12 Buying Tips For THE VILLAGES in FLORIDA

[@semicountryliving3095]

This was extremely helpful! Thank u. Nobody tells the truth really and what to watch out for.

[@terryyarbrough2155]

Spent 5 days as a guest and prospective home buyer when I could't get a single negative comment from retirees currently living there. I was not disappointed. Amazing array of activities , beautifully maintained, reasonable prices. Planning to move from Virginia later this year.

[@mikewhite9818]

Best watch some of the youtube videos from current owners before you buy. They say expensive monthly, high taxes, ect. The locals say there are better homes and lower prices elsewhere in the area.

[@celticfire9881]

I will be visiting in January…

[@theresatitus-lawson3431]

I have lived here only a year and a half and love it here. One the best decisions I have ever made. I did the lifestyle preview plan several times before buying and now live near Sumter Landing. Your video is very informative. You did a very good job.

[@vcoonrod]

A major concern I have about retiring to Florida is the hurricane season. Haven't heard anything about potential problems whatsoever from these adverts. However, in my state, these hurricanes look horrifying. Similar to retiring in Kansas with tornados. Can't see being 80 and dealing with this recurring issue.

[@ripwaters5619]

Been here 11 years as a Seasonal resident. There is no place like The Villages. Property values continue to increase. My home is up 35%. Play golf every other day. Pickleball and Tennis the other days. Hardly use our car. Everything U need from shopping to medical is Golf Cart accessible. Villages Health Care Plan is just wonderful, and reasonable. Only if you have visited or lived in The Villages can you really understand this great value it has in your retirement. There is no way to describe The Villages without visiting it. I came on a 4 day vacation package with no intentions of buying a home but we were so impressed at all The Villages had to offer, I purchased a home during this short visit.

[@David-rx2to]

Golf course lot choice tip: If you must have a golf course lot, get a home on the opposite side of the fairway from the cart path. You can enjoy the view without having golf carts riding within a few feet of your home and the noise associated with that. We were fortunate enough to have this and the only sound we could hear was the club striking the ball.

[@sonofmabarker]

That's a great tip for those looking into a golf course lot.

[@clairemarie8771]

The information about the Villages is really helpful!

[@acwindsor]

That was a good overview of The Villages. We have been researching this area for quite a while trying to decide on purchasing a vacation home here and retiring to it later. Your advice about renting for 3 months is spot on. Renting and living in the community is the best way to get a feel for what the Villages has to offer. I'd like to clarify a few points you made on the video. The bond that you pay on the house covers the infrastructure required to build the house. That means things like roads, water, sewer, multi-modal paths, and the like. The pools, golf courses, and rec centers are funded through the $145 a month amenity fee. Also, there is an annual maintenance fee that covers things like landscaping the common areas and infrastructure improvements. You mentioned that everything north of 466 is run by the residents. That is true for the amenities. There is a committee that controls how they are run. However, each district in The Villages is run by a district commission. At first all members of the commission represent the developer. As homes are sold, commissioners are elected by the residents until ultimately the entire board is elected by residents. The commissioners control common areas and infrastructure like a government. So districts south of 466 may be run by the residents but the amenities are controlled by the residents. I recommend folks check out www.districtgov.org to learn how the Community Development Districts (CDDs) work. It really helped me. Again, thanks for the great overview. I think that is one of the better summaries of what The Villages has to offer.

[@sonofmabarker]

I tried to keep the video as short as possible. Just wanted to give some tips to people that they might not have thought of. When I heard all of those pickle ball players going at it at once I thought of what it might be live to live next to those courts. Kind of like having to live next to a basketball court and listening to the ball being dribbled all the time.

[@vickiwhite6051]

good idea to rent first. Also subscribe to thevillagesnews.com and see what really goes on here.

[@rosemariewooley8298]

Alan Windsor I

[@c-linnd606]

Good advice! Looking into retirement now at 55, hubby from FL and ready to go back. For retirement communities, The Villages are number one the list. We're not golfers but I hear there are so many clubs/groups to join activities that it makes for a great balance. Great video, thanks!

[@sonofmabarker]

Take your time and if possible rent for a few months so you can make the best decision. Plenty to do here. Good luck!

[@normanrobinson4624]

After watching your videos my wife and I want to thank you and we have decided that we will use you and your associates to purchase our home in the Villages.

[@sonofmabarker]

Good luck in your search for a home in The Villages. Look at all kinds of homes NOT just new.

[@stephenhusak6098]

Youre nuts

[@gaylewieneke7084]

@Justin Stewart, that's what I've heard. It's FOX news 24/7

[@mitzimignogna1796]

I have lived here almost 20 years, saw lots of changes. I am so glad and happy that I live in this wonderful place. No regrets, thanks to someone in Orlando who sent me up here to visit. There is so much to occupy your time, something for everybody. I love it.

