This is so funny They are going to the extreme to have people not to move there this is so funny you can see their face and the unpleasantness all about it we need to talk they should just say we don't want you to come here and no one really wants to be where you don't even seem God in them and this is the only city in FL that is saying this lol.
@@rose62958 actually we love the place and encourage people to come down. It is a great place to be. We have over 50 other videos that are about all the great things here. People only focus on the negative. We just feel that people should see that there is good and bad. Just like any area
I moved from Brooklyn to south Florida in 1979 when I was 19. Then they started over-building and paving over the "semi-country" areas. I went back for a visit in 2000 and couldn't believe what the place had turned into. It's 90% New Yorkers and just about as overcrowded as New York is.
NO, not really. I used to live there and the areas in which I used to live all turned into over-crowded cities. They've destroyed the state for want of the ALMIGHTY DOLLAR.
FLORIDANS POKICE DEPARTMENT DONT LIKE OUT OF STATERS THEY WILL ARRESTYOU FOR NO REASON THAT HOW THEY ARE IN POLK COUNTY FLORIDA THEY DONT LIKE PEOPLE FROM UP NORTH
Thank you for the assessment of The Villages. I don't think I will any longer consider it for a few reasons. I wouldn't be making use of the amenities that I would be paying for. I don't golf because my dermatologist told me to always seek the shade. I don't drink and don't like being around people who drink because they think that they can get away with insults. That kind of "get together" is a special kind of torture.
Born and raised Floridian 1964 I loved that whole area back in 70's 80's when it was such a beautiful wooded land before it turned into a sea of rooftops ,concrete and humans!
I know! I know some feel that way, but there have been many benefits to the people who live in the area as well. Always good and bad. Thank you for watching!
Yes I agree with you, I too am a Florida native (born 1963 in Coral Gables). I remember when the area was beautiful natural Florida wilderness and not cookie cutter houses and golf carts... I now live in a home built in 1947 in Fruitlandpark.
Came to florida in 1977. I could drive from leesburg to gainesville in 1.25 hrs. Now it's 1.75 hrs on i-75 if the interstates not shutdown. Thanx fdot, county planners, and Disney for ruining our state. If you build it they will come.
I agree, my parents retired in Wildwood in the 70’s after they passed I won’t go back. I understand there has to be development but developers have “raped” the land and it will never be the same. 😢
I'm 67. Seems to me that I'd be too young for boring old people activities like that of The Villages. Golf, oldies concerts, no kids?? And, I'd miss the melting pot of people where I've grown up: The United States of America. The Villages reminds me of a place where the Stepford wives would be comfortable. Stepford wives and drunken bigots.
The Villages sound like a great place for all the mean girls in high school. I never got into any of that so I would just ignore them and enjoy it. Also, my doctor said that it was a good place to retire if you are dying or have a few years left.
I'm 74 and live in MI which I LOVE, winters and all! I could NEVER live in FL due to the heat and humidity. For me, it's unbearable! FL is a nice place to visit and I love the ocean but just couldn't live there year round.
Thanks for posting this. These are well defined considerations for anyone thinking about moving after retirement. I've thought a lot about it but so far stay here because of the kids and grandkids.
That’s our problem…our 3 kids all moved out of state, 3 different states, leaving us here alone. We want to live closer to the coast but we still wouldn’t be any closer to one of our children & we don’t care to live where the kids moved to, except one & her & her husband aren’t stable enough to move close to. I think we would be lonely no matter where we live without at least one kid close by.
@@lindylou3519 I've learned not to sit around and wait for your kids to come visit. IF you can afford it move where you like and let them visit you! NOW some parents just smother their kids/grand-kids and vice-versa and if ppl prefer to live in the heart of,say, Boston and do that, then go for it! I'm single now I'm going for an long stay at T V get a part-time job and enjoy the ppl/activities and entertainment. City Fire cuts into my sleep though! lol
You know, some of these things happen wherever you go. People who complain about geriatric Disney, we ALL are going to be old or are already there. I think that you guys helping with your neighbors is fantastic! I helped neighbors wherever I lived and they have helped me. Being in Michigan and watching your vlog, makes me want to be in warm weather. And, if you have your health, WHAT A GIFT!!! Enjoy your time ladies.
Yes, some of them do but that is deflecting from the point they are trying to make, which is to give an honest review of the place so people can make an informed decision.
Lived in Italy for half of my life before moving in US and all you are saying makes me wanna move there . If you love life and have lots of friends looks like the place to live in US
Spend a whole summer there before buying. We lived in Texas for 19 years. The long summer can really get oppressive and tiresome. We moved north and are very happy.
