I know that personally, I could never live in the Villages for several reasons. 1: Climate. I can't handle a climate that is either hot all the time (Arizona) or humid all the time (Florida) southern Indiana where you came from, I think is a great climate. 10 inches of snow a year on average is not massive, I want all 4 seasons, but to live far enough south that you get a little of everything, and not too much of anything. I actually think Nashville would probably be my IDEAL. 2: HOA. I couldn't imagine having someone tell me what color to paint my house, where to put my garbabge cans, where to park my car, etc. 3: Close proximity of neighbors. You can choose your friends but you can't choose your neighbors. I assocaite with people I choose to associate with, I don't want to feel obligated to be social with someone just because we happened to buy a house next to them. I might HATE them, and if that happens, you're stuck living 100 feet away from someone you can't stand. My 40 acre farm is nice buffer zone. 4: Alligators scare them living HELL out of me.
I would love the restrictions because I have neighbors who don’t keep their yards up, don’t trim their shrubs, hide their crap behind their garages so the neighbors have to look at it. The list goes on. I’m an irritating neighbor because I suggest they clean up their yard etc., and not always in the most diplomatic way. I do put those cutesy yard decorations out, but they are small and few in number. I wanted to move to Florida, specifically The Villages, because I’m tired of freezing during our 8 months of cold and freezing temperatures. Shoveling snow is difficult for me now.
29 years in Scottsdale Arizona, our blood is thin. Retired and just bought a new home in The Villages (online!!). Time for a new adventure. We kept a small condo in Wisconsin to escape, if needed. We close next Monday. Coming with a tv, folding chairs and coffee maker. Let the adventure begin! Glen and Lucie
Lucie and Glen, my wife and I moved here from Tucson in August and we love it. The heat is a bit different here and takes a little getting use to, but we are really enjoying our new home.
I just recently found you two and I think why I love to watch is because you two seem to have that magic together and your such a joy to listen to and also learn from. It's rare how a couple, who may be married as long as you two, seem to enjoy each other-worth watching and being grateful for you both!
Places like the villages are too cookie cutter for me. Too many rules and regulations. Too close to the neighbors and nosey ones at that. I wouldn't want to lose my individuality to reside in a place like that.
No Gizmo at the end? Hey, what's the quietest type of dog? A hush puppy. Where shouldn't you take your dog shopping? A flea market. What type of dog does Dracula have? A blood hound.
Well even if I wanted to live there, you convinced me that I am not the right person for the villages. I'm not very out going and too many people around me would make me crazy. I'm happy for you because found the right place.
It's obvious that you two are the perfect couple and enjoy each other immensely and that shows on every video you post. I always look forward to each new video because it gives me the chance to share your experiences in Florida. The heat would kill me along with the bugs, reptiles and certain people. When you both started laughing uncontrollably, it got contagious and cracked me up too. Your positive attitude, respectful manners, quirky jokes and intelligent comments keeps me coming back for more. Love the background too !!!
Yep ! Jerry & Linda your the reason we moved here ❤ thank you. We love it here. We’re here about a year and seven months, hope to see you guys one of these days in the village’s.
My friends moved down to Fenney and love it there. They bought their house new in 2018 for $346,00 and could sell it now for between $750-$800! I would never be comfortable there because the houses are too close together, it´s too hot and it feels like The Villages is taking over, like urban sprawl.
I sold new houses for a summer in a covenant protected community and was amazed as to how many people wanted to challenge the rules BEFORE they even bought a place! Manicured lawns, drive ways free of 'project' trucks and RVs parked in storage lots may not appeal to some people but it sounds like heaven to me!
I wish there was a “love” button because like doesn’t cover it-you two are so cute! Thank you for your candid approach to the downsides of the Villages. We know we’re still moving down as soon as we can (hopefully next year)!!!
We spent 15 years in Florida and we are out ! We enjoy watching your show while having our morning coffee. Everything you say about living in Florida is 100 percent true. Everyone should listen to you before moving there. Love Gizmo ! He reminds me of my childhood dog !
We spent 16 years in Arizona and Florida retired. Loved Florida. Health and Family has us back in Iowa. Was very hard to leave our beautiful home and friends in Florida. You just know when it's time. Look forward to your videos every week. Thank-you 🙂👍🇺🇲
We did a Lifestyle Visit in 2009. We loved the Villages and still do. But in the end, we built our "perfect" home in Windermere near Winter Garden for a couple of the reasons you mentioned. Our two sons and significant others live in the Orlando area. And now with a couple of new grandchildren, we made the correct decision for us.
That is a stumbling block for us, our Grandsons. We are very close but they too are growing up and their activities are a big part of our lives. However; we see them doing more with friends etc. It's a hard decision.
@@barbaraebner5889 When my boys were younger, I used to say that one only borrows their children for a short time. They get friends, develop independence, go to college/jobs, get married, and start their own families. If we were 10 years younger, I would not rule out moving to the Villages when the grandchildren eventually drift away as they will. But at our age, we believe we made our final decision when we built our current home. At least, we're in Florida and cold winters are a thing of the past! And luckily our sons were remote employees long before Covid and chose to live here too.
So many more reasons……bugs&rats, super congestion that overwhelms infrastructure and destroys environment, unbelievable traffic and rude aggressive drivers, poor educational system, mediocre medical care, dysfunctional politics, overdevelopment at outrageous prices….and so on. This is not the Florida of my parents’ retirement 45 years ago. Your video was very cute and very honest. We remember visiting retirement communities 20 years ago…Villages, Del Webb, Robson. They are great for younger retirees who are golfers and socializers/joiners.
It is so true that the main thing I miss are my doctors and dentist. As time goes on I’m certain I will find those as well. My neighbors are very friendly as the people who go to the pool!
