I agree with everything you said. I think the reason why they don't have gyms in the rec centers is Insurance, it would be too expensive. Great video 💖✌️
@@dr.jamiedipalma I recently found out that they have gyms in some of the regional rec centers they’re called fit clubs. It is a paid membership and very affordable I joined, and it’s been pretty good and nice and clean and lots of facilities. I was wrong about the Gym thing I did come out with a new video talking about it: ruclips.net/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/видео.html
I'll be the only senior citizen ever to move to Fargo when I retire. I've lived in the south (including Texas and Florida) for my entire life, and each year get more sick of heat, humidity, gators, insects and hurricanes. After spending some time in Svalbard, I realized how much I love the cold, snow, and short summers.
Well, the only time that Texas seems to warm up, it has rounds of thunderstorms with it, plus the Winters actually suck in Texas. The hurricane season in Florida can get rather precarious, but the Central part of the state seems relatively safe compared to the coastal areas.
I miss the change of seasons including snow and ice, much more than I thought I would. Also, while initially pretty, these planned Florida communities have become rather bland and boring to me over time. However, the visual perfection does certainly help home values. Weighing the pros and cons makes sense.
I don't know why you're moving to North Dakota for more cold, because Texas has relatively more cold days than the hotter ones that it's known for. Right now in the first part of April, we just dropped down into the 50s during the day and 40s at night. Just when you think that it's Spring, the cold weather keeps coming back, and it lasts and lasts. Frankly, I'm tired of it and ready to move to a more stable climate over this bipolar Texas.
Hey Brother! Retired YNC here. Great review. Good balance of good and not so good. I'm retired from both the Navy and my job as an administrative assistant with my county human services department. As nice as The Villages looks, not for me. I'm the opposite of you. I prefer cold weather, don't like hot weather at all. Wisconsin is where I'm happy. Living in a condo, kind of the best of both worlds. I own my home, but don't have to deal with mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or raking leaves. All that is taken care of by the monthly maintenance fee I pay. Your review was comprehensive and fair. I'm sure more people will be checking out your video.
I was a "Navy brat". We always lived around an ocean: Guam, Key West, Hawaii, Okinawa, Long Beach, Ca until my dad was last stationed in Monterey, Ca. So, learned to swim in the ocean and have always loved the ocean. My husband and I were married young and moved to Carson City. What a change for me! We lived there for many years and told my husband I couldn't stand the extremes in weather in northern NV. Freezing in the winter with snow which I first experienced when we moved to Carson City and roasting in the summer. Short spring with a little longer fall and I enjoy that type of weather. Some people like the changing weather and that is great. We sold everything 5 years ago and full timed RVd for about 3 years. We weren't planning on buying again so soon, just wanted to keep traveling around the country. But, fate happened and we fell into a great deal on a little house across the street from the Pacific Ocean on the Oregon coast. Ocean views, pine trees, hiking trails, seals, sea lions, no bugs, beautiful rides on the coastal road...... Some rain but not what I thought of Oregon. Not bad at all. A sweatshirt in the car just in case it gets chilly but never too hot or cold and no snow. I guess you just feel at home sometimes around a place like where you grew up. I just hope others find a place they love and are able to enjoy life. Kathleen
The Oregon coast is a beautiful place to live. So happy that you found your forever home. I grew up on Key Biscayne, Florida. My wife and I moved to Sonoma County, California in the mid-90's. Like you, we also found our paradise and forever home. We are very lucky people.
Such a Great Comment - We live on the beach on the SOBX & love it - We have some friends who live in the Villages & sounds nice, but way too far from the beach for me & way too many people- lol - plus we Love the NC Coast - It’s home to us & always will be 😎😎😎
I used to be a beach person - now I am a mountain person. Nothing can compete with Sedona - to have your morning coffee there with a view - Zen! Thanks for the very informative video!
Great video! In a couple more years when I meet the age requirement, I may have to take a serious look at this place, thought I also love the mountains!
Good to see your video . I live in Hayesville now . Moved up from Jasper Ga . I love the Mtns myself. However, Every thing you mentioned positive about the villages , I find interesting. Very informative. Thanks ! Brother
Thx for the video. If it wasn’t in Florida, I would be all in, but Florida weather and culture is no bueno for me. Best to you! So important to be living a quality life in a place you love!
Great video Chief. Yeah the bond is tough to swallow. They say when you move to The Villages you are buying a lifestyle and I agree with that. The Villages is unmatched. Having said that, when it comes to purchasing homes, the developers charge a painful premium for what amounts to lackluster houses. Just my opinion. Stay well.
We're strongly considering the Villages. Eastport is our target village when it opens up. Thanks for your perspective - your point about The Bond was well made. Do another vid in 6 more months!
I know exactly why you like the Blue Ridge Mtns. - they are breathtaking! I live in North Georgia and am always taking a scenic drive up the winding roads that curve back and forth through the mountains. Florida is beautiful too and it's great that you like the heat because the summers get pretty sticky, but if you live anywhere in the south you definitely have to adapt to the humidity and heat. Loved your video and nice to hear your take on the community.😊
Thank you for your honest information. I lived in Fort Lauderdale back in the 80s and had a blast. Now I'm up in outside of Portland Oregon and I love it here I love the cold weather I love the mountains the river is the trees the beauty. I'm thinking about moving to the Villages but I'm not sure I could give up all the beauty and freedom I have up here
My mom lived there from 2004-2020 at the Villages (In Summerhill Village) and she loved it as I (and my family) would visit her a lot! I thought it was a very cool place as there are younger (starting at 55) people there too. I would love riding and driving the golf carts as the golf cart paths were always there all over to ride on. Good luck to you at the Villages!
We moved to TV 14 years ago. Lived in the bubble 6 years then moved outside the bubble for another 5. Then moved to SW Florida near the gulf. Beautiful community very high HOA fees so we moved back 2 weeks ago. I feel TV is beautiful, well organized and ran so we are happy to be back in the new section south of Brownwood.
That’s awesome you didn’t settle, I like moving around and experiencing new places until you finally find the place you love, we’ll done Melody! Thanks for watching!
Enjoyed your commentary of TV. I compared it to our active adult community in Goodyear, AZ. It"s a gated community named Pebble Creek. We had a house built there in 2013 and are snowbirds from upstate NY. We love the area. Luke AFB is 10 minutes away by car and there are several clubs to take advantage of. Lots of pickle ball courts also. We also have the mountains but no hurricanes, tornados, mesquitos, or mildew. Since you mentioned that you weren't sure you would stay permanently in TV, thought I would mention this to you. Be well and enjoy the nice weather!
Chief! As a Navy Veteran myself not retired but a disabled Vet so retired nonetheless. I appreciate your perspective from a single guy relative to my age. I’m closing on a house in late April up in orange blossom and won’t have bond. The bond thing isn’t just at the Villages, it’s just one of the things in Florida. It pays for the original infrastructure from developers; roads, sewer/water lines and electrical grid ect ect they had them down in the Orlando area too. 🤷♂️ They gym thing is unfortunate and was I shocked to know that situation. I’m moving for the golf, weather and the people. I have service dog and look forward to hanging with him and doing a lot of people watching. Keep sharing the good and the bad!
God bless you. Enjoy your life in Florida. For now, my wife and I travel back and forth from New York, Boston and Florida. One son lives in Miami and the other in Boston. We love all these places because our loves are there.
Just listened to your 6 month evaluation--very interesting. You mentioned no mountains here, however, you may be interested in Montverde or Clermont--both very hilly. There's a state park on Montverde, as well. Hope this adds to your enjoyment!
Great video chef. I will have to agree with you on somethings; however, I tried the Villages once for a year and could not wait to leave. I thought I was living in unreal place where people drank to much talked about what they did or didn’t have in their house. Maybe I just was around the wrong people. My husband loved it and still speaks of it. I am not complaining believe me I am expressing an option that as beautiful and all it has to offer …….The Villages I’d definitely not a place for everyone. I am very happy for you in the fact that you really enjoy being there and I also enjoyed watching your video.
Lived in Maine my whole life, have visited Florida several times and love the weather, even went down in August to see how hot it gets , didn’t kill me. But the prices are getting so high, don’t know if I will ever be able to afford it. Just wish they had a more affordable neighborhood.
My Mom lived in Top of the World in Ocala. She bought a unit in the older section where they have 4 units in each. I believe it was called Friendship Village. She bought an end unit. So she had a little patio area in the back. She was able to go everywhere on her golf cart. And it was reasonably priced. They also have single family homes and a couple golf courses.
I just found out about the villages about a week ago. Now me and the wife are laying out a 20yr plan to get there around 58! Assuming it’s still in the shape or better by then, fingers crossed.
Great video, I am a retired United States Marine and am also 100 percent service connected disabled. thank you for sharing about the V.A. Clinic. I am seriously thinking of moving down there.
My husband (we just got married!) is a 72-year-old Army veteran and I am so pleased with the strong military presence here. My husband was an Army Ranger and we've already discovered another Ranger in The Villages. And there's this: We've been to the Town Square twice and both times, I've watched him stand up and start dancing when the old rock-and-roll music starts. This place is so good for both of us. I love it here.
I have absolutely no intention of ever moving or living at the Villages. Been retired for almost 4 years and live in a beautiful town in NC. However, I so enjoyed listening to you that I watched your entire video :):)
Go visit the mountains. Just like most people go visit Florida. You are handsome, well spoken, and seem healthy and have a healthy positive outlook and spirit. I’m sure it is easy for people to connect to you and for you to meet new people. Personally I never meet a stranger. Out of all the information you have given in the video, what caught my attention was the VA clinic. What a bonus. I wish for our veterans more things and places of convenience like this. Peace and happy holidays!
Thanks so much Sir for this video, I am considering moving to the Villages and this has helped me a lot. But more Importantly THANK YOU for your Service to America. !!!!!
I’ll be making that video soon. I’ve been so busy with stuff but I do plan on putting out my one year video here in the next couple of weeks. Thanks so much for watching!
My neighbour suggested we should all (older residents) live in one part of our apartment community. Not a chance! I love hearing children and life going on. My elder neighbour's talk endlessly about their aches and pains...it's tedious.
