The Villages - OH NO! Did We Make A Mistake?

Roy & Karen offer up their "2 Month Review" of The Villages.
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[@vickyb5935]

This was an excellent episode - finally a perspective from non-retired people living in the villages - thanks!!!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@DCL26]

Very good insights to living in a community village in Florida. So glad you're both very happy with your choices and forever home. Thank you both for sharing some intimate details of your lives and how you came together and all the trials and tribulations of life and living together.

[@laurarahz12]

Loved this video, thanks for taking us along on this fun journey! And so interesting to hear the perspective of working people in TV, which is a reality and so neat to see. How many more years do you see yourself working?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you! Several factors play into that decision - time will tell.

[@carolapostolos8929]

I enjoyed hearing your experiences and opinions related to the Villages. We've been here for 6 months and love it.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@davidoverholt251]

So much love to hear all people tell us what they deal with!

[@drivingthegigeconomy6168]

Some great points that you've made here. We are 25 days away from our move to the Villages and are still both working as well so this video made us think. We are already planning out our work schedules (since we are self employed) so we can take advantage of other things we want to get in whether it be any clubs or just taking advantage of the pool during the hot summer afternoons. We may do a video after 2 months to see what we come up with as well. As the days tick away we are just getting more and more anxious to get there.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

25 days away - how exciting!

[@csylvester172]

I so want to come to the Villages in next 2-3 years. So hope it happens for us. Thanks for the information. Congrats on your recent home purchase. I hope it all you imagined it would be.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It already exceeds all of our expectations. Come for a visit. :)

[@jimv4236]

Congrats on moving to the Villages! We also plan to move there and continue to work for a while before retirement. You brought up some great points. Thanks

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Best of luck!

[@stanmusick4765]

Thanks! Welcome to The Villages, you did pick a nice location. The trees in Fenney is jaw dropping.

[@barbarahardy8498]

Welcome to THE FRIENDLIEST HOME TOWN IN AMERICA 🇺🇸 We're new subscribers lol and enjoy the videos❤... We live about an hour South and I'm always telling my husband I don't know why we don't just move there because we're in TV more than we're home😅... Fenny is probably our favorite area.. the natural beauty is amazing.. but I must admit I really do love the 466 area and all the shopping lol... Glad you are here and don't worry eventually you will be in the RETIRED COLUMN and everyday day will feel like vacation.. meanwhile enjoy ALL that TV has to offer.. God Bless

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you: :) Blessings.

[@heartlandrecords5552]

We moved here in Dec. 2021. Still learning our way around but we love it . I work from home also and we live near Spanish Springs, it a nice quit area. look forward to meeting you all sometime.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

You beat us here by a month. We love it up north by you, so beautiful. If you see us please say HI :)

[@dr.horaceedwardhallii8217]

Enjoyed your first presentation very much! You may be my new go to place for Villages videos. Smile.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Wow, thank you!

[@oceandreamer1958]

I have heard about Costco coming to Clermont. I can’t wait. We live in Hawkins and are very happy here. We moved here last June. Life is good in The Villages! My husband is working from home. He technically retired, but is working 2 days a week. It’s a good balance between work and play!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

That is awesome!

[@lenacummings1313]

Get a home inspection! There are lots of things you might not notice, especially because you are busy working. The inspection is well worth the cost and the villages warranty will make sure it is taken care of. The only negative is that most contractors are short handed, but make sure your repairs are addressed completely. God bless!

[@davidjeremiahmullins3548]

I agree with the home inspection.... However, our agent gave us a good idea... Get the home inspection at the 11 month mark as you'll find things along the way that you would not otherwise see. (look at me, I NEVER comment on anything and this is my 2nd time in this thread....OK I'm done)

[@janisclow617]

Love your videos! Fantastic people who make TV what it is!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you. You're so kind. :)

[@floweringplumb4678]

