The Villages Hometown Management "Rentals" are a racket

[shcisamax]

There I said it.

The Villages rentals are totally dishonest. They trumped up "charges" which were ridiculous. When they said there were marks in the cutting board, we knew we were in big trouble. They did retract that later after we explained as simply as possible that if you don't use the carving board, you end up with cuts in the granite. Kind of the purpose of a carving board. Then they said there was dog hair...Well...hmmn....that is what the nonrefundable pet security deposit of $150 was ostensibly to cover, no? Then later they said we took 1 towel and 2 pillowcases and 3 wash cloths for a total of $92. . Wow. Never thought I would be accused of taking a pillowcase or towel that didn't at least say Hotel Danieli or Plaza Athenee..:) Really ridiculous. Not to be ostentatious but to make the point, we just built a very stretched lantana on the golf course with a very large pool...I think we can afford our own wash cloths.

So after being gracious and allow inspectors and workmen in for several different days because the owner's one year warranty was up while we were there (and we could have easily refused but were doing them a favor)

After being screamed at "You have no business being here" at by a maid that was angry when we returned after our check out time to return a cable cord that was mixed with ours as we were moving in to our new home) yelling the place has "dog hair" over and over, ( I suspect she just didn't want to have to actually clean since it was a Saturday and had hoped to do a light dusting)


After then meeting with the power man, Joe Cozensa, and being told there would be no problem, three weeks later (after the date by which they need to return your security deposit) we get a registered letter saying they are taking an additional $160 (which they had already done after the legal date) from the main deposit of $500 and we should refer to section blah blah blah of Florida statute. Typical of a sneaky mentality, they try to make you think they are in the right by throwing out a statute but, if you actually refer to that statute, what they did was illegal.

It says clearly that they cannot just take your security deposit (which they did) but they need to inform you of the discrepancy and you have 15 days to dispute it.

We rented through them because it was TV. Oh wait. Actually, we discovered through this it isn't ..exactly... TV. TV franchised it to these guys two years ago. You get your contract on TV letterhead, you pick up and return your keys to the sales office in Lake Sumter...it certainly quacks like a duck. I still don't understand TV pretending and supporting kindasorta it being a Village operation. It is really quite disappointing to us The Villages plays into this shenanigan. It isn't something we, and probably everyone else, would have expected.

So here is what we suggest for those who are going to engage these dishonest people. DON'T! You are better off going with a home owner where you build an honest relationship. If for some crazy reason, you feel you still want to rent through TV Hometown Management, absolutely make them do a walkthrough with you when you take the house and make sure they give you an itemized inventory which you sign off on. Otherwise, you end up with charges that are ...bologna.

And as for the incidents above, I have left out details that would make your jaw drop in the interest of trying to make this a concise and germaine post.

[lovesports]

I have heard others that are not happy with the rental program of the Villages. Often it is the home owner who is not happy.

[shcisamax]

I have heard others that are not happy with the rental program of the Villages. Often it is the home owner who is not happy.

Most like they are playing both sides of the game.

[asianthree]

mmmm maid yelled at you..this won't help you now, but our home had things missing and come to find out it was the housecleaner that removed our things. when you spend this much money on renting a house what do you need a wash cloth for..we let her go and now have someone who takes care of our house like we would. sorry you found out the hard way...some do not want to rent from thevillages4rent.com but this gives a good reason to deal with the owner direct.

[shcisamax]

Yes, we wonder about the maid. In fact, while my daughter and I were there, I went to write thank you and invite to our new home in the welcome book which we had been remiss in doing. The maid started screaming something and called her superior to say we were writing nasty things in the book about her. My daughter was a bit apprehensive with the erratic behavior. We left totally rattled by this very peculiar person. When we got in to the meeting with "owner" Joe Cozensa (sp?), he said the maid told him my daughter shoved her niece. We were speechless...for about 3 seconds. My daughter is demure, stands 5'2" and is a 0-2. At this point, nothing was surprising us anymore. We do wonder if she took those things and, to bolster her position, she invented that story. Or she was so angry about cleaning, she wanted to make us pay for it? We don't know but the response "Joe" had was, "That's why we don't like clients to be there when the cleaning people are there."
We didn't rent from thevillages4rent.com because we thought we had a relationship with TV and they were building our house. We were looking for a seamless move. We had rented one house for two weeks (BTW: the sheets were dirty and had to be washed when we moved in and we got a big ...aww that's too bad from the company about that) and then moved for two months to this one. It seemed logical to go with a company that was operated by TV. Had we known it really isn't TV standing behind this ...although they pretend it is them...we would have rented directly with a home owner. I hope others, after reading this, will recognize the benefit to rent directly. Chances are if someone owns a house in TV, they are a relatively nice person because TV attracts nice residents. This franchise Villages Hometown Property Management is apparently trumping up charges on both renters and home owners. Not nice.

[thekeithfan]

I am a homeowner that has rented in the past. But not through them. At the time they got 20% of everything! including 20% of the cost of rebuying the stuff they alleged YOU BROKE. And if you are so unfortunate to have your A/C go or Washer they take care of it and pocket 20%! the homeowner is left with less than the rental agency!!!

[janmcn]

The OP should give their salesperson a copy of these complaints with a cc to Jennifer Parr. If The Villages gets enough complaints that effect their customer service, perhaps they will end their franchisees contract.

[Bogie Shooter]

The OP should give their salesperson a copy of these complaints with a cc to Jennifer Parr. If The Villages gets enough complaints that effect their customer service, perhaps they will end their franchisees contract.

This is good advice.
Would like to hear Jennifer Parr's response.

[golf4me]

This is good advice.
Would like to hear Jennifer Parr's response.

I agree.

[rubicon]

This is good advice.
Would like to hear Jennifer Parr's response.

Good luck with that

[batman911]

We are staying in one of their rental homes now for a week. I will let you know how it turns out. So far, we could not not be happier with the home (a Bridgeport on the golf course and large pond on Inner Circle in Amelia) or service. Home was spotless on arrival and everything works. Better than expectations.

[goodgrief]

I think the big thing is folks need to know is that the company is owned by Blackhawk something or other. No longer owned by the villages and hasn't been for a couple of years.

We looked at a home we were told had a "newly remodeled kitchen" one year and walked out never ever thinking to do business with them. The kitchen showed signs of severe water damage. Stained linoleum and very very stained carpet into the dining room from the linoleum. I was thinking possibly mold versus stain. How can they call this a remodel??? Hubby had opened the fridge and said he was glad I hadn't because it would not have been walk but run out of that house. :(

I guess by saying this you might want to think twice before allowing them to rent out your property as well as being weary of renting through them. Didn't look like good upkeep at all :(

[shcisamax]

The OP should give their salesperson a copy of these complaints with a cc to Jennifer Parr. If The Villages gets enough complaints that effect their customer service, perhaps they will end their franchisees contract.

