Are Airbnbs Ruining The Villages? What You Need to Know Before Moving in 2025!

[@marklee8986]

I lived in the Villages for 18 years. With prices continuing to go up and losing my husband it made it very financially difficult to continue to live in the Villages. So I made the decision to relocate to Stonecrest. Because the housing is cheaper and you get more house for the money It's working out for me. Also because of Florida's Save your home program my property taxes greatly decreased. Now at least I can keep up with escalating bills.

[@JohnHoganN8]

Totally understand that, glad it is working out for you. 👍🏻

[@Explore55Plus]

It’s great to hear that relocating to Stonecrest has been the right decision for you! Wishing you all the best in your new home!

[@marklee8986]

@@Explore55Plus kind regards. I know Stonecrest isn't fancy but I do more here than I did in the Villages. And their gym is great. I'd invite you to explore Stonecrest I think you would be very surprised what you can get and do for your money here and still have access to the Villages via car or golf cart.

[@oldlady12345]

I agree. I looked into living there but just too expensive!

[@arnovan2010]

Most full timers here are not fans of the daily AirBNBs. I think most are ok with the folks that come for 2 or 3 months but the daily renters they should outlaw them.

[@Explore55Plus]

Hi there! We hear this a lot-there’s definitely a difference between long-term seasonal visitors and daily rentals. Finding the right balance is key to keeping the sense of community strong.

[@MS28227]

Agree with Justin. We’ve decided not to purchase after talking directly with people that purchased a new home and the bulk of their neighbors are AirBNB’s.

[@Explore55Plus]

That’s completely understandable. The rentals can be a dealbreaker. It’s great that you’ve done your research. We hope you find (or have found) the perfect community for you!🌞

[@reneepagano2631]

Same here

[@juliephares2818]

We have visited a few times using Air B & B, and we love it! Every time we visited, it was never loud! It has given us a chance to learn about the community, and that is why we want to move there!

[@Explore55Plus]

That’s wonderful to hear! It's a great way to get a feel for a community before making a big move. We’re glad you’ve had such positive experiences!

[@buffycat4641]

If The Villages actually cared about their residents they would have had restrictions in place a long time ago. I lived in a beautiful HOA run townhome community in the very Northern end of Hillsborough County in FL and our by-laws required all buyers to own their property for a minimum of 2 years before they were allowed to rent. And then, a minimum amount of time for each rental.

[@tamieemmer2795]

I just bought a new build yesterday in Moultrie Creek, I'm so excited to make the move!

[@rea8755]

Congratulations. Now get out there and play, play, play❤❤❤

[@JohnHoganN8]

Congrats!

[@Explore55Plus]

Congratulations on your new home! Wishing you all the best as you make the move and settle into your new place! 🎉🏡

[@oldlady12345]

I hate to see what you paid!

[@plumber802]

Welcome to the neighborhood! We live on Cadorette Drive in Moultrie Creek.

[@REL3712]

We live in an area in SC (Summerville) which is becoming one the halfbacks come once they decide FL is too damn hot. Well, I was born and raised in FL and it's just as hot here. At any rate, it's getting crowded and as is in SC, infrastucture (roads!!!) just can't handle the influx. Very annoying for us who knew what it used to be and very aggravating for everyone including newbees who move here. We're strongly considering moving after purchasing in a Del Webb here 8 yrs ago. If we do, it WON'T be to another master development OR 55+. We love high standards but not the misery of the controlling factors in said developments. To each their own. 👍

[@Explore55Plus]

It sounds like you’ve seen a lot of changes over the years. We totally understand the frustration with overcrowding and infrastructure issues. It’s great that you’re considering all your options. To each their own, indeed! 👍

[@plumber802]

Wow. This is so ironic. We were actually considering moving to a Del Webb community in Summerville SC before we bought our home in The Villages. One of the reasons we decided not to was because of the traffic situation and crowds due to the fact that Summerville has gotten so popular. We love our community (Moultrie Creek) in The Villages.

[@familythread]

There have ALWAYS been rentals in TV. There are other rentals there besides AirBNB. The renters are not causing a shortage with the amenities. The growth south of 44 has caused lines for amenities. It will eventually all catch up.