[@sonofmabarker]

This has to be one of the funniest rumors about living here. Nobody has ever been able to show a source of such a funny statement.

[@bredanolan1152]

Mitzi uu

[@sonofmabarker]

No, a bond is an amount of money placed on the house when it is brand new. This bond helps pay for all the amenities in The Villages. For example $15,000 is added to the price of the home. This amount is paid off over many years. It is added to your tax bill. You real estate tax bill might be $2,000 for the year. The bond might be an extra $350 a year added to your tax bill. There are many homes in The Villages with the bond already paid off.

[@deepdrop7970]

Mitzi Mignogna ,,,you must get to soak lots of corks

[@Drjay-kz6yg]

Interesting video. Although I do NOT live in the Villages I am very familiar with the different sections as i know several people who live there. There are some pluses; nightly music/drinking in the Village squares. not on weekends but 7 nights a week, lots of golf, many clubs to join, many restaurants. in short lots to do. Now for the minuses; I personally would not want to live right next somebody else. If you do not have the financial resources of say the Morse family forget about getting an acre of land. We are talking millions to live that way in the Villages. The place is CROWDED !! I mean traffic that rivals mid town Manhattan. Wall to wall people. Long waits at restaurants and crowded stores. As far as golf, yes tons of golf courses but in season forget about waking up ad deciding to just go play 9 or 18 holes. You will need to reserve a T time in advance. So if you are a golfer who likes to decide if they want to play on a given day, in other words " I think i'll play a few holes today, The weather is nice . Forget it. No way you can just walk on. For my money too many rules/regulations. You cannot just decide to make change to your home. You will be required to go through the A.R.B. (architectural review board). Nothing like adding some nice touches like new planting or new expensive front door and a nosey neighbor reports you to the powers that be. Next thing is the letter from the higher ups telling you you are in violation. From there lets just say it can be very ugly. I realize they like to have standards but to live in a cookie cutter community is just not my cup of tea. In short, I for one would rather live in a area that allows me to makes changes to my home as I see fit (it's my home !!). Not have to deal with the crowds, noise, traffic etc. For some this is an ideal situation. For me I'll take the serenity that comes with a nice piece of land.Yes there is upkeep with land but with all the money saved by not buying in the Villages you can easily afford to hire somebody to do the landscaping. Hell you may actually enjoy doing it yourself as I do. Think of the opening song from the old T.V. show, Green Acres and you get the idea of where I am coning from. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q562ZIuDaN10hs0 I almost did not want to bring it up but do some research into the number of D.U.I.arrests and the massive amount of S.T.D. in the Villages . No, there is no requirement that you drink to excess or sleep around but sadly these are well known "traits" that are associated with the Villages. The 65 plus guys who feel the need to screw as many women as possible before they meet their maker. Couple that with the ever present "ladies of the night". What better place to ply your trade than an area replete with many lonely and well to do older men who lack the self confidence to meet a woman in a normal fashion. l find this aspect of the Villages so disgusting to my mind. For those of you in the know think back to Katie Bells and you will know of what I speak. I dare not mention the current "hot spots" Just saying.

[@tedalcorn1554]

find a friend that lives there and hang out with him or her lol

[@mangafq8]

It's supposedly true. STDs are rampant!

[@annoyed3]

@@mangafq8 You must be an anit-vaxxer too since you spout rumors and have no proof. so dumb

[@robster6884]

Been here 9 years and it isn't what it seems. Over development, traffic, congestion, crime and noise is enough for to make us re-think living here. Buyer beware alert. Bigger is not better, folks. Think hard about moving here.

[@jerrysegal8822]

crime? in a private community? i had no idea.

[@muskietime]

Rob Jacobs The recommendation was to rent for a few months. Funny that it has taken you nine years to get to a point of “re-thinking” it! Bet you would be a ball of fun at Bingo or Poker! Interested in where you would suggest is the ideal place.

[@bobbertolino3559]

@@pacificblue3955 hahaha

[@WWPlaysHoldem]

Are you still there?

[@gardengeek3041]

Just as important as facing the lanai East or North to keep it cool are one or two SHADE TREES. Not what we see @0:47. Some people think it looks tidy like this, but most realtors will agree it decreases resale value to leave a res. property this stark in a semi-tropical community.

[@georgiannmaloney6594]

my father in law and his 2nd wife lived there and they really loved it. He passed away and she married again, and eventually sold the home for double what it cost to build. he loved the golf carts and playing golf. they liked it there anyway.

[@georgiannmaloney6594]

@Marco Deowow, probably as it is a popular retirement place. My father in law was one of the first residents to build a home there in the Villages. I won't be able to afford to retire there. Oh well. That place really filled up over the years.

[@reneezettek9230]

Love your honesty. Great sight.

[@sallysmith1462]

Thank you for the informing video.sounds enticing for those that don't like snow. Keep the sun shining!

