Far Too Much Misinformation

[downeaster]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

[JohnN]

point taken, however on any forum
if you ask for free advice or input, you get what you pay for.

It's best to double check on your own, anything that you ask in life.

[JoeC1947]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

This board is not made up of a group of experts but I find that most of the information is correct. Anyone with a serious, life changing question should seek the advice of an expert.

But to think that it's a problem that deserves attention is wrong. Maybe you should check your "facts".

[graciegirl]

To try to quell rumors and correct misinformation just because we care about the new folks who read what is written here and really don't know what to believe, to try to give them truthful answers is a very good thing.

I still don't understand just sometimes blatant fibs on here by first time posters. You have to wonder what the agenda is for that.

You are right. Everyone has to do their "due diligence" but some of us really care that folks who have NEVER been here get the right information.

And sometimes some of us act like "know it alls". :o

That would be me. I'm sorry.

[Happinow]

I think that if people are going to ask for advice on anything of critical importance on this forum, they should always follow up with checking on things themselves. The information people give, is from their own experience or information they may have been given. It is not gospel.

In general, the information on this forum is invaluable and if nothing else it points you in a direction. What I may have experienced with a person or place or thing does not necessarily mean you will experience the same. We tell from our experience and hope that helps others. I say keep the posts coming!

[CaptJohn]

I think that if people are going to ask for advice on anything of critical importance on this forum, they should always follow up with checking on things themselves. The information people give, is from their own experience or information they may have been given. It is not gospel.

In general, the information on this forum is invaluable and if nothing else it points you in a direction. What I may have experienced with a person or place or thing does not necessarily mean you will experience the same. We tell from our experience and hope that helps others. I say keep the posts coming!

:agree: Very well stated. Do your own homework for backup.

[kentucky blue]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

The problem is that most of the intellectually perceptive and inquisitive posters, that would thoroughly research the thought provoking topics about TV future issues ,no longer post.They obviously became extremely exasperated with the negativity they received on this board, about their message(don't kill the messenger) on controversial and significant issues on the future of TV. I miss their invaluable contributions and hope someday that some of them will return and enlighten us again on TV and it's long term future.:read:

[graciegirl]

The problem is that most of the intellectually perceptive and inquisitive posters, that would thoroughly research the thought provoking topics about TV future issues ,no longer post.They obviously became extremely exasperated with the negativity they received on this board, on their message(don't kill the messenger) on controversial and significant issues on the future of TV. I miss their invaluable contributions and hope someday that some of them will return and enlighten us again on TV and it's long term future.:read:

Who do you miss the most?

[Challenger]

The problem is that most of the intellectually perceptive and inquisitive posters, that would thoroughly research the thought provoking topics about TV future issues ,no longer post.They obviously became extremely exasperated with the negativity they received on this board, on their message(don't kill the messenger) on controversial and significant issues on the future of TV. I miss their invaluable contributions and hope someday that some of them will return and enlighten us again on TV and it's long term future.:read:

I also am somewhat dissapointed by those who are quick to spread illogical statements( from someone that they just met) ,conspiricy theories and issues that can bring real harm to individuals and organizations without the minimal use of basic research or common sense. But, this is what happens on many public forums.

[Posh 08]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

Can you be more specific? Any particular issues you care to offer the correct answer?

[downeaster]

Can you be more specific? Any particular issues you care to offer the correct answer?

A recent example is "When the build out ends" thread. Then there are the bond threads, IRS threads, traffic threads, roundabout threads, taxes threads, etc.

I have in the past researched comments and posted corrected information. There are others who have done the same.

[downeaster]

This board is not made up of a group of experts but I find that most of the information is correct. Anyone with a serious, life changing question should seek the advice of an expert.

But to think that it's a problem that deserves attention is wrong. Maybe you should check your "facts".

Well, Joe, I did check my facts. In fact I gave it a lot of thought before posting because I knew there would be flack. I absolutely think it is a problem that deserves attention and if you don't recognize it, so be it.