Why do you think the salesperson will care? How does one send it to Jennifer Parr. Wonder if she would care since they are not the "real" owners...just the sortakinda pretend owners :)

[shcisamax]

I think the big thing is folks need to know is that the company is owned by Blackhawk something or other. No longer owned by the villages and hasn't been for a couple of years.
:(

Actually we believe TV does still have an interest. From our understanding from the hospitality manager at the sales office, TV franchised it to these two guys. What is "Blackhawk"?

Regardless, it is very bad form to have people working off a Villages contract, picking up and returning the keys to The Villages offices and then say it isn't a Village business. Or responsibility. I think that is the part that is the most unexpected part of this disappointing and dismal experience.

[justjim]

Wow! Good information to know in this thread. We have friends who just ask for rental suggestions in TV.

[shcisamax]

Guess you know to go to any other resource. Sure wish we had. Shall we say it put a damper on our TV enthusiasm.

[Madelaine Amee]

Good luck with that

You could start by contacting Janet Tutt. She seems to be reliable and would be able to lead you to the right group of people.

[shcisamax]

Who and where is Janet Tutt?

[Ebsmom]

We rented a CYV in Sabal Chase to overlap time for our closing and time to slowly move in to our new home. Still waiting for the time period to end for release on our deposit. My husband made sure the carpet was clean and we cleaned bathrooms and such to leave the place nicer than we found it... The Service told us none of that was necessary to leave it as a hotel room. So I hope they are honest and fair on the return of our fee as we watched our dogs like hawks and made sure all was well if not better than when we arrived. I had to inform the Service that we found some areas not well kept in the kitchen aka Dirty Silverware and pots/pans.
Sure glad we are home owners now!
Ebsmom

[asianthree]

We are staying in one of their rental homes now for a week. I will let you know how it turns out. So far, we could not not be happier with the home (a Bridgeport on the golf course and large pond on Inner Circle in Amelia) or service. Home was spotless on arrival and everything works. Better than expectations.

take pictures of each cabinet and closet, furniture hard to say its not there if you have a picture that is was, or they could say you removed it after picture, but still might be worth it

[goodgrief]

Actually we believe TV does still have an interest. From our understanding from the hospitality manager at the sales office, TV franchised it to these two guys. What is "Blackhawk"?

Regardless, it is very bad form to have people working off a Villages contract, picking up and returning the keys to The Villages offices and then say it isn't a Village business. Or responsibility. I think that is the part that is the most unexpected part of this disappointing and dismal experience.

Found it :BLACKHAWK UNLIMITED INC. D/B/A The Villages Hometown Property Management

They're the contractor running the villages hometown property management now. Had a friend interview with the office and they don't have any of the job perks aka charter, medical etc that the village jobs have.

[shcisamax]

Wow. Thanks so much. It is really unethical for TV to allow them to use their letterhead, have keys picked up and dropped at the sales office so it appears it is a TV owned enterprises. I imagine that is why they are collecting a percentage. Lending their appearance of legitimacy. Very disappointing and very unexpected from what I usually consider TV to be a great company. I wonder if there are other "franchises" that TV is putting out there as "their" businesses.

[BobKat1]

I'm certainly not questioning anyone in this conversation, but playing devil's advocate here, I wonder what TVPM would say about this incident?

[shcisamax]

What is TVPM?

[BobKat1]

What is TVPM?

Sorry, I meant The Villages Hometown Property Management

[shcisamax]

That is who we have been talking about. That is who has behaved so poorly. That is who is really Blackhawk d/b/a Villages Hometown Property Management.

[BobKat1]

That is who we have been talking about. That is who has behaved so poorly. That is who is really Blackhawk d/b/a Villages Hometown Property Management.

I know, initally I was just abbreviating The Villages Property Management (TVPM) but left out an H for Hometown.

[shcisamax]

Oh. Hmmn. I am confused. You said: Wonder what TVPM would say about this incident. They are who we have been talking about throughout the thread. If you look at the original posts, it explains they are fully aware and are behaving very poorly. Sorry if it wasn't clear.

[BobKat1]

Oh. Hmmn. I am confused. You said: Wonder what TVPM would say about this incident. They are who we have been talking about throughout the thread. If you look at the original posts, it explains they are fully aware and are behaving very poorly. Sorry if it wasn't clear.

I probably wasn't clear initally, we've heard just one side of the story here.

I know it won't happen but it would be interesting to hear what they would have to say on the matter.

[shcisamax]

Yes it would be interesting to hear what they have to say about all the comments on here. It seems they aren't very well regarded. Wish I had asked questions on totv before we rented :) Hindsight is 20 20.

[gomoho]

We have rented from TV Property Management and an individual homeowner. Both were very pleasant experiences and full deposit was refunded both times. The individual rental had more to offer as far as a homey feeling i.e. grill, maps, magazines, games, etc. The property management rental was bare bones - almost like a souped up hotel room. Both of these were done in the past year.

[shcisamax]

Very interesting gomoho. How long were each of the rentals? BTW: We found the ladies who booked the rentals to be terrific.

[asianthree]

as a homeowner we have our home with everything we need as if we live there...even that wine carrier to go with the plates and silverware to go for dinner on the square....i wonder what the homeowners were told about this problem, after all its their home

[shcisamax]

I don't know what they tell the homeowner. I do know that the women who rent the houses are told nothing when there is a problem. The woman who rented both houses to us didn't know anything. Also, she thinks she is working for TV. She told me her checks come from TV. She doesn't even know it is a company d/b/a and that it is technically not TV. It is a small office but everyone only seems to know their little piece. In fact, when I spoke to the owner of the "owner" and mentioned we opened the house to workmen for several days and even use of the shower for repairs, he poopooed it saying that was for the villages warranty and we weren't doing anything for them but we helped the owners. If you really consider it, that was use of property. If they had control of this house, they knew the end of the first year was coming. They should not have rented it and expected the renters to give up their time and use without a compensation. We never made an issue of it and, again, it was an example of how they take advantage.

[graciegirl]

What the OP is saying is shocking. I hope that The Villages divorces this bunch and quick. It sure does not sound good.

Bogieshooter? How do you send this thread on to the right folks who can take to the eyes of the decision makers?

The OP is right about the graphics used on their site being the EXACT graphics of TV and the fact that the sales office is their agent is equally troubling.

As most know, I LOVE how things are run here, this sure looks like a fly in the ointment. :yuck:

[gomoho]

Very interesting gomoho. How long were each of the rentals? BTW: We found the ladies who booked the rentals to be terrific.

Each rental was only for a week - but, I agree with you the lady that helped me with TV property management was awesome - too bad they may be working for some less than caring folks.

[BobKat1]

If they are this bad all of the time with all customers wouldn't they be out of business or at least a change in management?

[Rags123]

We have rented three different homes, unfurnished, through Hometown Management, one with the current folks running it and by the way one of them for sure is a long time Village executive employee.