[@garym3345]

Very helpful video. Thanks for the tips!!!

[@sonofmabarker]

Gary Maurer If all possible rent for three months. Plenty to choose from.

[@SillySillySillyBunny]

Your thought on renting seems excellent. We just went to Fenny and was shown a Designer for $727K. It was a nice home but I had one concern. My brother bought in closed golf community in Bradenton. His house is a larger with a larger pool for $250K. After doing research it does seem that I can purchase more house for less money in other communities. So now I am trying to rationalize spending the extra money. So, yes renting might be a good idea.

[@sonofmabarker]

J Bisaillon In The Villages your buying more of the lifestyle then a house. Your brother has a nice house on ONE golf course. In The Villages you have a choice of 660 holes around of golf and more to come. Plus so many pools and 40 recreation centers. Rent first and get to know what you want. It's a big decision, good luck.

[@theresatitus-lawson3431]

I agree. I told my Friends and Family that I was purchasing a lifestyle more than a house and when Family came to visit, they were very impressed with everything about The Villages.

[@altagriffin1044]

Realtors are pushing their new area of far away Fenney . Wiser if you look around everywhere on your own and see better prices and neighborhoods posted in newspaper RE listings first.

[@altagriffin1044]

J Bisaillon Plenty of lovely pre owned 2000 +sf designer for $250k -$350 k if you look around alone.

[@thepinkpollyanna766]

I live in a golf community & they play behind my house & we have no problems except, for the occasional stray golf ball hitting the house or in the back yard!!! That’s about it...

[@TSemasFl]

Good video, Thanks for clueing us in on that Bond, interesting to know up front.

[@gregorynp]

What is the Bond Debt Assessment? The bond debt assessment reflects each lot’s proportionate share of the cost of building the infrastructure within its District or for which its District has responsibility. It is the most equitable method of distributing costs between the properties that benefit from the infrastructure. Infrastructure includes storm water systems, underground pump stations, water retention areas, curbs, gutters, streetlights, transportation trails, underground piping, etc

[@chrisbarone7764]

Saw and loved this video. Regarding your cable bill you can get a Roku for any additional televisions and then add the spectrum app which will allow you to watch TV in any other room with a Roku and have The spectrum app with a TV guide.

[@sonofmabarker]

Thanks for the tip.

[@trilogyrich]

This is very well done and valuable info for prospective buyers. I live in a similar type of community in California, but very much smaller. Good job on this video.

[@sonofmabarker]

Hope to one soon on the what is costs to live in The Villages.

[@goldieb2395]

California is wonderful but had to leave...too expensive. Florida is more economical and convenient for retirees overall. The senior population is large so our needs are taken seriously. It's nice to be treated with respect.

[@l.wall.2505]

@@sonofmabarker 💕Too Much Noise, & too many people, I myself Like Peice & Quite! Plus, I don't care anything about running all over the place in a cart! As for my excersize I would rather walk, I know the cart's are a much easier way to get From one place to another, but I don't like Golf, so I wouldn't go to play golf in the first place. Also, I really like the fact That they have sidewalks, I don't swim in community pools, & never do. I like only, "Some," of the amenitys. The Villages, not my Cup of tea, at all. Houses are too close together, I know People who live there, No thank you❣️ I like where I live in Florida, I own my house and the Property it's on, though it's not too big, I like it This way. It only cost me $60 A month to have my yard Taken care of. I take care of my own flowers. I don't want anyone else touching Them, don't care what they know about flowers. And believe me, it costs More, to live in The Villages, then where I live! My electric Durning the winter months never over $70 a month & the during the hottest months of the summer, not higher than $ 150. I live here in Wonderful Florida, year Round! I love it where I live, no one, tells me what to do, I don't pay for things,I don't use or do.& that I have, to buy a Cart to drive Around to the places I wouldn't go to in the first place. Much to much, to write about here, that I don't, like about the THE VILLAGES, than what I do, Just MY OPINION...☺️

[@l.wall.2505]

@ are you Stupid or something like that!!!

@@l.wall.2505 No, but you apparently are. BTW, "stupid" is not capitalized -- as every fourth grader has learned.

[@gregraper2188]

Hey sonofmabarker I was watching this video and noticed your name!!! Ma Barker started her reign in Ash Grove Missouri where Im from and live now and also I lived down in Inverness Fl for 10 years and while there I worked for CCS Mechanical out of Ocala that did all the HVAC and plumbing in the main building there at Sumter Landing.... I remember the first day on the job there and when we got to that job site all you could see in a 360 view was a field!!! I worked there till the last tree was trucked in... sure was the most unreal experience Id ever been a part of... very very nice place in my opinion!!!

[@barbarafraind8006]

Love it. Will be there in June.

[@vickigoodman1614]

Awesome job! Thank you so much. Very informative.

