[Marathon Man]

Originally Posted by keithwand

Guess you really weren’t at LWR then.
No slumping here. More young than old folks.
Even Del Web people are extremely active.
I chose not to do 55 and over here.

Do you know how you can tell when someone regrets leaving The Villages (even if they refuse to admit it)? The linger on 'Talk of The Villages' and continue to make comments.

[MSGirl]

Originally Posted by BrianL99

Not angry at all, you just missed the point.

I'm trying to understand why the Developer would change the most successful residential construction business model in the USA and cater to a different demographic.

The difference between the older sections and south of 44 is that the developer (Gary Morse) built the amenities before the homes. The Morse kids see more profit building homes first and amenities as needed. Homes are closer together with shorter driveways and narrower streets to allow for more housing. Folks down there are relying on the 4th square at Eastport. It will be a different concept catering to the families of Middleton.

[Switter]

Originally Posted by tophcfa

Dam, we live north of 466 and absolutely love that area and have no desire to relocate, but in my opinion your view of the newer areas of the Villages is extremely harsh. Every time I have ventured down to the southern parts of the Villages it has been an enjoyable experience. Are things down there different, yes. That doesn’t make it bad or undesirable, and certainly not appalling. The newer areas are clearly being designed differently, which gives new homebuyers more options depending on the retirement lifestyle they are seeking. If I could wave a magic wand, I wish the southern areas had more golf, so the northern courses wouldn’t be as crowded. Next, I would wish the northern areas had some of the features of the new areas such as the network of golf cart free walking and bike trails as well as the wider MMP’s with bigger tunnels and less back jarring drainage culverts at road crossings. At the end of the day, all the areas are beautiful and the envy of many, many, many returning baby boomers. Having a variety of lifestyle choices only enhances the place. Let’s not try to start a Village’s north/south civil war and all just enjoy the place.

I agree.

I live in the north in Woodbury and I really love it up here too but I really wish they had more dedicated biking/walking paths where you don't have to share with the golf carts. I was just thinking about this the other day while riding my bike. I am always very cautious because I don't want to collide with a golf cart that's doing 20 miles an hour. I'm not going to win that battle. I never used to wear a helmet when biking but now I do and I equip my bike with rearview mirrors and daytime running lights just for safety. I've seen quite a few people driving golf carts in a very loose, sometimes careless fashion. They don't treat it similar to a car or something that can do some serious damage. For example, i've seen people holding their pets while driving. They probably wouldn't do that while driving a car. I'm not trying to start a war with golf carts at all, just pointing out that I wish people would take driving a golf cart with a little more seriousness, especially as we age and our reflexes slow down.

I'm 58 (gen x) and bicycles are really big for my age demographic and younger, so maybe in the future, as more Gen Xers move in, we will have more of these types and of paths up north. Where I moved from there were numerous bike paths and they were very popular.

My only complaint about the south would be traffic and crowds. Other than that I really liked it and would consider moving down there just for the bike/walking paths.

[Robojo]

Originally Posted by BrianL99

In my 3 years in TV, my exposure to the "South" has been limited to 1 trip to look at some furniture & 1 trip in my golf cart, to play Southern Oaks.

Today, giving my back a rest from daily golf, I took the opportunity to cruise the entire southern area.

The next person who tells me "the South is going to be the "Center of The Villages", I'm going to ask what they're smokin', 'cause I want to buy some.

What the Developer created in the Orange Blossom, Sumter Landing and Brownwood areas, is the envy of residential real estate developers, around the world. What Mr. Morse's heirs have done with the South, is appalling. It is "The Villages" in name only.

I also took the opportunity to visit Sawgrass Grove. It makes OTOTW's "center" look like a thriving place. The "Market" had less than 30 people in the entire building (3 pm). The only restaurant (McGrady's), was about 1/3 full and mostly just drinkers at the bar.

I've heard a lot about "Edna's on the Green". Stupid me, I thought it was a restaurant. It's a ugly food trailer ... and no one was there.

If folks were required to look at Lakewood Ranch, prior to buying in the Villages South, home sales would grind to a screeching halt.

It was like being in a foreign country.

FLAK jacket on.

I like it here in the south away from all of those judgemental people who hate change of any kind.

GenX is in the HOOOUUSE!

GET USED TO IT

[Braddock]

Originally Posted by Marathon Man

Do you know how you can tell when someone regrets leaving The Villages (even if they refuse to admit it)? The linger on 'Talk of The Villages' and continue to make comments.

Read my previous post where my girlfriend owns a business in the villages and that’s why I’m back up there To visit her. never said anything was wrong about the villages why do you take so much offense. Maybe on bunch your shorts.
I lived in Winter Park for eight years, the villages for eight years in Lakewood Ranch so far for three. Nice to expand your horizons and open your mind.

[PurePeach]

Originally Posted by BrianL99

Not angry at all, you just missed the point.

I'm trying to understand why the Developer would change the most successful residential construction business model in the USA and cater to a different demographic.