Thank you for a fairly honest assessment of The Villages. Born and raised in Florida. We’ve been here for over 18 years and still love it. Still in the original house. Retired downsized and at the time could custom build, so we got exactly what we wanted. We enjoy the fact that you can do as much as you want or as little, it’s up to you. We’ve always felt due to all the activities and active lifestyle it has added years to our lives. We could never do a fraction of the things we do here, in South Florida where we were grew up. Our family is all in Florida so travel is not an issue.
I recently watched Some Kind of Heaven and started watching the Vice documentary on the Villages and read the NYT piece by Michelle Cottle. I think this video provides an even better assessment
Maybe the alcohol consumption aids in the rumors that are being spread. Thanks for sharing these observations! Interesting. As someone who is FROM FL but living in Poland, I've always thought that staying busy is vital for seniors! Glad to hear that you all stay busy! It's so much better than just staying home and watching tv all day.
I would not live in the Villages for two major reasons. First off the houses are so close together its a fire hazard (especially when you are dealing with that many senior citizens being so close together). The second reason would be the lack of privacy again because the houses are so close together. Some of the positives would be the beautiful environment and amenities. As far as drinking that’s a personal choice that I don’t indulge in no matter where I go. Thanks for your perspectives!
Thanks for sharing about life in the Villages ! I stayed for months (and my pug with me) with my friend who moved there back in 2017 and loved it ! We had peace at her home and at night we went out dancing hours to all the excellent bands and met so many great people both in the Villages and others visiting the area. I would not live there because it is too far from the beaches - I would leave and go to Sarasota (which I truly love) or Smyrna Beach driving the car on the sand (met the best couple who lives in that area trying to convince me to move). I am in NY and felt like I was high on life every day while in Florida - sunshine, happy people and it was a shock when I took a flight back into Kennedy for daughter's graduation. My mellow state of mind quickly altered back to high stress........... and here I remain trying to figure out life and where to move as a single divorced. I don't see my kids much and wherever I move to, they can visit me and enjoy quality time as you mentioned. Perhaps you can do a video on the healthcare system at the Villages........ access to quality care, physicians, hospitals?
Hi Jeanne! The health care system here is pretty much the same as everywhere. You would want to find a doc that accepts your insurance or medicare (whichever applies). We do have two hospitals here. Unfortunately one doesn’t have a great reputation. They have hired a new director, so she is supposed to straighten them out 🤞🏼. (We will see if we can put together enough info for a video) Thank you for watching!
If you are like me a 65 year old married to a woman half my age and not a fan of the republican leader then this is most likely not the place to go. as a world travelled man I would go nuts.
I find it interesting to hear about other people's life styles and i can see why people flock there however i grew up in NJ and i couldn't tolerate the humidity. I live on the west coast of Canada now and the weather is better for me. I'm an introvert and not into people around me all the time so the villages sound far to crowded and exhausting but it diffinately would be a good place for those people who are more socially oriented and all that goes with that.
You are right about Tenn . I am a half back. Moved to Tennessee from Florida about two years ago . Home.prices,are reasonable taxes cheaper ,weather is not bad in the winter
Not sure if it is true or not but I lived in Lakeland FL for a short amount of time and was told the Villages has a lot of "Swingers." I lived in a 55 and older community and I was one of the youngest and one thing I didn't like about it was the death rate, it seemed like we lost at least 1 neighbor a week. I didn't need a constant reminder that death could be around the corner. The Canadians were very friendly, the neighbors from the East Coast not so much. Childish mentality sometimes within the community. I didn't like the traffic, the crime rate, homeowner's insurance costs, my car insurance doubled moving to Florida, snakes, and alligators in the community. Too many negatives for me! Best wishes to anyone moving to Florida.
Thanks Taylor! Yes, the rumors are that everyone is a swinger. The lies are much more exciting than the truth! 😂. Many of the things you mentioned should be considered. Thank you for watching!
@@thevillages365 ..I may be naive but I don’t believe that. But that would really turn me off! I would bet it’s mostly retired couples…who don’t want any extra drama in their lives. Maybe the old guys who are mostly alone. Other than that I doubt it.
I've spent a few months in the Villages about 3 years ago. In the newspaper I couldn't believe the number of AA meeting announcements! Also, I don't golf and I hate dealing with the golf carts in the road. And the damned roundabouts? Don't get me started!
Thanks for a candid and informative video. My husband and I have some apprehension about moving to the Villages. So we are looking into the East Coast of Florida, Melbourne area. We like the Villages but everyone needs to do their homework lol. Thanks ladies really appreciate your honesty need more of it ...