[@lauralampe1664]

Great video -- excellent tips. I will be visiting The Villages again in September. . .can't wait. Hope to make The Villages my home someday, so I am glad The Villages will be building for the next several years.

[@sonofmabarker]

I would give it much thought about buying in the newer area south of the Florida Turnpike. They still have to work out some major problems with providing golf cart access to the main area north. They also were NOT granted an important ramp on the turnpike for faster access to that area. Do your homework. The villages I would suggest for good location would be Tall Trees, Polo Ridge, Mallory and Santo Domingo.

[@lauralampe1664]

I completed my visit to The Villages in early September. I had to cut my visit short by 2 days because of Hurricane Irma. During my recent visit, I did visit the new Village of Fenney located south of Route 44. Very nice, but Fenney will be an “island”, because of no golf cart access to the rest of The Villages for probably another year. But unless I win the lottery, I won’t be buying in The Villages for at least a couple of years as I am still several years away from retirement. If I was buying today or in the next year, I would look in the established villages like Del Mar, Mira Mesa, Rio Grande, Rio Ponderosa, Silver Lake, Orange Blossom Gardens, Country Club Hills, Santiago, Polo Ridge, Summerhill, Tall Trees, Bonnybrook, Mallory Square, Caroline or Virginia Trace - want to be closer to shopping and either Spanish Springs or Lake Sumter Landing. Just my 2 cents.

[@sonofmabarker]

Marco Deo Yes

[@samplemm]

Those villas were nice! I missed where those were.

[@richardh3698]

I love this guy. He reminds me of the guy that hates kids on his grass :-) He has some solid points lol.

[@johnpothews9771]

Heres a tip.If you or your parents are considering retireing in The Villages beware of a couple that work or were working in the capacity of EMT's.They befriend elderly people and gather information about them only to rip them off.Their names are Kevin and Melissa Ratzmann.They are a married couple that work The Villages in order to find vulnerable elderly people and either dupe them into signing POA papers or forge their signatures.They even have some Lady Lake detective named Butch Perdue that probably gets a cut of their profits in exchange for protection.I had a run in with them and hired a private investigator who found out they had about 6 other elderly people they had done this to and got their house,car,money and whatever else they could steal.

[@annoyed3]

Melissa Ratzmann died in Sept.2020

[@jenmidwest8026]

Thanks for the information; very helpful. Awesome.

[@violawilson7889]

What a great video, where would you recommend looking for a monthly rental? VRBO? or are there better places?

[@sonofmabarker]

Polo Ridge, Tall Trees and Piedmont are good locations.

[@MSDOGS1976]

I don't live in the Villages but do have a patio home on a golf course. Mine is about 30 yards behind a tee box on the front side of the course. I don't have to worry about a golf ball hitting my house and never hear any bad language. Someone would have to yell out for me to hear. Ha. Yes I'm a geezer.

[@johnlabus7359]

If this is what retirement is supposed to look like, I'll keep working.

[@sonofmabarker]

Your probably right. It can be very hard trying to figure out which golf course to play that day. Since there are 50 of them. The 85 swimming pools also might be a tad too warm now. Those daily happy hours in the three squares never seem to have your "drink of the day". Keep working!

[@johnlabus7359]

sonofmabarker I live in a condo on the beach with all the amenities, and don't care about golf at all. I'm fine thank you. When I stop working, I'm all set and can walk to everything.

[@John-vh4oc]

@@sonofmabarker Funny!

[@melikopi7586]

@@johnlabus7359 Just think, when you retire these people will all be dead. Such is the ebb and flow of life.

[@joannedavis1991]

John Labus just remember, sometimes life doesn’t turn out like you you think it might. Wait 40 years you might change your mind.

[@penelopepitstop762]

I have a couple of questions. What exactly are these bonds? From another video (and if I understood correctly) it was like another $30,000 added to the mortgage? What happens if you buy a house and have no mortgage? If we move, we would sell our current home, which is paid for. I would also like to know what the HOA fees are. And, what about visiting children and grandchildren? Thank you!

[@sonofmabarker]

Penelope Pitstop The bond payment is added to your real estate tax bill. It’s paid off over 25 or 30 years. It’s called an amenity fee here not HOA. Mine is about $154 a month. Added to that is also your water, and trash payment. Grand kids can visit for max 30 days.

[@penelopepitstop762]

sonofmabarker thank you!

[@NemoNepersonne]

Good advice. Thanks.

[@susieq4123]

This sounds like heaven on earth. Cousin and hubby moved there from Texas about 3 yrs ago and they are living their dream.

[@sonofmabarker]

Plenty do to here, that's for sure! Just met a nice couple from California in the pool yesterday. They move all the way across the country to be here.

[@MBFLA45]

A very good overview. An advantage of a court-yard villa is that you have a fenced in yard... which you don't get with other homes (great if you have a dog). Almost all of the residents of my c-y-villa complex live here all year. I still consider moving here as one of the best things I've ever done... it's actually gotten even better.