I am perfectly aware this forum is not made up of a group of experts. However a Newbie looking for information deserves correct answers and there are people here who provide them with those correct answers. But, there are those who appear to be experts who give wrong answers. How is Newbie to know the difference? If he /she thinks we are going to provide a wrong answer, why would they bother to ask?

[pqrstar]

Another example of false information was about "free amenities" for Village employees.

[Pathel]

well, joe, i did check my facts. In fact i gave it a lot of thought before posting because i knew there would be flack. I absolutely think it is a problem that deserves attention and if you don't recognize it, so be it.

I am perfectly aware this forum is not made up of a group of experts. However a newbie looking for information deserves correct answers and there are people here who provide them with those correct answers. But, there are those who appear to be experts who give wrong answers. How is newbie to know the difference? If he /she thinks we are going to provide a wrong answer, why would they bother to ask?

Bingo!

[l2ridehd]

I think you are all over reacting a bit. Example is the amenities thread, the OP said he heard it from an employee and was asking the question, didn't state it as fact. Part of the problem is people ask something without complete information or enough background to provide an accurate answer. Three people read the question, interpret it a little different and answer to the best of their ability. And each answer is different.

Two key points.

1. I don't believe anyone is doing it intentionally, they all do the best they can and sometimes make mistakes. Sometimes it's lack of background information and others it's lack of knowledge.

2. If you make a major decision on anything based on something you read on the internet, hear on the news, read in a paper, hear in a conversation without doing proper verification and diligence then you are a little dumb and own the results. I believe less then 20% of anything I see, hear, read or find out from other sources.

[graciegirl]

I think you are all over reacting a bit. Example is the amenities thread, the OP said he heard it from an employee and was asking the question, didn't state it as fact. Part of the problem is people ask something without complete information or enough background to provide an accurate answer. Three people read the question, interpret it a little different and answer to the best of their ability. And each answer is different.

Two key points.

1. I don't believe anyone is doing it intentionally, they all do the best they can and sometimes make mistakes. Sometimes it's lack of background information and others it's lack of knowledge.

2. If you make a major decision on anything based on something you read on the internet, hear on the news, read in a paper, hear in a conversation without doing proper verification and diligence then you are a little dumb and own the results. I believe less then 20% of anything I see, hear, read or find out from other sources.

I agree. But sadly people do believe what they want to believe.

[cappyjon431]

TOTV is invaluable.

BUT:

That being said, anyone who believes everything that they read on the internet should contact me for really cheap oceanfront property in Summerfield.

[jaj111]

Let me start by saying, I've found this forum very informative and helpful. But I was told by a couple of different people that I would not be able to move to the villages at age 52 or 53. But a couple of other posters correctly stated that is not totally correct. Like (Happinow)stated most people are going to research their questions. So I called the villages and told them how old I was and asked if I had to wait three years to purchase property. I was then asked if we had a children under the age of 19. I said no. Then was told it would not be a problem. Like I said this forum has been very helpful and I'm sure the people who told me I had to be 55 thought they were giving me the correct information. After all TV say you have to be over 55. I use the forum to ask questions from villagers who know a lot more than I do. But you should always follow it up with research.

[mikeandnancy1112]

Happinow, You couldn't have said it any better!

[rubicon]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

Forewarned is forearmed

[rhood]

I'm sure the people who told me I had to be 55 thought they were giving me the correct information.

That's the problem and it happens a lot. Just because someone believes something doesn't make it factual. It's a laugh a day for me, just chuckling at the wrong info that is posted here. Of course everyone has an opinion and the right to post it. Don't believe everything you read here.

[CaptJohn]

If you ask for an opinion then you should be happy with all answers and the one that agrees with what you first thought is the one you sought anyway, therefore will be the correct one, unless someone provides a good enough argument or enough people provide references for you to change your mind, which most people don't like to do unless they're truly open and objective in the first place.

If you ask for a fact then, even if misinformed with good intensions, you have narrowed a possible 100 answers down to a few that are easier to research yourself for a final answer thereby saving you a lot of unnecessary steps.
The end result is up to you. Final answer! :laugh: (but I'm going to think about my answer and may change my mind!)

