I don't agree that there is a higher level of construction quality "up north". Most builders everywhere use inexpensive windows in new construction, and copper piping is rarely used for interior plumbing anymore. I don't know what conduit you are referring to. Also, concrete block is a structural material, but brick is not. Brick is used as a cosmetic facade. The structural part of a brick wall is usually wood studs.

Took the words out of my mouth!

Wow! If ever I buy a cover, I want to buy yours!

Sorry. Spellcheck error. That should read CYV.

When I purchased a home in TV, I was told the Stucco homes required pressure washing, and painting every so many years. Also the walls can develop cracks from settling. With the vinyl siding homes and there are many, you just have to wash the siding every couple of years. Note, It is easier to wash siding then stucco. Another I read where a HIP roof is stronger against high winds then a Gable roof. A house with a Gable roof can sustain damage to siding and trim where as the HIP roof directs the wind upward??

Del Webb
 

Try Del Webbl

When discussing home construction and storms some homeowners mention hurricanes that came across TV. I mean really what speed of wind are you talking maybe 50 or at the most 60 mph??? By the time a hurricane enters TV it is most likely down sized to Gale Winds. Up north on the coastal areas like Long Island we have had over 100 mph winds from hurricanes and most likely 98% of the vinyl sided homes sustained NO DAMAGE.

There are maintenance requirements with any type of house, but most Villagers prefer the stucco houses over vinyl siding. You can have any house pressure washed for less than 100 dollars. Also, there is not a significant difference between the structural integrity of a hip roof vs a gable roof. The roof pitch for houses in The Villages is relatively low and there are strict standards for roof construction to minimize wind damage. I wouldn't be concerned about a gable roof.

Not up to the standards that we have in the northern states. Try Top of the World in Ocala

You won't find better quality homes; my father-in-law a retired carpenter who built 3 of his own homes visited while they were building our home and said "these are well built homes" We also walked through 22 other homes being built on our street (we purchased one of the 1st lots to build on street) daily and was impressed by workmanship

We got a decent discount from insurance company because of the hip roof. And, yeah, siding is easy to clean. Also, siding homes with the identical floor plan as stucco are a few inches larger - a total of about 35 square feet larger @ 2000 sq ft, because the walls are not as thick.

So, it is really personal preference. You can paint external stucco. Siding, not so much!

A few things I can add is the work sites are kept very clean and organized.

Most of the workers I meet on site had 20+ years experience, were humble and respectful of their customers and employer.

They work closely with the Building inspectors to correct any issues they identify.

Construction supervisors regularly tour each other's homes as a second set of eyes and discuss best practices.

I have had 3 home built from scratch from 3 different builders and beyond a doubt our home in the villages was built the best. The quality of the build, the finish and materials used were better all around. Don’t take for granted that the villages keeps everything on file and I mean everything. This does come in handy down the road. I would say with confidence that anyone who disagrees is just a hater. And no, I didn’t drink the kool aide, just telling the truth.

FYI-Designer homes are also stick-built, not all are cement block

Thank you John. Very thorough and helpful. What brand of plantation blinds did you choose for your home? It seems like you research things and pick good options. Thanks.