Great videos. I just came across these videos on RUclips by my algorithm search. I live in Tamarac near Fort Fort Lauderdale and live in a 55 plus deed restricted community. I bought my house here thinking it would be a laid back community and originally it was with many retirees, but South Florida is becoming too overpopulated and the local commissioners are in cahoots with the developers making every inch down here either a strip mall, condo or other large building with no regard for the residents and quality of life. I will eventually be selling my home because of this situation. Also, the road rage is another reason but I think that is because there are just too many people living in such a small area. 60 years ago, Miami used to be nothing but orange groves. Thanks and I enjoy learning and watching!
Thank you for pointing out some of the downsides to living in The Villages. As a previous poster said, The Villages is not for everyone. 55+ communities are not for everyone who is 55 and better. Wherever someone chooses to spend their golden years, be it Florida, the Midwest, New England, the Pacific Northwest, or be an expat in Portugal like one of my former coworkers has chosen to do, the important thing is that one is happy and content with their choice.
This is a great and informative video. You really framed this well: we love it, but there are things that may not be right for other people. I moved from the pacific NW to central Texas and it was a shock for so many of the reasons you mentioned. There are things I really miss, like cool mornings and evenings, hills, redwoods and douglas fir trees, and so much more. But that doesn't mean I don't love the things I've found here, like the HEB grocery stores, the Texas Book Festival, and the tropical plants that don't grow in the PNW. Y'all are excellent ambassadors for The Villages and calling out negative things as well as the positive is an important aspect that I appreciate.
My husband and I always enjoy your videos! With thanks to the both of you, we are being acquainted with The Villages from far away. We decided to take a Lifestyle Tour. :)
I have owned a house in The Villages since 2002. The one major item that was not covered in the video is that the traffic is getting unbearable both summer and winter. The Villages is not designed to handle the increase in vehicles from the increased number of residents.
@@JERRYANDLINDA The Villages is in the middle of a rural area, not an urban area. You can't compare major urban areas to this area. Traffic is unbearable especially in the winter when all the "tourists" (short term renters) invade. This year we will see the true traffic increase due to all the new building. If you bought after February 2020, you have never experienced it due to Covid.
You have so many people moving to Florida that the roads aren’t equipped to handle the much higher volumes of traffic. Orlando, for example, is unbearable. The pan handle is also getting crowded at rush hour. 320,000 people moved to Florida in 2022. It’s to be expected until more roads are built.
I have been in Florida my entire life, there will be things that we dislike no matter where live. But through the hurricanes, heat etc, I can still go out and enjoy things unlike blizzards, and shoveling snow.
You guys are definitely cheerleaders for the Villages. Nice to see someone who is happy with a major decision they made. I appreciate your ability and willingness to also discuss some of the counter points. More people need to be able to see both sides of an issue and be a bit less polarized in their viewpoints. I think the deed restrictions, and small lot sizes will keep me from ever moving there.However, I would enjoy having neighbors who keep their property in a neat condition. I am the only person in my neighborhood who picks up leaves, so eventually I seem to inherit everyone else's . Nice Job.
There will always be 'good' and 'bad' things about the location you choose to spend your life. You gave valid reasons with the understanding you LOVE the Villages. When we decided to move to the East Valley of Arizona to be closer to our daughter and granddaughters years ago, we decided before we made the move that we'd rent a condo and stay for six weeks. Then we 'd immerse ourselves like we lived there because vacationing somewhere and actually living there is a 180 degree difference. We did this twice before we knew it would be the right move from the Chicago area. We're happy and have been here for 12 years. Great job and it definitely shows you are happy in the Villages.
We are on are why the 20th of Dec, our biggest miss will be the grandkids and Daughters but what a great place for them to come visit. We hope to get a chance to meet you guys one day see you when we get there
I'm one of those who will probably never move to the villages--too much fun with grandkids--can't let them down. And church friends mean the world to us.... however I look forward to your vlogs each week. As retired teachers you remind me every day how to get old without being old. Ur such fun....nothing backwards about that. Blessings.
As technology career retired and hopelessly deep snow and mountain loving New Englanders with most family only a few hours of drive away, too much draws us to ever consider leaving what we and our family have built here. We love our non-HOA non-association home, despite all its expenses and often backbreaking work, high taxes, our neighbors (many with whom we raised our kids together), our historic town, national park proximity, and access to some of the finest medical care in the world (whose care we’ve been using more as we’ve aged). Our politics are definitely in the minority here, but ‘resistance is futile!’ We don’t golf, but nordic ski out our door, bike, fish, chef in the kitchen, and putz in our yard. That said, your channel is truly refreshing in that it not only showcases how different The Villages are from our comfort zone, it is direct and honest in covering how different the lifestyle is, acknowledging it’s not for everybody. That you say as much isn’t an indictment of The Villages. In fact, folks like us truly enjoy learning about it all, and have great respect for alternative and vibrant healthy lifestyles that work. P.S. I want a golf cart!
Thx so much! You gave a real honest list to think about before moving. I did buy a house in the villages and you mentioned a few issues that I feel are challenging
Thanks great points though people who are not active may like it down here. If they like being alone no one is going to force you to go out and socialize so the same as if they did not move. There are quiet parks benches to sit on and there are pools that are relatively uncrowded and quiet. My wife is such a person 62 years old and is quite happy.
Love your blog! Just moved to the area (I call it Villages adjacent, not quit 55 yet) and love the Squares and the people! In a few years I'll be living in the Villages and enjoying the golf and recreation. Our family is from Loo-a-vul lol, so I loved the pics you posted as well.