We could not say enough good things about the entire operation, we were treated like guests, we had no problems of any kind with them and that includes the financing items and payment of security deposit.

[JC and John]

We have rented from TV Property Management and an individual homeowner. Both were very pleasant experiences and full deposit was refunded both times. The individual rental had more to offer as far as a homey feeling i.e. grill, maps, magazines, games, etc. The property management rental was bare bones - almost like a souped up hotel room. Both of these were done in the past year.

We rented a CYV in Hadley for 3 months this past year from TV Hometown Property Management while our home was being built. We had a very positive experience. We had 2 cats and I was very keen on no hair being left behind, no smell or damage. I put my own towels on the furniture to ensure no hair on furniture. Called Property Management as one of the smoke detectors was chirping. They came out right away and fixed. Granted the hot water was not hot enough for my taste but we managed and the washing machine was an old top loader that didn't do such a good job at cleaning but it beat going to a laundrymat. No, the pots and pans etc. weren't as good as my things but we ate out so much didn't have to worry about it too much. We got our deposit back with the exception of the pet fee (which we knew was not refundable) within 30 days after we vacated the residence. Guess we got lucky.

[cquick]

I had never rented before last August when we sold our house in Hunter's Creek and moved to a rented home in Liberty Park, through The Villages 4 Rent. When we moved out in December, I cleaned that house top to bottom. Long story short.....they kept part of our deposit because they said we took 2 measuring spoons, a travel mug and a measuring cup. Total $35. I was so surprised!

I had cleaned mold from the front and back porches, the outdoor furniture and outdoor lights and the window sills. I fixed moldy caulking in the shower. We felt we left the house better than when we arrived.

It was a real eye opener for me!

[graciegirl]

I had never rented before last August when we sold our house in Hunter's Creek and moved to a rented home in Liberty Park, through The Villages 4 Rent. When we moved out in December, I cleaned that house top to bottom. Long story short.....they kept part of our deposit because they said we took 2 measuring spoons, a travel mug and a measuring cup. Total $35. I was so surprised!

I had cleaned mold from the front and back porches, the outdoor furniture and outdoor lights and the window sills. I fixed moldy caulking in the shower. We felt we left the house better than when we arrived.

It was a real eye opener for me!

That makes my blood BOIL, Connie. Are they the same folks?????

[asianthree]

there was six things missing from our home from the last renters, our home watch person sent us the list...the house was as if they had not been there for 6 months...I didn't charge them for anything.... yep it was about $100 but its just stuff and they took care of our home. sent full refund....

[shcisamax]

Cquick: Wow. I would have been really bugged. And charged them back for my caulking. :)
I normally would have done a better clean job just because that is who we are. But we closed, were running like crazy on getting all the after market work done prior to the movers coming and had a dog that had suddenly developed seizures so we were up to our max in "must dos". When we left, we hadn't vacuumed or dusted for almost two weeks. BUT we made sure the counters in the kitchen were clean and all glassware in the dishwasher or in the sink. No, we didn't make the beds but ...when you rent, the cleaning bill is supposedly built in so we assumed someone would have to strip the beds and clean regardless of whether we make the beds etc. Yes there was dog hair but it certainly wasn't a disaster area. They actually told us there were marks on the stainless refrigerator. Yikes. Fingerprints? a problem?
It looks like that security deposit is there for the pickins and the longer you are there, the higher the chance they will assume they can get something from you. There are some like Asianthree that seem to be the exception. Thank you Asianthree for giving some balance.

[BobKat1]

I had never rented before last August when we sold our house in Hunter's Creek and moved to a rented home in Liberty Park, through The Villages 4 Rent. When we moved out in December, I cleaned that house top to bottom. Long story short.....they kept part of our deposit because they said we took 2 measuring spoons, a travel mug and a measuring cup. Total $35. I was so surprised!

I had cleaned mold from the front and back porches, the outdoor furniture and outdoor lights and the window sills. I fixed moldy caulking in the shower. We felt we left the house better than when we arrived.

It was a real eye opener for me!

We just rented a home through Tthe Villages 4 Rent and had used **** previously. I always wonder when I send in the deposit if there will be any problems at the end of the rental. You don't know who is on the other end of the agreement and have to hope for the best. So far it's been OK but you never know.

I feel you pain on your experience.

[JoeC1947]

Take pictures when you get there and pictures when you leave.

[shcisamax]

Absolutely the best thing you can do. Not only take photos but make them walk through and give you a list of the inventory. It is pretty ridiculous that someone is going to take measuring spoons! and, in our case, pillowcases and washcloths. If they are going to charge for items taken, they need to have a count of everything available to you when you come in.

[cathyw]

cquick...That is awful. I owned a home in The Villages that I rented for 6 years. I never would have kept any of your deposit. I feel like calling the owner of the house you rented, that's how annoyed I am. They are giving all the owners a bad name. Things happen, things break, things are missing. This is the cost of business. After every rental, I would do a walk thru ( sometimes with the renters, if they wanted). I would give them the deposit back right on the spot or mail it back that day. Most people had their deposit when they arrived home.
I never kept any part of anyone's deposit. I always told them when they arrived, that things break, just let me know and I will have it fixed. In my opinion, the deposit is only for MAJOR and INTENIONAL damage. If you have a wild party and throw a chair thru the glass door, youll lose the deposit. If there is a cup or towel missing, I will gladly replace it. Sorry you had a bad renting experience.

[BeeGee]

even if you do rent directly from the homeowner. A couple of years ago, our experience was that after a reasonable amount of time and no deposit had been returned, I contacted the homeowner to find out where our deposit was....she said that the villa specifically was for no pets and the housekeeper had found dog hair on the mattress and dog food on the kitchen floor. Well, we didn't have a dog with us and I spent a good amount of time convincing her....and we had reported a problem with the dishwasher.....she said she was keeping the deposit because of all the trouble....we had left the villa in much better shape than when we arrived (kitchen floor hadn't been mopped in a while, master bath shower wasn't as clean as I liked..so had to clean it before stepping in that!!) Anyway, it all turned out okay, but can't seem to get passed the fact that I don't think she really believed me - hate to have people think I've done something when I haven't....guess that makes up a little for the times in my youth when I got away with A LOT!! All our other rentals were great!! Sorry for your troubles, just wanted you to know it can happen to anybody and with any rental, unfortunately.

[dalecrenshaw]

As an owner of a home in the Villages, that we rent out when we are not there, for the most part, people leave the house as if it were their own home. Most people are embarassed to leave it untidy or dirty and do their best to shine it up before leaving. This has always been the case 99% of the time. Of course, some things are inadvertently missed or not a thorough as it should be , so it is necessary to have a cleaning person go in to make sure that the house is in tip top condition for the next tenant, or the next tenant will complain and feel obliged to leave it messy.