Same reason every other business person does — today’s society is much different than the society of 20 years ago; even 10 years ago. If you don’t evolve, you just show your age and become stagnant and sometimes go out of business. Am I going to move down there? I think not, but the concept is appealing to a younger set of seniors by offering the lifestyle they find appealing. We’ve been to Edna’s and had a wonderful afternoon. If you don’t like what they’re doing, then don’t “waste your time” by going back. Frankly, I intend on heading down and partaking in the “new” culture from time to time because it’s similar to some of the things I liked in Atlanta that I left behind.

[Rodneysblue]

Originally Posted by BrianL99

Not angry at all, you just missed the point.

I'm trying to understand why the Developer would change the most successful residential construction business model in the USA and cater to a different demographic.

They didn’t, when Orange Blossom, Silver Lake, and Country Club Hills were started there was nothing. Then a tent and eventually other facilities as I have been told.

[KenLee100]

Originally Posted by BrianL99

In my 3 years in TV, my exposure to the "South" has been limited to 1 trip to look at some furniture & 1 trip in my golf cart, to play Southern Oaks.

Today, giving my back a rest from daily golf, I took the opportunity to cruise the entire southern area.

The next person who tells me "the South is going to be the "Center of The Villages", I'm going to ask what they're smokin', 'cause I want to buy some.

What the Developer created in the Orange Blossom, Sumter Landing and Brownwood areas, is the envy of residential real estate developers, around the world. What Mr. Morse's heirs have done with the South, is appalling. It is "The Villages" in name only.

I also took the opportunity to visit Sawgrass Grove. It makes OTOTW's "center" look like a thriving place. The "Market" had less than 30 people in the entire building (3 pm). The only restaurant (McGrady's), was about 1/3 full and mostly just drinkers at the bar.

I've heard a lot about "Edna's on the Green". Stupid me, I thought it was a restaurant. It's a ugly food trailer ... and no one was there.

If folks were required to look at Lakewood Ranch, prior to buying in the Villages South, home sales would grind to a screeching halt.

It was like being in a foreign country.

FLAK jacket on.

I am happy you like your place in TV. I'm not sure why you want to complain about TV south. You like it there, we like it here. When I want to visit the historic part of TV, I will do it without complaint. There is enough negativity in the world already. If you care about facts Lakewood Ranch is not a retirement community and their sales were less than TV.
You are comparing apples and oranges and coming up with bananas.

[frayedends]

Originally Posted by keithwand

Guess you really weren’t at LWR then.
No slumping here. More young than old folks.
Even Del Web people are extremely active.
I chose not to do 55 and over here.

Indeed I was there and that was my observation. Of course a 1 hour visit and walkthrough doesn’t show an entire picture.

[BrianL99]

Originally Posted by Rodneysblue

They didn’t, when Orange Blossom, Silver Lake, and Country Club Hills were started there was nothing. Then a tent and eventually other facilities as I have been told.

So I'll apologize if my post "sounded angry", that really wasn't my intent. Although, I was a little exercised at driving 30 minutes from Sumter to the "south" and not even finding a decent place to have lunch.

That said, a better characterization of what I saw in the south, was that it's "off brand", to steal a word from today's marketing world.

I think the big secret weapon that made The Villages and Gary Morse so successful, is the homogeneous nature of demographic they targeted. While some folks crave more varied experiences, the older we get, the more habitual and narrow-minded most people seem to get. I think The Villages concept is the proof. White, upper-middle class, 60+ year old Republicans who play golf, and didn't live close to an ocean, seem to make up the vast majority of the population here. A generation of Middle America, headed to TV.

I suspect the southern area is more diversified, younger and folks likely have different expectations. A couple of other posters mentioned, they've see a clear change in the marketing concept and target demographic. It remains to be seen, how successful it will be.
In my mind, it's definitely "off brand" and dilutes the brand. Sort of like when Mercedes started selling those cute little soccer mom SUV's or when Chevrolet started putting 6 cylinder engines in Camaros (or Kia trying to become a performance brand). Being everything for everyone, is a tough sell.

As for the comment about the folks at Lakewood Ranch getting ready to die, you should visit there and see it for yourself. The majority of LR is not age-restricted, although Mick Jagger recently sold his home there, so there are some older folks. If Keith Richards decides to move there, that'll move the age demographic up a notch.

[Bogie Shooter]

Originally Posted by keithwand

Too funny,
I lived in TV in the premier section behind Bonifay CC from 2012 to 2019.
Great house and neighborhood.
Moved to Lakewood Ranch in 2020 when the house was done.
TV and LWR are number 1 and 2 for sales in the nation.
I still visit TV and the area as my my GF lives nearby.
Both have their pluses and minuses.
So many people I’ve met have moved here from TV for various reasons.
Gas golf cart? Did you move from the villages and inevitably the answer is yes!

Originally Posted by Marathon Man

Do you know how you can tell when someone regrets leaving The Villages (even if they refuse to admit it)? The linger on 'Talk of The Villages' and continue to make comments.