[@pauline4848]

Are You In A Bungalow, Concrete Block Court Yard Villa? How Much Was The Bond?

[@sweethearts4ever]

In another video by a resident presenting some of the negatives of living in the Villages, they mentioned the difficulty with getting a spot in the many fitness or other activities. That to try pickleball, for instance, you first need to take a class, which required signing up a week in advance and that you need to go to the facility, getting in line an hour ahead of time. They like to do woodworking but are on a waiting list (#270+) to get time. So many people come to ukelele that after the capacity of 125 is reached people are being turned away. Can you comment on these issues? I am not a golfer so I care more about accessibility to the classes and clubs.

[@sweetnsassy4329]

Once the seasonal residents return for the colder months the rec centers are very busy and it is difficult to get into a class. You have to sometimes get to a class an hour early to even participate in a class.

[@tod3msn]

Nice friendly advice. It is really expensive to live in the Villages. You gotta be a high roller. $10,000 for a golf cart! Yikes! I hope folks enjoy themselves.

[@sonofmabarker]

Uncle Elmer There are plenty good deals for golf carts. Got mine for 4K.

[@doctorpete1]

some very good intell

[@warningsigns4526]

I, myself, would never buy in an area with sinkholes, just posting what I found on the media

[@sonofmabarker]

Warning Signs Stay out of Florida then. It's been ongoing in this state for years. Go to Arizona and just pray they will still have water in ten years.

[@warningsigns4526]

@@sonofmabarker rather have good farmland with own well

[@vintagegirl68]

Thanks, good points. I don't care for gas carts, the smell gets to me and messes with my throat. We have electric and like it.

[@bernieleclerc9100]

Gina g Electric is all right if you’re just going to the grocery store and back home again

[@DotComMomm]

Where can we get a good map of the Villages?

[@sandiatsdmb1736]

Very nice video. We have been checking out TV for 6 years or so waiting to retire, then got delayed in lovely IL for a few more years. I cannot believe how much it has changed and how the homes have appreciated in that time. It took us quite some time to learn the things you share in this video, nice job. People considering TV can benefit for sure. Great idea to rent. We bought in Continental CC so we have a place to move before finding our home in TV, if the prices stop rising.

[@sonofmabarker]

I would lean heavily towards a preowned home vs new. To me location trumps new all the time. Then you get loads of upgrades already done by the previous owner.

[@christophersawczyk]

How is getting a doctors appointment? Dentist? Etc.. Also , what does the to a include and what's the cost of home insurance? Distance to shopping, airport, hospital?

[@susanholland6828]

Good job! Thx.

[@joseynoyb9467]

Thank you... very informative I really appreciate it

[@sonofmabarker]

Josey NOYB If possible rent first and do it right the first time. Many arrivals buy a house while visiting. And then realize later they could have done better.

[@michelledavis2053]

And what about geological surveys? This area is sinking. Karst. Sinkholes. Its not all golf holes. There are holes in the earth.

[@johnjozsa8248]

Not in that part of Florida !!!!

[@giannabella9183]

Thank you. It is very helpful that you mentioned the difference between north of 466 and south of it. However I'm curious to know if the developer runs that section, what does it mean, as compared to when they do not run it? Do they perhaps provide good things? Or not? Is the other group better at managing things? Less pricey? THANKS.

[@sonofmabarker]

The developer has more control over the recreational facilities south of 466. The home owners north of 466 own their recreation centers. Many have been completely updated thanks to that lawsuit that was won. Saddlebrook and El Santiago recreational centers have been completely rebuilt. They also are now going to use this money to build the First Responders recreation center near Calumet Grove.

[@trekgod3]

Del Boca Vista phase 2?

[@annehajdu8654]

Costanza's

[@auroranite]

Good info. Do you think the older area Spanish Sorings is less desirable due to its age and narrow golf cart lanes? Is it a better investment to buy in newer area in your opinion? Thanks.

[@sonofmabarker]

I recommend buying a preowned home. The new homes are nice but it will take a while for the infrastructure to catch up down there.

[@miketr6225]

Thanks for the info.

[@kenweber9944]

Love this video! Great job Matt! Look forward to doing business with you soon!

[@henrymckenna4126]

thanks, going down ,in Jan to see about buying (snowbird) I rented last year, and have been there over yhe years about 3 or 4 times, Im ready to buy. Id like to find a relatively new resale, but ill have 3 full days to look, ive already contacted a salesman, that ive used before, (from the villages), just wanted to thank you again for the info, i need all the help i can get.

[@sonofmabarker]

Henry McKenna Homes built after 2003 are compliant to the hurricane building codes issued that year. But, The Villages is probably located in the best part of Florida against the impact of a hurricane.

[@davidserrasr9211]

on top of the world is a lot better cement block houses better in hurricanes villages a cheep copy

[@goldieb2395]

Just ask...Villagers are happy to help snowbirds, visitors and newbies.