[janmcn]

Another problem with giving info based on personal experience is TV is constantly changes the rules and regs to suit it's purposes. What one person was told last year or last month or last week may not be the policy today.

[joanofarctv]

Thanks for posting that and it's something to consider.

[quirky3]

Another problem with giving info based on personal experience is TV is constantly changes the rules and regs to suit it's purposes. What one person was told last year or last month or last week may not be the policy today.

"Constantly"? Really? I read TOTV quite a bit but I am not aware of TV constantly changing their rules. Can you give examples that show how constantly it happens? Thank you

[janmcn]

"Constantly"? Really? I read TOTV quite a bit but I am not aware of TV constantly changing their rules. Can you give examples that show how constantly it happens? Thank you

If you asked someone living north of 466 if you're allowed lawn ornaments and signs on your house, they would say absolutely, the more the better.
The first time I visited TV, the first thing the sales person asked me is are you 55? Apparently, they don't adhere to that anymore.
When I moved to TV, you were not allowed to drive a golf cart after dark.
If you asked someone living north of 466, excluding Marion County, if Patio Villas have guest parking, they would say yes, they're all over the place. No more.

Even improvements that were addressed in the developer's newspaper never came to fruition, and now that the growth management law has been repealed, the developer no longer has to provide roads, schools, or even sewer service.

[rubicon]

It has been said that more information (data) is generated in one day today then had been created from the beginning of time until 2003.

Another reason for the misinformation is the one upmanship being played by many posters. Personally I had a belly full of it in the corporate world and hence often defer rather than engage.

That old saw " Believe nothing you hear and half of what you read" should be changed to "trust but verify"

Most of what one reads on a blog is "opinion" and that's fine if one judiciously gleans bits and pieces that are helpful say regarding someone's opinion concerning an eatery

I opine you decide

[skyguy79]

If you asked someone living north of 466 if you're allowed lawn ornaments and signs on your house, they would say absolutely, the more the better.
The first time I visited TV, the first thing the sales person asked me is are you 55? Apparently, they don't adhere to that anymore.
When I moved to TV, you were not allowed to drive a golf cart after dark.
If you asked someone living north of 466, excluding Marion County, if Patio Villas have guest parking, they would say yes, they're all over the place. No more.

Even improvements that were addressed in the developer's newspaper never came to fruition, and now that the growth management law has been repealed, the developer no longer has to provide roads, schools, or even sewer service.IMO, I don't believe that it's that "they don't care anymore" but rather that the 80% 55+ occupancy rule has been reached and exceeded thereby permitting purchases by those under 55 and will remain open until they reach the 20% mark and the 55+ falls under 80%, if it ever does. Here's a link to that requirement:

Requirements / 55+ Housing / Florida Commission on Human Relations (http://fchr.state.fl.us/fchr/resources/55_housing/requirements)

[hedoman]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

The reason is many of the responders don't even live here. There are a few posters with over 2,000 posts that have visited here once.....One that doesn't live here, doesn't rent here and has been on property 1 time!

[RayinPenn]

A recent example is "When the build out ends" thread. Then there are the bond threads, IRS threads, traffic threads, roundabout threads, taxes threads, etc.

I have in the past researched comments and posted corrected information. There are others who have done the same.

I posed the question when the build out ends. I was not unhappy with the info provided. What I walked away with is that some portion of the maintenance of TV will be under resident control and other ill not. I will confirm all this with TV. Based on what I read I simply will buy in the newest section I can. Although I'd like to think otherwise I will not live forever and it will eventually be my kids problem. People post what hey believe and that's fine by me. I have been an auditor for lost my entire career.. They trained us to follow: You don't know until you absolutely know I.e. see it in writing etc.,

[Challenger]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

Right on. Add to that the rumor mongers and conspiracy theorist and the problem intensifies:sigh:

[Posh 08]

The reason is many of the responders don't even live here. There are a few posters with over 2,000 posts that have visited here once.....One that doesn't live here, doesn't rent here and has been on property 1 time!

I don't understand the meaning of your post. Hope I'm wrong but I got a feeling that perspective buyers are not welcome to post in your opinion?