[@Explore55Plus]

You’re absolutely right-rentals have always been part of The Villages, and the real challenge is keeping up with the growth in certain areas. We’re always impressed with how The Villages evolves, like adding new town squares and amenities to accommodate the growth. We love to see it! 😊

[@kathyalber9720]

Agree with Justin! We have been , stayed , loved but when we came back were shocked at how big it had gotten Starting to look at other 55 and overs- we will be contacting you guys!!!! And we HATE the air b n b issue!!!!!!!

[@Explore55Plus]

We hear you! The growth can be surprising. It's all happening so quickly!! It’s great that you’re exploring other options. We’d love to help you find the perfect fit-just reach out when you’re ready! 😊

[@familythread]

​@@Explore55Plusare you a Realtor?

[@reneepagano2631]

Same! Hate the rental policies.

[@paulkersey2179]

My friend Gator was living in a 55+ community and his old broad neighbor lady drove him to move. When he would have his lady friends in his jacuzzi enjoying the evening he could see her with binoculars (and this was from 50' away. Then one time by accident he was backing his boat/ trailer into the driveway and ran over her flowers, she came out instantanesly screaming obscenity's that made my friend blush. He also caught her looking in his bedroom and kitchen windows when he was entertaining.

[@centralscrutinizer7374]

She lived across from the Steven’s?

[@jamiescott260]

you should try the sawgrass area i think your in Lake sumpter area which is built in the 2006 time frame . I think you might hear from more people that don't appreciate the air b n b which to me is different than a snowbird or a monthly rental .

[@scottmillering600]

I have an airbnb in The Villages with lots of reviews and have never had a party or a disrespectful tenant. Everyone is older and checking out The Villages. Many have bought homes while here. The rumors are absolutely false .

[@Explore55Plus]

Thanks for sharing your experience! It’s great to hear your Airbnb has attracted such wonderful guests, and it’s even better that many have gone on to become new homeowners in The Villages.😊

[@dianeomans3743]

Bought a villa in TV five years ago. We are seasonal residents and do not rent it out while we are away. The seven homes closest to mine are all still original owners and all full time residents. Over the years a bunch of houses in our neighborhood are now rentals but only a couple of those do short rentals. Most of the rentals are either minimum one month or one year lease. One friend started coming to the villages every year around the time she turned 50; started with one week rentals and worked up to month long rentals before purchasing in the fall of 2019. During the high season TV, like much of Florida, becomes more crowded. Full time and seasonal residents are in town, we have family and friends visiting us, and the homes for rent are usually filled. The demand for exercise classes and golf courses are over capacity during the season which is quite annoying for full time residents who enjoy when there is lower demand during the off and shoulder seasons. FYI: the sports pools which are used for the various exercise programs are restricted to only Villages residents (Villages photo ID card which gets scanned upon entry).

[@goofygirl1311]

Thanks for clearing this up. After a couple of visits, The Villages is on our short list of places we would like to retire to. We met so many nice people while we were there and the neighborhood that we were in was primarily people there on their Lifestyle visits and it was very quiet, at least when we were there.

[@joemancurreri6635]

We have friends who moved to TV from coastal NJ.. we live on the beach in Amelia Island Fl. It is cheaper to buy in TV than anywhere on one of the coasts. The houses that are selling for $450,000 in TV would be over 1 million here on the Island. Taxes are also much lower in central Florida as well.

[@goofygirl1311]

@@joemancurreri6635 I have to say that the coastal areas are a bit too pricey for us. But The Villages would put us within a fairly reasonable drive of some very nice beaches - that works for us.

[@JohnHoganN8]

Don’t be put off by naysayers, TV is a fabulous place. That devastating hurricane damage to coastal towns and adjacent towns put us off being by the sea in FL.

[@diosprotege9328]

LUFAS😂😂😂

[@Explore55Plus]

So glad we could help! It’s wonderful to hear that you had such a positive experience and that The Villages is on your short list. Meeting friendly neighbors can make all the difference! 😊

[@tsteur]

With this issue, and Solivita having ways to have rentals..could you do a video on the communities that allow this? I thought about Solivita, but this would be a deal breaker for me

[@Explore55Plus]

That’s a great suggestion! We’ll consider it. Most 55+ communities don’t allow short-term rentals, but it’s always good to be aware of the ones that do if that's a dealbreaker for you.

