Questions from New Buyer

[chiefrose]

Back in March my wife and I were on vacation in Florida when we decided to take a ride to TV. We met with a sales rep and by the end of the day had signed for a lot in Fernandina. I know; not the smartest decision to make but I had researched TV online for awhile and liked what I saw. We went back a few days later to experience the nightly activites in the town squares and again were impressed. We rented a house for a week this coming November to get more of a feel for the area.

We priced out a Begonia on an interior off-set lot and stretched the Lanai 4' and the garage and front bedroom by 2'. We took the upgrades to either the top or second highest on the list. As far as a new build is concerned I think we did fairly well on the house.

Since our visit I have done even more research and visited places like this forum for insight. While I don't have "buyers remorse" on buying in TV I do have some questions. I would appreciate an info and opinions on the following:

1) Lot selection - the houses are pretty close together and I was wondering if I would be better served with a corner, back to a road or wall location for more privacy. I can't see going 100K more for a golf course lot.

2) New build vs resale - since it seems that so many residents move 1-2 times while in TV would it be better to buy a resale, which has upgrades already done, than to build and have to then get the extras like landscaping, molding, shutters, etc. From what I hear the builder doesn't make any modifications beyond what is in their upgrade list.

3) Actual costs - While TV gives you the estimated $1,000 per month cost of living in TV (exclusive of mortgage which I won't have) I know this is unrealistic. I would guess that it is more like $1,500 to $2,000 once you add in more than basic cable, internet, pest control, lawn maintenance, additional insurances, etc. Can anyone give me a ballpark figure?

4) Home improvements - How about things like water filters, drip irrigation, skylights, lightning rods, etc. Needed or not?

5) Design team - when you meet with a designer do you get to actually see what you are buying in a showroom setting. Things like kitchen cabinets (really surprised I didn't see any 42" cabinets in models), light fixtures, granite, faucets, etc.

I really appreciate anyone who has read this posting to this point. Actually, I could probably think of even more to ask. I will REALLY appreciate anyone that can help with some of the questions.

Rich

[Rosie53]

Back in March my wife and I were on vacation in Florida when we decided to take a ride to TV. We met with a sales rep and by the end of the day had signed for a lot in Fernandina. I know; not the smartest decision to make but I had researched TV online for awhile and liked what I saw. We went back a few days later to experience the nightly activites in the town squares and again were impressed. We rented a house for a week this coming November to get more of a feel for the area.

We priced out a Begonia on an interior off-set lot and stretched the Lanai 4' and the garage and front bedroom by 2'. We took the upgrades to either the top or second highest on the list. As far as a new build is concerned I think we did fairly well on the house.

Since our visit I have done even more research and visited places like this forum for insight. While I don't have "buyers remorse" on buying in TV I do have some questions. I would appreciate an info and opinions on the following:

1) Lot selection - the houses are pretty close together and I was wondering if I would be better served with a corner, back to a road or wall location for more privacy. I can't see going 100K more for a golf course lot.

2) New build vs resale - since it seems that so many residents move 1-2 times while in TV would it be better to buy a resale, which has upgrades already done, than to build and have to then get the extras like landscaping, molding, shutters, etc. From what I hear the builder doesn't make any modifications beyond what is in their upgrade list.

3) Actual costs - While TV gives you the estimated $1,000 per month cost of living in TV (exclusive of mortgage which I won't have) I know this is unrealistic. I would guess that it is more like $1,500 to $2,000 once you add in more than basic cable, internet, pest control, lawn maintenance, additional insurances, etc. Can anyone give me a ballpark figure?

4) Home improvements - How about things like water filters, drip irrigation, skylights, lightning rods, etc. Needed or not?

5) Design team - when you meet with a designer do you get to actually see what you are buying in a showroom setting. Things like kitchen cabinets (really surprised I didn't see any 42" cabinets in models), light fixtures, granite, faucets, etc.

I really appreciate anyone who has read this posting to this point. Actually, I could probably think of even more to ask. I will REALLY appreciate anyone that can help with some of the questions.

Rich
We just had our Design Meeting last Thursday. When you pick out some samples of flooring, cabinets. countertops etc., the designer then takes you to models that have those choices in them. As far as privacy, yes the interior lots are close but seeing the home of a friend already living there most people put some bushes behind the home for privacy. We asked our rep about lightning rods and he said he doesn't think they are neccessary. He said there has never been a home struck by lightning in the Villages but many salspeople will try to sell you on them. We are building a Lilac with the 4 ft stretched Lanai, I think that will give plenty of light as well as the bedroom having 4 windows. Being from the Northeast this is a big improvement for me so I don't think I will need skylights. I'm not living there yet so I am not sure about expenses but as I've already said the Northeast (NY) is quite expensive so we will probably find the Villages less so.

