I understood from friends who built a house that they contacted the appliance contractor the Villages uses and made private arrangements with him to make the switch from the Villages appliance package to an upgrade, and paid the contractor directly.

I think what I'm hearing is that kitchen 'upgrades' are limited or not avaliable and it might be better to select standard issue appliances, counter tops and flooring with the idea of upgrading post-construction. What about the cabinets? How is the quality? It's a shame to have to add that much time and expense to a brand new home.

Does TV offer any kind of design services to help in deciding colors etc.? I'm really challenged when it comes to that kind of thing - even though I'm addicted to HGTV.

I just went through the purchase process. My experience with the Gardenia model.

To get a real feel for the cost of major items when working the contract, load the house with everything and get a print out. Then have the agent take out major items one at a time and write those numbers down the side of the print out, stating what item went negative and the price.

Have agent add bumps (expansions), if desired.

Sit down and decide what really makes sense to compromise.

dropped everthing except the kitchen cabinets, added every bump out.

three guiding thoughts.

1. Interior items can be added later. House footprint is very expensive to change.

2. Every $ reduced on the purchase price reduces Property Taxes paid forever.

3. Every item dropped can be added back with improvement in quality and selection. The after market for these items is endless. And that marketplace is hungry. (times are tough everywhere)

Was told the house had to have appliances to receive an occupancy certification from the County Inspector. sounds reasonable enough.

Also met with major resistance to move or add electrical outlets. In the end, gave up.

It is rumored that a full copy of the house plans are in the white plastic lot marker post located near the street.

Best of Luck to everyone creating their own Paradise.

taylor, one thing not mentioned but I'm sure you are aware of the BOND, that is always a lovely little surprise if you are building in Sumter or Marion County...Ugh!

We bought a Samsung french door w/ bottom freezer and love it. The doors close great. lots and lots of room. We got it online from
http://www.number1direct.com/
It was almost $500 less than Sears, Best Buy or Lowes.
What was even better is that there was zero tax and free shipping to your door.
Look them up, it was well worth it and it got to our door in 4 days!
EB