Concerning the bond, I agree with you. Just add it to the price of the new house! I'm trying to decide where I end up when I retire. Florida and Arizona are at the top of my list. I forgot about how much I liked Moab when I was there. I may have to add it to my list, especially since I'm an avid cyclist. Awesome trails there.
had a elderly friend once tell me why he left a retirement community. he got tired of all the crabby, old folks and going to a funeral every couple of weeks. he moved to a so called normal community where there are kids playing and mostly younger families with (life all around). just not so diperssing.
I don’t find this place depressing at all, I see people doing way more here than in my previous neighborhoods. Thanks for sharing tho always interesting to hear other perspectives .
That was an exciting and honest perspective on things in The Villages. I love your positivity, I feel the same way. I am from West Virginia so I truly understand what you mean about missing the mountains. We once lived in Indiana where there are few mountains and I actually had a lonely feeling when I looked out and didn't see mountains. ( I also got lost a few times because the mountains help me get my bearings.) Then we moved to Western Kentucky and lived on the Ohio River. For some reason, living on the water somehow sufficed for the mountains and I loved it. So you might consider living by one of the lakes of ponds, which are numerous in the Villiages.
Yeah, I agree you need mountains or water nearby I do visit Lake Sumter Landing a lot here which I enjoy but I really do miss the mountains however, I love the sunshine! So I guess that’s a reasonable trade off!
Very informative..you mentioned the mountains, we live at 5000 ft, and a view to die for. Do I want to give that up? It’s cold and windy in the winter, but gorgeous the rest of the year. Thank you.
Yeah it’s a tough call, I miss the mountains, but love the weather here still not sure if I’m going to retire here or near mountains but either way life is good! Thanks for watching!
I'm dipping my toe into The Villages pool by renting at The Lofts for the first year. That'll give me an idea of what locations I gravitate to. Thank you for the great tips of what you enjoy most and what you're missing. PS I'm also a very warm weather gal. Love our summers in Florida!
LOVEEEE it here..one thing for ppl considering the move(especially is new build)..extra $ needed for: pest control(around $100 Mo. all in), changing out the pine needles to new landscaping ($3-20k), golf cart ($11k-23k avg/ or marketplace less expensive), driveway paint, garage epoxy floor, attic termite spray 1x, redoing closet/ garage for more storage, gym membership(indoor),extending back patio concrete, gutters, palm trees($400+) lamp post name sign. Just make a list, take your time and do as you can. Again, love it BUT THE people are amazing.
Hiya Neighbor! Thanks for the honest 6-month review! Me and hubby are coming up on our 2 year anniversary of being official villagers. Yes, the powerlines I think they call 'Power Angels' Lol. Sounds like you're really missing the mountains! There were mountains every where where I was born (Philippines) but being a Floridian for 28 years now, I don't miss it as much. Keep up the good work!
I was going to move to Virginia/ BR mountains a few years back and it wasn’t until I left Florida for a few months and suffered for weeks in the dark cold and sleet that I realized how good I had it living in here. Florida has a unique beauty you won’t be able to appreciate if you are longing for something else. We don’t have mountains, but we beautiful pine forests, amazing sunsets, and endless trails for biking, walking, horse riding..etc.. YEAR ROUND! Have you been to the Santos trails? Silver Springs State park? If you are into the outdoors like I am you will appreciate all that Florida has to offer. Florida has some of the cleanest and well maintained parks I have ever seen. This really is a great area to live in if you love the outdoors.
Thanks for sharing, I haven’t explored that much at all around here other than crystal river kayaking, and a few beaches on the gulf that was pretty awesome but I’m looking forward to really getting out there and hiking and biking the trails and learning more about Florida. I haven’t heard of santos or silver springs but I’ll look into it for sure, thanks for the suggestions!
@@puppylove2493 I lived in a swamp in Florida for 1 year. There were gators ,snakes,and everything else. I never had any problems whatsoever. That year, Aug 2012-Aug 2013 was probably one of the best years of my life ever! I don't remember even being bitten by a mosquito one time. I had no electricity,but I did have a battery operated fan to sleep with on the hottest nights-I still have it.
Hi! What is your home insurance premium like? I heard that Florida is requiring flood insurance for all and that many insurance companies are pulling out or have gone bankrupt . Although this was a realtor promoting South Carolina. 😊 I moved to a 55+ outside of Austin,Texas about the same time you did. Outrageous property taxes here. I find I am dreaming more of the forest since moving to a flat area with no mountains.
I'll be doing a budget video, but I dont think the flood insurance problem affects us, we are central Florida, most of what you are hearing is along the coastal regions. But Ill look into it and do a video for sure, I was waiting a full year to be here so I have good numbers for the entire year.
I'm not made for the planned community (we are currently shopping for a little farm in Florida) - but we'll be close enough that I'm looking forward to coming into the bubble to visit! As a former realtor, the top golf course community that I sold had HOA fees triple the Villages, and just one golf course. The amenities in the Villages are incredible. I think you did a great job talking about who would fit in the Villages, and I found your video very informative! We're moving in July, and the Villages "explore" is definitely on my list!
Yes! And who knows, when I'm feeling like feeding chickens is too much work...I might just retire to the Villages, where you can just enjoy the Florida sunshine!
It's all about perspective! Been there done that. I am a 21 year veteran of color, and of means. I moved from the Villages because of the lack of racial diversity and political polarization. Not to mention hearing a resident shout White Power! I moved and purchased beachfront homes in Costa Rica and Panama. Where I can also enjoy great weather, lower taxes and expenses.
Thanks for your input. We’re in LA. Retiring in a year. We’re looking in Palm Springs area, a city called La Quinta. They have beautiful mountains and the san Gorgonio mountains and beaches are only about an hour away. Might be worth a look if you like to ride your bike in lots of cool areas. They also have lots of gyms, and California has beautiful weather.
@@TheVillagesChief I’m from San Diego and now living in Atlantic Beach Florida. It’s a beautiful coastal community and I met the best people here. I do miss San Diego at times. Both great Navy towns!
I’m not old enough for the village but it does look amazing. I live is south Ocala and one of the things that hit home for me is the cleanliness. You are very right about outside the bubble it becomes almost well a dump. People just dump trash even though the city will take it for free. Run down double wides. This area is a bit of a contrast. The over 55 community with $$ and the people that have grown up in the area with a top out pay of $18 an hour. When I first moved to the area I thought it had a Roseanne show feel to it. The city planning out side the Villegas leaves a lot to be desired. Anyone come from other states that did a great job with development so it had a beauty like the villages?
I love to visit Ocala one day-thats where my thoroughbred came from. He was born and raised on a farm that used to be called Mockingbird farm. A very famous place in the racehorse community!
Thanks for your video. I, too, would prefer that the price of a house offered for sale include the price of the bond. I know i would miss the mountains during the months of living in florida, but i am also sure i would appreciate the beautiful florida skies, lovely winter weather, and not miss shoveling snow in the slightest. 😄
Great video as always .. I grew up in Ormond beach Fl and we used to head to inland to The area where the villages is to hunt .. People don’t realize that outside the bubble is the rural south . Lots of people that have visited Florida only see the tourist side of the state and never get to see the real Florida. I feel a lot of people forget they are in the rural south
Did geriatric home care in that area 30 years ago. I saw and heard things I didn't know existed. RAN back to Brooklyn!! I had a patient warn me not to drive alone on rural roads because she was worried I would be driven off the road and raped. Totally sincere little old lady. I took her at her word. Brooklyn was safer than that.
@@weekendatbernies2265 yeah, that’s pretty sad that rural Florida is getting cleared away for so much development. To me rural Florida is the real Florida.
Hi Eric, I’m a retired Chief, not Master Chief, that polo I’m wearing has all three anchors so I know it looks that way sometimes, anyway thanks so much for watching!!
Your comments on traveling outside the bubble is exactly my experience, as I lived 39 years in Germany, and moving to the rural south has been hard. Like you, I have enjoyed the beauty created by people who took pride in their property. Hard adjustment for me.
Well done video, lots of good content and explanations, thank you, it looks like a great place to those who want that lifestyle, but personally , not for me, I just prefer the four seasons, being up north, love the old Rust Belt cities on the Great Lakes that are rejuvenating nicely, tons of culture ,architecture , enjoy diversity, history along with all the things big cities offer good and bad. More than happy just to stay up here north. But good luck to everyone, I hope you all enjoy a wonderful life!
It sounds like you still have alot of adventure leftto do. Maybe consider a nice RV that you can attach yout bike to and head towards those places you mentioned out west. Your insight was very valuable.
I was thinking of that or maybe getting a nice trailer and pull my bike to these different places, so I have my jeep and my motorcycle for off-roadIng and carving through the mountains again!
Unfortunately I live in Florida for the beach a 1 1/2 hour to 2 hour beach trip , means you never get to the beach. After visiting the Villages , it was houses 10' apart. you can see and hear your neighbors on each side, so don't plan on being outdoors. Plus, every one is old... 150,000 people way over 55. We moved to an Atlantic side island community. beautiful beaches, 2 minutes away, houses 60' apart min. beautiful planned environment surrounded by natural state parks.
My Parents have lived there for over 20 years. I've been going there long before I was old enough to be a Villager and now that I'm old enough. I've never been bored. People are very friendly. Good luck keeping up with these retirees, they can party.
@@bobbear4437 I have two opposing view points: if you play with fire you’re gonna get burned, or, is this the most fun place in the state?? 😂😂😂😂 sorry I gotta have some fun with the comments.
Hey Chief! Moving to The Villages from Southeast Florida. Looking forward to the change and getting away from the hurricane threats that have become too frequent.
Can’t wait! Closing early May down in Newell. Moving end of month. I’m glad to see the fitness equipment, gotta get back to it. Used to be a gym rat!!! Lol
Great channel! I appreciate your honesty about everything including how much you paid for your house! Not being nosy...it's just interesting.😊 Also..when Covid hit, we invested in a garage gym setup...barbells, kettlebells, plates, you name it. It takes a little while and isn't cheap, but is so worth it! Just something to think about!
Thanks! I love the mountains as well. Thinking about coming for a lifestyle stay/tour. Not sure about the bond. They want to sell me a new house and now I see why!
I still wonder if buying my older house was worth it, I’ve spent about the cost of the bond on fixing this place up so maybe the bond is worth it for a new house? I don’t know, the jury is still out 😂. What really matters is you buy the house that makes you the happiest :) good luck on your visit Cass22 and thanks for watching!!