Hello, Thank you for sharing your experiences as a new resident of The Villages to video. I really enjoyed the video that showed your on the road traveling making the big move with U-Haul and your fur babies. Your videos are detailed and well done providing information that is fresh and your delivery is excellent. As a couple, the two of you compliment each other well and it comes thru positively. I became a subscriber and clicked the bell to be notified when you release a new video. The more information I can gather the better. Big moves can be expensive and rather costly without having done the research and your videos are my homework in researching what I need to be aware of. Discussing the good and not so appealing, shines a light on the reality of living in The Villages. Perhaps you could discuss with time, your experiences in The Villages being a pet owner as it relates to your neighbors and when taking your dogs out for walks. All the best in your new home and Villages lifestyle.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you :) We're blushing. Great ideas - stay tuned.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Answered in tonight's video :)

[@gordondonahue4810]

Thanks for the video. We live in the north east and have been considering the villages. It’s always nice to hear a different perspective. I would be interested in hearing your opinion on the medical care. Restaurants are a dime a dozen some hits most are misses where ever you live….

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Can't address medical care authoritatively. I have my first doctor appt in May - the doc I picked was highly reviewed, but we'll see. Karen feels the best hospital in the area is up in Ocala. Restaurants, I agree.

[@backthebadge4009]

We like Prima and Blue Fin in Brownwood for fine dining, and Cody’s is a good choice for a variety of food. I commute to Orlando….I hate the turnpike as well…..Banking is a non issue if you set up online banking….I get a couple a hundred dollars and it lasts me all month….they even have ATM’s where you can make deposits and get cash…..so not really getting that complaint, especially since you work from home, where you could break away for 30 minutes…..

[@flybirds2024]

I am in the same position, I am 61 and still working and see all the activities that take place during the weekdays and the banks also. I moved into Hammock at Fenney just over 2 months ago and now finally most of the construction is completed! But otherwise I am really enjoying living here and hope it continues forever lol.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Our weekends are filled with adventures. There's a Charity Golf Cart Poker Run this Saturday - if not we'd probably e-bike to someplace we've never been. Seems there's always a neighborhood get together too. Living the dream, Bob. :)

[@BeachBum8865]

Welcome to Fenney! I’ve been here for 4 years and love it. It only gets better as time passes. FYI a Costco is planned for Clermont about 25 minutes from your house. It’s also easier to get to shopping in Clermont than on 441.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for the tips!

[@blueeyesblueskiesahead1612]

So fun to listen to you guys! Agree driving golf carts is fun! I used to work at place where we drove golf carts to get around and I loved it.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

So fun to listen to you guys for $400 What is something your kids would never say to you?

[@davidoverholt251]

If you are a food loving person!, Imagine having a chef perform a dinner for 6 or 8 at each home in the Villages! I can imagine that we could have the dinner group again in the Villages, with a Chef Like Erin and a meal she performs! I just love the Lost Kitchen, and I feel you, all in the Villages will support the Lost Kitchen! I will send and email to Erin, just to see if she will share her love for food and family with you ,all! was thinking about the Lost Kitchen ? I love Erin on TV! I would think that you all down there would do a meal a month prepared at home!

[@busboy4]

Thank you so much for a great video. Hope to see you down there soon. Quick question, can you ride your bicycles on the “two pole“ paths in the villages? For instance the wide path along Fenney Way? Or are those walking/running only?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We do that all the time. We like to take the e-bikes along Fenney Way and over to Edna's on the Green - and then loop the Hogeye Path.

[@cynthiaamitrano8915]

Seems like the negatives are the inconveniences and missed opportunities because you are still working. You have all that to look forward to. As far as banks are concerned, check the schedule. Maybe they are open late one day per week. I’m glad this is a positive experience for you because it really is a wonderful place to live. I wish it was me, but I discovered The Villages just about 3 years ago and I’m now 72 years old. In fact, today, April 6th is my birthday. I’m watching your video before I start my day. I wish you every happiness in your new adventure.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Yes, the negatives are "inconveniences". All the positives are "lifestyle". Good tradeoff. :)

[@pauline4848]

Happy For You Both, Enjoy Your Beautiful New Home, Love TV👍

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@mb0314]

Yep, we all want a Costco and a Trader Joe’s. We were at Costco today, had new set of tires added, so we did a lot of shopping. Prices are going up, but miss it so much. They say they will have one closer to us in Clermont, not so close though. The rise in the price of gas now will make shopping north a little harder on the budget, but Sam’s Club is a necessity. I guess there is no perfect solution, just be happy to be living in a place we love alot .🙏🏻🏘🏝🌞😎

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Clermont? Every little bit helps.