[@muskietime]

Very informative. Thank you. I am not a good Villages candidate but have friends who are successful business owners who own in the Villages. Their Families visit all winter long. I am entertained by the negative, ignorant, eunuch, Snowflake criticism however. Be well.

[@mrtodd3620]

Are there lots of activities during the summer compared to the winter?

[@jrw5831]

Thanks, I'd rather freeze my butt off up north. This place really looks like a never ending nightmare.

[@sonofmabarker]

Stay where your at then. I hear those sub zero days in January are great for your allergies.

[@SuperNeedie]

This helped tremendously! Thank you!

[@christerry9923]

Anita Buice hello . How are you

[@Spokenfan]

Thank you for sharing. I was wondering you mentioned a bond, is that like an HOA? You also mention that an older home would have less years on the bond, once the bond is paid off will there be another bond or HOA type fee? Thank you

[@WCDANZR]

Once a bond is paid that's it.

[@andreatuckman1084]

I understand a few large sink holes have destroyed homes and property lately.

[@sonofmabarker]

It was the same location as last time. The homeowners insurance covered it.

[@carolynpicken6949]

Electric cars can go at least 30 miles without running out of power...gas cars smell and are very loud. Our cart is 15 years old, used daily and still going strong.

[@muskietime]

Carolyn Picken 30 mile range means you can travel up to 15 miles before having to return. Some prefer great range as The Villages appear kinda HUGE and you just may choose to travel further. But, glad your cart serves your purpose. Be well.

[@cjbaker7628]

My best tip is very simple - DON'T even think about it !!

[@wendynugent7330]

Why?

[@tooold8318]

Beautiful place Many rules Water shortages Have to keep your lawn green and the up keep Gasoline is higher in Florida A/C is running 7/24/250 Crazy drivers Snow birds goes to eat 3 pm Car insurance is high Sink holes

[@sonofmabarker]

joel peacock You forgot too many holes off golf (678) too many recreation centers (41) too many pools (83) happy hours too long 24/7 too many pickle ball courts (140) too much entertainment in the three squares 365 days a year.

[@vansmack4972]

If it wasn’t for the terrible high humidity, I would move down there in a heartbeat. I guess I will stay living in miserable Wisconsin.

[@sonofmabarker]

Will take a summer in FL any day over a winter in WI. We have A/C you know.

[@ohskunt1]

The old folks are looney. You not misdi g out on these rude old shyts. It is not friendly. It just looks friendly.

[@sonofmabarker]

jimmy chungah When were you in The Villages? Where did you stay?

[@ohskunt1]

sonofmabarker you couldn't pay me to stay in that weird place.i just pass thru there on business, or go shoppin

[@sonofmabarker]

jimmy chungah Old folks are looney because we’re no longer working. It’s time to party and let your hair down. With limited time left on Earth why live a normal life?

[@hyldabright5285]

planning to buy this is great info thank you

[@sonofmabarker]

Hylda Bright Take your time looking. Make the right decision the first time. Good luck.

[@RickAtlanta]

Very helpful video. Thanks for taking the time to create this!

[@sonofmabarker]

I hope to do another one in the near future on what it costs to live in The Villages. There is some info on this on the internet but it is old.

[@MrGlendale111]

As nice as it looks. I think it's safe to say. This environment is not for all retirees. I know i could not handle living like what i saw here.

[@pinkrose5796]

You're not alone! Need more than 5 ft away from another home!

[@zaybrown7077]

What kind of discounts and rebates?

[@sonofmabarker]

None.

[@p.smitty3105]

Massey? Where is that? Does not appear on any of the lists or maps..

[@sonofmabarker]

Massey is a service company in Florida. For pests, lawn and irrigation.

[@donaldmaycottrealestateadv9550]

No tunnel over the Florida Turnpike or 44. We will have 2 golf cart bridges over 44 and 1 over the Florida Turnpike.

[@altagriffin1044]

Donald Maycott A few Bridges ? Hopefully it will be on the villages construction bill unlike the Colony crossing fiasco.

[@kathydermody6336]

Passes for renters is $50.00 for visit stay

[@sonofmabarker]

Actually it's $25.00 per person. So, a single would pay only $25.00 for their stay.

[@TruckEnthusiastYT]

1:39 Sounds like my grandparents neighborhood “Eaglebrooke” to me! P.S it’s not in the villages!

[@gcxred4kat9]

Since you just had hurricane Irma come through, do you have any idea on which areas I may want to stay away from as far as flooding goes? Is there areas that are notably higher than others? Thanks.

[@sonofmabarker]

Yes, happy to respond now that the storm is over with. The Villages help up well. We never lost power even when the wind speed was clocked at 90 mph in gusts. The sustained speed was 75 for about 90 minutes. I have not seen any flooding anywhere. The golf course ponds are very high and so are the lakes. That is why they have them. For storms like this. No sure about the elevation. That can be researched.