[@zamman6988]

Devil's advocate... With the limited amount of lifestyle visits that the villages supplies the air bnb's are the best way to visit. We just utilized one to come out from California. We are 3-4 years away from retirement would prefer to experience places before deciding on a cross country move based on on or two short visits. The Air bnb provides that opportunity to visit multiple times and at different times of the year to experience all of the different weather conditions of the region. Another thought/question.. Are the Air bnb's worse than snowbirds, where a house might sit vacant for 5-6 months out of the year?

[@juliephares2818]

I agree 100%!

[@Explore55Plus]

That's definitely a great point! Airbnbs can be super valuable for exploring a community before making a big move. Comparing it to snowbirds-both have their pros and cons, of course. The consensus we’ve heard is that snowbirds tend to stay for longer periods of time, offering a bit more stability. We’ve also met "summerbirds"-people who visit during the off-season and rent the same homes the snowbirds use during the busy season.

[@lauralampe1664]

I also agree with you 100%. I have done several short term rentals and Airbnb's in The Villages in the past few years, the most recent being for 8 days in July. That has let me see which areas of The Villages I would like to purchase in. I am now at 8 months from retiring. I hope to be living in The Villages by July or August, 2025. My preferred area is north of Lake Sumter Landing.

[@Tireof]

Thanks for the video. I was planning to buy a house there in 2025, but this don't look good.

[@Explore55Plus]

We totally understand-it’s important to find the right fit for you! If you have any questions or want more info about other communities, we’re happy to help explore options. 😊

[@auroranite]

As potential buyer I don’t care if AirBnB rentals are around me. I’m there for warm weather, clubs, golfing,driving to visit other parts of state. We’ve stayed at 2 in TV’s and its been great. Quiet, friendly, no issues. As for taking classes, its always been bz in season, not due to AirBnB’s. You Have to pay for the Guestpass as renter to take classes. We never do, we cruise with golf cart, go to squares for music. All good.

[@Explore55Plus]

It’s great to hear that you’ve had positive experiences! Enjoy these warm Florida days! 🌞

[@mamaburr2963]

We live in the villages full time. I can't stand air B B...They rent it out for a few days, and you always have different neighbors.

[@chickadee5607]

That's incorrect... actually YES... you CAN do a "stay & play" in the villages.. it's called a lifestyle visit . You get a house.. golf car... show tickets etc etc.... you can stay 3 to 7 days and try the lifestyle. Some people do it... staying in different villages areas more than 1 or 2x before deciding where to buy.

[@TheShoopdaddy]

I’ve lived in TV now for a year. I’m also 49 which hasn’t been an issue because TV follows the Florida 80/20 rule. I love it here. The AirBNb thing depends all where you live. There is an ABb down the street the owner is cool and is very particular on who she rents to so that’s a good thing. My friend lives next door and hasn’t had any complaints about the renters that come and go. Also the owner lives in another location in TV. This place like any is what you make of it. If you want to be out and about do that if you want to stay home do that. People will complain just to complain and to be noticed that they matter.

[@Explore55Plus]

Thanks for sharing your experience! It’s great to hear how much you’re enjoying The Villages. You’re absolutely right-every community is what you make of it, and it sounds like you’ve found your perfect balance.

[@joe51av]

As long as they add amenities to accommodate the growth, there is no issue. The Villages has never been known for being small and quaint, so growth is a part of its fabric.

[@JohnHoganN8]

100% 👍🏻

[@Explore55Plus]

Absolutely! Growth is part of what makes The Villages exciting and ever-evolving. As long as the amenities keep pace, it can continue to be a great place to live.

[@familythread]

​​@@Explore55Plusthe amenities always follow after the developers build the homes. Look how long Brownwood square has been here then go over to 466A and you will see, businesses have only been there I'm going to say 3 years maybe. Aldi, Lowe's, Winn-Dixie, longer. If you go down to Eastport which will be the actual 4th Town Square, you will see they are building amenities. Many amenities are not located anywhere else in the Villages. The reason there's a wait list for golf and it's hard to get into other things is because they need to finish the golf courses and rec centers down at the South end south of 44. I think it's funny everybody's attributing the shortage to Airbnb. With increased housing comes increased guests of residents and they are utilizing the amenities. People renting are just taking the place that the people who own the property could be utilizing. The guests are what is causing the lines and the population growth but that will go away as they continue to develop the amenities which go look around. They are building a city it looks like at Eastport.