Yes, TV isn’t for everyone. We both love it, but as with most places and things, there are goods and there are bads. For us the goods absolutely outweigh the bads. It is definitely a personal decision though. If you do decide to check it out, we would suggest a “lifestyle visit”. This is where you pay (I think it is $90 per night) to stay in TV in a villa. They provide you with a cart, bicycles, and you get to pick an activity like a show or golf etc. It gives you a chance to live the life for a couple of days and see if this might be a good place for you. Everyone here is pretty friendly and they all love to talk about The Villages and how they ended up here. Thanks so much for watching and good luck in your search!!
You’re better off in Melbourne. The Villages is nowhere near the beach. I lived in Lake County in central FL as a travel nurse & it was a pretty long hike to beaches
Moving there has never been on my radar. Nothing about it appeals to me. In fact nothing about Florida appeals other than Disney. Thank you for your honesty.
We were at the Villages on vacation awhile back and stayed in a nice house we liked how well kept everything was but disappointed not many trees. Would definitely not like the constant flow of alcohol. A drink now and then is fine but when it is everywhere that is very unappealing. I learned over time alcohol often cause trouble with people.
My dear friends moved to the Villages some 15 years ago. For the first few years they loved it and thought they had found their Shangri-La! As time went on, they began to realize that many of the neighbors they met originally had passed away. And as new people moved in, my friends got to know them, only to have them pass away. My friend said that it didn’t make sense to make sense to get to know anyone because before you know it they are gone. And as fate would have it my friend passed away.
I enjoyed watching this. We visited The Villages once and had a blast. We are happy here in NC but it certainly is a fun and nice place to live in Florida. You both are really pleasant and gave lots of information.
Nice job ladies. I am not sure how old this video is. I use to live close, I would visit the squares, always had fun. I will say the Villages have lots of activities, however, now I am reading alot about families being priced out. The residents driving the golf carts, many are fine, others get drunk and should not be driving, many gates broken, and some accidents when people have been hit.
Thanks Carol! This was done about 4 months ago. Honestly, yes it is becoming more expensive, but in general Florida is with so many people wanting to move here. Values seem to be settling down again a bit recently. Thank you for watching!
It makes sense that people would drink more when they're not having to get up for work the next day or get the kids to school. I suppose any place as big as the Villages would be talked about a lot.
Tks for sharing! We're just beginning to look at The Villages videos on TH-cam & they are very tempting, but the cons are starting to add up! We'll keep watching videos, but this is the best video yet as you are so open & honest. I think expenses will be our next area of focus. We know homeowner's insurance will be very high with the added/necessary hurricane & flood insurance we don't need in CT. And, the higher cost for Medicare supplement plans, due to the large FL elder population will be a burden. I remember comparing the rate of our (CT) supplement plan (F) 5 years ago to the same plan in Florida & FL was several hundred dollars higher monthly. So planning and researching is critical before making such a move!
I think this is the place for seniors that love golf, socializing and conservative politics. I live in a downtown St. Petersburg condo and can walk to 2 theaters and many restaurants. I enjoy the wide variety of ages of my neighbors and the lovely gulf beaches and breezes are close by.
We lived in Lady . Lake for 3 yrs and 3 yrs in Leesburg. The heat, bugs, Northerners made it unbearable. We lived through a hurricane. The gators and cranes were the only birds that we saw when we lived in Leesburg on Lake Griffin. We were from Ohio. I grew up in Texas. I have always loved the Southern Lifestyle and people. I also have always wanted to live in the Mountains. We moved from Florida last April to Morristown, Tennessee and couldn’t be happier. We are surrounded by the Smokey Mountains and are on Cherokee Lake. The summer was warm , but not unbearable. The Fall was gorgeous with all its color. The winter only had a trace of snow, but it was refreshingly cold , but not bitter sub zero. And now this spring it’s so pretty with all the flowering trees and new growth. The wildlife is plentiful and I’ve become an avid birdwatcher now. I enjoyed your video and your honesty about the Village lifestyle. You were right The Villages are getting bigger and bigger. !!!!!!!
You are welcome to come to Wisconsin anytime ! The summers are delightful. And, I promise that I will not call you a “southerner” or equate you to nasty bugs and oppressive heat.
May I ask why are most of the Northerners unbearable? Do you find them rude, or something. I'm just curious. The heat and the bugs are enough to keep me up North, no worries. Lol.
@@Cazzie4ever The northerners were loud and obnoxious. You’d go in a store and they treated the sales associates like dirt. They demanded this and that. In a restaurant they took over like they owned the place. We lived in a mobile home residential area when we moved to Leesburg. We always dreaded when November came and were over joyed when April came. I realize they came to enjoy the tropical climate and indulge in fun activities, but they had no respect or concerns for the full time Floridians. Like any thing I shouldn’t judge ALL folks from New England and group them into a mass. I’m sorry if I did, but I’m just talking from experience.