[CaptJohn]

We asked our rep about lightning rods and he said he doesn't think they are neccessary. He said there has never been a home struck by lightning in the Villages but many salspeople will try to sell you on them.

You might want to do some research on this forum about that!

Here is one for starters:
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/lightning-53321/

[Markam]

Rich..

Our circumstances preclude me from being able to answer all of your questions but I'll take a shot at a couple.

Expenses. Not including county, school and other local taxes, $1,000/mo is not too far off. We pay around $600 per month for electricity, all water, sewage, garbage, Amenity Fee, homeowners insurance, basic TV, Internet, termite service and lawn chemicals. This doesn't include Bond Payment or other non ad-valorem assessments that your sales agent can pin down for you. We do our own bug control, lawn mowing, general maintenance and use an OOMA for phone service. We do not have any Country Club expenses other than occasional meals.

Home Improvements. I don't think any are really necessary but you will find that some will be useful to make your life better. "Improvements" defines them well. After purchasing our new home, we installed roll-out shelves in some kitchen cabinets, added many more shelves in out bedroom closets, added a Sears water filter/softener, garage attic pull-down steps, had the garage floor painted with epoxy, lanai sunshade and a few other little things. Overall, about $7,000 worth. Don't forget a golf cart.

Hope this helps.

Mark

[chiefrose]

We just had our Design Meeting last Thursday. When you pick out some samples of flooring, cabinets. countertops etc., the designer then takes you to models that have those choices in them. As far as privacy, yes the interior lots are close but seeing the home of a friend already living there most people put some bushes behind the home for privacy. We asked our rep about lightning rods and he said he doesn't think they are neccessary. He said there has never been a home struck by lightning in the Villages but many salspeople will try to sell you on them. We are building a Lilac with the 4 ft stretched Lanai, I think that will give plenty of light as well as the bedroom having 4 windows. Being from the Northeast this is a big improvement for me so I don't think I will need skylights. I'm not living there yet so I am not sure about expenses but as I've already said the Northeast (NY) is quite expensive so we will probably find the Villages less so.

Thank you for the reply. Being from NJ I can also relate that costs will be much less expensive in FL.

[chiefrose]

Rich..

Our circumstances preclude me from being able to answer all of your questions but I'll take a shot at a couple.

Expenses. Not including county, school and other local taxes, $1,000/mo is not too far off. We pay around $600 per month for electricity, all water, sewage, garbage, Amenity Fee, homeowners insurance, basic TV, Internet, termite service and lawn chemicals. This doesn't include Bond Payment or other non ad-valorem assessments that your sales agent can pin down for you. We do our own bug control, lawn mowing, general maintenance and use an OOMA for phone service. We do not have any Country Club expenses other than occasional meals.

Home Improvements. I don't think any are really necessary but you will find that some will be useful to make your life better. "Improvements" defines them well. After purchasing our new home, we installed roll-out shelves in some kitchen cabinets, added many more shelves in out bedroom closets, added a Sears water filter/softener, garage attic pull-down steps, had the garage floor painted with epoxy, lanai sunshade and a few other little things. Overall, about $7,000 worth. Don't forget a golf cart.

Hope this helps.

Mark

Mark:

Can things like the roll-out shelves, closet organizers, recessed lights, garage stairs and painted floors be done by the builder? Regarding the golf cart, which is one of my favorite thngs at TV, the only thing to decide is gas or electric. Maybe one of each is the answer.

Rich

[Sadie1313]

We just had our Design Meeting last Thursday. When you pick out some samples of flooring, cabinets. countertops etc., the designer then takes you to models that have those choices in them. As far as privacy, yes the interior lots are close but seeing the home of a friend already living there most people put some bushes behind the home for privacy. We asked our rep about lightning rods and he said he doesn't think they are neccessary. He said there has never been a home struck by lightning in the Villages but many salspeople will try to sell you on them. We are building a Lilac with the 4 ft stretched Lanai, I think that will give plenty of light as well as the bedroom having 4 windows. Being from the Northeast this is a big improvement for me so I don't think I will need skylights. I'm not living there yet so I am not sure about expenses but as I've already said the Northeast (NY) is quite expensive so we will probably find the Villages less so.

I hate to say it, but your sales rep lied to you. There have been several homes struck by lightening, here in The Villages. We're only living here 1 year, and have seen 3 homes hit bad by lightening since we've been here. We have friends that had their home struck by lightening 6 days after closing. I'm not saying that you should invest in Lightening Rods....we haven't done that either. All I'm saying is that you were misinformed. there definately have been homes hit by lightening, here in The Villages. Good Luck with your new home, and :welcome: to Paradise. Trish

[Geewiz]

Rich..