[@JohnHoganN8]

We rent in TV when we visit, there is a site where Villagers rent their homes (not AirBnB or VRBO). We are over-55 and respect the community. Not all rentals or renters are a problem but I can understand what it would be like if all my neighbours homes were rentals and they weren’t managed diligently.

[@Explore55Plus]

Respect is key! And you’re right-the way the properties are managed can make all the difference.

[@susieinthesouth1931]

Justin's perspective is on-point. We have backed away from considering TV.

[@kathyalber9720]

Agree!!!!!

[@Explore55Plus]

We’re glad Justin’s perspective was helpful! It’s important to find the right community that fits your needs!

[@lisa5451]

I love the villages and the selection of amenities. I don't feel like TV is too big. You have the choice of going to restaurants and using the amenities in the area you live in or you can venture out further in your golf cart or car. There's lots of options if you want it.

[@JohnHoganN8]

Exactly! Choices right?

[@Explore55Plus]

We love to hear you’re enjoying The Villages and all the options it offers! The variety of amenities and flexibility to explore different areas really makes it a special place. 😊

[@wdwillson]

You’re right, its bigger! with more to to offer and all the things that were within golf car range are still in golf car range. If its too far away the things that weren’t still aren’t.

[@paulaerwin712]

You can drive your golf cart EVERYWHERE! Bought a new golf cart 8 months ago and have 2400 miles on it. Automobiles not required

[@Explore55Plus]

That’s one of the best parts of living in The Villages and golf cart communities in general! It’s amazing how much ground you can cover in a golf cart-sounds like you’re getting great use out of yours!🚙

[@myk55501]

Hey, what are the news reports said that Airbnb was was in financial troubles it was closed going bankrupt I don't know I saw it on the news I can't remember which one it was but yeah they financial trouble. If I can find a news article I'll post the link on there

[@Explore55Plus]

Don't think we've heard much about that yet! If you find the article, we’d love to check it out.

[@amyirle371]

Love Kalyn She's the Best!!! (There are lots of other Amazing communities outside the Villages!!!)😁

[@midfloridarealestate9847]

❤❤

[@Explore55Plus]

Kalyn is awesome, isn’t she? And you’re right-there are so many amazing communities beyond The Villages. We love helping folks explore all their options! 😁

[@sharonmenzel7791]

You can still do things about it having an Airbnb, there are rules where ever you live, ex you can’t play loud music past a certain time at night, or fireworks on non 4 th of July days till a certain time, if the villages has rules then the Airbnb has to follow also. The people renting them out should hand hem these rules,

[@DebbieKraft-w4s]

The Villages also offers short term rentals, and they compete with Airbnb, VRBO and others. They are not conscientious about who they rent to. One of their renters destroyed my neighbours bedroom, and The Villages exclusive cleaning service did not clean it up. All they said, was, sorry we weren’t able to clean everything. I find Air BNB hosts are people that care greatly about their home and want to make sure that their guests take care of it . Many of them are on premises and rent a room. It’s the big commercial investors that never even visit the property that are buying up real estate.

[@Explore55Plus]

That’s really frustrating to hear about your neighbor’s experience. It sounds like you’ve seen the difference between hands-on Airbnb hosts and big commercial investors. Most of the concern we've been hearing about is regarding the big commercial investors-having someone who truly cares about the property can make all the difference.

[@tonyru303]

I'm going to use an air bob to look at the neighborhoods before I buy.

[@Explore55Plus]

Great idea! You can also do a Stay-and-Play in The Villages-another awesome way to get a full feel for the community! 😊

[@markmiller3145]

Health care issues (availability) and rental issues have caused us to not purchase in TV.

[@lauralampe1664]

Of all the The Villages' residents interviewed on camera, no one said they hated The Villages and are ready to sell. The residents interviewed on camera seem pretty happy or very happy living in The Villages.

[@Explore55Plus]

That’s what we loved about filming this video! Anytime we visit The Villages, a huge majority of the people we talk to are happy and love the community.😊

[@wdwillson]

Where? is better?