Thanks for trying to keep it real and giving some possible negatives to the Villages. I love watching your videos and seeing you two interact with each other. Keep up the good work. Have you thought about doing a video on a community service project? Stay safe and stay cool.
New here and I am absolutely addicted to your channel! You two are terrific! Watching your channel motivates me to do something about my dream of 'migrating' to FL from CT. Your talk about deed restrictions crack me up - gosh I'd love a good 10 page deed restriction where I live right now! 🤣 thanks for all you give here xx
Thanks for another great video. I had a few of the concerns you mentioned prior to my lifestyle visit. You are 100% correct, you got to come down and see it for yourself. There is nothing on your list that would be a show stopper for me. Any place you live can be the best or worst depending on your attitude and what you make of it. Choose to be happy people, no one gets out of here alive!
I just love how much fun you two have! My husband and I are thinking of moving to Florida and I'll be coming January to check things out. You two have given us so many reasons to consider this move and we thank you. Maybe I'll even see you there!
That was a really good video. Probably the first one people should see if considering the Villages or any where in the South. We appreciate your insight advice.
I slipped on black ice last New Years and got a concussion, too! Can’t wait to be able to retire to winter warmth. Great show today, guys! Made me lol 😝 ⛳️🌴☀️
Whenever I hear "black ice" I cringe. I was in an accident in *April* 2018 where my vehicle slid on black ice. Fractured my pelvis, dislocated my hip, several operations, months of rehab. So being someplace where there's no black ice sounds really good to me.
Thank you for this very important message....ANY ONE should appreciate... Being honest is not wrong... I enjoy your shows, but I really enjoyed this program today... Thank you for doing this.
We moved to the Tampa area in 2014 from PA,loved it down there but we moved to the Myrtle Beach area to be a days drive to family up north and friends and some family in Florida. I hate the cold! Now we have family that followed us to SC.
I love you all lol! I’m 43 years old and live in Fort Lauderdale on the water, I can’t wait to move to the villages when I’m old enough!! Hope I have neighbors like you! Have a great year!!
Really! I taught at North Harrison and coached against Corydon for years. We have been to that music on the square more times than I can count. Emery's ice cream, and lots more.
No way! I graduated NHHS in ‘96! Then went to Vincennes university for my associates, and finished at UofL. Small world!! I used to go to bluegrass on the square all the time in corydon. My parents home was very close to the Harrison Crawford county forestry. Southern IN is an awesome area.
I was so worried about the heat And after spending the summer here I actually was kind of sad when it started getting cooler. I had so many worries when I moved here and the villages has far exceeded my expectations. I talked to a couple last night who've been here 8 years and LOVE it here. I love it here and I fully expect I will be loving it for a long time!
There are always regrets, aren’t there? I can tell. 🤐 We are retired and living in NH, looking forward to snow ❄️⛄️❄️ We enjoyed visits to Florida over the years. Living there, no no!!!!
We came across your channel after visiting Florida on vacation. Was shocked when you told us you are from S Indiana LVL area Knobs area. That is where I am from and you all look familiar. While not old enough to retire yet, I am not too young to think about it. Really enjoy your videos. I used to live in Ocala for a job and it was so hot and humid. You are not kidding about that.
@@JERRYANDLINDA My family is from the Starlight area St Johns Road up there and also along the Skyline drive area (the more rural part not by the overlook). We live is GA right now but still own property there.
We love Florida the heat the friendly people the sunshine- it’s just the best …..to each his own The cold the snow - no thanks - we are so thankful to live here in Central Florida
Loved this show. You said something that applies to us. You mentioned, if your grandchildren lived near your previous home you would still be there. We are. Very fortunate that 2 of our grandchildren are a 5 minute walk away & the other 2 are 15 minute drive. We see the close-by family every weekday & go to their hockey & figure skating often. I couldn’t imagine being away from them for any extended period. Your information is so valuable to those that could make that mistake of moving.
Thank you for the honest perspective about life in the Villages. We have been considering the Villages but several of the reasons you mentioned are a big part of my hesitation. We do have a lifestyle visit scheduled so we will see how that goes but I really appreciate your honesty.
You guys make me smile 😊 Than you. Have you visited Winter Park? We had a lovely day there a number of years ago and plan to visit in December again. Stay well and don’t ever change you are absolutely fabulous 💫
Loved the video. You had me laughing out loud & I didn’t even know what cha y’all were laughing about 😂. The video pointed out some good things to consider & absolutely people should take advantage of the Lifestyle visit. thx!
Good sense of humor.. we did Lifestyle preview, besides my sister lives here and I fell in love with the lifestyle. Took my wife a little more time but she loves it now
What happened to if you have nothing to say good don’t say anything. Thank goodness you both have a sense of humor & positivity to silence the naysayers! I enjoy your channel both for the information but also your personalities set you apart💕
Your number of watchers is amazing. I saw one of your posts got a million views. Wow, I can say I knew you personally before you were retirement stars. You guys are amazing!
Funny you mentioned hills..I moved from CA to Pensacola last year and kept wondering what I was missing..Mountains!! Don't miss the high prices and mess I left though..
I heard I'd better not go!! Things that make you go hmmm. Glad yall love it enough to have said it 1000 times. Some of the things mentioned aren't so bad. I 💘General Tso's too.
Excellent and honest! If you can afford a bigger lot then buy it. However, you won’t be home much anyway once you join into the 3,000 clubs. Better being here than sitting in your recliner for 8 months while it’s freezing up north. Falls on ice can be a death sentence. Been here 8 years and still marvel at the beauty of TV.
Jerry, I live at high altitude and it has contributed to a high red blood cell count my hemotologist has recommended I move to sea level. Another great reason to move to The Villages!!!