Our circumstances preclude me from being able to answer all of your questions but I'll take a shot at a couple.

Expenses. Not including county, school and other local taxes, $1,000/mo is not too far off. We pay around $600 per month for electricity, all water, sewage, garbage, Amenity Fee, homeowners insurance, basic TV, Internet, termite service and lawn chemicals. This doesn't include Bond Payment or other non ad-valorem assessments that your sales agent can pin down for you. We do our own bug control, lawn mowing, general maintenance and use an OOMA for phone service. We do not have any Country Club expenses other than occasional meals.

Home Improvements. I don't think any are really necessary but you will find that some will be useful to make your life better. "Improvements" defines them well. After purchasing our new home, we installed roll-out shelves in some kitchen cabinets, added many more shelves in out bedroom closets, added a Sears water filter/softener, garage attic pull-down steps, had the garage floor painted with epoxy, lanai sunshade and a few other little things. Overall, about $7,000 worth. Don't forget a golf cart.

Hope this helps.

Mark

A 6 person hot tub..colored LEDS...under a big birdcage will run me between 10 -12K....that doesn't include the cost of chemicals plus the blond and Merlot.....can I suggest the attic stairs can wait? Of course - we all have our priorities. Cheers! G (closing 10/30)

[jimbo2012]

signed for a lot in Fernandina.



Great, which area?

Not following are you now building or not yet?






2) New build vs resale - since it seems that so many residents move 1-2 times while in TV would it be better to buy a resale, which has upgrades already done, than to build and have to then get the extras like landscaping, molding, shutters, etc. From what I hear the builder doesn't make any modifications beyond what is in their upgrade list.

The builder will do almost anything you can dream

Re-sales are not a bargain in many way, but many here believe otherwise.
So that's a decision you need to make your selves.

3) Actual costs - While TV gives you the estimated $1,000 per month cost of living in TV (exclusive of mortgage which I won't have) I know this is unrealistic. I would guess that it is more like $1,500 to $2,000 once you add in more than basic cable, internet, pest control, lawn maintenance, additional insurances, etc. Can anyone give me a ballpark figure?

I don't have the numbers at hand but under $1,000 I believe.


) Home improvements - How about things like water filters, drip irrigation, skylights, lightning rods, etc. Needed or not?
Water filter sure but don't sucked into high priced units, $200-$500, irrigation included, skylights ....don't see any but I'm sure you can, lightning rods, I'm putting them in but not mandatory, a whole house surge protector is good.

[entemedor]

Home improvements?

Make you lanai and the outside concrete pad bigger.

Have a golf cart garage

Outside faucet on each corner of the house

Stairs to garage attic (aftermarket purchase)

Light-tube into kitchen area (also aftermarket)

More phone jacks, more cable-tv outlets

[chiefrose]

Great, which area?

Not following are you now building or not yet?

Our lot is on Brunnel St.


The builder will do almost anything you can dream
I hope that is true in that I've read that they won't even move cable jacks from floor level to up the wall

Re-sales are not a bargain in many way, but many here believe otherwise.
So that's a decision you need to make your selves.



I don't have the numbers at hand but under $1,000 I believe.



Water filter sure but don't sucked into high priced units, $200-$500, irrigation included, skylights ....don't see any but I'm sure you can, lightning rods, I'm putting them in but not mandatory, a whole house surge protector is good.

Thanks for the info

[janeg]

Back in March my wife and I were on vacation in Florida when we decided to take a ride to TV. We met with a sales rep and by the end of the day had signed for a lot in Fernandina. I know; not the smartest decision to make but I had researched TV online for awhile and liked what I saw. We went back a few days later to experience the nightly activites in the town squares and again were impressed. We rented a house for a week this coming November to get more of a feel for the area.

We priced out a Begonia on an interior off-set lot and stretched the Lanai 4' and the garage and front bedroom by 2'. We took the upgrades to either the top or second highest on the list. As far as a new build is concerned I think we did fairly well on the house.

Since our visit I have done even more research and visited places like this forum for insight. While I don't have "buyers remorse" on buying in TV I do have some questions. I would appreciate an info and opinions on the following:

1) Lot selection - the houses are pretty close together and I was wondering if I would be better served with a corner, back to a road or wall location for more privacy. I can't see going 100K more for a golf course lot.

2) New build vs resale - since it seems that so many residents move 1-2 times while in TV would it be better to buy a resale, which has upgrades already done, than to build and have to then get the extras like landscaping, molding, shutters, etc. From what I hear the builder doesn't make any modifications beyond what is in their upgrade list.