I did have a terrible experience with a property manager, who failed in her responsibility to do a walk through and failed to do an inventory after the tenant had left. This particular tenant left the place a mess....stained carpets way beyond normal wear and tear, 3 lamps that had been knocked over and broken, other things that were broken because of abuse, quite a few things missing, etc etc etc
The property manager gave back her deposit in full. When I arrived at the house from California, I was horrified to find the house a mess. Contacted the property manager and was told the tenant left the place in perfectly good condition. Obliviously, she could not have walked through or done an inventory check. Since the deposit was given back, we, as owners had no recourse to get back all the money it cost us to clean up the place and replace the missing/broken items. Needless to say, we parted company with the Property Manager, and are now managing the property ourselves.

We have had several property managers over the years, and find that most of them are too busy to do a thorough job.

[shcisamax]

It seems there are dishonorable people on both sides. We just didn't expect it from The Villages.

[graciegirl]

It seems there are dishonorable people on both sides. We just didn't expect it from The Villages.

Just to clarify...Is thevillages4rent the same entity as The Villages Hometown management?

Let's blame the right folks here in the hopes that the powers who can effect change do read this forum (I think they do) and will straighten this out so that these people won't continue to bring down their " brand" which I consider a good one.

[swimdawg]

Just to clarify...Is thevillages4rent the same entity as The Villages Hometown management?

No, it is a private entity. It is an easy website to use. I found a rental home for a friend of mine thru thevillages4rent.com and everything went very smoothly. The person renting deals directly with the owner of the home.

Here is their website: The Villages 4 Rent, Rentals in The Villages (http://www.thevillages4rent.com/)

[shcisamax]

The Villages Hometown Property Management is a Villages enterprise in as much as they original "owned" it but franchised it a couple years ago. They do have an interest in it. In fact, the idea is for people to believe it is a Village enterprise so they will have confidence in the company. That is why they use Village logo letterhead for the contract, they have you pick up your keys and return your keys at The Villages sales office in Lake Sumter. But The Villages is not running it per se. Too bad. These guys are simply not up to standard and are unscrupulous, in fact, act illegally. The Villages needs to rethink this business model which can do nothing but impact them negatively.

The Villages4Rent is an entirely different company and has nothing to do with The Villages other than the properties people list are in The Villages.

[eweissenbach]

No, it is a private entity. It is an easy website to use. I found a rental home for a friend of mine thru thevillages4rent.com and everything went very smoothly. The person renting deals directly with the owner of the home.

Here is their website: The Villages 4 Rent, Rentals in The Villages (http://www.thevillages4rent.com/)

Yup - we rented thru the villages4rent website two years ago and dealt directly with the owner. Great experience.

[skyc6]

The thing that I find most upsetting in this is that the OP says she paid a surcharge for having a pet of $150.00. She did not plan on getting this back and did not get it back. Wouldn't $150.00 cover dog hair expenses? She was charged a portion of her deposit in addition to this $150.00! That's robbery!
Am I correct in this statement? I think that is right.

[graciegirl]

We rented from an individual that we knew when we were building.

We stayed in someone's home which was managed through the sales office when we came for lifestyle visit.



It is possible when renting for several months to get your odds and ends, wine openers, favorite mugs, cleaning supplies, mixed up with homeowners. I would guess that most scrupulous people leave as much as accidentally removed.

Like most, we hadn't been renters for a long time and I was very aware I was living in someone elses house. I tried to leave it the way I found it, not like I would leave a hotel room. I am betting that most people of our age are very careful and leave the home in excellent condition.

My advice to renters is to factor in time to clean at the end. It takes a little time to strip the beds and even put the comforter in the dryer on air if you have been renting with your dog or cat. Just to assure you will get your deposit back.

The OP was not able to clean when she left.. and that is contractually not expected ... I am sure that the OP did not deserve the offensive treatment she got. It is likely that the "maid" was annoyed because this time she did have to clean which is what she is paid to do everytime.

I feel that the OP was unfairly charged. It sounds like the OP was insulted.

I hope that The Villages that are franchising their name and brand are aware that things aren't run smoothly or diplomatically by this franchisee to say the least and I hope that The Villages does something about this poor service and unethical treatment. It isn't looking good for the The Villages Hometown Rental Management for sure.

In any business you live or die by your good reputation.

[shcisamax]

What we found the most telling was when they sent a letter stating they had taken the security deposit and cited Florida statute as supporting their action. When you actually read the statute, it says they cannot take the deposit but they must first advise you of their intention and give the renter 15 days to dispute. So they acted illegally. They also, "returned" the remaining deposit after the legal date and they also sent their letter after the legal date. They clearly are operating upon their own "laws" and putting on the face that they are in the right. They must think people don't actually read the statute or don't understand what it says.
And Gracie you are right. You live and die by your reputation. The Villages has cause for concern that this piece of the business takes from their spotless reputation.
sky: Yes, one would think the pet deposit covered the dog hair.

[gomoho]

The Villages stays involved in the rentals because when you pick up your keys they are delivered by a sales person. Obviously that could work to their advantage.

[rp001]

File a complaint with seniors vs crime...

[aabuono]

Hi Everyone - I have a question - Does the renter get an inventory when they arrive? I was wondering if we should ask for one before we arrive. Do you think that I am being to picky? I was going to get my camera out when we arrive to document everything...

Anne

[JSR22]

Hi Everyone - I have a question - Does the renter get an inventory when they arrive? I was wondering if we should ask for one before we arrive. Do you think that I am being to picky? I was going to get my camera out when we arrive to document everything...

Anne

We started renting 2 weeks ago. The house was spotless, well furnished and equipped. We did not receive an inventory.

[shcisamax]

After what we experienced being told there were 3 washcloths 2 pillow cases and 1 towel missing and getting a bill for $92, I would suggest absolutely insist on signing off on an inventory and a walkthrough when you go in. Otherwise, they can, and will, say what they want. And you have no proof.

[CaptJohn]

Has anyone considered that the cleaning person could have taken things and blamed it on the renter? Almost perfect crime since it's hard to prove. I believe I'd want the owner or rep there as I was leaving to verify everything was in order and sign a form saying all was OK.

[shcisamax]

We have considered that. As she was so angry screaming about the dog hair, she made up that story about my daughter and possibly decided to stick it to us with claiming missing items. We don't know what really happened but the other pieces of this dismal debacle lead us to believe the management is not on the up and up in general. It appears, in general, if you want to be sure no one will tinker with your deposit, you need to sign off on an inventory and film the whole house.

[Bogie Shooter]

I wonder what the other side of the story might sound like?

[BobKat1]

I wonder what the other side of the story might sound like?

Me too.

[shcisamax]

Obviously they are going to say there were missing linens and dog hair that isn't covered by the $150 deposit. Probably will poopoo the crazy maid. If you wish to rent from them, make sure you count your towels.