Once again you have given Great info! You make it look so fun but, We aren’t coming after hearing this show. You’re right, the heat- humidity, close houses, we like solitude & privacy, would be saying No Thanks to all the invites and hook ups, and love the mountains, Fall my fav season, first snow fall. The RV will be our snowbird abode then back north👍 But still will keep watching, we enjoy you both so much.
Thank you for this great information. I’m a replanted east coast woman who lives on the west coast. My family is on the east coast. My youngest son owns and is the producer of Kaplan Media and Horse Capital TV in Ocala, Florida. My husband has been going through several health issues in the last eight years and I’m looking ahead to what my future might be. We were at the Villages in April when visiting as my son lives close and frequently shops there. I have roots here in eastern Oregon but Ocala area is absolutely beautiful. Stumbling across you blog is very helpful should I need to make a future decision.
Some like it hot. That’s what I like ! As for activities when I was working I never had enough time to do all the activities and socializing. I can’t wait!
I know I noticed that! Toooo cute - Gizmo needs a little AC 🤣 I can’t tell you the amount of times that I’m a little chilly in my house I’ve got a sweater on because I like to keep it a little cooler for the pets🤣🤣 I agree I’ve said this too show is very informative!
Sounds like a lot of retirement fun… I speak to ppl in the great white north who tell me they are moving to TV and love watching your - you tube channel! 👍
Thanks for your fun spirit. I’m not moving but I watch to enjoy your great shows. Love the laughter. Gizmo can you share your thoughts from the canine point of view on the villages life?
#1 is the deal breaker. Might as well have common walls unless you spring for a Premier at ~$1M. Everything else is ok. We will be better off finding a place in AZ (Tucson- no grass to maintain but can be 105+ in the shade) or SC (Bluffton- tropical and near the ocean/ Savannah with reasonably sized yards).
OK, I just watched your latest video, I LOVE IT, seems like we're old friends. Sorry to say we're not moving to The Villages, we live in Oklahoma where our Kids are. However, you both brighten my day, I smile all the way thru the video. Your latest is fantastic. I hate snow, Fall isn't what it's cut out to be and mountains are pretty but one can live without them. ha ha ha. You make my day brighter. Question... do you and Linda have any hobbies, other than having a blast driving your Golf Cars, Golf, Shopping, enjoying the wonderful weather, beach if you want to. Keep up the great videos.
I just love your channel and I am so glad you love it here and you have adjusted so well. We are going on our 2 years next Dec. In the Space Coast of FL and we are embracing it full hearted. You made me lough so hard at your (inside) joke. Lol. Take care and love Gizmo.
What place is perfect? Heat is top of list for me. But cold and shoveling snow is one my wanna ove here. So gotta make choices. You guys are so 👍 Keep on sharing ❤
Now I'm the oppisite I lived in Pa and moved to Southest Texas 20 years ago and never had allergies till I moved here, not to mention the weather here is Hot, Hotter and Damn Hot we never get snow or changing of the leaves and I miss all of that., plus my whole family still lives in Pa. Plus If I'm paying that much for a house don't think I could live with all the HOA rules and that close to neighbors I need a little bit of land! But your video's I so enjoy watching very informative and funny, keep bring them and I will keep watching!
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I know that personally, I could never live in the Villages for several reasons.
1: Climate. I can't handle a climate that is either hot all the time (Arizona) or humid all the time (Florida) southern Indiana where you came from, I think is a great climate. 10 inches of snow a year on average is not massive, I want all 4 seasons, but to live far enough south that you get a little of everything, and not too much of anything. I actually think Nashville would probably be my IDEAL.
2: HOA. I couldn't imagine having someone tell me what color to paint my house, where to put my garbabge cans, where to park my car, etc.
3: Close proximity of neighbors. You can choose your friends but you can't choose your neighbors. I assocaite with people I choose to associate with, I don't want to feel obligated to be social with someone just because we happened to buy a house next to them. I might HATE them, and if that happens, you're stuck living 100 feet away from someone you can't stand. My 40 acre farm is nice buffer zone.
4: Alligators scare them living HELL out of me.
All good reasons. Totally understand. 🙂🙂
I would love the restrictions because I have neighbors who don’t keep their yards up, don’t trim their shrubs, hide their crap behind their garages so the neighbors have to look at it. The list goes on. I’m an irritating neighbor because I suggest they clean up their yard etc., and not always in the most diplomatic way. I do put those cutesy yard decorations out, but they are small and few in number. I wanted to move to Florida, specifically The Villages, because I’m tired of freezing during our 8 months of cold and freezing temperatures. Shoveling snow is difficult for me now.
29 years in Scottsdale Arizona, our blood is thin. Retired and just bought a new home in The Villages (online!!). Time for a new adventure. We kept a small condo in Wisconsin to escape, if needed. We close next Monday. Coming with a tv, folding chairs and coffee maker. Let the adventure begin! Glen and Lucie
Congratulations! See you when you get here!!
talking about minimalist ...
Lucie and Glen, my wife and I moved here from Tucson in August and we love it. The heat is a bit different here and takes a little getting use to, but we are really enjoying our new home.
@@dougmccune4966 Doug, I hope we are able to meet sometime. We have a lot of questions. Glen
I'm very curious, why leave AZ for FL to retire? We are currently reviewing both states as a possible landing spot when I retire.
I just recently found you two and I think why I love to watch is because you two seem to have that magic together and your such a joy to listen to and also learn from. It's rare how a couple, who may be married as long as you two, seem to enjoy each other-worth watching and being grateful for you both!
Places like the villages are too cookie cutter for me. Too many rules and regulations. Too close to the neighbors and nosey ones at that. I wouldn't want to lose my individuality to reside in a place like that.