I live in GA going to visit T V again in the summer for 3 months I LOVE TN and the weather in GA is favorable I can't afford T V and wouldn't live even if I could I love hiking/walking/running where I go in GA T V will help me appreciate that more when I return! I just need to spend time there again and enjoy the ppl/activities and entertainment at night!
Thank you ladies . I enjoyed your views of the Villages. My wife & I were there checking the place out right after it was first started. I lost her 2 years ago from cancer. We have been living here in this retirement center for some 17 years now since we got off the road. We lived in our RV on the road for 6 years. Thanks again for the update.😎
We rented in The Villages for 5 weeks and decided it definitely was not for us. We found the Tavares and Mt Dora area and fell in love with the laid back atmosphere and the progressive attitude. Cute downtown areas with shopping and entertainment and both towns are on Lake Dora. We decided on Royal Harbor community in Tavares which is located on Lake Harris. Water volleyball, pickleball, tennis, boating and loads of other activities. If you are a progressive minded person you will fit right in here and will find liberal friends waiting for you!
These would be all the reasons we want to move to the Villages, lol. Except, that the beach is so far away. We retired to Pompano Beach, a few years ago. We are still going for a Lifestyle visit in November, to check everything out. What’s drawing us, is all the activities, socializing, and dancing in the squares. We don’t play golf, however. If we love it after our visit, we will rent for a month, to check things out further. We are really happy where we live in Florida, but not a lot of amenities, etc. can’t wait to see what it’s all about in the Villages.
Sounds like you may be a great fit then! Staying for a month is a great idea. That will also give you a chance to figure out where you do your activities, so that would help you with where to look for a home. Thanks for watching!!!
@@thevillages365 looking forward to the visit. When we moved here, we thought it would be forever. It’s really nice, and close to the beach. But, now, idk. Hard to make friends, many work, etc. We live on a golf course overlooking a lake, but, not many other amenities, and no dancing on the squares, lol.
Hi Janice I wanted to ask if you went for your Lifestyle visiit in November and what you thought? I am planning one in May this year. It looks really nice. Thanks Ruth
That is unfortunate if people have that view. We have both lived here almost 10 years and it just doesn’t have that vibe. I wish people would visit before making their judgments. Thanks for watching
You're going to have all these problems in Florida no matter where you go. Whether it's the villages or not. We live outside of the villages we love going over there for the restaurants the entertainment walking around, it's absolutely beautiful and I would say anybody that wants to move there will really enjoy it, as long as they don't expect it to be where they're leaving now. It's definitely different there, definitely conservative, but a beautiful place to live.
The villages has destroyed what little was left of Central Florida. I absolutely despise everything & everyone responsible for that large scale destruction of wildlife.
I am sorry you feel that way. They have left lots of ponds and natural areas. Many many birds, gators etc. I don’t know what it was like before to be fair but it seems that they made an effort to try not to disturb the wildlife, trees etc. Thank you for watching.
Thank you ladies for an excellent video. I'd like to expand a bit on the rule against school age children in the community. You talked about some of the "soft" reasons, but the "hard" reason is the Property Tax treatment granted to 55+ communities by the taxing authority. My mom's 55+ community (not TV) recently took legal action against a homeowner who rented to a family with a child in the local school system. The result was the homeowner was forced to sell their property after the renting family revealed in deposition that the owner knew of the child. The legal issue was the entire community was granted partial exemption from local school taxes, estimated to be over $1000 savings per residence per year. The local govt taxing authority stated that the entire community would lose their exempt status, to the estimate of over $1 million in school tax revenue per year. Needless to say the other homeowners in the community supported the legal action nearly unanimously. While what I describe happened in another state, I'm quite sure that similar risk exists in Florida law.
There are several developements that allow children as long as 1 person in the houshold is 55+ So please be sure to taste thos words before you spit them out!!!
This reminds me of northern Indiana! "Where are all the minorities?" I'm not expecting to see nothing but white people. It hasn't been like that for me for over fifty years, were I live. I can never see myself living in Florida. Just too bland.
If you’re a Trumpster or Republican you will fit right in.I find it interesting politics are not mentioned here when at this time it is a major consideration for many retirees.
Are you kidding me? That's the one thing they say about the villages as B if you don't want to do anything and stay home you're welcome to. So because she hated what was going on around her, she met her husband move when he was enjoying it? That's so sad.
We just completed a lifestyle visit and really enjoyed everything about it except flying into and out of Orlando International Airport. Thanks for the videos.
Awesome! Just a hint…there is a small airport called Sanford that many people use. Not all airlines fly in there though. Tampa is also only about 10 minutes further than Orlando, if that airport is easier to work through. Thank you for watching!