[USSGompers]

Wow. Thanks so much. It is really unethical for TV to allow them to use their letterhead, have keys picked up and dropped at the sales office so it appears it is a TV owned enterprises. I imagine that is why they are collecting a percentage. Lending their appearance of legitimacy. Very disappointing and very unexpected from what I usually consider TV to be a great company. I wonder if there are other "franchises" that TV is putting out there as "their" businesses.

I know at least two. The Villages Information Systems (IT Dept) was bought by its department head and is no longer affilated with the Villages although it retains The Villages name. The biggest surprise is I was told by my friends that are employed by the Daily Sun, that Phil Markward, the editor in charge has bought out the paper.

Little by little, the Morse family is trying to rid itself of all these depts and concentrate on retirement.

[shcisamax]

There really is no reason they shouldn't drop these collateral businesses if it no longer fits in their business model. The only caveat is that to lead people to thinking they are working with The Villages, and that means the professionalism and reputation, is just wrong.

[Bogie Shooter]

Bill, where ever you are, we need some :popcorn: over here!

[BobKat1]

"Franchising" out a valuable name is nothing new and with the strength of The Villages name it probably makes sense for them to leverage it.

I don't know who owns The Villages Golf Carts, but if TV does, that could be a candidate too. A sign of the times.

Del Webb Sun City developments are owned by Pulte Homes.

[asianthree]

As an owner of a home in the Villages, that we rent out when we are not there, for the most part, people leave the house as if it were their own home. Most people are embarassed to leave it untidy or dirty and do their best to shine it up before leaving. This has always been the case 99% of the time. Of course, some things are inadvertently missed or not a thorough as it should be , so it is necessary to have a cleaning person go in to make sure that the house is in tip top condition for the next tenant, or the next tenant will complain and feel obliged to leave it messy.

I did have a terrible experience with a property manager, who failed in her responsibility to do a walk through and failed to do an inventory after the tenant had left. This particular tenant left the place a mess....stained carpets way beyond normal wear and tear, 3 lamps that had been knocked over and broken, other things that were broken because of abuse, quite a few things missing, etc etc etc
The property manager gave back her deposit in full. When I arrived at the house from California, I was horrified to find the house a mess. Contacted the property manager and was told the tenant left the place in perfectly good condition. Obliviously, she could not have walked through or done an inventory check. Since the deposit was given back, we, as owners had no recourse to get back all the money it cost us to clean up the place and replace the missing/broken items. Needless to say, we parted company with the Property Manager, and are now managing the property ourselves.

We have had several property managers over the years, and find that most of them are too busy to do a thorough job.

been there done that manage on our own also

[skyc6]

I have never rented in TV. I am a home owner here and I have been following this thread. I did a little investigating about these companies associated with TV and found that yes the rental is outsourced and it is now owned by 2 gentleman who have both worked for TV villages for I was told well over 10 years each and I was told with outstanding performance to both and were offered this division. The shuttle has also been outsourced. I think that TV are slowly getting rid of different departments. I guess that these two areas are independently owned now and probably more to come as they start to weed out. I would suggest to you, since you rented recently, I would imagine that you are a new owner that instead of trashing an independent small business owner (as I see it) in your friendliest hometown...maybe you should get out of your home and see what TV has to offer and get out from behind your computer and get over it and move on...life is too short to worry about $100 bucks. From a former small business owner !!! Move on...maybe TV is not for you !!!

What??? This is not about $100!! This cleaning woman, employed by this company, accused the OP's 20 year old daughter of physically shoving the cleaner's niece! She also started screaming when they returned to the house to turn in an electrical cord, instead of tossing it or keeping it. Then the cleaning woman accused them of theft.
These men, who own the company, not only accept this behavior from the cleaner they employ, but they then illegally take more of the renter's money and cite law statutes that they are breaking themselves!
The person who got trashed here is the renter!!
How dare you suggest that TV is not for them because they object to this treatment! I suggest you MOVE ON!:pepper2: :pepper2:
As a small business owner, you must at some time have heard that good customer service is key #1 to a successful small business??

[skyc6]

I wonder what the other side of the story might sound like?

Hasn't the OP made it very clear what the other side's response was already??
I think that is the point of the thread!

[asianthree]

Just to clarify...Is thevillages4rent the same entity as The Villages Hometown management?

Let's blame the right folks here in the hopes that the powers who can effect change do read this forum (I think they do) and will straighten this out so that these people won't continue to bring down their " brand" which I consider a good one.

No GG thevillages4rent is run by two couples for the website and the owners post their house and handle everything themselves.. The villages hometown is a management company that rents your home out for you and you have no control as to what happens or who they rent to, and they used to charge you a fee when you used your own home......

[Disneychix]

skyc6...I don't know these people but were you there when this all happened...talk is cheap...have you had a problem with this company...I have found that some people tend to exaggerate...only they have to live with themselves...they may be trashing a company that has done wonderful things for others. I don't usually comment but if these guys owned this company for over 2 years and this is the first disgruntle guest so be it...not everyone likes the same doctors or dentist or grocery store or anything...that is why we have choices. How has this effected you ... find something positive to do and stop being so naive and believing everything you hear.

[asianthree]

I have never rented in TV. I am a home owner here and I have been following this thread. I did a little investigating about these companies associated with TV and found that yes the rental is outsourced and it is now owned by 2 gentleman who have both worked for TV villages for I was told well over 10 years each and I was told with outstanding performance to both and were offered this division. The shuttle has also been outsourced. I think that TV are slowly getting rid of different departments. I guess that these two areas are independently owned now and probably more to come as they start to weed out. I would suggest to you, since you rented recently, I would imagine that you are a new owner that instead of trashing an independent small business owner (as I see it) in your friendliest hometown...maybe you should get out of your home and see what TV has to offer and get out from behind your computer and get over it and move on...life is too short to worry about $100 bucks. From a former small business owner !!! Move on...maybe TV is not for you !!!

think this is a little harsh....

[shcisamax]

Some people have nothing to say of substance so they go for trite and uninspiring comments. "Maybe TV isn't for you." Has nothing to do with anything. And no one really cares if someone "was a former small business owner." It isn't germaine to the thread. I didn't start this thread to get a pep talk. I started it to bring light to what most people do not realize...i.e. the hometown property management is no longer a TV enterprise but a franchise run by others. And, they do not operate like a TV enterprise. I have only personally dealt with one, and he was dishonest. I can't speak for the other. However, the "other" sent the letter that told us to refer to the statute that they themselves were breaking.

[Moderator]

Let's get back on topic about the rental company and refrain from making personal comments about other members. Remember, address the post and not the poster.

If the topic can't be resumed, we will have to close the thread.


Thanks for your cooperation.