Originally Posted by Braddock

Read my previous post where my girlfriend owns a business in the villages and that’s why I’m back up there To visit her. never said anything was wrong about the villages why do you take so much offense. Maybe on bunch your shorts.
I lived in Winter Park for eight years, the villages for eight years in Lakewood Ranch so far for three. Nice to expand your horizons and open your mind.

????
Same guy?

[Ramblnman]

[QUOTE=BrianL99;2272655]In my 3 years in TV, my exposure to the "South" has been limited to 1 trip to look at some furniture & 1 trip in my golf cart, to play Southern Oaks.

Today, giving my back a rest from daily golf, I took the opportunity to cruise the entire southern area.

The next person who tells me "the South is going to be the "Center of The Villages", I'm going to ask what they're smokin', 'cause I want to buy some.

What the Developer created in the Orange Blossom, Sumter Landing and Brownwood areas, is the envy of residential real estate developers, around the world. What Mr. Morse's heirs have done with the South, is appalling. It is "The Villages" in name only.

I also took the opportunity to visit Sawgrass Grove. It makes OTOTW's "center" look like a thriving place. The "Market" had less than 30 people in the entire building (3 pm). The only restaurant (McGrady's), was about 1/3 full and mostly just drinkers at the bar.

I abandoned ALL of my Social Media feeds in 2016 because it wasn't uplifting...just the opposite. It was exhausting scrolling through all the whining, complaining, and negative comments.

Then I heard about TOTV and thought Village People (no pun intended) were a cut above and maybe I could get a better insight into many of the wonderful services that The Villages has to offer. We bought a home in the South because it had a younger feel, and at 70 years old, I found it refreshing but never once thought anything negative about the North.

I like the North...I like All of TV's, but we wanted to buy "New" and they were selling as fast as they came on the market...We were fortunate to get our first choice in St. John.

Why anyone would "bash" any fellow community member because of where they choose to live is beyond me. I have my suspicions, however; I refuse to reciprocate that type of negative revelry.

I have met so many wonderful people in The Villages younger and older. Most of my neighbors are much younger than me, but I never got the feeling that they thought I'm and old-F_ _ _! I guess attitude is everything.

It is exciting to see what they have planned in the South and it equally gratifying that we have so much to enjoy in the North.

My only disappointment thus far is reading some of the nasty comments on TOTV's. I hope I don't regret joining, but if it continues I will walk (can't run anymore) as fast as my feet will carry me...

Have a wonderful day in the neighborhood!

[dtennent]

OP, you do realize that when General Motors continued to offer the same basic cars year in and year out, it opened the door to Toyota and Honda? The building of different types of venues/features/experiences demonstrates the creativity to keep our community fresh and alive. While I live north of 44, I enjoy the increased variety being built farther south.

[coffeebean]

Originally Posted by thelegges

Op you chose to go to the south once, and think nothing is the TV you chose to live in.

That’s very true, but I do find your post comes off as the normal bashing of the south, that has plagued TOTV, as soon as the developers built south.
Past experience those who don’t get the allure of south of 44 are of an older age bracket.

We moved from LSL area, then built a home in Richmond. I will say we are in the older age bracket here. Many are in their 50s, some still work, but as a whole this is a very different village than any we have lived in.

There are monthly themed parties at the Rec center, always with a waiting list. There are weekly men’s and women’s groups, and one of the largest golf groups in off season, I have ever been affiliated with. This is a village that embraces all things retirement. We go to Sawgrass, and Edna’s, when there is a parking space to be had.

Rarely do we travel north from where we started, to shop, golf, socialize. Reason we moved was SS visit was maybe every 2 months, LSL once a month. Brownwood weekly. It’s a bonus to have meaningful conversations without the ongoing talk of health issues.

Many enjoy the lack of retail nightmare traffic, and have no issue driving 10 minutes. We don’t shop weekly, and Doctor appointments are 6-12 months apart. So south is the new vision, it’s just not for my parents, that are in their 80s.

I live in the LSL area. I'm still trying to understand why people complain about the "nightmare traffic" from all of the retail stores on 441. Anyone who travels to that area to shop will have to deal with this traffic. It doesn't matter where you live in The Villages, north, south, east or west of this corridor of retail. Once I leave that area and travel back home, within The Villages, there is no traffic. The traffic is only where the stores are. LSL has a bit more traffic but that is not nearly what one will deal with on 441. When I pass the LSL Round a Bout, there is no traffic. I do believe, however, once that ongoing construction on 441 is completed, the "nightmare" traffic will be much more tolerable.

As an aside, I'm glad I live very close to the retail corridor on 441. I wouldn't have it any other way. I like the convenience. Points south in The Villages are much further away to the 441 retail corridor than 10 minutes as you said.

[Bill14564]

Originally Posted by BrianL99

So I'll apologize if my post "sounded angry", that really wasn't my intent. Although, I was a little exercised at driving 30 minutes from Sumter to the "south" and not even finding a decent place to have lunch.

...

Of you missed Sawgrass, Edna's, Fenney, and Reveille (or worse, stuck your nose up at them without even trying) then it would be best for you to stay in more familiar territory. South of 44 is pretty nice and only getting better.