[@njstan8188]

I don't get the Trader Joe's and Costco thing. I drove twice to Orlando, got home and said :what am I doing? In 8 yrs, that's it. 2 visits

[@stevensmith9974]

It is true that nowhere is 100% perfect, but you seem to have moved into an environment that you can evolve your last working years and your future retirement around in a way that suits you. Everyone has different approaches and ways of life, but the Villages seem to encourgage a sense of community that brings people from different States and backgounds together. We do not have anything to compare here in the UK (including the climate), so it is very interesting to listen to your thoughts on settling down to a new way of life. Long may it continue. Best of luck in your new home and look forward to more tales from your new lifestyle, hopefully with a few glimpses of what life outside your home in the Villages offers you.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for the kind words. We have lots of ideas for upcoming videos and I hope you will enjoy them. All the best :)

[@barbaraebner5889]

I agree that moving in new can make a big Neighnor difference. I don not live there but we would probably look at new first. May good luck and happiness move in with you.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks :)

[@joyfullylivinglife7114]

Planning our move in 2023-24. Your videos are so very helpful. Thanks!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Tim42586]

You will love it

[@sukmarip.733]

Thank you very much . Nice video. How far are you from Orlando?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you :) The Villages is one hour north of Orlando.

[@peterbartaczewicz260]

I agree with everything you've said. I am also still working. We just need to start the clubs & shazam

[@jenniferwilkins9880]

Great video going to visit margaritaville in September and was thinking a villages on the tail end after watching this video I will for sure

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lizzabbott]

1st time watching you guys. Wonderful ! I’m a life long non driver, so The Villages for me ? Nope. But I’m still interested in your experience there. I love Florida, have not been back in 22 years ( !!! ) and have fond memories there. Definitely want to return to visit, & maybe to live someday. Congrats on your new Home & Life !

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks for watching!

[@suzannewalker866]

Agree that good food is not offered here. Hope with all the new growth we start to seem some quality restaurants.🤞

[@SHIRLEYZAPORZON]

Great video guys !

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks so much!

[@peterbernard3068]

Good information. Thank you.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Gone_Flying]

I want a Costco as well, but I don't mind the drive. Once every two weeks we take a long day...have a nice meal...and swing by Costco on the way home.

[@cinnie2543]

So happy for you! I would love to come except for the lightning. You're from Texas, so probably you're used to it but where I live in Cali lightning it's much more rare.About moving into a brand new neighborhood, that was our situation here about 20 years ago and our neighbors are still some of our best friends. Ours isn't a retirement community, but there are a lot of retirees here.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We are originally from SoCal, Thousand Oaks and Santa Clarita. We only lived in Texas for 7 years. Lightning is awesome. Even our dogs are not afraid of it. ;)

[@cinnie2543]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond That's great. :)

[@vongtaynhanaikptt6066]

Wow super nice my friend like very good for friends and family

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you very much!

[@merrywalsh2809]

I would love the golf cart/biking/pool lifestyle.

[@dorothytallman2022]

Thank you for sharing. We are coming in July to purchase a home. QUESTION, did you check other areas such as Top of the World since you work in Ocala? What made you chose The Villages?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you - great topic for another video!

[@Lianne459]

I wish you happiness there. I have been there and would never consider it after visiting. Homes are too close together and there is no privacy. The restaurants and entertainment rolls up so early. If that is what you want, I hope you like adult day camp.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It's not for everyone. Thanks for watching :)

[@deborahknopf4146]

Roy and Karen, love your content. My question is about medical, how did you go about finding good health providers.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks so much :) Good question. Depends on your insurance. Assuming you're on Medicare - if you have an Advantage plan then I hear good things about Villages Health Care, but they don't take Medigap Plans. That is what we have, because we like to travel and want to be covered everywhere we go. We did a Google search and read the reviews. Some doctors offices never even returned our calls - probably a good thing - sounds like a doctor that does not know how to run things. The doctor Roy found answered his initial call and set up an appointment. It took about a month to get in and he was really happy with the way the visit went.