Moderator

[skyc6]

skyc6...I don't know these people but were you there when this all happened...talk is cheap...have you had a problem with this company...I have found that some people tend to exaggerate...only they have to live with themselves...they may be trashing a company that has done wonderful things for others. I don't usually comment but if these guys owned this company for over 2 years and this is the first disgruntle guest so be it...not everyone likes the same doctors or dentist or grocery store or anything...that is why we have choices. How has this effected you ... find something positive to do and stop being so naive and believing everything you hear.

To respond:
No, I wasn't there when this happened. Were you?
I have no reason to assume the OP is exaggerating. Do you?
I have no proof this company has done wonderful things for others. Do you?
This is clearly not the first disgruntled guest because others on this thread have commented that they have had similar situations.
We do have choices and that is why it can be helpful to have information when we make those choices.
This situation has neither effected you or me, so there is no point to that question.
I don't believe everything I hear, but I certainly have no reason to doubt the veracity of the OP. Do you?
Let's stick to the topic and not raise suppositions that have no validity.

[Disneychix]

I go for closing the thread...we have no proof that this person isn't in this for their personal benefit...maybe they are thinking of opening a property management company and getting a head start by saying something negative about probably the most popular management company in the villages. I think that this company does not deserve this negativity because of one disgruntle person. As I read it...everyones post that has dealt with this particular company (not villagers 4 rent which is not affiliated as I see it) have not had anything dealings with this company and those that have has nothing negative to say so therefore I think that this company has been beaten enough by ONE disgruntle person.

[Ebsmom]

Just FYI since we rented from HPM prior to closing on our new home... We were credited our total Deposit just a few days ago...So pleased to know we got all our money back.
Good luck to those that use the service. We can't complain. We honored their rental agreement and in turn they did the same for us.
Ebsmom

[cathyw]

I have never rented in TV. I am a home owner here and I have been following this thread. I did a little investigating about these companies associated with TV and found that yes the rental is outsourced and it is now owned by 2 gentleman who have both worked for TV villages for I was told well over 10 years each and I was told with outstanding performance to both and were offered this division. The shuttle has also been outsourced. I think that TV are slowly getting rid of different departments. I guess that these two areas are independently owned now and probably more to come as they start to weed out. I would suggest to you, since you rented recently, I would imagine that you are a new owner that instead of trashing an independent small business owner (as I see it) in your friendliest hometown...maybe you should get out of your home and see what TV has to offer and get out from behind your computer and get over it and move on...life is too short to worry about $100 bucks. From a former small business owner !!! Move on...maybe TV is not for you !!!

MinnieMouse...the OP is sharing his/her experience. Many on this website have rented several times before buying and many more will be renting in the near future. The open discussion is what this site is all about. If you have never rented, then possibly you can't relate to how upsetting this experience was.
Others shared their experiences, both with The Villages Proerty Management and with individual owners. Some had good experiences, some not good. It the sharing of experiences that is important. Everyone is encouraged to voice their experience and opinion ON THE SUBJECT OF THE THREAD.
Have a Disney Day!

[Barefoot]

I go for closing the thread...we have no proof that this person isn't in this for their personal benefit...maybe they are thinking of opening a property management company and getting a head start by saying something negative about probably the most popular management company in the villages. I think that this company does not deserve this negativity because of one disgruntle person. As I read it...everyones post that has dealt with this particular company (not villagers 4 rent which is not affiliated as I see it) have not had anything dealings with this company and those that have has nothing negative to say so therefore I think that this company has been beaten enough by ONE disgruntle person.

85 posts later, it's not just one disgruntled person who has posted about this company.

I know we're supposed to make posts about the topic and not the posters. But in this case Disneychix has disparaged Shcisamax who is a regular poster and a valued member of this website. Disneychix even suggested that Shcisamax "Move on .. maybe TV isn't for you". This is not cool.

[TOTV Team]

When comments are directed at another user those issues are addressed by Admin and Moderators privately. If anyone see's a post of concern you can report it to us by clicking the red triangle.

This post is closed as comments have been directed at other users and the tone of this has degraded.

[Schaumburger]

No, it is a private entity. It is an easy website to use. I found a rental home for a friend of mine thru thevillages4rent.com and everything went very smoothly. The person renting deals directly with the owner of the home.

Here is their website: The Villages 4 Rent, Rentals in The Villages (http://www.thevillages4rent.com/)

I have used thevillages4rent.com for 3 rentals dealing with 3 different homeowners -- excellent experience all 3 times; all 3 homeowners were a pleasure to deal with.

[Schaumburger]

Hi Everyone - I have a question - Does the renter get an inventory when they arrive? I was wondering if we should ask for one before we arrive. Do you think that I am being to picky? I was going to get my camera out when we arrive to document everything...

Anne

I have rented 3 times -- each rental was for one week. None of the owners gave me an inventory. I was super careful with the houses and golf carts and always got my full security deposit back. In fact I barely used the dishes and glassware as I ate most of my meals out.

[skyc6]

We rented out our home through villages4rent.com before we moved here permanently, and employed Redwitch as a home watcher.
We had no problems with either renters, and refunded their security deposit. We were overseeing the arrangement with the help of Redwitch, though, and we have never used the Villages Hometown Property Management group. They seem to be the business that has very poorly run business practices, and they employ extremely questionable home cleaners. I don't think deposit $$ should be kept to clean the bedding because there was a pet, when you have already paid an extra$150.00 for the pet service. I assume as a renter that bedding is cleaned between renters. The OP's husband arrived to dirty sheets in the first rental they had for the first 2 weeks here. There is a definite lack of customer service and shady legal practices going on here. I would never recommend anyone do business with this agency, and I cannot believe The Villages is connected in any way with them!

[shcisamax]

I am glad this thread was reinstated. The admin has been very clear that if anyone becomes belligerent again, the thread will be dismissed. Or it has been suggested the person causing the nastiness be restricted from posting. So in the interest of sharing good information that will help others in their choices, let's be civil and stay on topic instead of insulting other posters.

[asianthree]

Hi Everyone - I have a question - Does the renter get an inventory when they arrive? I was wondering if we should ask for one before we arrive. Do you think that I am being to picky? I was going to get my camera out when we arrive to document everything...

Anne

When you come to my home I email you a list of everything in the home and where it is located.... When you arrive two copies are there with a highlighter i ask you to go thru everything with the list so you know what you have and where you can find it and when you leave the second copy you use when you leave and do not highlight the things that got broken or lost... (takes about 10 to 15 minutes) My homewatch person has the same list and photos of every cabinet and every thing in the home.. that way they know what it looks like all in all i know with in 24 hours i have an email of whats what. if you break a glass or lost a knife well no one is perfect....their deposit is in their hand before the week is done.. thats just me and yep you could call me anal but have never had a problem with renters since i have used thevillages4rent.com It all comes down to who your homewatch person it, after all they are the ones who watches you home with loving care

[shcisamax]

Gee, I wish we rented from YOU. This is what I am talking about. When The Villages Hometown Property Management rents, when you walk out, you have no proof of what was there to begin with. They could say anything, like there were all those linens missing. Asianthree is more professional and ethical than the pretend Villages HPM. I guess everyone knows who they should be renting from.