3) Actual costs - While TV gives you the estimated $1,000 per month cost of living in TV (exclusive of mortgage which I won't have) I know this is unrealistic. I would guess that it is more like $1,500 to $2,000 once you add in more than basic cable, internet, pest control, lawn maintenance, additional insurances, etc. Can anyone give me a ballpark figure?

4) Home improvements - How about things like water filters, drip irrigation, skylights, lightning rods, etc. Needed or not?

5) Design team - when you meet with a designer do you get to actually see what you are buying in a showroom setting. Things like kitchen cabinets (really surprised I didn't see any 42" cabinets in models), light fixtures, granite, faucets, etc.

I really appreciate anyone who has read this posting to this point. Actually, I could probably think of even more to ask. I will REALLY appreciate anyone that can help with some of the questions.

Rich

Welcome to Fernandina! We are in Bokeelia villas as we will be part timers. Everything we were told by Eric Nolan, our rep., was accurate.

My opinion would be have a wall in the back as it does give privace. Sunlights in kitchen AND bathrooms for sure and attic stairs for sure. Also the extra outside faucet.

Good luck and maybe we will see you sometime.

Jane and Jim Garrison:mornincoffee:

[chiefrose]

Home improvements?

Make you lanai and the outside concrete pad bigger.
I already am stretching the lanai 4'. Making the pad bigger is a good suggestion

Have a golf cart garage This comes with the Begonia model that I selected. I also stretched the garage 2"

Outside faucet on each corner of the house why all the hose bibs

Stairs to garage attic (aftermarket purchase)I guess the builder won't do this as an upcharge

Light-tube into kitchen area (also aftermarket)good suggestion

More phone jacks, more cable-tv outletsgood suggestion

Thanks for the input

[entemedor]

>>Outside faucet on each corner of the house
>>why all the hose bibs

You will want to spot water an area of the lawn that does not get hit by the in-ground sprinkler system.

When you get your landscaping put in, you will want to water each tree for a half an hour every day for a month.

When you put in your own flowers, you will want to water them well every day.

When you want to hose off your lanai/concrete pad, driveway, etc.

Way easier if you don't have to drag a 75 foot hose around every time you need to do something like the above. Trust me on this. I do the 75-foot hose drag and a pain in the neck it is, too.

[gomoho]

Home improvements?

Make you lanai and the outside concrete pad bigger.

Have a golf cart garage

Outside faucet on each corner of the house

Stairs to garage attic (aftermarket purchase)

Light-tube into kitchen area (also aftermarket)

More phone jacks, more cable-tv outlets

I keep hearing these same things over and over. I know the builder is trying to keep costs down, but some things really need to be included.
I think the lanai and outside concrete pad can't be big enough - Florida is about outside living and wish the builder would understand this.

Golf cart garage is a no brainer for just about everyone.

Stairs to the garage - get rid of the junk and not necessary

Light tubes are huge 'cause we don't have side windows (because we are so close) and have the lanai or whatever blocking the light from the back. Include some skylights or solar tubes cause we don't want to live in the dark.

I don't have a landline so can't relate to phone outlets and there are cable outlets everywhere - except the wall I chose to put the TV on, but that wasn't a killer.

So these are my thoughts and why I bought a resale rather than new because many of these items were already in place. I have to believe the builder can make these adjustments without much of a price increase and would be delivering a superior product. But then again how many after market suppliers would he put out of business. So.....

[chiefrose]

Welcome to Fernandina! We are in Bokeelia villas as we will be part timers. Everything we were told by Eric Nolan, our rep., was accurate.

My opinion would be have a wall in the back as it does give privace. Sunlights in kitchen AND bathrooms for sure and attic stairs for sure. Also the extra outside faucet.

Good luck and maybe we will see you sometime.

Jane and Jim Garrison:mornincoffee:

Thanks, Jane.

[chiefrose]

>>Outside faucet on each corner of the house
>>why all the hose bibs

You will want to spot water an area of the lawn that does not get hit by the in-ground sprinkler system.

When you get your landscaping put in, you will want to water each tree for a half an hour every day for a month.

When you put in your own flowers, you will want to water them well every day.

When you want to hose off your lanai/concrete pad, driveway, etc.

Way easier if you don't have to drag a 75 foot hose around every time you need to do something like the above. Trust me on this. I do the 75-foot hose drag and a pain in the neck it is, too.

Thanks for the info. Definitely something to consider.

[jimbo2012]

Light tubes are huge 'cause we don't have side windows (because we are so close) and have the lanai or whatever blocking the light from the back. Include some skylights or solar tubes cause we don't want to live in the dark.



