Is the cheaper house price or the view worth the risk?

[HappyTraveler]

House in question just went pending. Was only on the market a day. Anyway, thanks all for the good discussion.

Cindy
Just FYI, it is not infrequent that houses come off Pending in TV. Probably most don't but, I've seen it far more here than anywhere else I've lived.

There seems to be a higher proportion of impulse buyers here and that likely accounts for it and/or as they dig into the inspection report, learn of insurance limitations, tally the costs of remodeling, actually notice those big electrical towers, etc.....they reconsider.

[Ruger2506]

House in question just went pending. Was only on the market a day. Anyway, thanks all for the good discussion.

Cindy

I LOVE IT! Love this market. Let them houses keep growing wealth.

[ithos]

Or do your own research.

In response to your snarky comment, I believe that a post suggesting that the developer is building homes in arears where there is a risk of cancer should have some credible references to substantiate the concern.

I did follow up with some links to scientific references. I do believe the hazards are minimal especially for people that are no longer middle aged.

[Ginasewell]

I bought a resale near a power line and dont even notice it anymore.

[Normal]

There are two things created by high voltage wires:

The Electrical field and Magnetic field

This field of radiation is usually undefined at more than 300 yards. Any distance less than that would be a concern for cell manipulation. The magnetic field would be more of a concern than the voltage. You can buy a EMF meter on Amazon.

[RUCdaze]

I just wouldn't recommend climbing up one of those powerline poles.

[dougjb]

You should probably go to the house during a rain/lightning storm to see if your hair (if you have any) stands on end before deciding if that is the house for you.

[Topspinmo]

Please define close. Are the powerlines 50 feet away, 50 yards, 100 yards?

Or attach a picture.

I’m sure the right way how high the towers are and few more yards so it they happen to fall won’t fall on private property?

[jimjamuser]

Sure I would live there. What could it do to me now, at my elevated age. Maybe I would think about it if I were age 25.

[ElDiabloJoe]

I'm surprised the TV developers haven't buried the power lines like in Irvine, CA, a planned unit development (PUD), probably due to cost. Southern California Edison has a program to bury power lines in Irvine and other high-fire-risk areas in Orange County to reduce wildfire risk. This is part of a larger initiative to underground distribution lines in targeted areas. SCE estimates it costs between $3 million and $5 million per mile to take a power line underground. To compare, it costs around $900,000 per mile to cover lines with fire-resistant material through Edison's “covered conductor” program. I love the landscape in Irvine.

Agreed. Except for the cookie-cutter appearance (color palette uniformity) and the massive influx of citizens from a particularly large communist country dedicated to spying and stealing from us, I like Irvine very much. The newer Portola Hills area is gorgeous, but I also still like the areas around UCI and Woodbridge. I don't really care for the newer townhomes along Sand Canyon and the El Toro base area. YMMV

[Markkal]

I would not the constant low EMF waves can affect your health.

[newyorkmaya]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

CindyWhere I lived in rural Arizona, access to some home sites was the cleared area under power lines. When under the lines, you had no way to listen to your radio, It was just nonstop static. All of the electrical energy was not contained in the wires. Likewise on the NJ Turnpike heading north towards NYC. A large electrical station was close to the road, Hello static, goodbye music.

The noise from the static did not bother me. I just hated the electrical bombardment, If my radio gettiing hit, my body did too,

I've been told its save, but is it? How close are you? What does a car radio say?

[Velvet]

House in question just went pending. Was only on the market a day. Anyway, thanks all for the good discussion.

Cindy

Saved by the bell. Good escape. lol.

[shut the front door]

Saved by the bell. Good escape. lol.

Don't count your chickens too quickly! This thread will go on for a couple more pages because nobody reads the actual thread before popping that reply button!

[maistocars]

Not a chance.

[elle123]

Would you consider buying a house you like a lot with a great view plus in a location you desire, except it is close to the power lines? The power lines don't obstruct the view, but they are close to the house. I just don't know how safe it is to be near the large power lines so wondering what others think. Thanks.