[cometgirl]

I have read every post under this tread with great interest. We bought a house in TV three years ago, and have use "The Village Management Company" since the begining to take care of our house while we are not in TV. We DO NOT rent the house out, and we use the Empty Nest side of the Management Company. I have no reason to doubt the OP and agree with the picture taking and inventory suggestions. We take pictures of every room, every closet, garage and outside area each visit right before we leave. We have dealt with Joe many times, and have always had a good experience. The home caraetakers have always been very good to excellent, and I will continue using their service. YES, I knew they were owned and operated by folks other then the villages when I started using them. I can't remember how I found that out. I think our real estate agent from the villages told us when he recommended them. I WILL however, after reading this thread keep a close eye out on this service. Not that that's a bad thing, it's always good to be causious of any service. We should all learn something from the OP's experience, when renting anything, from anybody, take pictures, read the fine print, ask tons of questions, and document any problems you have.

[BobKat1]

I have read every post under this tread with great interest. We bought a house in TV three years ago, and have use "The Village Management Company" since the begining to take care of our house while we are not in TV. We DO NOT rent the house out, and we use the Empty Nest side of the Management Company. I have no reason to doubt the OP and agree with the picture taking and inventory suggestions. We take pictures of every room, every closet, garage and outside area each visit right before we leave. We have dealt with Joe many times, and have always had a good experience. The home caraetakers have always been very good to excellent, and I will continue using their service. YES, I knew they were owned and operated by folks other then the villages when I started using them. I can't remember how I found that out. I think our real estate agent from the villages told us when he recommended them. I WILL however, after reading this thread keep a close eye out on this service. Not that that's a bad thing, it's always good to be causious of any service. We should all learn something from the OP's experience, when renting anything, from anybody, take pictures, read the fine print, ask tons of questions, and document any problems you have.


Good advice. I'm sure that the villages 4rent and TVHTPM are not ALL good and not ALL bad. It's good to keep on your toes no matter who you rent through.

[Bogie Shooter]

I thought this thread was closed?

[kgentile1010]

I used the Villages Hometown Property Management last year and had a great experience with them. The rental agent worked with me to find a place that met my requirements. We had easy check in and check out, and got our deposit back promptly. I would use them again anytime. Well, except I won't have to since we bought a house. But I would if I needed to. :)

[shcisamax]

At this point, it appears some people have a good experience with them and some a bad one or, in our case, after the initial great experience with the bookers, it was a disaster. What seems to be the smart thing to do, as others have stated, is take photos when you arrive, ask for the inventory...definitely ask for the inventory. And if at all possible,do a walkthrough at the end so they can't say something was missing. If they want to hold you accountable, you need to hold them accountable. In all honesty, we have rented homes in many places and even in other countries and have never had a problem so this was a eye opener.

[cometgirl]

I just had another thought about this. I'd say you have two kinds of landlords, the ones that know EXACTLY what is in the house, and the ones that have a general idea. I'm a general idea kinda gal. People have stayed at our house, and they will say they broke a cup or something and that they replaced it. And here I'm thinking, gosh I probably never would have missed it. Any Management company would/should KNOW before they rent a place what kind of Owner they are dealing with. In this case, they had to know what was in the house (inventory) before hand, to be able to say something was missing. I do think it was wrong for the management company knowing beforehand, they will be doing an inventory, NOT to DISCLOSE the inventory sheet to the renter. I would hope that after reading this thread, they consider doing so in the future.

[shcisamax]

I can assure you either they did not have an accurate inventory OR the maid decided to cause issues after she was in trouble over her behavior. I don't know what happened there but after spending a nice chunk of cash on a home, there would be no reason for us to take 3 washcloths, 2 pillowcases and a towel. At least you would think we would take a matching set :) Besides, if we were the type to snatch things, it makes no sense we would be going back to the house to return a cable we had inadvertently mixed with our own things. just sayin.

[Bogie Shooter]

I would still like to hear the other side of the story.

[shcisamax]

Call them.

[skyc6]

I don't believe it was the management owners who decided that things were taken. I believe they indicated to the OP that the maid reported that these things were missing after the unfortunate confrontation. In my opinion, if a management is going to hold renters accountable then they should be there to go over this with the renters before they leave. I don't think this should be left up to the cleaning people, since VHPM told the OP they don't want people there while it is being cleaned. It becomes the cleaning people's word against the renter and there is no accountability cross check! This is just a very unfortunate situation, and could have been avoided if simple professional practices would have been followed.

[Bogie Shooter]

Call them.

I did.

[shcisamax]

And?

[skyc6]

I really hope they didn't discuss someone's personal business with a telephone caller! That would be yet another strike against them!

[BobKat1]

I would still like to hear the other side of the story.

Me too...

[batman911]

We are staying in one of their rental homes now for a week. I will let you know how it turns out. So far, we could not not be happier with the home (a Bridgeport on the golf course and large pond on Inner Circle in Amelia) or service. Home was spotless on arrival and everything works. Better than expectations.

To follow up on our stay in a TV Hometown Management rental, we received our full deposit back as advertised. No problems at all using their service. I would recommend them without reservation.

[BobKat1]

To follow up on our stay in a TV Hometown Management rental, we received our full deposit back as advertised. No problems at all using their service. I would recommend them without reservation.

batman, thanks for the update. Glad to hear you had a good experience. We're considering using them for a short term rental this fall.

Did you rent a cart? If so, who did you use?

[batman911]

batman, thanks for the update. Glad to hear you had a good experience. We're considering using them for a short term rental this fall.

Did you rent a cart? If so, who did you use?

We reserved a cart through the village cart store but cancelled after we realized we would not need it that visit. Since we spent all our time with our sales agent looking at homes and lots, and after selecting our lot, meetings and signing documents, etc. we had little time left to use a golf cart.

[shcisamax]

Glad it worked out without detriment.

[thekeithfan]

Oh they are crooks! I rent a house in TV and if I contracted with TV Rentals I would owe them money forget making any!

[OBXNana]

I'm not sure how this thread surfaced again. But, you know up front what their policy is to manage your house. Each company provides management information. You don't have to use them if you feel their rules don't match your expectations.

Personally, we prefer not using them for our property. It's a personal choice that we made after exploring all our options.

[jwscp@aol.com]

Who should I list my house with? I am buying a house and need to rent it out unfurnished. I want an agent that will take care of it since I live out of state.

[jwscp@aol.com]

I am a new owner that needs to rent out my house (unfurnished) in Liberty Park. Who would you suggest?

[jwscp@aol.com]

I need advice on what real estate agent to use. I am not in Florida, so I need someone that can help the renters if something comes up. Do you have any suggestions?