Less expensive to have block windows installed at the build time on the side of the house, they are private.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/attachments/contractors-services-91/5435d1350056993t-looking-install-glass-block-window-bathroom-sam_0228.jpg

[Lpierleo]

Building, they most certainly will move both the cable and electrical outlets higher to mount your TV and put them on the walls you want. We built an Iris, in addition to many of the things already posted, we had extra insulation placed in the ceiling of the lanai which we also extended 4 feet. We also added an electrical outlet on one of the posts on the inside of the lanai for a table and lamp. We also added 2 ft to the front of the garage and I think that was well worth it if you want to place anything along the back wall. We had an additional dedicated outlet placed in the garage should we want to put a refrigerator in there one day. Insulated garage doors was also something my husband wanted. Additional concrete pad all the way down the the rear of the home out of the lanai, and additonal concrete in the driveway to make it straight rather than at an angle. Had them curve the sidewalk or the angle so it wasnt a 90 degree angle.
We also did the rounded corners and higher baseboards, but I am questioning myself now about the rounded corners, wondering how you transition paint colors from one room to another? Haven'd done that yet, but I am sure there is an answer. Closets could certainly use additional shelving but we will do that after. Good luck in whatever you decide to do, if we can be of any help, just reply.

[mickey100]

There are some great deals on used homes, and you may only have to spend a few thousand dollars to have those upgrades you want, added, if they are not already in place. You'll have mature landscaping, and you may not be paying $20,000 or more towards a bond. Many people get caught up in the sales pitch and the desire to have brand new. There's nothing wrong with that - its easier, it has its pluses in terms of being in a new neighborhood where everyone else is new, the home warranty, etc. Its more work in terms of looking around, making purchase offers etc, and then doing minor refurbishing, but in the long run I think a person can make out better financially at this point in time with a used home. And used homes are generally less than 10 years old, so it isn't like they are really really old. A few years ago I wouldn't have said this. During the housing recession people got some great deals on new homes in certain Villages. But prices have gone up, and I don't believe you can do as well any more with a new home. If you want brand new, you'll be paying for it.

[jimbo2012]

I disagree, for many reasons already stated, the bond is $3 a day, don't you think if the bond is paid down or off the sellers are looking to recoup that $$.

All appliance hotwater A/C roof is ten years old time for repair replace.

That was a different building code back then, widows insulation all lower standards.

Oh, no sinkhole insurance on resales.

Price wise when we looked resales were almost or higher than new.

[A-4 Skyhawk]

I disagree, for many reasons already stated, the bond is $3 a day, don't you think if the bond is paid down or off the sellers are looking to recoup that $$.

All appliance hotwater A/C roof is ten years old time for repair replace.

That was a different building code back then, widows insulation all lower standards.

Oh, no sinkhole insurance on resales.

Price wise when we looked resales were almost or higher than new.

Some people, like my wife and I, only like NEW. Its probably cost me tons over the years, but there's nothing better that fresh, clean, and a warranty:smiley:

[chiefrose]

Building, they most certainly will move both the cable and electrical outlets higher to mount your TV and put them on the walls you want. We built an Iris, in addition to many of the things already posted, we had extra insulation placed in the ceiling of the lanai which we also extended 4 feet. We also added an electrical outlet on one of the posts on the inside of the lanai for a table and lamp. We also added 2 ft to the front of the garage and I think that was well worth it if you want to place anything along the back wall. We had an additional dedicated outlet placed in the garage should we want to put a refrigerator in there one day. Insulated garage doors was also something my husband wanted. Additional concrete pad all the way down the the rear of the home out of the lanai, and additonal concrete in the driveway to make it straight rather than at an angle. Had them curve the sidewalk or the angle so it wasnt a 90 degree angle.
We also did the rounded corners and higher baseboards, but I am questioning myself now about the rounded corners, wondering how you transition paint colors from one room to another? Haven'd done that yet, but I am sure there is an answer. Closets could certainly use additional shelving but we will do that after. Good luck in whatever you decide to do, if we can be of any help, just reply.

Thanks for the info, especially about the extra outlets. What is the story about the insulation in the lanai as we too are extending it by 4'? I'll also have to pay more attention to the driveway and walks.

[designerko]

Hopefully your real estate agent already told you to be looking at all the online model floorplans and when you see a great idea you would like to include in your selected model, add it to your list. Same review will allow you to eliminate things you don't like, such as interior finishes on flooring, cabinets, and countertops, prior to going into your design appointment.

