[Trish Crocker]

In the short time I have been on TOTV, I have seen people finally sell their homes and make the move to TV (lucky people, I might add!), anyway, I would like to hear from some of the new Villagers...how was it moving in? Is it what you anticipated it would be? What are some of your good (or not so good) experiences? Did you find meeting people was easy? How long did it take to learn your way around? Do you have any pointers for those among us that are hoping to be in your shoes in the very near future?

[JohnN]

The Villages is just fantastic, beyond words.
I'd advise to rent a month before you buy and get the lay of the land.
See what you like and use, and what you don't.
But, really, you can't go wrong.

It's exceptionally clean, safe, affordable and friendly, with tons of things to do (or not do) as you choose. I can't really imagne being anywhere else.

best wishes

[Boudicca]

Ditto!!!!!!!!!!

[angiefox10]

Bump!!!!

I know you newbies are out having fun... But really, we live through you!!! So... Please tell us your stories!

[villagegolfer]

Originally Posted by Trish Crocker

In the short time I have been on TOTV, I have seen people finally sell their homes and make the move to TV (lucky people, I might add!), anyway, I would like to hear from some of the new Villagers...how was it moving in? Is it what you anticipated it would be? What are some of your good (or not so good) experiences? Did you find meeting people was easy? How long did it take to learn your way around? Do you have any pointers for those among us that are hoping to be in your shoes in the very near future?

It has been great. Just do not bring too much stuff with you.

[TednRobin]

We don't know yet, closed in June, haven't been back since.
Can't wait till November.

[jadlos]

We've been here exactly 2 months now and were surprised at how very easy our move was and how quickly we got organized. We found a great guy (Alan Buyer) to do all the handyman stuff that needed to be done (ceiling fans, under-cabinet lighting, closet shelving, attic fan, and more). He made our life a lot easier for us.

We've played golf at all but one of the championship courses and we've played 5 or 6 of the executive courses. We've signed up for 3 of the couples sunset golf tournaments and played in 2 (one was rained out).

We've eaten in many of the fine restaurants in and around TV and have joined and worked out 3 of the 4 fitness clubs and I've been to 3 zumba gold classes and am planning to try water aerobics, line dancing, and pickleball. There really is so much to do!

We went to the first meeting of the Tamarind Grove Social Club and will attend the 2nd one soon. Our neighbers have been great and we've met some really nice people on the golf course.

Getting around is a little challenging still, but you gotta just get out there and not be afraid of getting lost. There are always people ready to help. This really is a wonderful place. Moving here was the right decision for us. We love it more every day.

[Schaumburger]

Originally Posted by jadlos

We've been here exactly 2 months now and were surprised at how very easy our move was and how quickly we got organized. We found a great guy (Alan Buyer) to do all the handyman stuff that needed to be done (ceiling fans, under-cabinet lighting, closet shelving, attic fan, and more). He made our life a lot easier for us.

We've played golf at all but one of the championship courses and we've played 5 or 6 of the executive courses. We've signed up for 3 of the couples sunset golf tournaments and played in 2 (one was rained out).

We've eaten in many of the fine restaurants in and around TV and have joined and worked out 3 of the 4 fitness clubs and I've been to 3 zumba gold classes and am planning to try water aerobics, line dancing, and pickleball. There really is so much to do!

We went to the first meeting of the Tamarind Grove Social Club and will attend the 2nd one soon. Our neighbers have been great and we've met some really nice people on the golf course.

Getting around is a little challenging still, but you gotta just get out there and not be afraid of getting lost. There are always people ready to help. This really is a wonderful place. Moving here was the right decision for us. We love it more every day.

Excellent post, especially about the part about "...not being afraid of getting lost." You may make a new friend that day of the person who gave you directions, or you may get to explore a new neighborhood...

[scrapple]

We're here 11 months now. It's been great! Learning my way around just sort of evolved. Everyone is very helpful. Hubby "worked from home" until the end of June so now we are able to get more involved in activities and feel a part of The Villages. We love our home and live in a very active villa community and are blessed with neighbors who genuinely care for each other. I do water exercises daily and in the evenings, back in to socialize with the evening pool crew, another fun group! There are some things that I miss, but it's all give and take. We're very happy with our move here and would make the same decision if we had to do it over!

[jackz]

Originally Posted by Trish Crocker

In the short time I have been on TOTV, I have seen people finally sell their homes and make the move to TV (lucky people, I might add!), anyway, I would like to hear from some of the new Villagers...how was it moving in? Is it what you anticipated it would be? What are some of your good (or not so good) experiences? Did you find meeting people was easy? How long did it take to learn your way around? Do you have any pointers for those among us that are hoping to be in your shoes in the very near future?

Great post Trish. I look forward to reviewing all the information provided. We have always felt that we would buy a new lot and build an extended Lily designer home. Recently, I am putting more research into that decision and am now weighing buying a resale. Any tips by posters on how you are enjoying your transition to The Villages will be most appreciated.

[Boudicca]

Having lived in one county for 42 years, we DID wonder how it would be to move so far south, and start all over.
No problem. We instantly made a new, lively and fun group of friends. We play golf (could not afford to before the move) I take Yoga 4 times a week. There is always a group of gals or guys, going somewhere to do something, ie movies, meals etc. The Town Square is always enjoyable, and Vendor night is an additional source of "what's gonna be for sale tonight".. We live in Buttonwood and there many organized social events, street parties, etc., and our Neighborhood Of Buttonwood "sanctioned" club grew so quickly, the last event was moved to the Savannah Center which seats about 500 (not sure on exact number, but it has a ballroom) Neighborhood pools are always a social place, conversations start up, and more often than not, folks discover a connection either with previous home town, mutual friends, and even school pals. Hope that gives you a little taste of what life here has to offer. In our 16 month of living in Shangrila, we have NO complaints.