[@lauragb3677]

I have lived in Naples FL for 10 years, but my mom has been up at The Villages since 2015. It’s really grown on us, and it’s far less crowded. People are friendly, music at the squares is great fun, and traffic is light! We bought a house there to rent out, but I think in a few years, we will be there full time. I look forward to it.

[@marilynnreiter7221]

Really enjoyed this 👌

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Yay, thank you!

[@donate1sttt]

Thank you for the information. My son and family live in Florida. I'm in beautiful Southern Iowa. It's nice to see the perspective of moving later in life. I've watched 2 of your videos now. Looks good. I need to look where the location of Florida villages are. 301???? He's in Boca. I live next to a train track, I'm use to it. I 35 sounds scary, don't like interstate driving. Thanks again

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

301 is a smaller State Road as compared to the Turnpike. The Villages is located an hour north of Orlando and roughly 2 hours from each coast. This video was pretty early in our video making - hopefully you'll like how we progressed as time went on.

[@donate1sttt]

Thank u for your quick response. I'll b heading from Iowa to BocaRaton in October. Hope it's cooler then

[@njstan8188]

Lots of neighborhood activities is good in beginning, after a while you find your lives are so busy with other people, neighborhood events once a month or two is fine.

[@lyndaseringa7929]

Loved this video! Just wondering if it was hard for you to move and be far away from kids and or elderly parents.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Yes it was! Not at all. Both. Good idea for another video.

[@kevinjacques5837]

You guys are great, we bought a house in 2018 and sold it in 2021, in the village of Desoto, we will be moving to the villages in october of 2024 or sooner. Have you tried ROBERTOS restarant in Pinellas plaza, also Piesano;s. you are correct, food is soso

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We're on an extremely low-carb diet - we each have lost 35 pounds in the past 4 months - so no Italian food for us :(

[@sherrycampbell9196]

Loved your reviews...

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks!

[@veronicaalvarez9777]

Love my Cooper fix! Miss y'all very much❤

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Awww - Love you guys!!!!

[@RJnSD]

Hi Roy & Karen. Watched this video and funny that you brought up two reasons why I have been so hesitate to move to The Villages: Costco and Trader Joe's. With Costco and Trader Joe's being an hours drive away from The Villages, you'd think one or both companies would build a store in or near The Villages. I feel the population size of The Villages and surrounding areas would support either or both companies. Decisions, decisions, what to do. 😉

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Life is all about priorities. I can understand Costco, they do a lot of commercial business and there is none here, but Trader Joe's?

[@RJnSD]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond I agree! 😊

[@Joy-mh9xq]

As well as provide good employment to the folks that live around The Villages.

[@ZXX984]

Thanks for sharing. My family and I live in Sebastian and are happy there. However, I did hear some negative on The Villages regarding a lot of alcohol consumption at parties and people being inebriated. Also, it’s a competition on who has the best golf cart and the best lawn/landscaping.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We don't find any of that to be true. I see people gathering to get to know each other and enjoying the freedom of an open air golf cart to get around.

[@oceandreamer1958]

I don’t find any of that to be true.

[@staciemeyer9649]

Where in Sebastian do you live? I moved to Sebastian in December 2020. I'm currently renting a home near Sebastian boulevard and 510.

[@ZXX984]

@@staciemeyer9649 I live about 2 miles from Cumberland Farms off Schuman Drive.

[@ZXX984]

@@oceandreamer1958 it’s just something that came up in conversation with someone who hasn’t even been to the Villages. I drove through there once and it’s nice, but houses are too close for us plus I like my stuff outside, camper, and 4 cars. I watch Jerry and Linda. Enjoy them.

[@amyvaughan5236]

OMG! That is #1 on my list. Trader Joe’s as our doggies need their chicken breast treats. I sent TJ an email to please consider adding a location in TV as I will miss TJ the most.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We went to TJ's in Gainesville this past weekend - less hassle than going south to Orlando.