[jwscp@aol.com]

been there done that manage on our own also

Who do you use to rent your house out? I need to hire someone.
Sharon

[waltwl]

This is why you rent from the person who owns the house and not TV. Best place is Villages4rent.com

[maddie101]

Even going back a few years ago there were unhappy renters.
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/contractors-services-91/does-anyone-use-villages-hometown-property-management-rent-your-home-56028/index2.html

[Nana18]

Good luck with that
That is exactly what my response was going to be.

[graciegirl]

This is why you rent from the person who owns the house and not TV. Best place is Villages4rent.com



Hometown Property Management is no longer owned by the Morses. It was sold off to someone to run some time ago.

[gardeniagirl]

This is amazing...has been going on since we got whacked by them after putting our new home in their rental program in 2004. College kids were "caretakers". They stuffed 13 people in my 1326 sf house. I had a no pet/no smoking policy. Dog urine stains on several rugs, oil stains from RV parked in drive, told me it was not rented for March, but got a call that "some wall hangings had fallen off wall and dining chair was broken". I knew those don't happen in an empty home. Made a surprise trip down, found they had three couples in there, had a meeting, pulled the records from across the table.....$3,400 rent charged I wasn't being told about. Called the sheriff's office, and they made them give the money but wouldn't prosecute. Scare letters came from McLin & Burnsed. I made 5 trips down from NC to repair the damages at our cost....smoking in the home, carpets, etc. I contacted lawyers all over Florida, who wouldn't touch the villages, no one was interested in interstate fraud (they don't fraud one home) and they got away with it. Looks like working both sides of the fence is very productive.

[outahere]

Who should I list my house with? I am buying a house and need to rent it out unfurnished. I want an agent that will take care of it since I live out of state.

I am a new owner that needs to rent out my house (unfurnished) in Liberty Park. Who would you suggest?

I need advice on what real estate agent to use. I am not in Florida, so I need someone that can help the renters if something comes up. Do you have any suggestions?

Who do you use to rent your house out? I need to hire someone.
Sharon

We moved to TV last December and rented an unfurnished house while we decided what and where to buy. We rented from Tom Jones at JD&V Property Management. He has been excellent to work with and very responsive when something needed to be repaired. He is a licensed real estate agent and I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs a property manager. Their office number is 352-430-1484 or 800-765-9611. Their web site is thevillagesforrentbyowner dot com.

[jjdees]

For those that are furnished, check out ****, Vacation Rentals By Owner. Good outfit. Haven't used them as an owner, but have used them as a renter. They offer property nationwide and worldwide.

[hdandydon]

It does not surprise me , as you said if it walks like a duck and looks like a duck , it is a duck. do not expect any help from TV .

[folkh]

For those that are furnished, check out ****, Vacation Rentals By Owner. Good outfit. Haven't used them as an owner, but have used them as a renter. They offer property nationwide and worldwide.

We have used **** as a owner and a renter, so far so good!!!!

[Villageshooter]

this is the latest scam that is going on with landlords not just these folks they will claim damage claim excessive cleaning up the monthly rent that was discounted upfront it is almost a bait and switch tactic they reel you in with a lower than average rent and then claim it on the backend and you have no recourse because they have your security deposit and will deduct it from that take it or leave it it's become a real scam. we had one guy got the electric bill halfway through started complaining about the electric bill being too high, we'd only been there 15 days when he got the bill the other half was from his previous tenants, we kept the air conditioner set on 78, I told him to quit complaining or we would set it down to the point where we had to sit there with coats on! his mommy came over and wanted to see what this thermostat was set on On the spur of the moment without alerting us they were coming needless to say it was set on 78 she apologized, of the antics that her son was putting us through. she did come and inspect and gave us our security deposit on the spot when we left. when ever we rent we demand the inspection as we leave or we will not sign the lease for the secured amount of time. lots of scams going on .......i am very sorry for the long post without punctuation as i use siri app i am un able type due too advance arthritis, i am sorry i am a hassle in someones life, somtimes a person should have to walk in anothers shoes

[Polar Bear]

The mod may delete this post, and I understand if so. But I'm going to say it anyway, because I honestly mean it to be constructive...

I really like to read the content of some recent posts, but I find it VERY difficult to get the meaning without multiple re-reads due to lack of of punctuation and capitalization, and long, run-on sentences. Take it FWIW.

[villagerjack]

As a landlord for many years but not in The Villages, I could give you many horror stories but I won't because if you cannot accept problems and challenges you should not be in the business. And I suppose it goes the other way around as well.

[lovsthosebigdogs]

We moved to TV last December and rented an unfurnished house while we decided what and where to buy. We rented from Tom Jones at JD&V Property Management. He has been excellent to work with and very responsive when something needed to be repaired. He is a licensed real estate agent and I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs a property manager. Their office number is 352-430-1484 or 800-765-9611. Their web site is thevillagesforrentbyowner dot com.

We used them also. More exactly, Diane Musik in that office. She handled EVERYTHING while I rented for years flawlessly and now that I am moving in myself she is even helping me with some transition projects. She is amazing and worth her weight in gold in my book. Not one complaint and tons of praise for her!

[Villageshooter]

As a landlord for many years but not in The Villages, I could give you many horror stories but I won't because if you cannot accept problems and challenges you should not be in the business. And I suppose it goes the other way around as well.

the renters here in the villages for the most part are not degerante un-employed welfare sucking people,,,, so i am sure there are stories here however , these are a different class of humans that is not to discredit ur stories but just hope they are different social economic status renting here, however there are dirtbags every where,,,,

[shcisamax]

I can't believe I started this thread two years ago and it is still alive.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Don't take any crap from the! My sister got ripped off for a security dept renting from a private party and for no good reason. I would not be as kind as she was.

[villagerjack]

the renters here in the villages for the most part are not degerante un-employed welfare sucking people,,,, so i am sure there are stories here however , these are a different class of humans

Neither were my renters including a choir lady who drove a Mercedes and was recommended by the Pastor but she was the worse tenant I had. She did pay the rent however, Repairs were more than rent for an entire year. FYI, My rentals were/are not in low income areas but just the opposite. If you can't take the heat then don't do it.

[villagerjack]

I did rent my home here for the first 3 months awaiting the sale of another home. Suffice to say, I would never do it again unless I want my head torn off by my wife. This was a brand new home and it was PARTY TIME for the renters who were supposed to be a couple but wound up as six people.

[CFrance]

The mod may delete this post, and I understand if so. But I'm going to say it anyway, because I honestly mean it to be constructive...

I really like to read the content of some recent posts, but I find it VERY difficult to get the meaning without multiple re-reads due to lack of of punctuation, capitalization, and long, run-on sentences. Take it FWIW.
:agree: Sometimes I transfer long posts to a word processing document, make the font bigger, and arbitrarily divide it into paragraphs with a blank line between. Much easier to read.