@@TheVillagesChief Always hard to know exactly what is the best decision! Will see when I get down there. I lived in Tallahassee for 13 years and have spent six years in Fernandina Beach, FL, but, I grew up in Virginia and do miss the green and hills. The Villages does have an appeal though! Siesta Keys is beautiful btw, but so pricey to live there. Thanks so much for the videos. I will keep watching!
Great video! Yeah, we bought a house with a bond. It's exactly what you said. It's a tax. It covers the construction costs associated with setting up the infrastructure in villages, such as sewer, electric, streets, etc. There is a bond with all new homes in The Villages, and everyone has the choice whether to pay it off or pay it at property tax time. Many of the pre-owned homes don't have them because the previous owners chose to pay them off. Some pre-owned homes still have a remaining bond because the previous owners chose to pay it over time. We decided to pay ours over time, because if we had paid it off and then later decided to move, that benefit goes to the new owners. Big waste of money, unless you can add it to the sale cost of the house. The amount of bond you are assessed depends on the property value you purchased. They assess a percentage of that value to each property owner in an area or village. The entire construction (and maintenance? not sure about that) cost is divided up amongst all of the property owners in your village. Good and bad of the bond? It will be hard to come up with a "good", but I will try: Good: In many places I have lived, property tax on items such as construction and maintenance of utilities are paid as a tax or monthly utility bill in perpetuity. So, the fact you can pay it off and it goes away is a net positive. IF, you ever get to that point. Bad: You have a huge yearly bill that gets lumped into the rest of your property taxes. From our experience, the bond is the largest part of our property taxes, and it hurts to see all that money flying out of our account at that time. Hope this helps.
that's the thing about any place where you have a ruling body, you are always paying for this or that whatever they decide. And it always seems like someone making these decisions is lining their own pockets.
Hi wanted to let you know my thoughts on. This. I am 84 live in a historic ho.e in Wellesley Ma I am close to Cape Cod. N.H. and Maine. I can go to Florida for a month to escape some of the winter. I still work from home as a family therapist. Would I move to a managed life in Florida. That will never appeal to me I know many people are enjoying that life. I am very social and like to enjoy life. It is not as easy as you get older but I still want to blaze my own trail. Wishing everyone the best. Elaine
Very good info Master Chief, (Navy Veteran), we are looking to move from California to the east coast to be closer to our kids eventually and thought it might be a good location for us in Florida.
Thanks so much! By the way, I’m not a Master Chief, I’m a Chief, on my polo it has all three anchors so at a quick glance it looks like a Master Chief, but anyway come on down and check out the villages. It’s pretty cool, Go Navy!
@@TheVillagesChief lol sorry, saw the 2 stars, thought you were an E9. We will check it out, looking at some places. I was a Corpsman with Fleet Hospital and the Sub Support Services, didn't get to the rank of E7 though. Glad you're happy there, and hey if they call you up again Virginia's not that far away.
I'm one of those "out of the bubble" people who pop over to TV on occasion for a movie, to go to our jeweler, for a bite to eat, or to listen to the bands. As an outsider there appears to be a lack of diversity (ages, ethnicities, political beliefs). Great place to visit, but I would not feel comfortable living there.
Thanks for the video I checked out the villages found it just a little busy but nice I’m RETIRED ARMY and disabled due to my service.I chose to buy a home at Stone creek Ocala …
Great video Chief! Regarding the disappointment you feel about going to the surrounding area, I too experience that in northern FL (JAX). It seems anywhere you have no-income or low-income people, then trash and disregard for the environment follows. Shame. Fair winds and following seas!
Enjoyed the video! I'll add some thoughts on the bubble. I grew up in the area long before the villages as it exists came to be. Still living here, geographically not in a town (considered county), but closest to Lady Lake. I can remember when all that land was basically some form of pasture or swamp and there really wasn't anything much in areas of Sumter county. Parents would take kids to some of those lone roads to practice driving because of the lack of drivers. 30 years ago, Leesburg was the "place to be" in the general area. Had the mall, nice restaurants, etc. Over time, the surrounding areas have developed much more (Tavares, Clermont, etc). And with the growth of the Villages in Sumter County and now into Wildwood, many of the other areas have gone a bit downhill as the population moved. And with the more stringent rules for upkeep and aesthetics, many businesses started to move as well. I remember fast food locations that closed due to construction or fire, that re-opened in the Villages instead of the original location because it's more attractive now in regards to upkeep and customer numbers. Just kind of how things change over time. Would be nice if some older areas cared more about landscaping and such, so there wouldn't be such a contrast (Seen the same thing happen in parts of Orlando and Tampa) Even as a Villages neighbor, as opposed to resident, I can appreciate the shopping opportunities and restaurants. Though I admit sometimes the traffic is frustrating. I'm sure they'll finish the HWY 27 road expansions "someday".
My dad lives there. Just visited a couple of weeks ago. My hubby and I want to move there so badly but theres not very many family subdivisions. We are in our late 40s but still have an 11 year old. My issue is I'd really like to be in my dads neighborhood in Orange Blossom which is affordable but its all 55+. I was told that they have to allow in a few families, 20%. Not sure how I go about getting in there. We are quiet and mind our own business. My dad and his neighbors are way more wild than my hubby and I!!
Well the age minimum I think is 19, not 55 but I don’t think that helps ya, have you looked into Middleton? It’s for family’s, built by the villages, great brand new high school, it would be about 40 minutes from Orange Blossom
As I sit in my office at the courthouse in downtown LA watching your video, I am salivating at moving to the Villages in five years. It's my little fantasy to escape craziness and just play and relax with new friends. Thank you for giving those of us outside the bubble an invitation to join you guys. You're living your best lives, and I want to be part of the fun!
What a great comment Donna, makes the effort of doing these videos well worth it! I lived in CA for many years and loved it out there back in the day, but it's great here at this point in my life, come out an do a lifestyle visit if you havent yet, you'll love it!
Donna, you don’t have to move to Florida and the humidity to enjoy this type of life. Take a look at Sun City Palm Desert. Honestly, it’s amazing, so many clubs, gyms, things to do, a wonderful Artists Village, friendly folks. 20 min into Palm Springs, and a great small international airport.
Hey Donna just wanted to encourage you to keep on keeping on with your countdown! I’m just recently retired and it wasn’t very long ago that I was at the 5 year mark. You can do it! 🎉
Siesta Key Beach - my daughter & family lives in the Tampa area. We went to Siesta Key a couple of times - so perfect. Sugar white sand & not commercial. My little grandsons had a ball & so did I! I love Scottsdale & need a dryer heat - but my daughter loves Florida so much - they plan to retire there when my SIL gets out of the Air Force soon.
Nice video. I have been here 7 years now. Also live close to Spanish Springs. I love it here, even though winter continues to be more and more crowded. Just wanted to say that my understanding is that a few rec centers south of us do have fitness equipment. Not sure if that includes weights, but would be worth trying to find out.
Hi JOJOMO443, I found out about the Villages Fit Club after I made that video, and I have now joined the Fit Club, nice gyms, i made a video shortly after correcting myself : ruclips.net/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/видео.html . Thanks for watching!
I lived in a similar community in SC for a few years. Now I'm in an Orlando suburb. 100% agree with you about the Florida winters - I love it! Where I lived in SC was 50+, and I was 51-53 years old when I lived there. My "con" of living in communities like these is that they're often located where land is abundant, so you do get the bubble you described of a perfect community within a rural setting. I'd go further and say that what that means for 50-somethings is that you don't run into very many people in the 45-60 demographic. I simply got there too soon. These communities are advertised as 55+, but I'd recommend them for 60+. Liked your video! Thanks!
That’s great advice! I agree I sometimes feel I came here a little too soon, but then in a couple years I’ll fit right in it’s such a hard thing to get just right, sometimes you gotta jump in and hope for the best which is kinda what I’m doing right now. I love the Orlando suburbs, it’s gorgeous down there with tons to do.
@@TheVillagesChief You do raise a good point in your video - you are within 2 hours of many cool places. If you ever take a motorcycle ride to Winter Park, send me a note and we can meet for coffee to compare notes on 55+/new to Florida.
Ok so it’s been a year since you made this video. Do you still feel the same about the villages? I love hearing that many veterans retire there! I’m up in WI but not from here. Not from anywhere after being a military dependent my entire life. My family roots are Chicago area but I’m really leaning towards moving back south. Just hit 56 so I qualify for the villages and I love seeing all that they offer! Thank you for doing this video! 🙌🏼
Hi Amy, I did do a 1 year review as well: ruclips.net/video/dG3sylvF5LU/видео.htmlsi=27wXImmlKwHxpISl and I plan on a making new updated video about my thoughts of staying here or moving away coming out soon. Thanks for watching!
I have friends who live in the Villages but right now in my late 60's it's not for me..First drawback for me is it's not near the ocean/beaches. I'm a surf/water rat and like you Chief with mountains I'm that way with the beach. Second, is as far as I can tell the lack of ethnic/age diversity..Being up north and moving to FL was hard enough in that respect.. I mean up north you meet people from all over the world. Any kind of food imaginable...Greek, Indian, Turkish, Israeli, Thai,Korean Any country you can think of chances are you can find the food up north associated with that country/culture.I love traveling and love meeting people from different backgrounds and The Villages just struck me as very vanilla..( I don't mean that in a racial way, but just a lack of a varied demographic) But granted The Villages are beautiful.
The area may not have the gulf or Atlantic, but they have some of the prettiest waters. Salt springs, juniper springs, silver river. Better water than the gulf of Mexico.
Look at the bond as a sort of charge of development that is levied against the house and property itself, not the buyer. That's why it's a one time fee that isn't passed on to subsequent buyers of the property. We bought property in a subdivision in Hawaii and there is a similar levy that goes to the person who first chooses to hook up the property to the public power, it's called SSPP. The lines are already there, but it is the property developer's "share" of the cost to bring those lines in, even though in our case the lines have been there for 20 years! When power was first brought to the subdivision, ever parcel was assigned this SSPP debt but it doesn't come due until power is hooked up- by whomever does so. Then it is never levied again.
Hi there, here the balance of the bond is passed along to the buyer, and is paid annually similar to a property tax. It's used to build the infrastructure of the new neighborhood. Thanks for watching and sharing!
I certainly agree with you about missing the mountains. We moved from Kentucky in 1968 to Georgia and I've always missed the mountains. Florida is not for me. We drive thru to get to the cruise terminals, lol. It's too flat and not my type of landscaping. I'm always glad to get back home. Life is where you're happy! ❤
I used to live in Park City, UT…. I am a mountain person too. But as a military brat - I have grown to love areas all over the world, including Europe & Japan. I live In Scottsdale Arizona, but my soul sings in the mountains.