[Villages PL]

I just recently learned how fraudulent the internent can be. I was always cautious but didn't think it could be all that bad when it comes to medical and health issues. I was wrong! I was told that a certain product is a cure for a common ailment. I did a yahoo search and sure enough there it was, a well known product advertised as a cure for ailment X. And it said, "money back guarantee". But when I called the company, they said, "NO, we do not advertise our product for that purpose."

So, that's the nature of the internet. If something is very important to you, you need to check and double check to see if the information is true or factual. Don't just believe everything you read.

[Yorio]

Take everything with a grain of salt whether it be newspaper article, cable news, etc. including what's written on TOTV. It is only an opinion of a person even if it is written as facts. On TOTV, I sometimes detect comments as a gruntled view of an employee or an ad posing as a Villager. Can't blame them for trying though am sure Admin. will control any blatant disregard for the spirit of the posting.

[Schaumburger]

TOTV is invaluable.

BUT:

That being said, anyone who believes everything that they read on the internet should contact me for really cheap oceanfront property in Summerfield.

I agree with CappyJon and the others who say...ya gotta do your own homework! And how much is the cheap oceanfront property in Summerfield? :)

[graciegirl]

I agree with CappyJon and the others who say...ya gotta do your own homework! And how much is the cheap oceanfront property in Summerfield? :)

Do your own homework!

It is too late .Almost 90K of us have bought up a bunch of dumb land in the middle of Florida. We have not only done it but we have been given some kind of numbing agent or kickipoo joy juice and we love it here.

The misinformation comes from those not similarly ingested or infected or injected.

:D:024::popcorn:

[Schaumburger]

I will be back in TV on June 8 for 9 days to drink the kickipoo joy juice and/or to be injected with the mind numbing agent. Please have the supplies ready as soon as I cross into TV terrority :).

[Bettiboop]

Do your own homework!

It is too late .Almost 90K of us have bought up a bunch of dumb land in the middle of Florida. We have not only done it but we have been given some kind of numbing agent or kickipoo joy juice and we love it here.

The misinformation comes from those not similarly ingested or infected or injected.

:D:024::popcorn:

Uh Oh....That last time I was given numbing agent and drank the kickipoo joy juice I became pregnant...Hope that doesn't happen this time. :1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Barefoot]

I don't understand the meaning of your post. Hope I'm wrong but I got a feeling that perspective buyers are not welcome to post in your opinion?

In Hedoman's defence, from reading this thread, I don't think that he is saying that potential buyers are not welcome to post their opinions. Not at all. Not a bit. I think his point is that if a question is asked, potential buyers should make sure they have correct information before replying so as not to mislead readers.

[cappyjon431]

I agree with CappyJon and the others who say...ya gotta do your own homework! And how much is the cheap oceanfront property in Summerfield? :)

For you, 1/2 price!

[Indydealmaker]

I don't understand the meaning of your post. Hope I'm wrong but I got a feeling that perspective buyers are not welcome to post in your opinion?

I think that what Hedoman was trying to say is that those "off campus" are most often offering info that they have only received from this forum and many members of this forum do not always read an entire thread in which the correct answer may ultimately be revealed, thus correcting earlier flawed info.

[downeaster]

[QUOTE=Indydealmaker;465386]I think that what Hedoman was trying to say is that those "off campus" are most often offering info that they have only received from this forum and many members of this forum do not always read an entire thread in which the correct answer may ultimately be revealed, thus correcting earlier flawed info.[/QUOTE

I am not sure what Hedoman was trying to say but I think your's is a good interpretation, but, how is one to know which response is correct? (That is a rhetorical question). Some of the erroneous posts are very convincing.

When an opinion is solicited the person asking expects opinions. However, some of the questions are asking for facts. That is where we should be careful in our answers. I have seen many threads where various and sundry answers are given and then someone provides a link to the site where the correct answer is given. That should end the thread but people keep right on posting conflicting information.

I agree reading the entire thread is important. If there are conflicting answers the next step is to contact another source.

[PaPaLarry]

the reason is many of the responders don't even live here. There are a few posters with over 2,000 posts that have visited here once.....one that doesn't live here, doesn't rent here and has been on property 1 time!
many??? Few???? One???