Rented in The Villages for 5 months and decided it wasn't a place for us. Found a new community in Ocala instead with young and older ppl and all is well. Of course, Ocala is exploding with new construction.😢😢
1. Worst healthcare in US. 2. Crazy drivers or drunk drivers / speeders 3. House insurance cost and issues with insurance. 4. Crime is on rise. 5. Drugs usage
Hi Alex. Can you explain a little more about why you feel health care is the worst and issuses with insurance. Also I've read something about the bonds. Sorry to hear about all of that. Thank you though.
I know people who live at and love The Villages. I would be embarrassed to tell people I live there because of the loofah and STD media coverage. I verified that both stories (unbelievable as they are) are indeed true. 😬
Hi Jay! I am curious how you verified 🤔😂😂. No need to share! 😆😆. Just kidding with you. I think the legends are just more exciting than the truth 🥱. Thanks for watching!
@@thevillages365 My friend keeps visiting her friend down there, and she verified the loofah story. Another friend has (nonswinging, conservative) parents who live there and love it too!
Jay stds is not even a topic in the villages. It would be interesting to know your sources.. I’m not a village person, however Im interested to know the theory, please shaw what the loofah story is about. Thanks Tammy
Good job pointing out the pro and cons of moving to The Villages of Florida. Debbie wastes little time in debunking the myths and the validating the truths. I happen to like the idea of living in a mature senior community. There are many good things to occupy ones time but one of the best is the availability of people especially older 60+ single women. If you looking for great senior friends and dating opportunities. The Villages is your place.
Thanks Andre! And thank you for the info on singles. We get that question a lot and since we are married, we can only pass along what single people tell us. Have a happy holiday!
There is nothing like going on a date with a 60+ women ( i don.t mean boob size ) because you can't wait to tell your buddy's at the bar.........lol..................
@@kensnyder9372 Wow, you really do go back to your silly teenage years when you get older if that's what you like to do. I guess the old saying is true: Once an adult and twice a child.
1 man for every 7 women in the Villages. If you're a guy that's paradise. For a single woman trying to date, forget it. There are 6 other women sharing your newfound "soulmate". The men usually die younger, so there's that, too.
I’ve been to Florida 🥵🥵🥵🥵 I would NEVER live there the HUMIDITY is crazy 🥺humidity and hot 🥵 is not for me ! We live in California🌴 we were born and raised in California and the weather is beautiful NO HUMIDITY ❤️❤️and we DONT have CROCODILE’S and ALLIGATORS 🎊🎉🎊🎉
You beautiful young ladies are being honest. I like that. A lot. I have friends from my hometown who were drunks back in high school and drunks there in the Villages. Each to their own. But, it's not for me. My brother is a drunk and so is his kid. It has ruined our relationship. I'm certainly not perfect, but I had a girl tell me how silly I was back in 2004 so I quit. She said, "drunks smell." I agree. Drunks like to get together, sit around and talk about how wonderful the GOP and Donald Trump are. Nope, I would rather spend quiet time with my REAL friends.
@@thevillages365 I agree. I'm further south in an HOA in Lake Worth Beach. I have been here for 17 years and happy that I have the choice between here and NH. I have seen my maintenance fees rise with much less bang for the buck. I'm 4 miles from the ocean and we seem to get that trade wind. Florida has a lot of history and I like riding my Vespa Scooter. I'm not suppose to have it here but I told them it was "electric."🤣
AARP reports more people become alcoholics after age 65 because they are retired and not accountable to a boss, job, they are lonely and become depressed.
Retirement is to have your own life, not to keep raising kids.. sooo I'm glad there are rules if you wanna keep raising your kids Go somewhere else. I'm sure the residents will not miss you Bye!!
It’s not for everyone, but there seems to be a lot of happy people living there! We chose to live on the coast south of Cocoa Beach, and we love the cool breezes coming in from the Atlantic..😊
I live in the Emerald Coast. I visited. It is a horrific place to live. Is busy. The alcohol seems to be the only fun thing they do. Everything is organized around alcohol. Boring. Here the adult community is very active and people more oriented to healthy at times. Good video. Tks!
It is busy Maria, and getting more so. Interesting to hear about the alcohol. There is definitely a lot of socializing with alcohol involved, but there are so many activities here where it isn’t included. Tennis, pickleball, lots of workout activities at the rec centers. Anyway, glad you have found your paradise! Thank you for watching!
The two of you are very helpful with great information I am coming down early September for a lifestyle visit and bringing my Mom so that she can see why I am so interested in buying and moving down I hope to maybe meet the two of you
Hi Tinkershell! It is definitely a wonderful place to live and we both love it here, however no place is perfect. We just tried to share some things to keep in mind. Thank you for watching!