Cindy
I wouldn't purchase it, as it would be difficult to resell and most importantly you don't know the untoward longterm health effects of living near those powerlines.

[Harvin]

I would not buy, don't like looking at them plus they can emit a humming noise and EMC.

[waterflower]

There are meters to detect the level of EMF-electro magnetic frequencies.Your router is a device that has a very high level of EMF. Some people can not sleep near them.Solar panels need to be research when attached to your roof. Trifield makes a EMF meter. Dr Raymonf Rife has done many years of research on the effects of good/bad frequencies. Some heal some cause harm. Companies are suspect. Industries determine what is healthy. That should tell you everything. There is a reason why we are the sickest country in the world.

[rsmurano]

I worked for over 30 years at 2 gas/electric utilities in IT. The high voltage lines don’t pose any hazards but they are really really ugly to look at and would not buy any house within eyesight of power lines. Our villages realtor took us to 2 really nice homes and they had power lines in their backyard and we didn’t get out of the car.
There are 100’s of other homes available for sale, why would you buy with power lines in sight, on a busy road, close to the interstate, or next to a smelly water plant.

[Normal]

I worked for over 30 years at 2 gas/electric utilities in IT. The high voltage lines don’t pose any hazards but they are really really ugly to look at and would not buy any house within eyesight of power lines. Our villages realtor took us to 2 really nice homes and they had power lines in their backyard and we didn’t get out of the car.
There are 100’s of other homes available for sale, why would you buy with power lines in sight, on a busy road, close to the interstate, or next to a smelly water plant.

Or what about a fantastic view of Coleman Prison in the new area. :agree:

[ithos]

I worked for over 30 years at 2 gas/electric utilities in IT. The high voltage lines don’t pose any hazards but they are really really ugly to look at and would not buy any house within eyesight of power lines. Our villages realtor took us to 2 really nice homes and they had power lines in their backyard and we didn’t get out of the car.
There are 100’s of other homes available for sale, why would you buy with power lines in sight, on a busy road, close to the interstate, or next to a smelly water plant.

Most people who purchase homes have a limit on what they will spend. That means they have to prioritize what features they are looking for. In TV most homes are built on zero-lot-line properties. If a home with power lines had the feature of a larger yard or much nicer house for the money, it wouldn't be irrational for some homebuyers to make the choice to buy the house.

Now buying next to a road with noise pollution would be a definte no for me. But to each their own.

[Altavia]

There are meters to detect the level of EMF-electro magnetic frequencies.Your router is a device that has a very high level of EMF. Some people can not sleep near them.Solar panels need to be research when attached to your roof. Trifield makes a EMF meter. Dr Raymonf Rife has done many years of research on the effects of good/bad frequencies. Some heal some cause harm. Companies are suspect. Industries determine what is healthy. That should tell you everything. There is a reason why we are the sickest country in the world.

EMF Meters can also be used to detect ghosts...

Ghost Hunting Equipment - Paranormal Investigation Tools and Gear - Ghost Stop (https://www.ghoststop.com/)

[ithos]

Or what about a fantastic view of Coleman Prison in the new area. :agree:

It wouldn't be any worse than having no view since your neighbors home is only yards away.

[Debfrommaine]

Worked for a power company for over 40 years, no danger, except for public perception.....

Good point. My family member, who was a foreman and worked on the lines for years, just told me the same thing.

[Nell57]

Wouldn’t happen to be the patio villas on Willy Way in waters edge would it? We toured those last week. Amazing views but the power lines are there. Not obstructed at all and with the villa design they put there (Garnet) the lanai views are incredible. Tempting but we thought of resale as well. I tried to get a family member to purchase and they said “radiation” as they spoke from their smart phone on their ear, Bluetooth and wireless radios active on it as well. I think we got lots more radiation around us than we realize.

For me, living on a street named Willy Way would be a bigger negative than power lines.

[Debfrommaine]

House in question just went pending. Was only on the market a day. Anyway, thanks all for the good discussion.

Cindy

While the lot has lines, it probably has good privacy. A give and take situation.