I hope to all that is good that this place still exists in twenty years. I'm 35 so I know I have to wait a little while before I can find a home there. I'm a vet rated at 100% so I can't work any longer, but I'm going to start saving every penny so I can live here. Looks like heaven wow. Great video chief, thank you.
This place aint going anywhere, and btw, your young enough to move here now, it's an active adult community, 19 or older, not sure how it works but I would look into it if you want to move here sooner. Thanks for watching!
@@TheVillagesChief Thanks for the info! Due to the amount of disability income and debt I know it’s not possible to afford living there right now, but in the future maybe! I am lower class considering what I get for my benefits from the VA, no where near being able to afford a home or what it takes to maintain one. I’m working everyday to get better and reintegrate with society but it seems I’m stuck at this level. Hopefully in the future I’ll get a lucky break or heal enough to find a career so I can afford to come stay. Keep making great content thank you!
Good job Chief. You gave the facts as you see them in a concise format. Good objective approach with your important observations included. I agree with you about the power lines. They are unsightly and I do question the health effects to those who live close to the tall towers. Also, you are spot on about the degradation of beauty once one leaves the bubble of The Villages. I don’t believe the local municipalities have the wherewithal to deal with the poverty. Perhaps there are too many invested in the way things currently are. I am beginning to think the only solution may be for the Morse family to keep buying up the surrounding area and build more Villages. My only concern is that the local holdouts (for more money) would keep that from happening. Thanks again for a job well done.
I still have a few years to be able to live there. I was kinda worried about being too far from a VA hospital as I go to Lake Nona. Great info, thanks brother
If you're the type of person he wants to live in a highly structured planned community this sounds like the appropriate place if that's the vibe in which you feel most comfortable.
Yeah honestly thats me, I think it's the military in my soul, it stays with you sometimes, and I'm one of those guys for sure that loves structure, with a little bit of controlled chaos every now and then. Thanks for watching!
Go to Clermont, Tavares, Montverde for hills. It’s the closest thing to the south you can get in this area of Florida. Check out Sugarloaf mountain. Highest elevation this end of Florida.
It’s a great place to have a dog there is plenty of dog parks. It’s very dog friendly and lots of people have dogs here. Unfortunately my dog recently passed away but he did love it here. Some houses have fences and some don’t, you cannot put up a fence that I know of. The only fences in the villages are built by the villages and depending on the style of house you get it either comes with a fence or not.
Had a home there (Glenbrook neighborhood) from 2001 to 2020. Maybe I wasn't paying attention but I found out about the bond at the closing for the home. It was a relatively minor expense back then ($6000), but what pissed me off was it had it's own separate mortgage rate, which was a couple points higher than the rate I got for my home. Anyway, I paid what I wa supposed to for a couple years, then paid it off. Homes back then were from $60K for a patio villa up to $600K for a variety of Premier homes. I think the lack of free weights might have something to do with liability insurance, but I could be wrong. Have you checked out the gym at Laurel Manor? Pretty sure they have/had dumbbells. Back in the day it was the best alternative to where you are going.
Hi David, yeah I found out about the gyms at seven if the regional rec centers and made a video about it ruclips.net/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/видео.html , I really like the one at laurel manor it’s the one I use now. Thanks for watching!
Chief, another good video. Sounds like you need TWO places, one in The Villages and one in the Blue Ridge Mountains. That was my original plan but like you I had one, then the other. PS Don’t move south of 44 brother - you won’t be in The Villages down there ;-)
Chief you named 3 places my husband and I love. Sedona. Moab and the Blue Ridge Mountains. You did a 360. Enjoy where you are now and keep your options open.
Hi Chief. First off, great video! One topic I thought you were going to discuss as a con is the population density at the villages between the snowbird winter months and the summer months. I heard the winter months at the Villages was just crazy crowded. So much so that golfing or any kind of dining had to be planned way in advance. If you get a moment, I would love to hear your thoughts on the topic. Thx.
Hi Remo, I've been here since September so I may not be the best to say but from what I noticed the traffic is only slightly busier. I live on the north end and probably don't get out enough to judge, as far as the southern area with more younger folks I wonder if they have more snowbirds because the younger folks are still working or more active in their home state still so more likely to be snowbirds? Just a theory, maybe they notice a more significant change. The squares seem much fuller, I noticed lately at Spanish Springs, most or all the provided plastic seating were taken and lots of people bringing their own lawn chairs. Brownwood looked really busy the last few times I was down there. As far as dinning I havent eaten out much but it seemed the restaurants around the squares looked full, or a few minutes wait, even with lines at moments, the outdoor bar seating almost always seems full after 6ish right now. Golfing I dont know about since I havent golfed a day in my life but I do plan on taking lessons and look forward to it!
I know a lot of people that live there year around and when the snowbirds come either they don’t eat in the restaurants anymore or are there much earlier than usual or how much later than usual to avoid the long wait at the restaurantS.
I'm sure the lack of weights is liability related and they also likely don't like the slamming of weights. I'm surprised that Planet Fitness doesn't have locations in the areas surrounding the Villages - seems like they would do pretty well with budget conscious seniors.
The Bond. I agree in that I didn’t understand it initially. It was a cost I hadn’t planned on and it is seemingly hidden because you pay it as part of your mortgage if you have one. I have learned that the bond encourages development in Florida by reducing risk for developers for the initial development costs (sewers, water, irrigation, gas, roads, etc). Bonds are issued to pay for this and residents pay it back. Less risk for developers encorages development. One of the reasons Florida is grwing so much.
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I agree with everything you said. I think the reason why they don't have gyms in the rec centers is Insurance, it would be too expensive. Great video 💖✌️
@@dr.jamiedipalma I recently found out that they have gyms in some of the regional rec centers they’re called fit clubs. It is a paid membership and very affordable I joined, and it’s been pretty good and nice and clean and lots of facilities. I was wrong about the Gym thing I did come out with a new video talking about it:
ruclips.net/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/видео.html
@@TheVillagesChief What rec centers have these gyms, as I stated earlier I saw a gym outside my regional rec center near Monarch grove.
I get the feeling they would not appreciate my loud punk rock band rehearsing in my garage 🎼🎸
I'll be the only senior citizen ever to move to Fargo when I retire. I've lived in the south (including Texas and Florida) for my entire life, and each year get more sick of heat, humidity, gators, insects and hurricanes. After spending some time in Svalbard, I realized how much I love the cold, snow, and short summers.
I like a change of environment too, nothing wrong with that at all Julia!
Well, the only time that Texas seems to warm up, it has rounds of thunderstorms with it, plus the Winters actually suck in Texas. The hurricane season in Florida can get rather precarious, but the Central part of the state seems relatively safe compared to the coastal areas.
I miss the change of seasons including snow and ice, much more than I thought I would. Also, while initially pretty, these planned Florida communities have become rather bland and boring to me over time. However, the visual perfection does certainly help home values. Weighing the pros and cons makes sense.
NO you wont Julia! Im with you lol. I hate the heat and humidity. My dream is to move to the north as I love the winter months
I don't know why you're moving to North Dakota for more cold, because Texas has relatively more cold days than the hotter ones that it's known for. Right now in the first part of April, we just dropped down into the 50s during the day and 40s at night. Just when you think that it's Spring, the cold weather keeps coming back, and it lasts and lasts. Frankly, I'm tired of it and ready to move to a more stable climate over this bipolar Texas.
Hey Brother! Retired YNC here. Great review. Good balance of good and not so good. I'm retired from both the Navy and my job as an administrative assistant with my county human services department. As nice as The Villages looks, not for me. I'm the opposite of you. I prefer cold weather, don't like hot weather at all. Wisconsin is where I'm happy. Living in a condo, kind of the best of both worlds. I own my home, but don't have to deal with mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or raking leaves. All that is taken care of by the monthly maintenance fee I pay. Your review was comprehensive and fair. I'm sure more people will be checking out your video.
Thanks so much Sister! I love Wisconsin too, I lived in Kenosha when I was stationed at NAS Glenview. Great people up there!
I was a "Navy brat". We always lived around an ocean: Guam, Key West, Hawaii, Okinawa, Long Beach, Ca until my dad was last stationed in Monterey, Ca. So, learned to swim in the ocean and have always loved the ocean. My husband and I were married young and moved to Carson City. What a change for me! We lived there for many years and told my husband I couldn't stand the extremes in weather in northern NV. Freezing in the winter with snow which I first experienced when we moved to Carson City and roasting in the summer. Short spring with a little longer fall and I enjoy that type of weather. Some people like the changing weather and that is great. We sold everything 5 years ago and full timed RVd for about 3 years. We weren't planning on buying again so soon, just wanted to keep traveling around the country. But, fate happened and we fell into a great deal on a little house across the street from the Pacific Ocean on the Oregon coast. Ocean views, pine trees, hiking trails, seals, sea lions, no bugs, beautiful rides on the coastal road...... Some rain but not what I thought of Oregon. Not bad at all. A sweatshirt in the car just in case it gets chilly but never too hot or cold and no snow. I guess you just feel at home sometimes around a place like where you grew up. I just hope others find a place they love and are able to enjoy life. Kathleen
Thanks Kathleen, it sounds amazing!
I have found the place I love. It took me 25 years to get here. It on the Olympic Peninsula in WA state.
The Oregon coast is a beautiful place to live. So happy that you found your forever home.
I grew up on Key Biscayne, Florida. My wife and I moved to Sonoma County, California in the mid-90's. Like you, we also found our paradise and forever home.
We are very lucky people.
Who gives a shit? 😀
Such a Great Comment - We live on the beach on the SOBX & love it - We have some friends who live in the Villages & sounds nice, but way too far from the beach for me & way too many people- lol - plus we Love the NC Coast - It’s home to us & always will be 😎😎😎
I used to be a beach person - now I am a mountain person. Nothing can compete with Sedona - to have your morning coffee there with a view - Zen! Thanks for the very informative video!
Couldn't agree more!
The hummingbirds in Sedona is something I’ll never forget about that area.
Sedona is nice but average arizonan can't afford to live there
Great video! In a couple more years when I meet the age requirement, I may have to take a serious look at this place, thought I also love the mountains!