The Villages and all of Florida use to be a wonderful place for retirees and disabled people living on a fixed income to live. BUT every since covid, property prices have risen 3 times over. Rentals are outrageous and even mobile home lot rent have gone crazy. Florida is just not an economical place to live anymore. Money wise the plus thing about the Villages is the HOA fee is very resonable for all the amenities provided. Hopefully that does not change. You ladies seem very nice and would make excellent neighbors.
@@Daisy_982 unsure of what you are saying here? Are we surprised it is an over 55 community and a waiver was requested…no. We are not complaining about anything. We love TV which is why we do these videos. We are simply trying to provide information to people so they can try to make a decision for themselves if this is a place for them to consider living. We simply welcomed a resident in this comment. Not sure how that would be considered complaining. Try to have a good day and thank you for watching!
Before my husband died we had a place south of The Villages in Leesburg. Staying from just after Thanksgiving until just before Easter - it wasn't bad. Then after he died I had 10 acres in Live Oak for a couple of years - again about the same time limit - but one year went down in August - - I thought I would die. For health reasons I'll just stay up here in West Virginia - winters aren't bad and summers have their good and bad times.
Hi Janet! Well, we have over 30 executive golf courses that are included in that, as well as beautiful landscaping that is kept up extremely well, 96 recreational facilities that include pools and horseshoes and meeting rooms, and tennis and pickleball courts and so many other activities. If you are someone who is not very active, it may not make sense then, but $170 per month for all that we get is a great deal. Thanks for watching.
@@thevillages365 it's not about recreation, it's about the freedom to paint your home your color choice and landscape as you wish. It's about having the mailbox you want. It's about freedom to live as you desire.
Haha! What is to gain? We live here. There are plenty of people coming here, which only makes things more crowded for those of us who have been here! I simply replied to your comment and then offered for you to enjoy your day….wow! We choose not to be negative.
I visited the Villages when I went to Fruitland Park, FL to visit my sister. Its was well manicured and clean. But I would not live there. Its off of a main hwy and leads right into Leesburg. Do what's best for you. Different strokes for Different folks.I luv my privacy in the country.
Great honest video ! We live in Iowa and wife wants to move to Florida. I think I am convincing her that Florida is to expensive. I want to buy a big diesel motor home instead, that way you are never tied down to 1 area !
Haha! Thanks! Just for the record, RVing is expensive too 😂. We had two class Cs and a pull behind. But, yes, so much fun to see different places! Enjoy no matter what you choose!
Witz that rv thing is overrated and can be a world class pain. Florida's cool but look at central NC and parts of Texas. We barely get snow here in central NC. Sunny and mid 60s today.
I think I have the best place to live in Florida! I live in the middle of Hollywood Beach right in the middle of the Broadwalk on the fifth floor overlooking the ocean on one balcony and on my side balcony I have Margaritaville hotel and resort! Miami is 20 minutes away. Ft Lauderdale is 15 minutes away And the Bahamas a short plane ride away! I can get to the Florida Keys in an hour and a half and go snorkeling. There's nothing in the villages for me there because I like nature and the ocean and to me that's just one big development of houses, but to each his own!
I have concerns about moving to The Villages, even before our lifestyle visit, and this includes expenses to live there. Can I afford The Villages? INSURANCE - I've heard the Homeowner Insurance is a mess, high premiums with the requirement to replace your roof every 10 years, whether it needs it or not. AMENITY FEE - About $200 per month? We don't golf. Are we subsidizing those that golf for free? BONDS - Every home has a Bond assigned to it, to be paid off over 30 years plus interest. I read these Bonds could be $40,000 or more in addition to the cost of your home. ASSESSMENT FEES - I also read that in addition to your Property Taxes and Bond Fees, this additional fee comes with your annual property tax bill, and covers what would normally be covered with regular property taxes. Of course there are regular expenditures like utilities, cable TV, trash, water and sewer, but also yard care service and pest control, and of course a golf cart purchase. What else am I missing? While I want to keep an open mind, I think it's important to be aware of all the extras before making such a big commitment. Thanks for your channel and all the information you provide. Maybe we'll run into you next month during our visit.