No Gizmo at the end? Hey, what's the quietest type of dog? A hush puppy. Where shouldn't you take your dog shopping? A flea market. What type of dog does Dracula have? A blood hound.
😂😂😂
I’m an introvert. The Villages is not for me… but that doesn’t mean it’s not for others, especially the highly sociable.
Well even if I wanted to live there, you convinced me that I am not the right person for the villages. I'm not very out going and too many people around me would make me crazy. I'm happy for you because found the right place.
It's obvious that you two are the perfect couple and enjoy each other immensely and that shows on every video you post. I always look forward to each new video because it gives me the chance to share your experiences in Florida. The heat would kill me along with the bugs, reptiles and certain people. When you both started laughing uncontrollably, it got contagious and cracked me up too. Your positive attitude, respectful manners, quirky jokes and intelligent comments keeps me coming back for more. Love the background too !!!
Ms. Lori, you are always so kind. Thank you. ❤❤
I can't stand humidity but its good to know someone's honest opinion.
Yep ! Jerry & Linda your the reason we moved here ❤ thank you. We love it here. We’re here about a year and seven months, hope to see you guys one of these days in the village’s.
Thanks Ralph! We are glad you love it as much as we do!
My friends moved down to Fenney and love it there. They bought their house new in 2018 for $346,00 and could sell it now for between $750-$800! I would never be comfortable there because the houses are too close together, it´s too hot and it feels like The Villages is taking over, like urban sprawl.
I sold new houses for a summer in a covenant protected community and was amazed as to how many people wanted to challenge the rules BEFORE they even bought a place!
Manicured lawns, drive ways free of 'project' trucks and RVs parked in storage lots may not appeal to some people but it sounds like heaven to me!
Preach!
HOAs. just take your monthly dues....waste of money.
@@michaelciccone2194 No HOA in the Villages.
I wish there was a “love” button because like doesn’t cover it-you two are so cute! Thank you for your candid approach to the downsides of the Villages. We know we’re still moving down as soon as we can (hopefully next year)!!!
Very honest conversation not only if living in The Villages but living in Florida in general. Good job!
We spent 15 years in Florida and we are out ! We enjoy watching your show while having our morning coffee. Everything you say about living in Florida is 100 percent true. Everyone should listen to you before moving there. Love Gizmo ! He reminds me of my childhood dog !
We spent 16 years in Arizona and Florida retired. Loved Florida. Health and Family has us back in Iowa. Was very hard to leave our beautiful home and friends in Florida. You just know when it's time. Look forward to your videos every week. Thank-you 🙂👍🇺🇲
Gizmo, you sweetie!!!!
We did a Lifestyle Visit in 2009. We loved the Villages and still do. But in the end, we built our "perfect" home in Windermere near Winter Garden for a couple of the reasons you mentioned. Our two sons and significant others live in the Orlando area. And now with a couple of new grandchildren, we made the correct decision for us.
That is a stumbling block for us, our Grandsons. We are very close but they too are growing up and their activities are a big part of our lives. However; we see them doing more with friends etc. It's a hard decision.
@@barbaraebner5889 When my boys were younger, I used to say that one only borrows their children for a short time. They get friends, develop independence, go to college/jobs, get married, and start their own families. If we were 10 years younger, I would not rule out moving to the Villages when the grandchildren eventually drift away as they will. But at our age, we believe we made our final decision when we built our current home. At least, we're in Florida and cold winters are a thing of the past! And luckily our sons were remote employees long before Covid and chose to live here too.
So many more reasons……bugs&rats, super congestion that overwhelms infrastructure and destroys environment, unbelievable traffic and rude aggressive drivers, poor educational system, mediocre medical care, dysfunctional politics, overdevelopment at outrageous prices….and so on. This is not the Florida of my parents’ retirement 45 years ago. Your video was very cute and very honest. We remember visiting retirement communities 20 years ago…Villages, Del Webb, Robson. They are great for younger retirees who are golfers and socializers/joiners.
It is so true that the main thing I miss are my doctors and dentist. As time goes on I’m certain I will find those as well. My neighbors are very friendly as the people who go to the pool!
Great videos. I just came across these videos on RUclips by my algorithm search. I live in Tamarac near Fort Fort Lauderdale and live in a 55 plus deed restricted community. I bought my house here thinking it would be a laid back community and originally it was with many retirees, but South Florida is becoming too overpopulated and the local commissioners are in cahoots with the developers making every inch down here either a strip mall, condo or other large building with no regard for the residents and quality of life. I will eventually be selling my home because of this situation. Also, the road rage is another reason but I think that is because there are just too many people living in such a small area. 60 years ago, Miami used to be nothing but orange groves. Thanks and I enjoy learning and watching!
Thank you for pointing out some of the downsides to living in The Villages. As a previous poster said, The Villages is not for everyone. 55+ communities are not for everyone who is 55 and better. Wherever someone chooses to spend their golden years, be it Florida, the Midwest, New England, the Pacific Northwest, or be an expat in Portugal like one of my former coworkers has chosen to do, the important thing is that one is happy and content with their choice.
This is a great and informative video. You really framed this well: we love it, but there are things that may not be right for other people. I moved from the pacific NW to central Texas and it was a shock for so many of the reasons you mentioned. There are things I really miss, like cool mornings and evenings, hills, redwoods and douglas fir trees, and so much more. But that doesn't mean I don't love the things I've found here, like the HEB grocery stores, the Texas Book Festival, and the tropical plants that don't grow in the PNW. Y'all are excellent ambassadors for The Villages and calling out negative things as well as the positive is an important aspect that I appreciate.