[@paulalantz1963]

gcxred4kat9 Since it is a Master Planned Community, they are genius when it comes to water management. They plan each Village with great storm sewers and retention ponds. There are underground pipes to move excess water to other areas. During the hurricane they purposefully flooded the 53 golf courses to hold the excess water. This was one of my big concerns before I bought in The Villages on ‘09. I’ve watched it for 11 years.

[@darinradford415]

These comments are are coming from one of the younger crowd of people that live in the villages a 20 precenter. If you are ever bored in TV you are doing something wrong. I have lived here for a year in a half and I wouldn't change it for the world. What's not to like free executive course golf, pickleball, swimming year round, walking and nature trails, live entertainment every evening on the squares and you can get to all of that using your golf cart.

[@nursejulie]

Thank you! I really enjoyed this video! 😺😊

[@stevefrank733]

I really appreciate your helpful videos. Are you actually related to Ma Barker? We'll meet and talk about UFO's when we come down. Thanks!

[@sonofmabarker]

Steve Foerter No relation to Ma Barker. Take your time and do it right the first time.

[@MarkMphonoman]

I was looking at a house on a golf course and noticed something weird on the back windows. They were covered with plexiglass over the glass. Why? Golf balls. Needless to say, we passed on this house. 👍🙂

[@sonofmabarker]

Mark Mathosian We saw a house with dents on the wall facing the tee box. We passed too.

[@Focusing1234]

Another awesome video. Really helpful. Thanks.

[@1905934]

I agree with everything you say except the gas golf cart. 40 miles on electric golf cart is not enough?

[@buckeyerob3744]

No way the Yamaha Quiet Tech is as quiet as my EZGO triple pack lithium cart. Can’t even hear my lithium cart and get about 90 miles range.

[@214jtn]

Good video. It covers many good topics. I want to add, my lanai faces the southwest and I don't get the sun beaming into lanai, except in the winter months, which I like.

[@sonofmabarker]

Thanks for your input. Yes, that nice warm sun in the winter in Florida is so nice to have. I hope to do another "tips video" in the future.

[@jerlewis4291]

I’m not sure of the future of The Villages, the next crop of retirees aren’t going to have the financial means to support this community.

[@russjackson2134]

A VERY real concern, could be major fiasco for all residents

[@jerlewis4291]

@Richard Dixon And you think they are all going to move to The Villages? What happens when the people who are not getting pensions retire?

[@jerlewis4291]

@Richard Dixon Oh ok, I guess that you can't grasp what I am talking about. I am referring 10-15 years in the future. This is why I said that future retirees meaning the next crop of retirees who have not retired yet.

[@jerlewis4291]

Richard Dixon Are you talking about people who have a million dollars in actual wealth, meaning you can write million dollar check today, or a millionaire by means of assets?

[@russjackson2134]

@Richard Dixon And would not likely be caught buying such homogenized housing

[@maryannbennett3116]

Are you saying that there are no charging stations in the Villages?

[@sonofmabarker]

Mary Ann Bennett I’ve not seen any for an electric golf cart.

[@carengriffin2405]

Thank you. That was very informative.

[@shelton126]

Thanks for sharing your insights.

[@sonofmabarker]

Michael Lewis Rent first take your time.

[@jvabsher]

So why are all you people who claim to have no interest in EVER buying in The Villages bothering to watch a video on tips for buying in The Villages?

[@sonofmabarker]

J. Vance Absher I think many live close to The Villages and probably dislike their carefree lifestyle.

[@jvabsher]

@@sonofmabarker, if you don't mind... What is it exactly about their lifestyle you dislike? And why do you dislike it? I'm asking because I'd like as many perspectives on this as I can get.

[@sonofmabarker]

@@jvabsher There are not many I can think of. Maybe the extra people here in the winter time. Then you will have to wait longer for a table at a restaurant. We just adjust our eating times then. Maybe go a little earlier or later then usual. Tee times are less desirable then too. But, it's nothing I can't handle.

[@grumpyguy1231]

thanks for the video. We just spent a week there on the life style tour and loved it. I have talked to the wife about this for a few years and we finally made it down. Wish we could do the 3 month thing but she still works so thats out but we will be back next year to look around now that we have a better idea of the place. Do you mind telling me which community you live in as we stayed in the Wildwood area. We met alot of nice folks that are residences year round and did not find one person that didn't like the place. Thanks again

[@sonofmabarker]

Rj Happy I live in the Village of Piedmont. We like this area very much. The Villages I also like are Polo Ridge, Tall Trees and Santo Domingo.