Hi Jeff! We have a video coming out on 9/9 that you may find helpful and will answer some of these questions. Insurance - we did just receive our renewal and had a 60% increase in our premium, so yes, that was shocking! I have heard some companies will threaten to drop you if you don’t replace your roof, but I haven’t heard 10 years as that benchmark. I have heard 20. I also have a family member whose home is 22 years old, and still same roof. She has had it inspected and they keep telling her it is fine. She has not been threatened to be dropped by her company. Possibly it varies from company to company? Amenity fee varies slightly based on where you live. Mine is $157 currently. I understand some of the homes are up to about $165. You are paying for all of the pools, rec centers, executive golf courses, landscaping, etc. The championship courses are all owned by TV, so nothing goes toward them from your amenity fee. The bonds vary depending on where you are. Yes, the newer homes carry a bond of $40,000. We recently had a viewer tell us that he purchased a villa in Fenney which was new and his bond was $20,000. That said, the further north you go, the older the homes, and the lesser the bond. Many up north may even be paid off. You do have that option at any time. Otherwise, the bond is added to your tax bill annually. The assessment fees you are referring to (I believe) are shown on the tax bill. They just separate it out. Pretty much the same as in Illinois (it is just all in the definition). The best advice we can give is to take advantage of your lifestyle visit. Ask the realtor to show you homes and ask these specific questions. Also, feel free to ask the residents you meet. Everyone is friendly and most are more than happy to share their experience. Hope you have a great visit!! Just try to relax and enjoy!!
@@thevillages365 Great info, and again, thanks for the reply. As far as amenity fees going to supplement activities, I think there are over 40 Executive golf courses to maintain, but 10 Champion courses. I might be overthinking or over analyzing things that really don't matter. I did like your idea of finding a realtor to work with inside and outside the bubble from one of your previous videos. And, I will definitely take your best advice - relax and have fun while we are there! Thanks again!
I have rented in The Villages for 10 years because my bestie lives there. Wouldn't buy for all the reasons above. Also houses way to close and getting to be just another expensive city, only difference being it's all adults. I mean, who wants to spend all that money on a home when you have so little privacy from your neighbors?
I’m born and raised Floridian. I live in Brevard County on the east coast. Regular quiet subdivision. Only leave home average of once per month. 72 not interested in crowds. I’m very happy here and love our Governor . Thx for the info. Plus all our families are here.
it's like living in a Disney controlled environment. Houses are literally feet away from each other, no privacy and so crowded, everything looks the same, no mature trees, no breeze. I'm sure the HOA rules are very strict and controlling, faux town centers. That part of inland Fla just cooks with humidity in summer.
It's called Tropical Paradise 🌴🌊🌀⛱️🏖️ 🌅🌴 or Tropical Hell 🔥🔥 , it's all a matter of Personal perspectives , I've lived in Florida for 15 years Tampa Palm Beach Lake Worth Stuart, Brooksville , I left because I got tired of starting my life over with nothing after the hurricanes and tropical storms, and there is no such thing as hurricane or flood insurance in the State of Florida doesn't exist ‼️
Exactly! Everything in life is about perspective and based on our own life experiences, we make our decisions. So sorry to hear that you were clearly affected by hurricanes or storms. It is heartbreaking to see the damage that can be done. Wishing you happiness wherever you landed!
@@thevillages365 Thank U 4 the response 🙏‼️ absolutely correct , I just went through a winter vortex in Cleveland Ohio ,( the reason I retired in Cleveland is because it's affordable) the temperature here reach 32 below zero, 🥶🥶🥶🥶 Brrrrrrr that's friggin cold bitter and hostile , the scientific fact remains human beings have no control or impact on the weather whatsoever, David Staudohar PhD physics Stanford University ‼️
As a newbie, I agree with everything you said in this video. THIS PLACE IS HUGE! However, as you briefly mentioned, if you stay at home, it's nice and comfortable. I'm an in-betweener. I get out, but most of the things I do are pretty much isolated between 466 and 466A. While that's still a lot of area (and a lot of golf courses), I don't even consider heading south of 466A. To me, it's really just more of the same for my interests. To me it's no different than living in a city. Yes, there are multiple Targets and WalMarts, but I never went to them all--I went to the ones I'm used to. The big draw here is the weather and there are SO many things to do.
I’m over 55 & would never move to any 55+ community. I’m still working & not retiring for at least 10-15 years but these places don’t appeal to me at all.
Thanks Kathryn! There are pluses and minuses everywhere. We were just trying to make people aware of some things to think of. It is a great place to live and we love it here! Thanks for watching!
Moving to AZ about 25 yrs ago, most of what you said about The Villages was said about Sun City and the surrounding communities. It goes with this type of community.
I am new to The Villages. I love living in The Villages. My neighbors are wonderful, successful, accomplished, kind, polite, friendly people. Thank you neighbors. I love the Village Squares, they are fun. I love the people and the live bands. I am from Arizona, The Villages are not hot to me.