If you find a preferred lot location on a resale you like, then you will benefit from owner upgrades already made and mature landscaping. With a new home, you can add the features you want that are best done at the building stage.

Also good to make a list of what you love in your current home so you are sure to include if you build new.

[TomSpasm]

Unless specified as being included in the original build, you'll want to spend $300 or so to insulate the attic of your garage and lanai areas. We rented a beautiful designer home for 6 months here with the hottest garage I've ever experienced in 25 years in Florida. Of course the snowbird owner may not care, as he's not here in the summer, but your lanai and garage will be far more pleasant if you insulate them.

[ncarvalho]

Back in March my wife and I were on vacation in Florida when we decided to take a ride to TV. We met with a sales rep and by the end of the day had signed for a lot in Fernandina. I know; not the smartest decision to make but I had researched TV online for awhile and liked what I saw. We went back a few days later to experience the nightly activites in the town squares and again were impressed. We rented a house for a week this coming November to get more of a feel for the area.

We priced out a Begonia on an interior off-set lot and stretched the Lanai 4' and the garage and front bedroom by 2'. We took the upgrades to either the top or second highest on the list. As far as a new build is concerned I think we did fairly well on the house.

Since our visit I have done even more research and visited places like this forum for insight. While I don't have "buyers remorse" on buying in TV I do have some questions. I would appreciate an info and opinions on the following:

1) Lot selection - the houses are pretty close together and I was wondering if I would be better served with a corner, back to a road or wall location for more privacy. I can't see going 100K more for a golf course lot.

2) New build vs resale - since it seems that so many residents move 1-2 times while in TV would it be better to buy a resale, which has upgrades already done, than to build and have to then get the extras like landscaping, molding, shutters, etc. From what I hear the builder doesn't make any modifications beyond what is in their upgrade list.

3) Actual costs - While TV gives you the estimated $1,000 per month cost of living in TV (exclusive of mortgage which I won't have) I know this is unrealistic. I would guess that it is more like $1,500 to $2,000 once you add in more than basic cable, internet, pest control, lawn maintenance, additional insurances, etc. Can anyone give me a ballpark figure?

4) Home improvements - How about things like water filters, drip irrigation, skylights, lightning rods, etc. Needed or not?

5) Design team - when you meet with a designer do you get to actually see what you are buying in a showroom setting. Things like kitchen cabinets (really surprised I didn't see any 42" cabinets in models), light fixtures, granite, faucets, etc.

I really appreciate anyone who has read this posting to this point. Actually, I could probably think of even more to ask. I will REALLY appreciate anyone that can help with some of the questions.

Rich
Hi, These are very good questions: What I am going to list below is expenses based on an average for 2012 and you can play with some figures. I do my budget all the time, mostly the fixed costs, so we can play with what if and what else we can add on a monthly basis. What is not included is Medical and life insurance, as well as income taxes and the travel/ party expenses. But this includes the overall groceries and pharmacy and general house maintenance. THis is close for a designer home, close to 2300 sq ft , with no pool or golf costs to it, and one car, one electric golf cart, and are monthly averages --It can be close to $2500 a month -- Have fun:
1. amenities fee (that usage of regular pool) = $150
1a. we pay close to 300/year for the pool at the country club, no golf: $25
2. Cable/Comcast: includes two tv, HD with major chanels and HBO, and internet wireless and house phone and 2 DVRs : $200
3. Car insurance: 40
4. Water softner maintenance, done 2x year, rounded up: $10
5. Electric/ gas: $150
6. Yard/ grass/ cut/ trim and includes bushes: $55
7. Yard: Maintenance: chemicals/ weeds, gen care: $42
8. Waste/ trash: (charged quarterly), mon: $20
9. Golf cart maintenance: $200 (can be less, but we need to change batteries, that can be a good $600-700)
10. A/C maintenance : $10
11. We add house maintenance "surprises" : $ 150 (to set apart, but add it to the budget)
12. pharmacy/ cleaning/ lights and the kind : $200
13. Gasoline (we use the electric golf cart a lot) $100
14. 2 cell phones: $100
15. Skype (int'l call if not connected) $10
16. Groceries/market/wine $600
17. Prop taxes: $300
18. Homeowner's insurance: $150

I enjoy cooking and that provides for good friends to enjoy homecooking with us, and a good glass of wine!
Hope it helps. I think I only missed the most important part, at no extra cost -- retire and enjoy what we already pay for at TV!

Best,

[UpNorth]

New construction is fine if you dont mind waiting 10 years for the dusty place to look established, are satisfied with only high-cost electricity (no gas), and are willing to pay a high bond.

[jimbo2012]

New construction is fine if you dont mind waiting 10 years for the dusty place to look established, are satisfied with only high-cost electricity (no gas), and are willing to pay a high bond.