[MX rider]

Our last house in Amelia had power lines directly behind the homes right across the street.
We never really noticed them when we lived there and we didn't consider them when we bought it. So it wasn't an issue for us. Our house sold no problem, as with other homes in that neighborhood that went up for sale.

But that's us. For some people, power lines are a no go. It's really personal preference.

[Velvet]

Good point. My family member, who was a foreman and worked on the lines for years, just told me the same thing.

The thing is, if they didn’t believe that working near power lines etc was “harmless”, how many people would do it? Company PR perhaps?

[patfla06]

Absolutely not. I don’t want to look at them. Is the house price more reasonable?
I would worry about future resale also.
Also would not buy near the Florida Turnpike.

[asianthree]

The house sold quickly before OP had a chance to make any decisions. So someone didn’t have a problem

[Normal]

The house sold quickly before OP had a chance to make any decisions. So someone didn’t have a problem

One born every minute. The problem would show up a year or two later when the home would be up for sale and it was discovered it couldn’t be sold.

[gorillarick]

I always attach a key to my kite sting during thunder storms, so it seems fine to me.

[Bill14564]

One born every minute. The problem would show up a year or two later when the home would be up for sale and it was discovered it couldn’t be sold.

Couldn't be sold? Just like this time? Just like the time before? Just like all the neighbors?

[Stu from NYC]

All things being equal why buy something that can present problems in the future? Are there no other houses for sale?

[Bill14564]

All things being equal why buy something that can present problems in the future? Are there no other houses for sale?

All things are rarely equal.

[jimhoward]

The home that is the subject of this post is sold, but the issue of power lines will come up again.

Most of the homes in the new areas have power lines nearby. If you have a view lot, you can probably see them. No power lines run directly over homes, but they are within a few hundred yards of hundreds of homes.

Anyone who wants a new house on a view lot and won't consider anything with power lines nearby may need to wait a bit. Everything they are building right now seems to have them.

[Normal]

Couldn't be sold? Just like this time? Just like the time before? Just like all the neighbors?

Correction, sold at a comped and desired price. :wave:

Few if any are asking their realtor for power wires or a substation for a view. It’s a a compromise out of the starting block for most buyers.

[Bill14564]

Correction, sold at a comped and desired price. :wave:

Few if any are asking their realtor for power wires or a substation for a view. It’s a a compromise out of the starting block for most buyers.

Sold is sold. And, sold faster than the OP could make a decision. Does not lead me to worry about the ability to sell it again in a year or two.

[Normal]

Sold is sold. And, sold faster than the OP could make a decision. Does not lead me to worry about the ability to sell it again in a year or two.

And price is price. One can buy a designer home on power lines for 500k and later find out they may not recoup their initial investment.

[Bill14564]

And price is price. One can buy a designer home on power lines for 500k and later find out they may not recoup their initial investment.

Doesn’t seem to be a problem today. Five years from now, who knows? That $750K house in the desirable neighborhood may then be selling for $500K due to the recession. Homes that you live in are not investments, buy what makes you happy.

[HappyTraveler]

Sold is sold. And, sold faster than the OP could make a decision. Does not lead me to worry about the ability to sell it again in a year or two.
House is NOT sold. See Comments #61 and 63.
Pending most definitely does not mean 'sold' in TV.

Even if this Pending sale does close, the electrical towers are still an added liability for a future sale. All a seller needs to experience difficulty on the sell side is: a high supply/lower demand market coupled with a "feature" many buyers won't consider and, perhaps, some urgency to get on with the sale.

Doesn't matter a lick to me what people choose for themselves but, the reality is that one aspect would make it more difficult to sell in certain market conditions.

[Normal]

Doesn’t seem to be a problem today. Five years from now, who knows? That $750K house in the desirable neighborhood may then be selling for $500K due to the recession. Homes that you live in are not investments, buy what makes you happy.

I know it is a problem in Citrus Grove. I’m not sure about other villages. Homes are being sold at a loss because of the power company’s venture to upgrade their power plant. Homes along the heavy duty power wire route are breaking even for the most part after 4 years of ownership.

[Bill14564]

House is NOT sold. See Comments #61 and 63.
Pending most definitely does not mean 'sold' in TV.