[@JR_SupportOurHeroes]

Hey how are you all doing? I moved from Maryland to Lafayette Louisiana in March. I bought a 4 bedroom 2 full bathroom 1800 square feet house 2 car garage built in 2016:all brick 1 floor living natural gas no HOA 1/2 acre 305k. Work 100% remote Lafayette has tons to do friendly people incredible festivals incredible food very welcoming nice respectful people 👍😎👍

[@Explore55Plus]

Wow, it sounds like you’ve found a fantastic spot in Lafayette! All that space and no HOA-that’s hard to beat! It’s great to hear you’re loving the community and enjoying all those incredible festivals and food! 😎👍

[@chrisdunigan3718]

Wow! Watching this video made me nauseous. They must have had the wide angle going and no stabilizer.

[@Explore55Plus]

Sorry about that! We appreciate the feedback and will try out best to keep things steady in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@julieanzalone8817]

Keep commenting Justin, I enjoy hearing your opinions!

[@Explore55Plus]

Thanks for the support! We love hearing from Justin too-he always has great insights to share! 😊

[@joemancurreri6635]

Airbnb are destroying Neighborhoods. And BTW: all these huge Florida developments are "in land Florida" 2 hours from any beach. We live on Amelia Island Florida, We are on the beach every day, even just for walks.. There is always a breeze here. What is the point of living in Florida and roasting inland?

[@JohnHoganN8]

I guess you missed the hurricanes up to this point (I am glad for you). You would understand why being c90 minutes from the beach is preferable if your coastal neighbourhood had been devastated.

[@Explore55Plus]

Coastal living definitely has its perks! We can see why you love Amelia Island-it's gorgeous! Inland communities offer different benefits, like more affordable housing and diverse amenities, but the beach breeze is hard to beat. It all comes down to personal preference!

[@boniw698]

I’m 74 and lived in Florida for 10 years. I never ever ever wanted to live or even go to the Villages. Maybe 1980’s. Like Disney. After 1990’s it was ruined.

[@familythread]

Can you introduce yourselves? Are either of you residents? Are you Realtors?

[@DebbieKraft-w4s]

Good question. What is your motive for doing this commentary? Will you identify yourself please?

[@Explore55Plus]

Great question! We’re not residents. We’re Explore55Plus, a team of both agents and non-agents with a passion for providing information, education and helping people find their ideal 55+ community.😊

[@familythread]

​@@Explore55Plusthanks for answering. I haven't watched any other of your videos but I live in this area (but not TV) and I can tell you, there are a handful of people upset about Airbnb's. The developer this week purchase more land to add 22,000 more homes to Middletown so there must be a market for under 55 in TV as well. I do believe this particular video does not accurately represent the situation here. I just hope they keep building toward Claremont. I heard they bought all the way down to 50. I don't know if that's true or not.

[@familythread]

​@@Explore55Plusthanks for the disclosures.

[@dakawans83]

AIrBNB are probably adding to the lack of homes for purchase. Along with all the other issues, building restrictions, permitting, illegal immigration.

[@buffycat4641]

Illegal immigrants? They couldn't afford a home in the Villages or an AIBNB. NOT!

[@tracymorgan5386]

What illegal immigrates are renting homes in the villages or any 55 plus community.

[@ZACTY-hm8nl]

Just because it grew, if you were used to just a couple town squares but now there are more and you need to drive a car, just keep doing the one's you have always done. No one is making you go to visit them all.

[@JohnHoganN8]

100% 👍🏻 If it wasn’t TV it would just be another developer anyway so I never understood this “size” argument.

[@Explore55Plus]

Absolutely! There’s no need to explore every corner if you’re happy with what you’ve got. The beauty of The Villages is that you can enjoy as much or as little as you like! 🚗🏡

[@Harold-u8c]

No problem, we did our own visit to TV using AirBNB.Asking a person who is part of the making of this if they would live here is redundant. This video is designed to put down TV.

[@JohnHoganN8]

Yes, seen it when people have chosen a different community and are interviewed. They could not avoid a snarky comment like TV is for “Jocks and Cheerleaders”. Unnecessarily rude.

[@Explore55Plus]

We’re glad you had the chance to visit and experience The Villages firsthand! Our goal is to provide balanced information so everyone can make the best decision for themselves. We appreciate you sharing your perspective!