[hedoman]

I don't understand the meaning of your post. Hope I'm wrong but I got a feeling that perspective buyers are not welcome to post in your opinion?

Perspective buyers are the ones with questions and we happily try to answer, heck I was one of them for a long time. Those who answer with the air of authority but have very little time here are the ones I worry about and hence incidences of misinformation. I can't understandhow a person can have over 2,000 posts and has never been here but answers inquiries like a local.....

[hedoman]

In Hedoman's defence, from reading this thread, I don't think that he is saying that potential buyers are not welcome to post their opinions. Not at all. Not a bit. I think his point is that if a question is asked, potential buyers should make sure they have correct information before replying so as not to mislead readers.

Thank you Barefoot

[hedoman]

I think that what Hedoman was trying to say is that those "off campus" are most often offering info that they have only received from this forum and many members of this forum do not always read an entire thread in which the correct answer may ultimately be revealed, thus correcting earlier flawed info.

Indy
Yuuuup.... that's about right. Heck even us FROGS get it wrong from time to time as situations change here......

I like the advice "do your homework" but I have gleaned great information here about contractors and such. Other misinformation I just ignore.

Now I have 500 posts in over 2 years as I pretty much only respond if I can be of help and not fill the thread with vain attempts at humor, "where do you live" questions or other non topical items. Folks with 1/2 the time and 4 times the posts have admitted in previous threads to "not living here, not renting here and only visited once" (back in the thread "do you own or rent")
That just seems odd to me.....IMHO

[Posh 08]

Perspective buyers are the ones with questions and we happily try to answer, heck I was one of them for a long time. Those who answer with the air of authority but have very little time here are the ones I worry about and hence incidences of misinformation. I can't understandhow a person can have over 2,000 posts and has never been here but answers inquiries like a local.....

Thanks for clearing that up.

[zcaveman]

I usually try to look at Location at the top right of the poster's name area to see where they are located. Sometimes this can help depending on the question and the answer posted.

[graciegirl]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

I brought this post alive again because people do say things on here which I find to be incorrect, particularly about sales reps working for the villages not showing you resales.

Ours did. Showed us resales. Did yours? Jim McLaughlin said he made the same percentage on both. Did you want to see resales? Did he or she try to talk you out of resales? Did they discourage your resale from being sold?

Someone also said that a sales rep for the villages would be fired if he/she didn't sell enough new homes.......... I wonder where that information came from. Do you think it is correct? Does anyone know who to ask?

Maybe the person who said that was correct and maybe they weren't.

[casita37]

I remember from very early elementary school learning that a major factor in getting questions either right, or wrong, on a test, is reading the entire question before answering. Lesson well learned.

We bought less than a year ago. We had a TV real estate sales person who showed us both new and resales. The resales he showed us were all listed with Properties of TV. We had a Remax Realtor who showed us resales. She only showed us listing of "outside" real estate companies. Both of them confirmed they could not "cross-show".

That is the type of thing that could change, if TV works out something with the Board of Realtors and/or MLS. If it MATTERS.....call TV and ask. They are open for business right now. Just sayin'. :) My point being that many people ask a question on a forum when the appropriate agency/business is available to give a correct answer. BTW....sometimes even the right person gets it wrong. If it's expensive, or it really matters to you, check it and double check it!

[Barefoot]

Ours did. Showed us resales. Did yours? Jim McLaughlin said he made the same percentage on both. Did you want to see resales? Did he or she try to talk you out of resales? .

When we purchased our first home in TV, we told the Villages Rep that we were only interested in buying a resale and not to bother showing us anything new. He then took us to three new homes, and said that agents were "supposed" to show new as well as resale. We didn't mind, it was interesting seeing what new homes were being offered. But we knew we wanted a resale, and that's what we bought.

[looneycat]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

only a fool acts on advice from an unknown source. forum responses are starting points only. the onus is always on the individual asking the questions to corroborate the responses via other sources.