Good to see your video . I live in Hayesville now . Moved up from Jasper Ga . I love the Mtns myself. However, Every thing you mentioned positive about the villages , I find interesting. Very informative. Thanks ! Brother
Thanks Steve!
Thx for the video. If it wasn’t in Florida, I would be all in, but Florida weather and culture is no bueno for me. Best to you! So important to be living a quality life in a place you love!
Thanks!
Great video Chief. Yeah the bond is tough to swallow. They say when you move to The Villages you are buying a lifestyle and I agree with that. The Villages is unmatched. Having said that, when it comes to purchasing homes, the developers charge a painful premium for what amounts to lackluster houses. Just my opinion. Stay well.
Well said
@@SockMonkey-w4hfunny, havent heard one person mention the swinger lifestyle except you and my sister in law. Are you a swinger?
We're strongly considering the Villages. Eastport is our target village when it opens up. Thanks for your perspective - your point about The Bond was well made. Do another vid in 6 more months!
Thanks and will do!
I know exactly why you like the Blue Ridge Mtns. - they are breathtaking! I live in North Georgia and am always taking a scenic drive up the winding roads that curve back and forth through the mountains. Florida is beautiful too and it's great that you like the heat because the summers get pretty sticky, but if you live anywhere in the south you definitely have to adapt to the humidity and heat. Loved your video and nice to hear your take on the community.😊
Thanks so much!
Thank you for your honest information. I lived in Fort Lauderdale back in the 80s and had a blast. Now I'm up in outside of Portland Oregon and I love it here I love the cold weather I love the mountains the river is the trees the beauty. I'm thinking about moving to the Villages but I'm not sure I could give up all the beauty and freedom I have up here
Sounds beautiful! Thanks for sharing 🙂
My mom lived there from 2004-2020 at the Villages (In Summerhill Village) and she loved it as I (and my family) would visit her a lot! I thought it was a very cool place as there are younger (starting at 55) people there too. I would love riding and driving the golf carts as the golf cart paths were always there all over to ride on. Good luck to you at the Villages!
Thanks for sharing!
That was a very detailed review!! Thank you for sharing this!😊
Thanks so much Kristen!
We moved to TV 14 years ago. Lived in the bubble 6 years then moved outside the bubble for another 5. Then moved to SW Florida near the gulf. Beautiful community very high HOA fees so we moved back 2 weeks ago. I feel TV is beautiful, well organized and ran so we are happy to be back in the new section south of Brownwood.
That’s awesome you didn’t settle, I like moving around and experiencing new places until you finally find the place you love, we’ll done Melody! Thanks for watching!
Enjoyed your commentary of TV. I compared it to our active adult community in Goodyear, AZ. It"s a gated community named Pebble Creek. We had a house built there in 2013 and are snowbirds from upstate NY. We love the area. Luke AFB is 10 minutes away by car and there are several clubs to take advantage of. Lots of pickle ball courts also. We also have the mountains but no hurricanes, tornados, mesquitos, or mildew. Since you mentioned that you weren't sure you would stay permanently in TV, thought I would mention this to you. Be well and enjoy the nice weather!
Thanks Tee Jay, I love exploring places to live so appreciate the suggestion I’ll check it out :)
Being close to Luke AFB would be a huge draw for me!
Chief! As a Navy Veteran myself not retired but a disabled Vet so retired nonetheless. I appreciate your perspective from a single guy relative to my age. I’m closing on a house in late April up in orange blossom and won’t have bond.
The bond thing isn’t just at the Villages, it’s just one of the things in Florida. It pays for the original infrastructure from developers; roads, sewer/water lines and electrical grid ect ect they had them down in the Orlando area too. 🤷♂️
They gym thing is unfortunate and was I shocked to know that situation.
I’m moving for the golf, weather and the people. I have service dog and look forward to hanging with him and doing a lot of people watching.
Keep sharing the good and the bad!
Awesome Mark! Interesting I didn’t know that about the bond I thought it was a Village thing, thanks for sharing shipmate!
I've seen the bonds in AZ, as well, and they weren't in the retirement communities.
These bonds are called Mello Roos in California
Dude, you’ve got some muscle. Enjoy your relaxing vibe. I gotta watch the rest later. My Dad and Stepmom love it. I’ve only heard to 2:45
Thanks Doug!
Well done, Chief! Retired (disabled) Army Infantry Officer looking to make the move. Appreciate the straightforward info.
Thanks so much! Good luck on the move!
Ok, this is the best vid of the Villages I’ve seen. Really nice. I think we’ll look into one of those trips that you check things out.
Thanks David!
God bless you. Enjoy your life in Florida. For now, my wife and I travel back and forth from New York, Boston and Florida. One son lives in Miami and the other in Boston. We love all these places because our loves are there.
That’s awesome! Thanks for sharing!
Just listened to your 6 month evaluation--very interesting. You mentioned no mountains here, however, you may be interested in Montverde or Clermont--both very hilly. There's a state park on Montverde, as well. Hope this adds to your enjoyment!
Thanks for sharing!
Great video chef. I will have to agree with you on somethings; however, I tried the Villages once for a year and could not wait to leave. I thought I was living in unreal place where people drank to much talked about what they did or didn’t have in their house. Maybe I just was around the wrong people. My husband loved it and still speaks of it. I am not complaining believe me I am expressing an option that as beautiful and all it has to offer …….The Villages I’d definitely not a place for everyone. I am very happy for you in the fact that you really enjoy being there and I also enjoyed watching your video.
Thanks so much for sharing!
Great info! Heading to the Villages for the first time on 11/3 to check things out. Appreciate your prospective, thanks.
Thanks Michael!
Lived in Maine my whole life, have visited Florida several times and love the weather, even went down in August to see how hot it gets , didn’t kill me. But the prices are getting so high, don’t know if I will ever be able to afford it. Just wish they had a more affordable neighborhood.
I agree Dan, last few years it’s sky rocketed, thanks for sharing
My Mom lived in Top of the World in Ocala. She bought a unit in the older section where they have 4 units in each. I believe it was called Friendship Village. She bought an end unit. So she had a little patio area in the back. She was able to go everywhere on her golf cart. And it was reasonably priced. They also have single family homes and a couple golf courses.
Maine is beautiful . I wish I could move their
Thanks for sharing! I’m 58 looking to move there someday but I don’t like all the powerlines and the noise mentioned. Still doing my research.
It’s very quiet where I live, I think as long as not near a Pickleball court or real close to a square, it’s quiet, thanks for watching!
I just found out about the villages about a week ago. Now me and the wife are laying out a 20yr plan to get there around 58! Assuming it’s still in the shape or better by then, fingers crossed.
Smart!
Moving to the Villages is definitely in my retirement future. I’ve got 10 years to plan. Thanks for your insight.
That’s awesome SBH :)
Hey thats about my timeline as well . Im Joey in CA would love to network... :)
Great video, I am a retired United States Marine and am also 100 percent service connected disabled. thank you for sharing about the V.A. Clinic. I am seriously thinking of moving down there.
Awesome Franko, come on down!
My husband (we just got married!) is a 72-year-old Army veteran and I am so pleased with the strong military presence here. My husband was an Army Ranger and we've already discovered another Ranger in The Villages. And there's this: We've been to the Town Square twice and both times, I've watched him stand up and start dancing when the old rock-and-roll music starts. This place is so good for both of us. I love it here.
Great content. Thank you. We are just beginning to explore the possibility of retiring in The Villages,. Almost looks too good to be true!
Thanks for watching, good luck on your quest!
I have absolutely no intention of ever moving or living at the Villages. Been retired for almost 4 years and live in a beautiful town in NC. However, I so enjoyed listening to you that I watched your entire video :):)
Well thanks Bee Vee! NC is great, I’ve really enjoyed all my travels in NC especially the beautiful mountains. Thanks for watching!
Go visit the mountains. Just like most people go visit Florida. You are handsome, well spoken, and seem healthy and have a healthy positive outlook and spirit. I’m sure it is easy for people to connect to you and for you to meet new people. Personally I never meet a stranger. Out of all the information you have given in the video, what caught my attention was the VA clinic. What a bonus. I wish for our veterans more things and places of convenience like this. Peace and happy holidays!
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much Sir for this video, I am considering moving to the Villages and this has helped me a lot. But more Importantly THANK YOU for your Service to America. !!!!!
Thanks!
Great. Thank you! Cannot wait to see your 1 year video. I want to move there too.
I’ll be making that video soon. I’ve been so busy with stuff but I do plan on putting out my one year video here in the next couple of weeks. Thanks so much for watching!
My neighbour suggested we should all (older residents) live in one part of our apartment community. Not a chance! I love hearing children and life going on. My elder neighbour's talk endlessly about their aches and pains...it's tedious.
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your service and continue to enjoy yourself and the sun !!!😀
Thanks so much!
This was super helpful in decision making. Thanks for sharing your experiences!
Thanks so much Cori glad I could help :)
Concerning the bond, I agree with you. Just add it to the price of the new house! I'm trying to decide where I end up when I retire. Florida and Arizona are at the top of my list. I forgot about how much I liked Moab when I was there. I may have to add it to my list, especially since I'm an avid cyclist. Awesome trails there.
Yeah I would buy in Moab if I could find a nice affordable 55+ neighborhood, it’s one of my favorite places on earth 😎
Glad I found your channel! Considering snowbirding from Canada in a while.
Nice! Thanks for watching!
Very good insight, I live in Ca and plan on visiting to explore the possibility of moving there. Ca. If just too costly to retire.
Thanks Geri :)
had a elderly friend once tell me why he left a retirement community. he got tired of all the crabby, old folks and going to a funeral every couple of weeks. he moved to a so called normal community where there are kids playing and mostly younger families with (life all around). just not so diperssing.
I don’t find this place depressing at all, I see people doing way more here than in my previous neighborhoods. Thanks for sharing tho always interesting to hear other perspectives .
Great information 👍 I am looking into moving there soon as I am about to be an empty nester!
@@sherylcampbell7822 sweet!!
That was an exciting and honest perspective on things in The Villages. I love your positivity, I feel the same way. I am from West Virginia so I truly understand what you mean about missing the mountains. We once lived in Indiana where there are few mountains and I actually had a lonely feeling when I looked out and didn't see mountains. ( I also got lost a few times because the mountains help me get my bearings.) Then we moved to Western Kentucky and lived on the Ohio River. For some reason, living on the water somehow sufficed for the mountains and I loved it. So you might consider living by one of the lakes of ponds, which are numerous in the Villiages.