[@mariasetticase3171]

I think you need to try more resturants because there are really good ones, Red Sauce in sumter square, Codys, Francescos on 441, Sakura on 441

[@danacaro-herman3530]

@Retirement and Beyond. Hi Roy and Karen, how many more years until you both retire, if you don't mind me asking? Thank you, you two are such a lovely couple, God bless🙏

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

If we hit the Powerball could be this week! :)

[@DisMindy5767]

I was curious how close the Costco would be. We belong to both Costco and Sam's right now. We've visited The Villages twice so far. We came to check it out when my cousin bought there in August 2020. We loved it so much . However, I have to differ about the food. We've loved every single restaurant we tried. Have you retired Too Jay's? I think we went to the one in Lake Sumter landing. As close to a New York deli we've been to in the south.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Costco is an hour south - Sam's is 30 minutes north. It's not that we haven't found some good places to eat - it's just that there's a lot of meh places. We enjoy going to the country clubs - Nancy Lopez was the best meal we've had here so far - we enjoy Evans Prairie too - what a great view. Our salesrep took us to Too Jays twice for breakfast - was good.

[@ll-qq9qr]

Hi, love your channel. How many pets are allowed by the HOA? We have 5 cats

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

2 are allowed, so if you bring 3 when one passes you can't replace. That said, they are not going to check. hint hint wink wink The Villages works on the "complaint system" so as long as no one complains they won't do anything - but if a neighbor complains they will make you reduce to 2 pets.

[@susansalvucci4281]

It’s good to hear how well you’ve settled in. I agree that a new neighborhood puts everyone on even footing and welcoming to each other. I have been interested in The Villages but our children and grands are here in Maryland. My other hesitation is that, from what I understand, the majority of Villagers are of the opposite political standing from me. Do you see many Tr*** flags or rallies? That’s a deal breaker for me. Thanks for sharing your new journey. Keep enjoying yourselves! 💙

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Susan, no matter where you go there will be grumps, complainers or folks that concentrate on the minutia instead of the big picture. So, yes, there are "Trumpers" and "Bideners" that make their positions known. That being said, we have found that most people here are happy to be here, they smile all the time, and have more important things on their minds than the politics of the day. There is a lot to do in The Villages - most people have no time to be negative.

[@dianeomans3743]

Susan, fellow Marylander and seasonal Villages resident (new house) since 2019. 2020 saw a lot of signage and political activism not only in the Villages but in the surrounding communities. Nowadays, most folks are now more interested in enjoying their retirement and the numerous clubs and activities available to us. Hubby and I travel from Maryland to Florida and back quite frequently, spending all of the winter holidays in Maryland to be with the kids. We usually travel back and forth by car but flying is easy to do for a quick trip.

[@55chevytruck]

PLEASE do not come here. We are doing fine in FL. and do not want lefty loons like you turning our state into the very reasons you left! TRUMP 2024!

[@susansalvucci4281]

@@dianeomans3743 That sounds ideal. I’m working on getting my husband to consider being a possible snowbird and have the best of both worlds. You’re doing it right!

[@oceandreamer1958]

In our experience in The Villages, politics isn’t really discussed. We have found that people are more interested in having fun and just enjoying life. I understand the part about leaving children and grandchildren. I thought I would have a harder time once here. But, all 3 of our kids were here in the first 2 months of us arriving and they continue to make plans to visit. We plan to visit them soon too. Our daughter and family lived in our neighborhood. We are very close. I cried for a long time traveling here. But, our grandchildren are getting older, and have a busy life. We needed to enjoy our retirement years and we don’t regret it at all, surprisingly! It took me years to finally agree to move. I’m glad that I relented!

[@thomasmargolis6057]

From the videos, there are the good/bad. One noted the same problems for issues with the housing construction issues. A notion of the repairs, warranty and such. There is the hoa and restrictions, and the cost and expenses. One video went to the closeness of the places, and the simple problems that people bring, gossip and such. And the matter of the fees, including amenities, plus. These are the words from others, Your thougts.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We had a big yard and problem neighbors, in the past. Now we have a neighbors very close, but they are so nice. Warranty people are awesome. All problems handled with a smile. We don't find the costs here, when you take everything into consideration, to be higher than what we paid before we moved here. Might be a little more or a little less - only been here two months.

[@hotjobkt8268]

Loving the channel, keep the videos coming. Hope to be down soon.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thank you! You will enjoy yourself. :)

[@lenacummings1313]

Welcome to The Villages!