[Vic&Judy]

As a "newbie" in tV and on this wonderful site, I've been impressed at how quickly a negative experience, real, imagined, provoked or even possibly fabricated by competitors (I cringe at this last one) can cause panic or unfair press for a merchant, including our own developer. We've all felt we've been treated unfairly at one time in our lives or another, and I guess even well-meaning people dealing with the public can "lose it" when provoked, but the amount of damage angry talk can generate can literally achieve geometric proportions on a site such as this.

I do believe that there are plenty of real scams out there affecting our residents, and this is a great place to share for mutual defense and welfare, but we all need to be cognizant of how powerful a cybermedium such as this can be and use it judiciously.

Vic

[Villageshooter]

This is not a tablet on the mount,,,,and Moses is spending most of his time selling beer at the bait shack at LSL. take all this for what it is,,,, words on the Internet ,,,,, I pay homage to one person and take everything said as the truth.... And that was sheriff Andy Taylor. Just Remeber words that we all must live by that were said by rodney king.....Help I can't swim!!

[Buzz Bowman]

I take the approach on info passed along with two things in mind. Believe nothing that you hear and only half of what you see. President Reagan had a better idea.....Trust but Verify

[asianthree]

I brought this post alive again because people do say things on here which I find to be incorrect, particularly about sales reps working for the villages not showing you resales.

Ours did. Showed us resales. Did yours? Jim McLaughlin said he made the same percentage on both. Did you want to see resales? Did he or she try to talk you out of resales? Did they discourage your resale from being sold?

Someone also said that a sales rep for the villages would be fired if he/she didn't sell enough new homes.......... I wonder where that information came from. Do you think it is correct? Does anyone know who to ask?

Maybe the person who said that was correct and maybe they weren't.

Our rep showed us preowned also, but we bought a new villa, now he is showing us preowned again because we want to stay in the same area, he wants us happy it does not mater what home, just glad to help us out..Good thread Gracie

[uujudy]

"The thing about quotes on the internet is that you cannot confirm their validity." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Joaniesmom]

Another example of false information was about "free amenities" for Village employees.

Way back in the day, when my husband and I were trying to decide whether to buy in TV, we were concerned about the IRS Bond issue. I wrote a post, maybe my third or fourth, asking about it. The explosive and insulting reaction I got was so hurtful that I didn't come back to TOTV for, I think, close to a year.

We all have found out that words and the information they convey are powerful, powerful. If you are a member who can spread oil on troubled waters, who can correct crazy bad wrong statements, who can help warmly welcome people who are tentitive about joining us in our wonderful world, please, oh please stay on the board.

You are needed more than you know. :bowdown:

Joaniesmom

[createquilts]

Well I for one and glad for this forum. We are coming next week for our second visit, this time we are staying a week onsite. From reading about bond, lanai's, floor plans, fences, animals, how much the amenities fees are etc. I at least was able to make a list of questions to ask. I know now to have an MLS as well as villages agent when we get to the buying stage.

Of course not all the info is factual. When we first visited, years ago, we were told one member of the household had to be 55 and this was by the Villages. But apparently that has changed, as have many other things.

Thank you to all who have posted, about resales vs. new homes, about bonds, about taxes, about the different amenities, about the restrictive convenants. Very useful information to further research.

[rubicon]

Like any Q & A based issue "it depends" It depends on the time of the occurrence. It also depends circumstances that may be added or ommitted
Some situation appear to be the same but when you do a closer experience you will find variables. So that a person offering an opinion may be correct as to their situation but not another. The resident requirements cited in previous posts come to mind

In my office we use use to conference cases. Often in the beginning a case would look like until someone asked a questionand the response from the presenter was oh I forgot to mention and every opinion we had begin to offer was render moot.

I was taught that the listener has the obligations when it comes to communication, others would differ and place the burden on the sender of information. You choose but whom ever has the burden it means they have an obligation to make certain they have all the facts have been considered

Having said all of that my suggestion would be when someone offers advice get in the habit of asking some probing questions.

[Rebel Pirate]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.

OK, so here's a straight-forward, asking-for-the-facts type-of-question. I've seen statements on the forum that the rate charged for potable water is lower than the rate charged for irrigation water? Is that true? If it is true, can anyone explain why? If that's true, why don't I see lawns being watered by sprinklers hooked to hose bibbs?