My husband and I always enjoy your videos! With thanks to the both of you, we are being acquainted with The Villages from far away. We decided to take a Lifestyle Tour. :)
That is awesome! See you when you get here!
I have owned a house in The Villages since 2002. The one major item that was not covered in the video is that the traffic is getting unbearable both summer and winter. The Villages is not designed to handle the increase in vehicles from the increased number of residents.
Traffic can be bad anywhere... Atlanta, DC, NYC, Boston, LA, etc
@@JERRYANDLINDA it's supposed to be special
@@JERRYANDLINDA The Villages is in the middle of a rural area, not an urban area. You can't compare major urban areas to this area. Traffic is unbearable especially in the winter when all the "tourists" (short term renters) invade. This year we will see the true traffic increase due to all the new building. If you bought after February 2020, you have never experienced it due to Covid.
You have so many people moving to Florida that the roads aren’t equipped to handle the much higher volumes of traffic. Orlando, for example, is unbearable. The pan handle is also getting crowded at rush hour. 320,000 people moved to Florida in 2022. It’s to be expected until more roads are built.
This video was a big help to us in making up our mind. Thank you.
Thank you for your time and kindness in offering the information, Jerry and Linda. Craig
I am a snowbird for so many of the reasons you stated. I'm in Naples and love it when I'm here.
I have been in Florida my entire life, there will be things that we dislike no matter where live. But through the hurricanes, heat etc, I can still go out and enjoy things unlike blizzards, and shoveling snow.
You guys are definitely cheerleaders for the Villages. Nice to see someone who is happy with a major decision they made. I appreciate your ability and willingness to also discuss some of the counter points. More people need to be able to see both sides of an issue and be a bit less polarized in their viewpoints. I think the deed restrictions, and small lot sizes will keep me from ever moving there.However, I would enjoy having neighbors who keep their property in a neat condition. I am the only person in my neighborhood who picks up leaves, so eventually I seem to inherit everyone else's . Nice Job.
As long as you both are happy, that's what important. As always, thanks for sharing your point of view!
The Jerry and Linda snow globe was adorable!!
The Villages may not pay you, but they should give you coupons or free “stuff!” You’ve got to be bringing in lots of new Villagers.
Today’s was fun😜
There will always be 'good' and 'bad' things about the location you choose to spend your life. You gave valid reasons with the understanding you LOVE the Villages. When we decided to move to the East Valley of Arizona to be closer to our daughter and granddaughters years ago, we decided before we made the move that we'd rent a condo and stay for six weeks. Then we 'd immerse ourselves like we lived there because vacationing somewhere and actually living there is a 180 degree difference. We did this twice before we knew it would be the right move from the Chicago area. We're happy and have been here for 12 years. Great job and it definitely shows you are happy in the Villages.
Thank you, Penell!!
We are on are why the 20th of Dec, our biggest miss will be the grandkids and Daughters but what a great place for them to come visit. We hope to get a chance to meet you guys one day see you when we get there
What a great show today as usual. The Regis and Kathie Lee of The Villages. We look forward to Mondays and Thursday
??? Regis ??? now THAT's an insult
I knew there was a reason I liked them. Kathie Lee just got her " Zoom Back " too HaHa..😁
I'm one of those who will probably never move to the villages--too much fun with grandkids--can't let them down. And church friends mean the world to us.... however I look forward to your vlogs each week. As retired teachers you remind me every day how to get old without being old. Ur such fun....nothing backwards about that. Blessings.
Thanks Sparkle! We figure that someday we will wake up and we might actually be old, so we're having fun while we can. 😁😁
As technology career retired and hopelessly deep snow and mountain loving New Englanders with most family only a few hours of drive away, too much draws us to ever consider leaving what we and our family have built here. We love our non-HOA non-association home, despite all its expenses and often backbreaking work, high taxes, our neighbors (many with whom we raised our kids together), our historic town, national park proximity, and access to some of the finest medical care in the world (whose care we’ve been using more as we’ve aged). Our politics are definitely in the minority here, but ‘resistance is futile!’ We don’t golf, but nordic ski out our door, bike, fish, chef in the kitchen, and putz in our yard.
That said, your channel is truly refreshing in that it not only showcases how different The Villages are from our comfort zone, it is direct and honest in covering how different the lifestyle is, acknowledging it’s not for everybody. That you say as much isn’t an indictment of The Villages. In fact, folks like us truly enjoy learning about it all, and have great respect for alternative and vibrant healthy lifestyles that work. P.S. I want a golf cart!
You only live once. An annual visit to family is more that enough.
I love your all’s comments the good and bad. You all have a blessed day now.
Every Monday I watch your show and you make the world right again, love the reset. These Thursday videos are great too.
We didn't move to the Villages but we did move to Panama City Beach 3 years ago from Kansas and love it here!! i enjoy your videos!!!
Thx so much! You gave a real honest list to think about before moving. I did buy a house in the villages and you mentioned a few issues that I feel are challenging
Thanks great points though people who are not active may like it down here. If they like being alone no one is going to force you to go out and socialize so the same as if they did not move. There are quiet parks benches to sit on and there are pools that are relatively uncrowded and quiet. My wife is such a person 62 years old and is quite happy.
Love your blog! Just moved to the area (I call it Villages adjacent, not quit 55 yet) and love the Squares and the people! In a few years I'll be living in the Villages and enjoying the golf and recreation. Our family is from Loo-a-vul lol, so I loved the pics you posted as well.
Thanks for trying to keep it real and giving some possible negatives to the Villages. I love watching your videos and seeing you two interact with each other. Keep up the good work. Have you thought about doing a video on a community service project? Stay safe and stay cool.