[@lauralampe1664]

The first time I rented in The Villages, I rented in the Village of Chatham, near Nancy Lopez. Very nice area. That is where I drove a golf cart (gas cart) for the first time. If I was buying in The Villages now, I would get an electric cart, but I know gas carts vs. electric carts are a subject of much debate. The gas carts I have driven have all been quite noisy, but I have never driven a newer gas cart; I have heard the newer gas carts are quieter.

[@sonofmabarker]

Marco Deo Loud music would be a problem.

[@jroo8323]

Sounds like hell on earth

[@sonofmabarker]

Yes, with now over 85 pools, 50 recreation centers and 700 holes of golf it is hell for those who choose to stay at home and look out their window all day.

[@jroo8323]

Truman show

[@clairemarie8771]

J Roo some of these comments make me laugh?

[@harrisond8132]

@@jroo8323 More like Cocoon.

[@tominator3]

I enjoy watching your videos on The Villages... which is a bit odd because I'm 36! Maybe one day I'll find myself there...who knows

[@celticfire9881]

At 03:55 what section are these Villas in?

[@sonofmabarker]

There are many areas that look like this in The Villages. This is in the Glenbrook.

[@celticfire9881]

@@sonofmabarker Thank You 👍🏻

[@meyonekoh7897]

How about hurricane there? Any homes been destroyed?

[@sonofmabarker]

We’re inland from each coast. The big worry is tornadoes spun off from hurricane activity. Many people who live on the coast come here during a hurricane evacuation.

[@MrJaysVentVideos]

OK as before loaded with important information..what is the fee for rental of a smaller vacation, cottage home for the 3 months? Will be visiting a friend who lives there, would like to see as much of the 3 or 4 town squares as possible, how do you recommend we do that? Will be coming in to Brownwood first. Thanks for all your information.

[@lauralampe1664]

Go onto Google and type "rental homes in The Villages, Florida." There is a web site that has 100's of homes in The Villages for rent, www.villagershomes4rent.com. Also try vrbo.com and thevillageshpm.com Rentals in January, February and March (the snowbird season) are the most expensive; even a small home during snowbird season would probably be at least $2,000 per month. From May through October the rentals are much cheaper. Good luck finding a rental. Love The Villages, wish I could move there tomorrow.

[@trader4300]

if you want to rent in the winter for 3 months, plan on about 10K. I know, it is a lot. We are doing it now. Word of caution, try to talk with previous renters. It is hard to tell from photos what things are like. Examples: old and outdated furniture, barking dogs, rude neighbors, traffic, etc.. Not that these conditions exist in every community, but it is something you might want to consider before laying down 10 grand like we did to find out that the furniture had never been upgraded for 15 years. Oh well, live and learn.

[@06261940]

Very well explained

[@carolynpicken6949]

I have lived for 15 years, on a golf course.....never kept awake by lawn mowers, not sure where you got your info but most of it is not true. Every room came with a fan.....all areas have snowbirds, people come and go. Massey May be popular, it trust me not the best. This was a real downer, never had all these so called problems.

[@muskietime]

Carolyn Picken So, because you have not been awaken by a lawn mower, had fans in every room in your house and whatever the heck else, it is all “not true”? Humm...... Now, you said Massey is not the best. You should have actually added value by saying WHO YOU THINK IS THE BEST. Otherwise you just appear an ignorant fool. Thank you and be well.

[@lou-annekorolischuk8450]

Is there a car rental in The Village?

[@sonofmabarker]

Yes, there is a Hertz in Spanish Springs.

[@lamzydivey]

Are the two of you sales people for the villages?

[@paulalantz1963]

lamzydivey This is an area he doesn’t explain very well. THE VILLAGES has their own sales team, who are ALWAYS promoting their new homes, and some preexistimg properties. These sales people are not necessarily licensed realtors...but all of your paperwork will be properly done by their legal team. No outside Realtor is allowed to show properties listed by The Villages. At the same time, all of the major realty firms are also working in the area and have a huge inventory of pre existing homes. You ARE working with a realtor, and if there is an impasse with a seller they have their usual negotiating tools. The Villages sales people will not show you any of these homes. We found it necessary to work with two realtors to see all of the available inventory. The population in 2020 is 125,000 . People are buying and selling all the time. His advice to rent for three months is THE BEST.

[@panthersfan6073]

Your comment about cussing near a golf course is 100% accurate!

[@bernieleclerc9100]

What’s the big deal?

[@njpete987]

Regardless of your age, I don't get why anyone would want to live in a place where everyone is old.

[@1946pepper]

Everyone is NOT old is the Villages they have areas with children and the average age is middle 60's .. You have some erroneous information

[@3vimages471]

What are snowbirds?

[@sonofmabarker]

People who only rent or live here in the winter.

[@cherylgoodman3753]

What is a lifestyle visit?

[@sonofmabarker]

The Villages has courtyard villas they use to rent out to prospective buyers. They are very nice and currently located in the Brownwood area. In season they are $195 a night. And $99 during the off season. They come with two bikes and a golf cart.