Even if this Pending sale does close, the electrical towers are still an added liability for a future sale. All a seller needs to experience difficulty on the sell side is: a high supply/lower demand market coupled with a "feature" many buyers won't consider and, perhaps, some urgency to get on with the sale.

Doesn't matter a lick to me what people choose for themselves but, the reality is that one aspect would make it more difficult to sell in certain market conditions.

Mmmm yeah, okay

[Rainger99]

House in question just went pending. Was only on the market a day. Anyway, thanks all for the good discussion.

Cindy

Many people have said that power lines impact resale value.

Do you know the initial sales price and the current asking price?

[coffeebean]

In the new sections there are a lot of power lines. The cut a huge swath thought the villages. Some of the best houses with the best views lots in, for example, Water's Edge, have power lines in them.

I think most real estate agents will tell you, that power lines are, on balance, a negative for resale, if they are in view.

However if you totally rule out power lines, you will miss out on some great houses that you might really like. I would buy a house with power lines, and have done so. Its a slight negative, but not a deal killer.
Power lines in view of a home are a deal killer for me. NEVER would I purchase near power lines.

[Altavia]

I'd take power lines over a kissing lanai - it's all relative.

[azcindy]

Many people have said that power lines impact resale value.

Do you know the initial sales price and the current asking price?

It was a brand new Veranda in Waters Edge so you have to pay what the developers list it at. No choice. It was on a corner lot.

[ithos]

I don't understand the stigma some people place on other residents who choose to live in homes near power lines.

The sentiment reminds me of the old expression of derision "wrong side of the tracks."

If the tradeoff is a substantial lower price or better view then that seems very rational to me.

[DrMack]

OP, this was no loss for you. The purchaser was the loser on this choice. Water’s Edge has a power substation that is 100% ugly. It will never go away and it will likely grow or expand. Delivery lines are never buried. I have friends in Newell that deal with the very issue. They can’t sell their house and buy in a more desirable area.

[jrref]

OP, this was no loss for you. The purchaser was the loser on this choice. Water’s Edge has a power substation that is 100% ugly. It will never go away and it will likely grow or expand. Delivery lines are never buried. I have friends in Newell that deal with the very issue. They can’t sell their house and buy in a more desirable area.

I remember that. When the homes were built there was nothing but open land then Duke put in a power station. Now the homewoners are stuck.

Bottom line, however you feel about living near powe lines, the majority of buyers will not want it so, you if you buy a home like that you are gambling on the resale value of the home when you eventually sell.

[BillyGrown]

I remember that. When the homes were built there was nothing but open land then Duke put in a power station. Now the homewoners are stuck.

Bottom line, however you feel about living near powe lines, the majority of buyers will not want it so, you if you buy a home like that you are gambling on the resale value of the home when you eventually sell.

Yes, it isn’t pretty. We saw that power station expand. They had to close off the roadways on Meggison for a few hours to get new transformers in, then the huge H styled transfer posts were installed. No one wants what the power company’s did to that area.

[RobertScott]

And the substation behind Citrus Grove / Newell makes all sorts of bizzare sounds, not just a steady buzz which maybe one could tune out.

[coffeebean]

I spent my career in the high voltage electric industry and speak from experience: it is totally 100% safe to live near power lines. Radio Frequency Fields scare is hogwash, you get more of that wearing headsets and using laptops and notepads. In fact using blue tooth and wireless wi-fi surrounds you in RFs. Also if you’re really close to power lines you also get total protection from lighting strikes. But pros and cons to consider… con: resale and aesthetics. Pro: open views and discount on purchase. Discounted purchase price gets offset by discounted sales price when you sell, so that washes out.

IMHO......if there is even the slightest concern regarding dangers of living in close proximity to power lines, I would err on the side of caution and not do it.

Regarding the pro of "open view".......how can a view of power lines ever be a pro?

[coffeebean]

The Villages doesn’t own the power transmission lines. Some utility company like Duke Energy own them. The Villages has no say where high voltage transmission lines are located.