[@familythread]

​@@Explore55Plusthis viewer apparently picked up on what I did. A negative tone or attitude towards The Villages. @user-di6kx8ns1y he does not look old enough to live here. I asked if they would identify themselves (see my comment), no reply back. This video came up in my feed. It's ridiculous to try to compare TV to any other retirement community. It's apples to oranges. There have always been rentals here. The majority of people are owner/residents. AirBNB nor any rental is an issue here. I guess these days everyone is a digital creator.

[@christigallup2175]

The only thing is there are many people wanting to buy to live, the air b and b takes that away. I agree shouldn't be in 55 plus communities.

[@michaelsheedy]

A lot of equity funds are buying up homes and renting them out. I get emails everyday from these guys offering cash for my house.

[@jlt1160]

Thx!

[@Explore55Plus]

You’re welcome! 😊

[@wdwillson]

If it wasn’t allowed to have rentals you would still have people living in those homes but it would be ALL the time.

[@beingkitschroeder2507]

Air BNB has NOTHING to do with price increases. Prices have increased everywhere. One thing that I've noticed recently is that there's a lot more negotiation with housing prices in The Villages, compared to my market area. Logging out, because this video seems to be anti The Villages.

[@Explore55Plus]

Hi @beingkitschroeder2507! We’re definitely not anti-Villages! Our goal was to explore different factors that can influence costs in communities. If you watch the video a bit further in, we speak to many people who absolutely LOVE The Villages and have nothing but wonderful things to say about living there and we love to hear it! 😊

[@jasperstromy2778]

Lol I assume an AirBnB is not an issue if your neighborhood has none. I wonder what these people's opinion would be if they had a couple AirBnBs next door and late night partying was frequent

[@reneepagano2631]

That’s the main reason why I am looking elsewhere!

[@reneepagano2631]

Same here

[@Flotus1_descendent]

I think the host of the channel is super handsome just saying 😆

[@christinammg]

Love Kalyn in videos - Explore has so many talented agents and we were lucky enough to connect with Kalyn! She knows her communities AND wants to know YOU to find the fit that’s best for you! Whoop, whoop seeing Kalyn in videos! We haven’t crossed off TV completely but their lack of dealing with rentals as a problem, coupled with Justin’s comments, are part of why we keep thinking it may not be right. We want a home and a community. Keep these kinds of videos coming (with Justin, too)!

[@JohnHoganN8]

You mean “problem rentals”. Not all rentals are a problem and are well managed.

[@midfloridarealestate9847]

❤❤

[@Explore55Plus]

So glad you’ve had such a great experience with Kalyn-she’s fantastic at finding the perfect fit! We hear you on the concerns about rentals, and it’s great that you’re weighing all the factors. We’ll definitely keep the videos coming, and Justin will be right there with us! 😊

[@chickadee5607]

This isn't happening ALL OVER the villages! Not by any means and if it is then many people don't even feel it... this is more common in the southern sections newer homes etc ...i know people who have none in their neighborhood. Your video makes it look like it's a rampant problem. I know many who would disagree & we live here. It's hard for you guys to give this perspective if you don't live here

[@Explore55Plus]

We totally get where you’re coming from. In the video, we shared what we’ve been hearing and then gathered real feedback by interviewing actual homeowners. We appreciate your perspective and always aim to provide a balanced view! 😊

[@LauraSmith-z4p]

Thanks for the "on-the-ground" info about an important lifestyle issue. Too bad we can't turn back time to the "good old days"!

[@Explore55Plus]

You’re welcome! We totally get it-there’s something nostalgic about the "good old days." But we’re here to help navigate the present and find the best fit for your lifestyle. 😊

[@conniequick1463]

I don't think the people who made this video know how The Villages operates.

[@wandashields6764]

no way would I buy because of Airbnb

[@Explore55Plus]

We completely understand-short-term rentals can be a dealbreaker for some. It’s important to find a community that matches what you want in a community.

[@steveelps1677]

I wouldn't buy in the Villages or any community in Florida because of insurance.

[@Explore55Plus]

We completely understand-insurance can be a big concern and even a dealbreaker for many. Definitely important to weigh all the factors when choosing where to live.

[@bonesracin57]

Now Im on a mission. Im buying a house next to karen and throw keg partys till the birds chirp.

[@Attybt]

Air BNB are ruining The Villages. I know as I live next to one.

[@oldlady12345]

The Villages ruined the Villages. Just too expensive for the average person.