[@sarachase6745]

I agree about the food in the Villages, I love the Legacy Restaurant!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

After two years we've found some good ones. Prima and Harvest are just two of them

[@catherinekirchgessner228]

I love Costco too. Please share your Trader Joe soaps. I too also work remote and we are looking to move in the area soon. Good to know information.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Trader Joe's "Nourish" All in one Facial Cleanser.

[@Carol-cd4my]

Good video!

[@deedeew4040]

I am a Costco fan. I live 40 to 45 minutes away, 22 miles. I also buy dog treats at Trader Joe's.

[@karenwinkler3069]

I work in mortgage, been remote five years. Perhaps Karen that works in Ocla, can ask her employer to work remotely - it's the way of the future.

[@essanjay8604]

It's not quite the same in the UK - most of the retirement developments are just a single apartment block with a few extra facilities and are a far cry from your "villages" but I do still wonder what would be the right time to move in. One of a couple has to be 60 the other at least 55. However from what I observe the actual age of most residents appears to be 75+. One couple I know moved in when the husband was 70 and they said they felt too young. Most of our retirement complexes are located in or very close to town centres for convenience and accessibility to every facility you could possibly need so that's a positive for the UK model for me. I don't think I'd favour being so isolated from 'real' life.

[@lizzabbott]

Me neither personally. It seems oddly isolated to me. But ... I’ve never been there to actually experience it so ...

[@GUITARTIME2024]

Belgium is similar. Old folks flats are near stores, town center, etc. However, the weather is a grind sometimes so you always give up something. Generally prefer living in America.

[@jc1979af]

I have relatives that live there. The "town" is a very large residential housing area. There are also shops and stores there too. Many residents use golf carts to get from there house to the store using the many golf cart trails. What is bizarre is that if you drive 1 mile to the west, you are in a town called Wildwood, which is your typical, somewhat impoverished Florida town.

[@origvincecarter3843]

I lived with my UK wife in TV for 8 months in 2017. It was a miserable experience because she really regretted leaving the UK, at 50 and felt NOTHING was as good, NOT EVEN THE VILLAGES! 😜 (We were 55) She returned home, from TV, never to return again to America to live again. I'll be back, with a new wife from a THIRD WORLD country, who will appreciate it, this time.

[@ashleysmith6884]

Great video, and good to hear you can't find much to moan about! BUT I agree with you the food is seriously lacking - I am a BIG time foodie from London who frequents many small owner-run restaurants - NOTHING from a freezer, only qualified chefs (not cooks) - a few celebrity chefs are friends - OUR biggest dread in TV is the food - but hell - if you don't like eating out then eat in with friends....Something I am so looking forward to (unlike my wife who is dreading me in the kitchen!!!). Can't wait to see the alligators (we have one in our backyard) - NB to clarify we bought in 2019, our house was completed in June 20 but due to Covid and the US borders having been closed from March 20 to November 21 - we haven't seen our home yet :-( other than the photo's from our fantastic neighbors and video's from Don (Goldwingnuts). September can't wait to get out for the first time and see our home. BED BY 9????? 9am maybe but please not 9pm... hahahahahaha -

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

You'll need to invite us over for dinner ;)

[@ashleysmith6884]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Haha sounds like a plan to me... my cooking is what won over my young lady - nothing flash just an omelet.... and my second meal - ostrich served on a bed of mashed potato with a redcurrant Jue. Steak obviously is great and I also like Raman noodles.

[@SandysTravels]

At one time I had to entertain corporate , taking them out for fine dining. NY, Philly, DC, you come here food really is just mediocre.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It's taken us a bit, but we've found a few good restaurants. Harvest and Nancy Lopez Country Club, for example.

[@rdbimages]

So I heard aircraft in the background through most of the video. Are you near an airport or under a flight path? You mentioned the traffic and trains, but not airplanes.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Besides Leesburg Airport, there appears to be 2-3 smaller "landing strips" in the area. Might be residential. Don't hear the planes often, and seems to be private planes on weekends.