The Villages certainly does have a say as to where they build homes. The Villages purchased all that land that is close to the power lines. The lines were there first. Why do you think it was a good deal to purchase all that land near power lines? It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out.

[Whatnext]

Read up on electric and magnetic fields and health from reputable journals like for example, Lancet. Do your own research and draw your own conclusions. I believe some people are susceptible but not everyone. In my home I know the field of all my appliances and also the nearest power line. I think knowledge is power.

People like to make fun of it, they did the same with Fukushima. The magnitude of its impact is only now starting to be appreciated.

I would never buy near a power line. I hate the way it looks. I don’t even like to play golf near them. But we need these things until better things are developed.

I think there is a slight difference between living near power lines, and living near a nuclear power station, in a country that is prone to earthquakes.

[coffeebean]

Or what about a fantastic view of Coleman Prison in the new area. :agree:

Jail break! It DOES happen.

[coffeebean]

It wouldn't be any worse than having no view since your neighbors home is only yards away.

I don't think the poster was actually referring to the "view" of Coleman Prison. LOL.

[thelegges]

IMHO......if there is even the slightest concern regarding dangers of living in close proximity to power lines, I would err on the side of caution and not do it.

Regarding the pro of "open view".......how can a view of power lines ever be a pro?

It’s a moot point house is pending. Some Younger residents don’t view power line as dangerous. Some like the fact that no homes are 600 yards away from the neighbors backyard. Especially those with dogs who can let them run on someone else’s property, instead of dog park

[coffeebean]

I know it is a problem in Citrus Grove. I’m not sure about other villages. Homes are being sold at a loss because of the power company’s venture to upgrade their power plant. Homes along the heavy duty power wire route are breaking even for the most part after 4 years of ownership.

Most people on this thread agree......stay away from power lines in close proximity and view. Also......not a good idea to be in ear shot or visible to The Turnpike.

[coffeebean]

I'd take power lines over a kissing lanai - it's all relative.

I've noticed many people who have "kissing lanais" in my neighborhood, enclose their lanai. Then landscape it beautifully so the home behind is not visible. At least a kissing lanai is not considered to be dangerous to your health. Again, I would never want power lines anywhere near my home.

[Bill14564]

The Villages certainly does have a say as to where they build homes. The Villages purchased all that land that is close to the power lines. The lines were there first. Why do you think it was a good deal to purchase all that land near power lines. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out.

Was it a deal to purchase all that land? I certainly don’t have that kind of inside information. Since they purchase *all* the land…

[Calisport]

With trees growing to hide the powerlines the green belt behind your house could be a great asset. The football field of grass is great for privacy and views.

[BillyGrown]

We walked by the power lines and discovered they are noisy. I don’t know if they are usually noisy, but you could hear humming and crackling. I didn’t care for that or the potential view.

[jimhoward]

The power lines in Water's Edge are very much smaller than the ones near Citrus Grove and Newell. Size matters, at least to me.

But most of this is moot as not only has the house in question sold, but also the OP has bought a pre-owned house in a different location (based on some other posts I have seen).

[BillyGrown]

The power lines in Water's Edge are very much smaller than the ones near Citrus Grove and Newell. Size matters, at least to me.

But most of this is moot as not only has the house in question sold, but also the OP has bought a pre-owned house in a different location (based on some other posts I have seen).

It started out small in Newell. When Chitty Chatty and Bradford were built the station in Newell was tiny. There wasn’t a St Catherine or Newell or Citrus Grove. I think there became more needs for power and that’s why they increased everything there in 2023. The station is hideous now and really tall! Maybe they won’t build anymore near Water’s Edge?

[mtdjed]

The power lines in Water's Edge are very much smaller than the ones near Citrus Grove and Newell. Size matters, at least to me.

But most of this is moot as not only has the house in question sold, but also the OP has bought a pre-owned house in a different location (based on some other posts I have seen).

Power lines as neighbors are OK. Homes along interstates, near airports, prisons, sewage plants are ok. We have a choice where we buy. If you are smart you may get more home for your money but be prepared to get less money for your home when you sell. Also, be prepared to get little support when you seek changes to minimize impact,