Yeah, I agree you need mountains or water nearby I do visit Lake Sumter Landing a lot here which I enjoy but I really do miss the mountains however, I love the sunshine! So I guess that’s a reasonable trade off!
Very informative..you mentioned the mountains, we live at 5000 ft, and a view to die for. Do I want to give that up? It’s cold and windy in the winter, but gorgeous the rest of the year. Thank you.
Yeah it’s a tough call, I miss the mountains, but love the weather here still not sure if I’m going to retire here or near mountains but either way life is good! Thanks for watching!
I'm dipping my toe into The Villages pool by renting at The Lofts for the first year. That'll give me an idea of what locations I gravitate to. Thank you for the great tips of what you enjoy most and what you're missing. PS I'm also a very warm weather gal. Love our summers in Florida!
Good luck on your visit. Hope it goes well!
LOVEEEE it here..one thing for ppl considering the move(especially is new build)..extra $ needed for: pest control(around $100 Mo. all in), changing out the pine needles to new landscaping ($3-20k), golf cart ($11k-23k avg/ or marketplace less expensive), driveway paint, garage epoxy floor, attic termite spray 1x, redoing closet/ garage for more storage, gym membership(indoor),extending back patio concrete, gutters, palm trees($400+) lamp post name sign. Just make a list, take your time and do as you can. Again, love it BUT THE people are amazing.
good tips, thanks for sharing!
Hiya Neighbor! Thanks for the honest 6-month review! Me and hubby are coming up on our 2 year anniversary of being official villagers. Yes, the powerlines I think they call 'Power Angels' Lol. Sounds like you're really missing the mountains! There were mountains every where where I was born (Philippines) but being a Floridian for 28 years now, I don't miss it as much. Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much! I was in the Philippines several times when I was in the military, loved it!
I’m planning a visit in a few days to check out the neighborhood and amenities. Thank you for all of the insight and good information, so helpful.
Thanks for watching Jamie!
I was going to move to Virginia/ BR mountains a few years back and it wasn’t until I left Florida for a few months and suffered for weeks in the dark cold and sleet that I realized how good I had it living in here. Florida has a unique beauty you won’t be able to appreciate if you are longing for something else. We don’t have mountains, but we beautiful pine forests, amazing sunsets, and endless trails for biking, walking, horse riding..etc.. YEAR ROUND! Have you been to the Santos trails? Silver Springs State park? If you are into the outdoors like I am you will appreciate all that Florida has to offer. Florida has some of the cleanest and well maintained parks I have ever seen. This really is a great area to live in if you love the outdoors.
Thanks for sharing, I haven’t explored that much at all around here other than crystal river kayaking, and a few beaches on the gulf that was pretty awesome but I’m looking forward to really getting out there and hiking and biking the trails and learning more about Florida. I haven’t heard of santos or silver springs but I’ll look into it for sure, thanks for the suggestions!
@@TheVillagesChief My pleasure. Good luck!
BS..born in FL and nobody with any sense goes outdoors in the high summer...Aligators and Pythons are real here.
@@puppylove2493 I lived in a swamp in Florida for 1 year. There were gators ,snakes,and everything else. I never had any problems whatsoever. That year, Aug 2012-Aug 2013 was probably one of the best years of my life ever! I don't remember even being bitten by a mosquito one time. I had no electricity,but I did have a battery operated fan to sleep with on the hottest nights-I still have it.
Hi! What is your home insurance premium like? I heard that Florida is requiring flood insurance for all and that many insurance companies are pulling out or have gone bankrupt . Although this was a realtor promoting South Carolina. 😊
I moved to a 55+ outside of Austin,Texas about the same time you did. Outrageous property taxes here.
I find I am dreaming more of the forest since moving to a flat area with no mountains.
I'll be doing a budget video, but I dont think the flood insurance problem affects us, we are central Florida, most of what you are hearing is along the coastal regions. But Ill look into it and do a video for sure, I was waiting a full year to be here so I have good numbers for the entire year.
I'm not made for the planned community (we are currently shopping for a little farm in Florida) - but we'll be close enough that I'm looking forward to coming into the bubble to visit! As a former realtor, the top golf course community that I sold had HOA fees triple the Villages, and just one golf course. The amenities in the Villages are incredible. I think you did a great job talking about who would fit in the Villages, and I found your video very informative! We're moving in July, and the Villages "explore" is definitely on my list!
That sounds like a smart plan, live nearby because the entertainment is free to everyone, I think it’s a good move! Thanks so much for watching!
Yes! And who knows, when I'm feeling like feeding chickens is too much work...I might just retire to the Villages, where you can just enjoy the Florida sunshine!
I’m so curious about that area both hood and bad. I’ve got to take a trip down there and check it out. Thanks for the info.
Come on down Jackie :)
@@TheVillagesChief Yes!! I need to work on that👏🏼
It's all about perspective! Been there done that. I am a 21 year veteran of color, and of means. I moved from the Villages because of the lack of racial diversity and political polarization. Not to mention hearing a resident shout White Power! I moved and purchased beachfront homes in Costa Rica and Panama. Where I can also enjoy great weather, lower taxes and expenses.
Sorry to hear that happened to you, thanks for watching and sharing your story
Thanks for speaking on that. I’ve heard much the same from other people of color.
My financial adviser is considering a retirement in Costa Rica. It must be very nice down there. Very nice.
I still remember the many videos with the golf cart parades, hailing Trump. Think I’ll pass.
I don’t want to play pickle ball with a bunch of cultish MAGAS.
Thanks for your input. We’re in LA. Retiring in a year. We’re looking in Palm Springs area, a city called La Quinta. They have beautiful mountains and the san Gorgonio mountains and beaches are only about an hour away. Might be worth a look if you like to ride your bike in lots of cool areas. They also have lots of gyms, and California has beautiful weather.
You have the best of both worlds having the mountains and the beaches nearby. And of course the weather - no hurricanes!
I love California, lived in San Diego for many years, thanks for sharing!
@@TheVillagesChief I’m from San Diego and now living in Atlantic Beach Florida. It’s a beautiful coastal community and I met the best people here. I do miss San Diego at times. Both great Navy towns!
@@robertmoore2049 I'll have to check out Atlantic Beach, thanks!
@@TheVillagesChief I’ll think you’ll like it, Chief!
I’m not old enough for the village but it does look amazing. I live is south Ocala and one of the things that hit home for me is the cleanliness. You are very right about outside the bubble it becomes almost well a dump. People just dump trash even though the city will take it for free. Run down double wides. This area is a bit of a contrast. The over 55 community with $$ and the people that have grown up in the area with a top out pay of $18 an hour. When I first moved to the area I thought it had a Roseanne show feel to it. The city planning out side the Villegas leaves a lot to be desired. Anyone come from other states that did a great job with development so it had a beauty like the villages?
Thanks for sharing Sean, good points.
I love to visit Ocala one day-thats where my thoroughbred came from. He was born and raised on a farm that used to be called Mockingbird farm. A very famous place in the racehorse community!
Thanks for your video. I, too, would prefer that the price of a house offered for sale include the price of the bond. I know i would miss the mountains during the months of living in florida, but i am also sure i would appreciate the beautiful florida skies, lovely winter weather, and not miss shoveling snow in the slightest. 😄
Thanks for sharing 🙂
Great video as always .. I grew up in Ormond beach Fl and we used to head to inland to The area where the villages is to hunt .. People don’t realize that outside the bubble is the rural south . Lots of people that have visited Florida only see the tourist side of the state and never get to see the real Florida. I feel a lot of people forget they are in the rural south
Very cool!
Did geriatric home care in that area 30 years ago. I saw and heard things I didn't know existed. RAN back to Brooklyn!! I had a patient warn me not to drive alone on rural roads because she was worried I would be driven off the road and raped. Totally sincere little old lady. I took her at her word. Brooklyn was safer than that.
@@Cathy-xi8cb wow sorry to hear that!
@@Cathy-xi8cb Brooklyn, safer than Florida’s? As our feeble Pres would say, “Come on Man”. Not much Rural left in Florida these days.
@@weekendatbernies2265 yeah, that’s pretty sad that rural Florida is getting cleared away for so much development. To me rural Florida is the real Florida.
Hey Master Chief, thanks for the video. My wife and I found it very informative.
Hi Eric, I’m a retired Chief, not Master Chief, that polo I’m wearing has all three anchors so I know it looks that way sometimes, anyway thanks so much for watching!!
@@TheVillagesChief 10 yrs ISI - E6 reserves (3x7), loved every minute on CVN 69. Keep up the good work, Chief!
@@BETA-proof-of-concept Thanks shipmate!
Your comments on traveling outside the bubble is exactly my experience, as I lived 39 years in Germany, and moving to the rural south has been hard. Like you, I have enjoyed the beauty created by people who took pride in their property. Hard adjustment for me.
Yep, poor is not an excuse to be a dirty slob. That is why I stay in the North East.
Thanks for sharing Maddy
Great insight and appreciate the honesty of your view of The Villages. Good info
Thanks for watching!
Well done video, lots of good content and explanations, thank you, it looks like a great place to those who want that lifestyle, but personally , not for me, I just prefer the four seasons, being up north, love the old Rust Belt cities on the Great Lakes that are rejuvenating nicely, tons of culture ,architecture , enjoy diversity, history along with all the things big cities offer good and bad. More than happy just to stay up here north. But good luck to everyone, I hope you all enjoy a wonderful life!
Thanks!!
It sounds like you still have alot of adventure leftto do. Maybe consider a nice RV that you can attach yout bike to and head towards those places you mentioned out west. Your insight was very valuable.
I was thinking of that or maybe getting a nice trailer and pull my bike to these different places, so I have my jeep and my motorcycle for off-roadIng and carving through the mountains again!
Unfortunately I live in Florida for the beach a 1 1/2 hour to 2 hour beach trip , means you never get to the beach. After visiting the Villages , it was houses 10' apart. you can see and hear your neighbors on each side, so don't plan on being outdoors. Plus, every one is old... 150,000 people way over 55.
We moved to an Atlantic side island community. beautiful beaches, 2 minutes away, houses 60' apart min. beautiful planned environment surrounded by natural state parks.
Thanks for sharing Frank, sounds pretty nice!
Where is this community?