Great information thanks & have a great weekend :)
New here and I am absolutely addicted to your channel! You two are terrific! Watching your channel motivates me to do something about my dream of 'migrating' to FL from CT. Your talk about deed restrictions crack me up - gosh I'd love a good 10 page deed restriction where I live right now! 🤣
thanks for all you give here xx
Thank you, Cheryl! So nice!
Thanks for another great video. I had a few of the concerns you mentioned prior to my lifestyle visit. You are 100% correct, you got to come down and see it for yourself. There is nothing on your list that would be a show stopper for me. Any place you live can be the best or worst depending on your attitude and what you make of it. Choose to be happy people, no one gets out of here alive!
I just love how much fun you two have! My husband and I are thinking of moving to Florida and I'll be coming January to check things out. You two have given us so many reasons to consider this move and we thank you. Maybe I'll even see you there!
That was a really good video. Probably the first one people should see if considering the Villages or any where in the South. We appreciate your insight advice.
Thanks, David!
I slipped on black ice last New Years and got a concussion, too! Can’t wait to be able to retire to winter warmth. Great show today, guys! Made me lol 😝 ⛳️🌴☀️
Whenever I hear "black ice" I cringe. I was in an accident in *April* 2018 where my vehicle slid on black ice. Fractured my pelvis, dislocated my hip, several operations, months of rehab. So being someplace where there's no black ice sounds really good to me.
Thank you for this very important message....ANY ONE should appreciate... Being honest is not wrong... I enjoy your shows, but I really enjoyed this program today... Thank you for doing this.
This was fun to watch. I appreciate the golf cart runs you vlog as well. It really gives a feeling for the area. Thanks
We moved to the Tampa area in 2014 from PA,loved it down there but we moved to the Myrtle Beach area to be a days drive to family up north and friends and some family in Florida. I hate the cold! Now we have family that followed us to SC.
I love you all lol! I’m 43 years old and live in Fort Lauderdale on the water, I can’t wait to move to the villages when I’m old enough!! Hope I have neighbors like you! Have a great year!!
I forgot to mention I was born and raised is corydon, IN!
Really! I taught at North Harrison and coached against Corydon for years. We have been to that music on the square more times than I can count. Emery's ice cream, and lots more.
No way! I graduated NHHS in ‘96! Then went to Vincennes university for my associates, and finished at UofL. Small world!! I used to go to bluegrass on the square all the time in corydon. My parents home was very close to the Harrison Crawford county forestry. Southern IN is an awesome area.
You guys are fun! Love this vlog…love you guys❤️
I was so worried about the heat And after spending the summer here I actually was kind of sad when it started getting cooler. I had so many worries when I moved here and the villages has far exceeded my expectations. I talked to a couple last night who've been here 8 years and LOVE it here. I love it here and I fully expect I will be loving it for a long time!
There are always regrets, aren’t there? I can tell. 🤐 We are retired and living in NH, looking forward to snow ❄️⛄️❄️ We enjoyed visits to Florida over the years. Living there, no no!!!!
Just a little sentimental, but zero regrets
Could never live in Florida, love the seasons in the NE ☃️
I appreciate the honest appraisal of the Villages.
We came across your channel after visiting Florida on vacation. Was shocked when you told us you are from S Indiana LVL area Knobs area. That is where I am from and you all look familiar.
While not old enough to retire yet, I am not too young to think about it. Really enjoy your videos. I used to live in Ocala for a job and it was so hot and humid. You are not kidding about that.
We lived in the Knobs... were you from up there?
@@JERRYANDLINDA
My family is from the Starlight area St Johns Road up there and also along the Skyline drive area (the more rural part not by the overlook). We live is GA right now but still own property there.
GREAT video you too!!! Always such good info!!!
We love Florida the heat the friendly people the sunshine- it’s just the best …..to each his own The cold the snow - no thanks - we are so thankful to live here in Central Florida
Loved this show. You said something that applies to us. You mentioned, if your grandchildren lived near your previous home you would still be there. We are. Very fortunate that 2 of our grandchildren are a 5 minute walk away & the other 2 are 15 minute drive. We see the close-by family every weekday & go to their hockey & figure skating often. I couldn’t imagine being away from them for any extended period. Your information is so valuable to those that could make that mistake of moving.
Love you folks. I love the Villages also. First summer, I thought the sun was so hot my hair would catch on fire.
We feel ya! 😁😁
Thank you for the honest perspective about life in the Villages. We have been considering the Villages but several of the reasons you mentioned are a big part of my hesitation. We do have a lifestyle visit scheduled so we will see how that goes but I really appreciate your honesty.
I love your honesty. It gives much clarity to us northerners.
Did y’all have a couple of drinks with dinner 😝😝?? Don’t think I’ve ever seen the two of you crack up like that!! Love it! Another 👍!!
😆😆🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😆😆
You guys make me smile 😊 Than you. Have you visited Winter Park? We had a lovely day there a number of years ago and plan to visit in December again. Stay well and don’t ever change you are absolutely fabulous 💫
Awww... Elizabeth, you are so nice. 😁😁
Loved the video. You had me laughing out loud & I didn’t even know what cha y’all were laughing about 😂. The video pointed out some good things to consider & absolutely people should take advantage of the Lifestyle visit. thx!
Good sense of humor.. we did Lifestyle preview, besides my sister lives here and I fell in love with the lifestyle. Took my wife a little more time but she loves it now
I know this is now a year old, but this is a very good vlog! Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
What happened to if you have nothing to say good don’t say anything. Thank goodness you both have a sense of humor & positivity to silence the naysayers! I enjoy your channel both for the information but also your personalities set you apart💕
Thank you Adrienne! 😁😁😁
The biggest negative of the Villiages is that they allow airBnB short-term rentals.