[@deannatedesco5160]

I live in NY and was looking at the villages , but im also drawn to Ocala. Top of the world ,or one of the other communities. Can you tell me why u left Ocala for the villages ? I understand the villages has more going on, is that the biggest difference ?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We never lived in Ocala. Karen commutes to Ocala. We checked out [via KZbin or websites] dozens and dozens of 55+ communities all across the country. Once we found The Villages nothing else we considered came close.

[@beckyforbis4858]

Nice to meet you 😊

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Same here

[@RG-hf4et]

Any diners down there? Foodie here ftom NJ. I was surprised to hear you say the food is just "meh". We are spoiled here in NJ with great restsurants!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We are now here for 8 months and have found some excellent, but pricey, places we really like. Our go to for good food at reasonable prices is still the country clubs. There maybe great places outside The Villages, but we enjoy staying in the bubble.

[@therrienmichael08]

There is always construction going on somewhere at The Villages...

[@davidjeremiahmullins3548]

Have you tried Prima in Brownwood....? We really like the food there...

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We've heard good things - we need to try it :)

[@davidjeremiahmullins3548]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond The steaks are great.... Pasta is great.... We went there with my HUGE family (30 of us)... Everybody was passing plates around... We loved everything we tried... The chef even made us an off-menu sauce we requested....If you like Lobster, the Lobster Cannelloni is fantastic... On another note... The flatbreads at City Fire are real good... Its VERY noisy inside, so sit outside... Codys is a NO-GO.... Marginal food and terrible service... The Flying Biscuit in Sumpter is AMAZING for breakfast... (Make sure you get the biscuits with honey)...... We live in CA and bought in Citrus Grove back in Oct...

[@bilyclub]

Blue Fin is good, not great, but the service is top notch. Believe it or not, Oh Shucks is pretty good, once you get over appearances.

[@shirleyshirley4188]

Can you bank online? I very rarely go to the bank now. I can even deposit checks from my phone.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

99.9% of the time online banking is fine - but when you need a cashiers check, as an example, it becomes an issue.

[@Gpepp8401]

Wow…! Hope you two retire soon with lots of abundance… you deserve to enjoy the whole kit n’kaboodle at The Villages. Thanks for sharing your perspective.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks so much! Our pleasure :)

[@yoriokuda4792]

Agree with you 100%

[@sassysasparilla2922]

Enjoyed the video..totally agree I wish there was a Costco and Trader Joe’s, especially Costco (but not right down the street : ) Some neighbors don’t want fur babies even on the edge of their grass, hopefully your neighborhood is dog friendly : ) Best wishes in your new home.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Glad to hear. :) Plenty of doggies in our neighborhood - no complaints from anyone.

[@sassysasparilla2922]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Yay! As it should be 😌🐶🐾

[@njstan8188]

I've learned that Sam's Club is just fine for what I buy, no need to drive an hour. Save money by ordering online and picking up.

[@annacromis3841]

I’m hoping to move to The Villages in a few years, I’m 53. I would also want more night life. I would also want a skating rink.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

I'm not sure skating rinks are a big thing in Florida. ;)

[@annacromis3841]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Gen X will bring it back. :)

[@janetpartyka5968]

Can you guys talk about access to medical facilities? How far from your home? Doctor recommendations...Thanks

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Janet, medical care is pretty fluid for us right now. Not happy with dental care and looking for new dentist - Karen just saw a new one yesterday [very far from home] that she's happy with SO FAR. I've got issues with the one I've been seeing, but I need to get my problems fixed by them before I can move on. I found a doctor and cardiologist and both "seem" good, but you never know till you need them to be good. Karen is having issues finding someone. The best people are not excepting new patients. :(

[@lizabethjoy1883]

Good video. 👍

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Thanks 👍

[@mikeceli]

Hi Roy, Karen! I enjoyed your video! My wife and I are retired and LOVED the music at the "Squares". We are considering The Villages for a second home, or NEARBY purchase of a managed, "short term rentable" investment. Any input from anyone appricated.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Mike, please see us on our Facebook page. You can write to us privately there and we can share more openly. facebook.com/ToRetirementAndBeyond/

[@mikeceli]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond will do, when I get mor time! Thanks!