That is a ridiculous statement, the bond is 100 a month on a designer, less on others.

Established is a matter of opinion, I've seen areas a year or two old that look pretty good just because a neighborhood is older does make it better or worse.

I'm on the very most southern edge in 215 and in a month here I've yet to wash off dust.

So I think your comments are mis placed or just do not know what you speak.......

[jrandall]

Answer for number1. We are quite close to our neighbors back yard and lanai. We love our neighbors but we can hear them and they can hear us talking when we are in our lanai. I would recommend a lanai facing the road if the road is not Pinellas a high traffic route or consider the wall.

[sharonga]

Moved to Sanibel May 25, 2012, our house was hit by lightening June 4 2012. All in all we were very lucky because our house took a direct hit and did not burn down. Firemen did not think lightening rods would have helped. We have a surge protector that we rent from the electric company. We think that saved the large appliances. It was a nightmare, but its over and we are loving life in the villages. Just go with the flow and enjoy. Leave your old life behind. Bills are a lot less here. I dont know why. We are from NY and while I do find the cost of supermarket shopping a lot higher, restaurants are much cheaper. Its just easier living here.

[graciegirl]

New construction is fine if you dont mind waiting 10 years for the dusty place to look established, are satisfied with only high-cost electricity (no gas), and are willing to pay a high bond.

I have to say something about "looking established" and invite you to tour our village which is just over one year old. You will be astonished. This near tropical climate is amazing.

IN FACT, our children came to visit us a few months ago and they couldn't believe that the house behind us had been finished only the week before and the sod laid then too.

It is magic here. Yes it is.

[bonrich]

[QUOTE=graciegirl;611009]I have to say something about "looking established" and invite you to tour our village which is just over one year old. You will be astonished. This near tropical climate is amazing.

Yep, you are so correct. Our area, Sanibel Heights, in less than two years, is sold out, built out, and finished. Lawns are mowed, plants are watered, trees and flowers are growing, and whole lot of enjoyment with the neighbors. I herald the end of the building craze by having our home power washed last April.
It was a good day.

[mickey100]

In two or three years your landscaping can look pretty good. But there is no getting around the higher cost of the bond, the location i.e. not central, electricity instead of gas , and living with the headaches of construction going on around you, when you buy new. We had friends who bought in Hemingway back in 2008, and they lived for years with tremendous amounts of dust and dirt blowing onto their property from the construction on the other side of 466A. I'm not knocking buying new, or encouraging buying used; but its good for people to go in with their eyes open. There are advantages to both.

[chiefrose]

Hi, These are very good questions: What I am going to list below is expenses based on an average for 2012 and you can play with some figures. I do my budget all the time, mostly the fixed costs, so we can play with what if and what else we can add on a monthly basis. What is not included is Medical and life insurance, as well as income taxes and the travel/ party expenses. But this includes the overall groceries and pharmacy and general house maintenance. THis is close for a designer home, close to 2300 sq ft , with no pool or golf costs to it, and one car, one electric golf cart, and are monthly averages --It can be close to $2500 a month -- Have fun:
1. amenities fee (that usage of regular pool) = $150
1a. we pay close to 300/year for the pool at the country club, no golf: $25
2. Cable/Comcast: includes two tv, HD with major chanels and HBO, and internet wireless and house phone and 2 DVRs : $200
3. Car insurance: 40
4. Water softner maintenance, done 2x year, rounded up: $10
5. Electric/ gas: $150
6. Yard/ grass/ cut/ trim and includes bushes: $55
7. Yard: Maintenance: chemicals/ weeds, gen care: $42
8. Waste/ trash: (charged quarterly), mon: $20
9. Golf cart maintenance: $200 (can be less, but we need to change batteries, that can be a good $600-700)
10. A/C maintenance : $10
11. We add house maintenance "surprises" : $ 150 (to set apart, but add it to the budget)
12. pharmacy/ cleaning/ lights and the kind : $200
13. Gasoline (we use the electric golf cart a lot) $100
14. 2 cell phones: $100
15. Skype (int'l call if not connected) $10
16. Groceries/market/wine $600
17. Prop taxes: $300
18. Homeowner's insurance: $150

I enjoy cooking and that provides for good friends to enjoy homecooking with us, and a good glass of wine!
Hope it helps. I think I only missed the most important part, at no extra cost -- retire and enjoy what we already pay for at TV!

Best,

Thanks for your extensive breakdown of costs. I knew the 1,000 estimate given by TV was too low given the other things I would include such as lawn maintenance, more than basic cable, etc. I don't consider things like food, entertainment, gas, etc as part of the TV budget as those are things I will pay whether up north or in FL. Thanks again.