The activity fee plus high cost of golf are important (and perhaps unexpected) costs potential buyers should be aware of - along with the bond
Good show and informative for those who are not sure about a move to Florida and The Villages.
Your number of watchers is amazing. I saw one of your posts got a million views. Wow, I can say I knew you personally before you were retirement stars. You guys are amazing!
Ha! Thanks, friend. 🙂
Don't know what Linda said that had both of you laughing,but, it brought tears to my eyes from laughing myself.
Both of you...BE WELL
Funny you mentioned hills..I moved from CA to Pensacola last year and kept wondering what I was missing..Mountains!! Don't miss the high prices and mess I left though..
I heard I'd better not go!! Things that make you go hmmm. Glad yall love it enough to have said it 1000 times. Some of the things mentioned aren't so bad. I 💘General Tso's too.
Excellent and honest! If you can afford a bigger lot then buy it. However, you won’t be home much anyway once you join into the 3,000 clubs. Better being here than sitting in your recliner for 8 months while it’s freezing up north. Falls on ice can be a death sentence. Been here 8 years and still marvel at the beauty of TV.
Jerry, I live at high altitude and it has contributed to a high red blood cell count my hemotologist has recommended I move to sea level. Another great reason to move to The Villages!!!
Once again you have given Great info!
You make it look so fun but, We aren’t coming after hearing this show. You’re right, the heat- humidity, close houses, we like solitude & privacy, would be saying No Thanks to all the invites and hook ups, and love the mountains, Fall my fav season, first snow fall. The RV will be our snowbird abode then back north👍 But still will keep watching, we enjoy you both so much.
Thank you for this great information. I’m a replanted east coast woman who lives on the west coast. My family is on the east coast. My youngest son owns and is the producer of Kaplan Media and Horse Capital TV in Ocala, Florida. My husband has been going through several health issues in the last eight years and I’m looking ahead to what my future might be. We were at the Villages in April when visiting as my son lives close and frequently shops there. I have roots here in eastern Oregon but Ocala area is absolutely beautiful. Stumbling across you blog is very helpful should I need to make a future decision.
We thank you for watching! We have not done much up in Ocala… the equestrian center and the horse parks would make for a good shows we think.
Some like it hot. That’s what I like ! As for activities when I was working I never had enough time to do all the activities and socializing. I can’t wait!
Joan Klag, you and me both!!!!!
Great video!! You gave the ten perfect reasons why we snowbird between our beautiful acre in Vermont to the warmth of winter in Florida.
i just about lost what little mind what i have left when u 2 switched voices. thanx a lot
My son just moved to Louisville, KY near a marina. He said there's a bridge you can walk over to Indiana on!
great video! Love it when you guys started laughing...wonder what was said... hee hee... bless you guys!!
If you guy's haven't already done this you should check out sugar loaf Mountain. It's a nice drive from the villages.
Greetings from Louisville, enjoy your video's. Looking forward to a move to Florida maybe next year. Who know's maybe the Villages!
I loved it when you were speaking of where you set your thermostat as Gizmo is panting in the back ground. Very informative and insightful video!
I know I noticed that! Toooo cute - Gizmo needs a little AC 🤣 I can’t tell you the amount of times that I’m a little chilly in my house I’ve got a sweater on because I like to keep it a little cooler for the pets🤣🤣 I agree I’ve said this too show is very informative!
#11 If you like to grow your own food. #12 If you like to stay away from chemicals used in lawn care.
Sounds like a lot of retirement fun… I speak to ppl in the great white north who tell me they are moving to TV and love watching your - you tube channel! 👍
Thanks for your fun spirit. I’m not moving but I watch to enjoy your great shows. Love the laughter. Gizmo can you share your thoughts from the canine point of view on the villages life?
#1 is the deal breaker. Might as well have common walls unless you spring for a Premier at ~$1M. Everything else is ok. We will be better off finding a place in AZ (Tucson- no grass to maintain but can be 105+ in the shade) or SC (Bluffton- tropical and near the ocean/ Savannah with reasonably sized yards).
OK, I just watched your latest video, I LOVE IT, seems like we're old friends. Sorry to say we're not moving to The Villages, we live in Oklahoma where our Kids are. However, you both brighten my day, I smile all the way thru the video. Your latest is fantastic. I hate snow, Fall isn't what it's cut out to be and mountains are pretty but one can live without them. ha ha ha. You make my day brighter. Question... do you and Linda have any hobbies, other than having a blast driving your Golf Cars, Golf, Shopping, enjoying the wonderful weather, beach if you want to. Keep up the great videos.
Great video! Loved the humor and your honesty. ✨🌼.
I just love your channel and I am so glad you love it here and you have adjusted so well. We are going on our 2 years next Dec. In the Space Coast of FL and we are embracing it full hearted.
You made me lough so hard at your (inside) joke. Lol.
Take care and love Gizmo.
What place is perfect? Heat is top of list for me. But cold and shoveling snow is one my wanna ove here. So gotta make choices. You guys are so 👍 Keep on sharing ❤
Now I'm the oppisite I lived in Pa and moved to Southest Texas 20 years ago and never had allergies till I moved here, not to mention the weather here is Hot, Hotter and Damn Hot we never get snow or changing of the leaves and I miss all of that., plus my whole family still lives in Pa. Plus If I'm paying that much for a house don't think I could live with all the HOA rules and that close to neighbors I need a little bit of land! But your video's I so enjoy watching very informative and funny, keep bring them and I will keep watching!
Glad we found you! Don't think it would work! 51 years on a mountain side with no restrictions! I could get into trouble quick! God Bless!