[@davidoverholt251]

You two are a riot, what happens when Florida or your car insurance takes your insurance away as you age in place and need to pass your Florida Drivers License test!! And I hope the hell you two never need to drive on 95 South!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

At that point we won't even know what's going on - the beauty of getting old. ;)

[@jimbrown4279]

Hi Neighbors, My wife and I moved in to Hammock at Fenney right after Christmas. Thanks for the video.One question, how to find out about the Hammock at Fenney neighborhood gatherings? One request, if you start any evening activities or find about any good ones please share. My wife and I also work so The Villages activity schedule also isn't aligned with our lifestyle yet.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Hi Jim! There is a Hammock at Fenney Facebook group. You need to join. We just had a Hammock at Fenney neighborhood pot luck at the pool. We're planning on it being monthly. Join that FB group so you're in on it, and the stuff going on. Little by little we hear about things that interest us that happen during the days or times we are available. We are so happy to be here. Say Hi if you see us. :)

[@lhall9381]

I'm a railroad artist! Show the trains PLEASE. I'm looking right now. Who knows if this will happen. Love your videos up front with the info.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We'll see what we can do about those trains. :)

[@lhall9381]

@@ToRetirementAndBeyond Thanks. Keep the vids. coming. You guys are real. Again thanks for the quick reply.

[@michaeldecorrevont8474]

Please talk about your golf cart buying experience.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It's quite the story - and it's not done yet. We'll definitely make a video when the story is complete.

[@DD-ee2nv]

Your neighbor is SO close to you. Almost like a townhouse. My parents' friends that live there say the Villages is like a nursing home with palm trees.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

It's not for everyone, but we love it. And we have great neighbors.

[@oceandreamer1958]

We have lived here since last June. It’s far from a nursing home with palm trees! I do think it depends what part you’re in. The Villages has been built with each generation in mind. The southern villages are probably more active, because overall there is probably a younger population. I’m not saying it’s not mixed. It’s a perfect balance. It doesn’t feel like townhouses at all. Some homes are closer than others.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Your comment is so confusing - you think WE should not like something just because YOU don't like it? We love it here. It's not for YOU!

[@christaft3506]

Still cold in the winter months And I never here anyone talk about the actual expense of The Villages bonds and so on

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

"Cold" is relative - I don't think anyone in Minnesota would call this cold. Bonds differ from one neighborhood to the next. In ours the bond is around $18K, but I'm hearing that in some of the newer areas they go as high as $36K for a similar sized lot. It's all based on how much work the developer needed to do to get the property prepared to build on - and how many homes in the neighborhood to spread it against.

[@christinemarlo5672]

Drivers in Missouri are rude too. My mom in law used to say there is a big trade off for that sunshine. I lived in Palm Harbor in '85. We may return.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

There is no good trade off to living around rude people, IMHO. We need to stay in our bubble.

[@paulonorato7501]

You need some trees and plants in your back yard. Looks Barron.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Patience grasshopper!

[@whatsitlike6392]

I believe they're building a Costco in Claremont.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

That is correct.

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

Happy !

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Very!

[@wademckinnon2429]

Why would you move there if you are still working?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

Roy is 65. Retirement is on our minds. The real estate market allowed us to move to our preferred retirement location sooner than we'd planned. And by making the move now, and downsizing, we are able to be mortgage free and use that money to build our retirement nest egg.

[@barbarasnider3788]

How about a tour of the new house?

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

OK kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWYZJ-dd86Dodk

[@kalm50059]

I love trains, too!!

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We think it's a soothing sound. :)

[@bettymarshall615]

Mostly everywhere you go your going to run into some kind of noise not unless you move to the mountains.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

We were taking about extremes. Some homes here are built feet from a major turnpike.

[@jesses9553]

What about having the Villages “light;” meaning living outside the boundary, but enjoying the community.

[@ToRetirementAndBeyond]

People do that - live outside, but come in to the squares for the music. But there is so much more to The Villages than that. Being in "the bubble" has become so calming and stress free for us. Being outside means traffic and noise. Back in the "real world" we didn't know our neighbors. And the landscaping, the lack of litter on the ground - they replace the flowers everywhere 4 times a year. Sorry, "light" just doesn't appeal to US at all, but it might be just right for you.