[Indydealmaker]

"The thing about quotes on the internet is that you cannot confirm their validity." ~ Abraham Lincoln

Didn't Abe say that at his last meeting with Al Gore?

[Bill-n-Brillo]

OK, so here's a straight-forward, asking-for-the-facts type-of-question. I've seen statements on the forum that the rate charged for potable water is lower than the rate charged for irrigation water? Is that true? If it is true, can anyone explain why? If that's true, why don't I see lawns being watered by sprinklers hooked to hose bibbs?

From our water bill (in Duval):

Water base rate $8.06 0-4,000 gallons @ $1.72/thousand

Irrigation base rate $5.40 0-7,000 gallons @ $1.87/thousand

Utility tax - potable water 5%

Sewer base rate $11.49 0-10,000 gals @ $4.12/thousand


The deed restrictions for our villa state:

"Potable water may not be used for irrigation, except that supplemental irrigation with potable water is limited to annuals and the isolated treatment of heat stressed areas. All supplemental irrigation utilizing potable water must be done with a hose with an automatic shutoff nozzle. Use of sprinklers on a hose connection is not permitted."

Bill :)

[Bogie Shooter]

From our water bill (in Duval):

Water base rate $8.06 0-4,000 gallons @ $1.72/thousand

Irrigation base rate $5.40 0-7,000 gallons @ $1.87/thousand

Utility tax - potable water 5%

Sewer base rate $11.49 0-10,000 gals @ $4.12/thousand


The deed restrictions for our villa state:

"Potable water may not be used for irrigation, except that supplemental irrigation with potable water is limited to annuals and the isolated treatment of heat stressed areas. All supplemental irrigation utilizing potable water must be done with a hose with an automatic shutoff nozzle. Use of sprinklers on a hose connection is not permitted."

Bill :)

And that's the truth!

[jtdraig]

It appears the activity on this forum has increased in the past few months. Many more viewing, more threads and more responses. That's the good news.

There also seems to be an increase in the amount of erroneous information. That is the bad news.

A lot of this can have serious consequences. People asking for information may rely on the answers they get here. However, those answers may be from self styled experts who are wrong. There are even cases of others correcting the error only to replace it with another error.

I am not referring to questions such as electric cart vs. gas cart or new vs. resale. Anyone asking about subjects such as those will expect opinions. However, much more serious questions are asked. They include bond issues, taxes, our form of government, IRS issue and more. People deserve correct answers as they may be making a big decision and that decision could depend on the answer they get here.

This problem is out of the hands of the Admins. They cannot be expected to check the accuracy of every post. It is in our hands. Let's get our facts right before responding.

My comments are not meant to include the political forum or any sub forum or question requesting an opinion.


Sorry to say that no good deed goes unpunished...it's why I have almost stopped dealing with this website...too many sea lawyers, nitpickers, and sarcasm...Ciao!

[uujudy]

Didn't Abe say that at his last meeting with Al Gore?

Hahaha! Yep!

[mrfixit]

...

.....AND ...please do not forget WE also have to pay the sewer rate for ALL the potable water we use.....

.......Potable water.............$ 1.72 per thou....
.......Sewer............................4.12 per thou.....

So the total for POTABLE is....$ 5.84 per thou....



.....The Irrigation water is $ 1.87 per thou........................................and... increases at certain thresholds for higher usage.............

......I think this is correct......anybody have more info to clarify or correct my thinking??...

[graciegirl]

Ah yes. Much cheaper than Ohio water bill.

[Bogie Shooter]

...

.....AND ...please do not forget WE also have to pay the sewer rate for ALL the potable water we use.....

.......Potable water.............$ 1.72 per thou....
.......Sewer............................4.12 per thou.....

So the total for POTABLE is....$ 5.84 per thou....



.....The Irrigation water is $ 1.87 per thou........................................and... increases at certain thresholds for higher usage.............

......I think this is correct......anybody have more info to clarify or correct my thinking??...

See post #63.