[l2ridehd]

Actually the $1000 a month for a home with no mortgage, not including food, golf, entertainment, wine, car, and golf cart is a good estimate. And the $2500 a month from the detailed list provided supports that. I try to look at it as what does it cost me to have the home sitting there ready to live in at a moments notice. And $1000 a month is a good estimate. That includes the cost of cable, internet, gas, electric, taxes, insurance, lawn and shrub and pest control service, everything to have it ready to unlock the door and live there. Being on old pilot I break down the cost of a plane in two parts. What does it cost to have the plane sitting there ready to fly at any time and what does it cost every time you actually use it. Think of your home in TV the same way.

New vs resale. Resale is almost ALWAYS cheaper house for house when all things are considered. I have years of data and can prove that to anyone beyond any doubt. Usually in the 5 to 10% range, although there are exceptions. I own one rental home that was close to 25% below new and have seen resales that get a price that brings them higher then new. However it is a choice that only you can decide. Some folks really want a new home and the extra cost is worth it to them.

I personally would not buy a new home, not because they cost more, but because of location. Remember real estate is all about location, location, location. I want my home within a 5 minute cart ride to the center of TV and close to LSL. I want gas utilities. I want the best possible deal I can find. So I have personal reasons that move me to the resale market. There are benefits to a new home but cost is not one of them.

[jimbo2012]

New vs resale. Resale is almost ALWAYS cheaper house for house when all things are considered. I have years of data and can prove that to anyone beyond any doubt. Usually in the 5 to 10% range, although there are exceptions. .

Can you post data new Vs resale within the last 6 months on a designer home?

[jimbo2012]

My estimate per month about $1600 total living expenses.

1. amenities fee (that usage of regular pool) = $140
2. Cable, HD with major chanels and HBO, and internet wireless and house phone and 2 DVRs : $100
3. Car insurance: 40
4. Water filterr maintenance, done 1x year, rounded up: $40 or $4 a month
5. Electric: $100
6. Yard/ grass/ cut/ trim and includes bushes: $0
7. Yard: Maintenance: chemicals/ weeds, gen care: $0
8. Waste/ trash: (charged quarterly), mon: $20
9. Golf cart maintenance: $0 go solar
10. A/C maintenance : $1
11. We add house maintenance "surprises" : $ 50 (to set apart, but add it to the budget)
12. pharmacy/ cleaning/ lights and the kind : $100
13. Gasoline (we use the electric golf cart a lot) $100
14. 2 cell phones: $80
15. Skype no
16. Groceries/market/wine $600
17. Prop taxes: $300
18. Homeowner's insurance: $60

Subtract half of that for living expenses where ever you stay.

So it cost about $800 a month plus mortgage if you one to carry a home here, that IMO is very reasonable.

[AeroEngRetired]

Moved to Sanibel May 25, 2012, our house was hit by lightening June 4 2012. All in all we were very lucky because our house took a direct hit and did not burn down. Firemen did not think lightening rods would have helped. We have a surge protector that we rent from the electric company. We think that saved the large appliances. It was a nightmare, but its over and we are loving life in the villages. Just go with the flow and enjoy. Leave your old life behind. Bills are a lot less here. I dont know why. We are from NY and while I do find the cost of supermarket shopping a lot higher, restaurants are much cheaper. Its just easier living here.

If you decide to lightning rods make sure you use a UL listed and LPI certified contractor. As far as a fireman saying a lightning protection proboly wouldn't help needs to look more into NFPA 780 (National Standard (writes NEC); National Fire Protection Agency) which gives a 99.9999% chance of lightning protection properly protecting your structure. UL and NFPA don't put their names on things that don't work.

[MSG@TV]

A 6 person hot tub..colored LEDS...under a big birdcage will run me between 10 -12K....that doesn't include the cost of chemicals plus the blond and Merlot.....can I suggest the attic stairs can wait? Of course - we all have our priorities. Cheers! G (closing 10/30)

Hunter, love your sense of humor!!:clap2:

[jimbo2012]

I tried looking up NFPA 780 (National Standards), can't find any to read with paying a zillion bucks.

Any ideas where to look at those for free?

[gomoho]

Jimbo - $100 for you cable and all those goodies??? you must have Brighthouse. I am i6 months plus with Comcast at $139. No HBO or phone, but do have hi/def and internet. Wow you are getting a deal.

[jimbo2012]

Actually just canceled brighthouse after the installation the guy starts telling me what stations were included, I disagreed, there was a miss understanding on what services were included, so now I'm getting Direct Tv I think