Thank you for sharing your opinion and views… moving there soon and it helps to know another persons take on The Villages.
Thanks!
My Parents have lived there for over 20 years. I've been going there long before I was old enough to be a Villager and now that I'm old enough. I've never been bored. People are very friendly. Good luck keeping up with these retirees, they can party.
Absolutely! Thanks for sharing Scott!
yep highest STD in the state!
@@bobbear4437 I have two opposing view points: if you play with fire you’re gonna get burned, or, is this the most fun place in the state?? 😂😂😂😂 sorry I gotta have some fun with the comments.
Hey Chief! Moving to The Villages from Southeast Florida. Looking forward to the change and getting away from the hurricane threats that have become too frequent.
That’s awesome, come on up!
Can’t wait! Closing early May down in Newell. Moving end of month. I’m glad to see the fitness equipment, gotta get back to it. Used to be a gym rat!!! Lol
@@Phillyboy077 looks awesome at Newell coming along nicely I drive down there a few weeks ago, hot area you done good!
Great channel! I appreciate your honesty about everything including how much you paid for your house! Not being nosy...it's just interesting.😊 Also..when Covid hit, we invested in a garage gym setup...barbells, kettlebells, plates, you name it. It takes a little while and isn't cheap, but is so worth it! Just something to think about!
Thanks so much Sara!
Thanks! I love the mountains as well. Thinking about coming for a lifestyle stay/tour. Not sure about the bond. They want to sell me a new house and now I see why!
I still wonder if buying my older house was worth it, I’ve spent about the cost of the bond on fixing this place up so maybe the bond is worth it for a new house? I don’t know, the jury is still out 😂. What really matters is you buy the house that makes you the happiest :) good luck on your visit Cass22 and thanks for watching!!
@@TheVillagesChief Always hard to know exactly what is the best decision! Will see when I get down there. I lived in Tallahassee for 13 years and have spent six years in Fernandina Beach, FL, but, I grew up in Virginia and do miss the green and hills. The Villages does have an appeal though! Siesta Keys is beautiful btw, but so pricey to live there. Thanks so much for the videos. I will keep watching!
Great video…one thing to be aware of is the Insurance companies living Florida due to hurricanes. Watch your homeowners insurance carefully.
You bet, thanks for watching Darryl!
I can understand you missing the Blue Ridge Mountains, I went to college in Lynchburg and always think I might like to move back.
Yeah, it’s beautiful up there for sure
Great video! Yeah, we bought a house with a bond. It's exactly what you said. It's a tax. It covers the construction costs associated with setting up the infrastructure in villages, such as sewer, electric, streets, etc. There is a bond with all new homes in The Villages, and everyone has the choice whether to pay it off or pay it at property tax time. Many of the pre-owned homes don't have them because the previous owners chose to pay them off. Some pre-owned homes still have a remaining bond because the previous owners chose to pay it over time. We decided to pay ours over time, because if we had paid it off and then later decided to move, that benefit goes to the new owners. Big waste of money, unless you can add it to the sale cost of the house. The amount of bond you are assessed depends on the property value you purchased. They assess a percentage of that value to each property owner in an area or village. The entire construction (and maintenance? not sure about that) cost is divided up amongst all of the property owners in your village.
Good and bad of the bond? It will be hard to come up with a "good", but I will try:
Good: In many places I have lived, property tax on items such as construction and maintenance of utilities are paid as a tax or monthly utility bill in perpetuity. So, the fact you can pay it off and it goes away is a net positive. IF, you ever get to that point.
Bad: You have a huge yearly bill that gets lumped into the rest of your property taxes. From our experience, the bond is the largest part of our property taxes, and it hurts to see all that money flying out of our account at that time.
Hope this helps.
Thanks so much for breaking that down Grib, well said!
Something the Morse’s should be taking care of! Floridas greediest hometown!
that's the thing about any place where you have a ruling body, you are always paying for this or that whatever they decide. And it always seems like someone making these decisions is lining their own pockets.
Hi wantedto
Hi wanted to let you know my thoughts on. This. I am 84 live in a historic ho.e in Wellesley Ma
I am close to Cape Cod. N.H. and Maine. I can go to Florida for a month to escape some of the winter. I still work from home as a family therapist. Would I move to a managed life in Florida. That will never appeal to me
I know many people are enjoying that life. I am very social and like to enjoy life. It is not as easy as you get older but I still want to blaze my own trail. Wishing everyone the best. Elaine
Very good info Master Chief, (Navy Veteran), we are looking to move from California to the east coast to be closer to our kids eventually and thought it might be a good location for us in Florida.
Thanks so much! By the way, I’m not a Master Chief, I’m a Chief, on my polo it has all three anchors so at a quick glance it looks like a Master Chief, but anyway come on down and check out the villages. It’s pretty cool, Go Navy!
@@TheVillagesChief lol sorry, saw the 2 stars, thought you were an E9. We will check it out, looking at some places. I was a Corpsman with Fleet Hospital and the Sub Support Services, didn't get to the rank of E7 though. Glad you're happy there, and hey if they call you up again Virginia's not that far away.
I'm one of those "out of the bubble" people who pop over to TV on occasion for a movie, to go to our jeweler, for a bite to eat, or to listen to the bands. As an outsider there appears to be a lack of diversity (ages, ethnicities, political beliefs). Great place to visit, but I would not feel comfortable living there.
Thanks for sharing Carissa :)
I couldn't find one ANTIFA affiliate there...
@@johnsainwith your smartass response, you've just proven my point.
Thanks for the video I checked out the villages found it just a little busy but nice I’m RETIRED ARMY and disabled due to my service.I chose to buy a home at Stone creek Ocala …
Very cool just up the road. Thanks for watching Michael!
@@TheVillagesChiefthanks for the reply hope all is well I hope u guys do more videos have a great day
Great video Chief! Regarding the disappointment you feel about going to the surrounding area, I too experience that in northern FL (JAX). It seems anywhere you have no-income or low-income people, then trash and disregard for the environment follows. Shame. Fair winds and following seas!
Thanks Mark!
Excellent video! Thank you for your service! We're from North GA so I totally understand about the mountains!
Thanks Adam!
Enjoyed the video! I'll add some thoughts on the bubble. I grew up in the area long before the villages as it exists came to be. Still living here, geographically not in a town (considered county), but closest to Lady Lake. I can remember when all that land was basically some form of pasture or swamp and there really wasn't anything much in areas of Sumter county. Parents would take kids to some of those lone roads to practice driving because of the lack of drivers. 30 years ago, Leesburg was the "place to be" in the general area. Had the mall, nice restaurants, etc. Over time, the surrounding areas have developed much more (Tavares, Clermont, etc). And with the growth of the Villages in Sumter County and now into Wildwood, many of the other areas have gone a bit downhill as the population moved. And with the more stringent rules for upkeep and aesthetics, many businesses started to move as well. I remember fast food locations that closed due to construction or fire, that re-opened in the Villages instead of the original location because it's more attractive now in regards to upkeep and customer numbers. Just kind of how things change over time. Would be nice if some older areas cared more about landscaping and such, so there wouldn't be such a contrast (Seen the same thing happen in parts of Orlando and Tampa) Even as a Villages neighbor, as opposed to resident, I can appreciate the shopping opportunities and restaurants. Though I admit sometimes the traffic is frustrating. I'm sure they'll finish the HWY 27 road expansions "someday".
Thanks so much, what a good insight from someone who really knows the area, thanks so much for sharing!
The prerequisite for living in the villages is , you have to be white and racist .
My dad lives there. Just visited a couple of weeks ago. My hubby and I want to move there so badly but theres not very many family subdivisions. We are in our late 40s but still have an 11 year old. My issue is I'd really like to be in my dads neighborhood in Orange Blossom which is affordable but its all 55+. I was told that they have to allow in a few families, 20%. Not sure how I go about getting in there. We are quiet and mind our own business. My dad and his neighbors are way more wild than my hubby and I!!
Well the age minimum I think is 19, not 55 but I don’t think that helps ya, have you looked into Middleton? It’s for family’s, built by the villages, great brand new high school, it would be about 40 minutes from Orange Blossom
@@TheVillagesChief Middleton is definitely on our list. Def interested in their new school.
As I sit in my office at the courthouse in downtown LA watching your video, I am salivating at moving to the Villages in five years. It's my little fantasy to escape craziness and just play and relax with new friends. Thank you for giving those of us outside the bubble an invitation to join you guys. You're living your best lives, and I want to be part of the fun!
What a great comment Donna, makes the effort of doing these videos well worth it! I lived in CA for many years and loved it out there back in the day, but it's great here at this point in my life, come out an do a lifestyle visit if you havent yet, you'll love it!
There are better spots 🎉
Donna, you don’t have to move to Florida and the humidity to enjoy this type of life. Take a look at Sun City Palm Desert. Honestly, it’s amazing, so many clubs, gyms, things to do, a wonderful Artists Village, friendly folks. 20 min into Palm Springs, and a great small international airport.
Hey Donna just wanted to encourage you to keep on keeping on with your countdown! I’m just recently retired and it wasn’t very long ago that I was at the 5 year mark. You can do it! 🎉
Siesta Key Beach - my daughter & family lives in the Tampa area. We went to Siesta Key a couple of times - so perfect. Sugar white sand & not commercial. My little grandsons had a ball & so did I! I love Scottsdale & need a dryer heat - but my daughter loves Florida so much - they plan to retire there when my SIL gets out of the Air Force soon.
I love Scottsdale what a great area, thanks for watching Davis!
The Bond in Newell for a 1500+ Sq. Ft. "Designer Home" is OVER $40,000! on top of the high purchase price
Dang that's a lot!
Nice video. I have been here 7 years now. Also live close to Spanish Springs. I love it here, even though winter continues to be more and more crowded. Just wanted to say that my understanding is that a few rec centers south of us do have fitness equipment. Not sure if that includes weights, but would be worth trying to find out.
Hi JOJOMO443, I found out about the Villages Fit Club after I made that video, and I have now joined the Fit Club, nice gyms, i made a video shortly after correcting myself : ruclips.net/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/видео.html . Thanks for watching!
I lived in a similar community in SC for a few years. Now I'm in an Orlando suburb. 100% agree with you about the Florida winters - I love it! Where I lived in SC was 50+, and I was 51-53 years old when I lived there. My "con" of living in communities like these is that they're often located where land is abundant, so you do get the bubble you described of a perfect community within a rural setting. I'd go further and say that what that means for 50-somethings is that you don't run into very many people in the 45-60 demographic. I simply got there too soon. These communities are advertised as 55+, but I'd recommend them for 60+. Liked your video! Thanks!
That’s great advice! I agree I sometimes feel I came here a little too soon, but then in a couple years I’ll fit right in it’s such a hard thing to get just right, sometimes you gotta jump in and hope for the best which is kinda what I’m doing right now. I love the Orlando suburbs, it’s gorgeous down there with tons to do.
@@TheVillagesChief You do raise a good point in your video - you are within 2 hours of many cool places. If you ever take a motorcycle ride to Winter Park, send me a note and we can meet for coffee to compare notes on 55+/new to Florida.
@@jennykimball4457 sounds great!
I'll take northern winters any time if I can avoid rest of the year in florida. Hot and humid is my personal hell.
The Villages offers so much more than Sun City (in SC).
Ok so it’s been a year since you made this video. Do you still feel the same about the villages? I love hearing that many veterans retire there! I’m up in WI but not from here. Not from anywhere after being a military dependent my entire life. My family roots are Chicago area but I’m really leaning towards moving back south. Just hit 56 so I qualify for the villages and I love seeing all that they offer! Thank you for doing this video! 🙌🏼
Hi Amy, I did do a 1 year review as well: ruclips.net/video/dG3sylvF5LU/видео.htmlsi=27wXImmlKwHxpISl and I plan on a making new updated video about my thoughts of staying here or moving away coming out soon. Thanks for watching!
I have friends who live in the Villages but right now in my late 60's it's not for me..First drawback for me is it's not near the ocean/beaches. I'm a surf/water rat and like you Chief with mountains I'm that way with the beach. Second, is as far as I can tell the lack of ethnic/age diversity..Being up north and moving to FL was hard enough in that respect.. I mean up north you meet people from all over the world. Any kind of food imaginable...Greek, Indian, Turkish, Israeli, Thai,Korean Any country you can think of chances are you can find the food up north associated with that country/culture.I love traveling and love meeting people from different backgrounds and The Villages just struck me as very vanilla..( I don't mean that in a racial way, but just a lack of a varied demographic) But granted The Villages are beautiful.
Thanks for sharing, well said :)
The area may not have the gulf or Atlantic, but they have some of the prettiest waters. Salt springs, juniper springs, silver river. Better water than the gulf of Mexico.
Look at the bond as a sort of charge of development that is levied against the house and property itself, not the buyer. That's why it's a one time fee that isn't passed on to subsequent buyers of the property. We bought property in a subdivision in Hawaii and there is a similar levy that goes to the person who first chooses to hook up the property to the public power, it's called SSPP. The lines are already there, but it is the property developer's "share" of the cost to bring those lines in, even though in our case the lines have been there for 20 years! When power was first brought to the subdivision, ever parcel was assigned this SSPP debt but it doesn't come due until power is hooked up- by whomever does so. Then it is never levied again.
Hi there, here the balance of the bond is passed along to the buyer, and is paid annually similar to a property tax. It's used to build the infrastructure of the new neighborhood. Thanks for watching and sharing!
I certainly agree with you about missing the mountains. We moved from Kentucky in 1968 to Georgia and I've always missed the mountains. Florida is not for me. We drive thru to get to the cruise terminals, lol. It's too flat and not my type of landscaping. I'm always glad to get back home. Life is where you're happy! ❤
You’re so right Devonne!
I used to live in Park City, UT…. I am a mountain person too. But as a military brat - I have grown to love areas all over the world, including Europe & Japan. I live In Scottsdale Arizona, but my soul sings in the mountains.
@@davisholman8149 park city is great area, I like all of Utah. Beautiful state!
I hope to all that is good that this place still exists in twenty years. I'm 35 so I know I have to wait a little while before I can find a home there. I'm a vet rated at 100% so I can't work any longer, but I'm going to start saving every penny so I can live here. Looks like heaven wow. Great video chief, thank you.
This place aint going anywhere, and btw, your young enough to move here now, it's an active adult community, 19 or older, not sure how it works but I would look into it if you want to move here sooner. Thanks for watching!
@@TheVillagesChief Thanks for the info! Due to the amount of disability income and debt I know it’s not possible to afford living there right now, but in the future maybe! I am lower class considering what I get for my benefits from the VA, no where near being able to afford a home or what it takes to maintain one. I’m working everyday to get better and reintegrate with society but it seems I’m stuck at this level. Hopefully in the future I’ll get a lucky break or heal enough to find a career so I can afford to come stay. Keep making great content thank you!
I’ve lived in Florida and now live in CO and get the love of mountain life.
Oh I miss the mountains
We were there in January for a short visit and loved it! We are hoping to retire in a couple of years and hope to move there. Loved the live music!
Thanks so much for watching and sharing Kimberly. Good luck in your future retirement!
Good job Chief. You gave the facts as you see them in a concise format. Good objective approach with your important observations included.
I agree with you about the power lines. They are unsightly and I do question the health effects to those who live close to the tall towers. Also, you are spot on about the degradation of beauty once one leaves the bubble of The Villages. I don’t believe the local municipalities have the wherewithal to deal with the poverty. Perhaps there are too many invested in the way things currently are. I am beginning to think the only solution may be for the Morse family to keep buying up the surrounding area and build more Villages. My only concern is that the local holdouts (for more money) would keep that from happening.
Thanks again for a job well done.
Well said Cliff thanks for sharing!
There are many charities that clubs in the villages organized, help some of the towns, people outside the villages
I still have a few years to be able to live there. I was kinda worried about being too far from a VA hospital as I go to Lake Nona. Great info, thanks brother
Your very welcome Danny thanks for watching!
If you're the type of person he wants to live in a highly structured planned community this sounds like the appropriate place if that's the vibe in which you feel most comfortable.
Yeah honestly thats me, I think it's the military in my soul, it stays with you sometimes, and I'm one of those guys for sure that loves structure, with a little bit of controlled chaos every now and then. Thanks for watching!
Yeah that's how I know the Villages are not for me. I plan on retiring in the Ocala area nice and rural with no gestapo telling me how to live.
Agree
@@zkatt1959my goodness the villages doesn’t tell you how to live.
Go to Clermont, Tavares, Montverde for hills. It’s the closest thing to the south you can get in this area of Florida. Check out Sugarloaf mountain. Highest elevation this end of Florida.
Thanks for the suggestions Patrick!
What’s it like to have a dog? Can you have a fenced yard?
It’s a great place to have a dog there is plenty of dog parks. It’s very dog friendly and lots of people have dogs here. Unfortunately my dog recently passed away but he did love it here. Some houses have fences and some don’t, you cannot put up a fence that I know of. The only fences in the villages are built by the villages and depending on the style of house you get it either comes with a fence or not.
Thank you for your service. I was in the Navy 8 years. I live in st. Pete
Thank you as well Bobby!
Had a home there (Glenbrook neighborhood) from 2001 to 2020. Maybe I wasn't paying attention but I found out about the bond at the closing for the home. It was a relatively minor expense back then ($6000), but what pissed me off was it had it's own separate mortgage rate, which was a couple points higher than the rate I got for my home. Anyway, I paid what I wa supposed to for a couple years, then paid it off. Homes back then were from $60K for a patio villa up to $600K for a variety of Premier homes. I think the lack of free weights might have something to do with liability insurance, but I could be wrong. Have you checked out the gym at Laurel Manor? Pretty sure they have/had dumbbells. Back in the day it was the best alternative to where you are going.
Hi David, yeah I found out about the gyms at seven if the regional rec centers and made a video about it ruclips.net/video/LjZ7J-d7XeQ/видео.html , I really like the one at laurel manor it’s the one I use now. Thanks for watching!
Chief, another good video. Sounds like you need TWO places, one in The Villages and one in the Blue Ridge Mountains. That was my original plan but like you I had one, then the other.
PS Don’t move south of 44 brother - you won’t be in The Villages down there ;-)
@@jeffbrown9214 thanks Jeff, good advice! Between the “6’s” is growing on me
@@TheVillagesChief south of 466-A is ok too. Just don’t go south of 44. At that point, IMO, you’ve left The Villages. Too far from everything.
Chief you named 3 places my husband and I love. Sedona. Moab and the Blue Ridge Mountains. You did a 360. Enjoy where you are now and keep your options open.
Thanks Barbara!
Hi Chief. First off, great video! One topic I thought you were going to discuss as a con is the population density at the villages between the snowbird winter months and the summer months. I heard the winter months at the Villages was just crazy crowded. So much so that golfing or any kind of dining had to be planned way in advance. If you get a moment, I would love to hear your thoughts on the topic. Thx.
Hi Remo, I've been here since September so I may not be the best to say but from what I noticed the traffic is only slightly busier. I live on the north end and probably don't get out enough to judge, as far as the southern area with more younger folks I wonder if they have more snowbirds because the younger folks are still working or more active in their home state still so more likely to be snowbirds? Just a theory, maybe they notice a more significant change. The squares seem much fuller, I noticed lately at Spanish Springs, most or all the provided plastic seating were taken and lots of people bringing their own lawn chairs. Brownwood looked really busy the last few times I was down there. As far as dinning I havent eaten out much but it seemed the restaurants around the squares looked full, or a few minutes wait, even with lines at moments, the outdoor bar seating almost always seems full after 6ish right now. Golfing I dont know about since I havent golfed a day in my life but I do plan on taking lessons and look forward to it!
I know a lot of people that live there year around and when the snowbirds come either they don’t eat in the restaurants anymore or are there much earlier than usual or how much later than usual to avoid the long wait at the restaurantS.
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I'm sure the lack of weights is liability related and they also likely don't like the slamming of weights. I'm surprised that Planet Fitness doesn't have locations in the areas surrounding the Villages - seems like they would do pretty well with budget conscious seniors.
They just opened up a new Planet Fitness nearby, thanks for watching!
The Bond. I agree in that I didn’t understand it initially. It was a cost I hadn’t planned on and it is seemingly hidden because you pay it as part of your mortgage if you have one. I have learned that the bond encourages development in Florida by reducing risk for developers for the initial development costs (sewers, water, irrigation, gas, roads, etc). Bonds are issued to pay for this and residents pay it back. Less risk for developers encorages development. One of the reasons Florida is grwing so much.
Thats a good explanation, thanks Joe!