I live in Florida and the Villages is way too expensive. I live in an old condo complex. My father lives in the Valencias. I like that better and there’s always so much to do, as well. I also don’t like to drink. Though, I don’t mind others drinking. I don’t do rumors about neighborhoods, that I don’t live in. My father is elderly and has disabled friends. I help them. But, they are sharp and help me out. I also am a senior citizen. I used to be the youngest one, everywhere. Now, I am one of the oldest ones wherever I go. I think if you are active, you live longer. But, not everyone can be active if disabled, have mental illnesses.
We've visited twice and have wonderful family members who live there but it isn't for people who value individuality IMHO. We felt kind of imprisoned in a cookie cutter environment when we visited. We also felt that at least some of the offered "classes" were all on an entry level so if you have a sincere hobby, you probably have to leave the Villages to pursue your passion. We also couldn't imagine living away from the ocean. Overall, you are surrounded by older people, almost all white, so it's a kind of Stepford Old White People community, no signs of diversity and we did miss the sounds of children!
I currently live in Orlando and had the grand idea of moving to The Villages when I turned 55. So when 55 was approaching, I thought it might be a good idea to actually go see it. No way! The traffic is just as bad as any city and there is absolutely nothing relaxing about living there. Not to mention that the "amenities" are basically the same as you would get in most subdivisions. Fortunately, I found a great place not far from The Villages that many people have left there to move to.
@@thevillages365 I did very much enjoy the video I watched and have since seen that you have made others. You do a great job covering important things that people should consider before moving to any community. Have a Happy Easter, ladies!
So drunkenness, very busy, cars and golf carts, biking, running, plus gossip by nosy neighbors, traffic bottlenecks. Hmm….not for me as I do not drink alcohol at all and do like a quieter community. To be fair, you did mention a lot of pluses.Thanks for your information!
we are on the younger side of residents here and we love it! so much to do. so friendly. and safe. as I've told some people, if you're retiring in florida, what place is better than this one? A 55+ community or tower on the water where people don't know each other and there is little to do? I think that's the point. TV rocks even if it isn't perfect but where is?
Right now I have the best of both worlds. My son has a place in Miami. My wife and I live in New York. We go back and forth for now and it works for us. My son has even more options to traveling to many places. He made Florida his main residence for the tax breaks and for being only 15 minutes from Miami International airport. Wherever he goes he puts a positive spin on those places he visits.
If you don't like a bunch of strangers monitoring your every move and gossiping about you non stop then don't move to the villages.
Thanks for watching!
This is so funny They are going to the extreme to have people not to move there this is so funny you can see their face and the unpleasantness all about it we need to talk they should just say we don't want you to come here and no one really wants to be where you don't even seem God in them and this is the only city in FL that is saying this lol.
Yep❤
That is every community.🤣
@@rose62958 actually we love the place and encourage people to come down. It is a great place to be. We have over 50 other videos that are about all the great things here. People only focus on the negative. We just feel that people should see that there is good and bad. Just like any area
I moved from Brooklyn to south Florida in 1979 when I was 19. Then they started over-building and paving over the "semi-country" areas. I went back for a visit in 2000 and couldn't believe what the place had turned into. It's 90% New Yorkers and just about as overcrowded as New York is.
It is getting more and more crowded. You are right. Thanks for watching!
Tons of countryside still left. I drove all over it not long ago. Miles and miles of farms, etc.
NO, not really. I used to live there and the areas in which I used to live all turned into over-crowded cities. They've destroyed the state for want of the ALMIGHTY DOLLAR.
But warmer and less democrats!
FLORIDANS POKICE DEPARTMENT DONT LIKE OUT OF STATERS THEY WILL ARRESTYOU FOR NO REASON THAT HOW THEY ARE IN POLK COUNTY FLORIDA THEY DONT LIKE PEOPLE FROM UP NORTH
This is such a nice, thorough, thoughtful video. The honesty, without a doubt, #1. Well done ladies!
Thank you for watching Carl!
Thank you for the assessment of The Villages. I don't think I will any longer consider it for a few reasons. I wouldn't be making use of the amenities that I would be paying for. I don't golf because my dermatologist told me to always seek the shade. I don't drink and don't like being around people who drink because they think that they can get away with insults. That kind of "get together" is a special kind of torture.
Yes, everyone needs to choose a place to make themselves happy! Life is short
@@thevillages365 That is excellent advice!
lol drunk Maga's would be unbearable. Also sober.
@@joyrobin947 drunk "anyones" are unbearable - politics are irrelevant.
@@joyrobin947 Poor snowflake !!!
What a great list of cautions and presented with balance - thank you
Thank you! Enjoy the day!
Born and raised Floridian 1964 I loved that whole area back in 70's 80's when it was such a beautiful wooded land before it turned into a sea of rooftops ,concrete and humans!
I know! I know some feel that way, but there have been many benefits to the people who live in the area as well. Always good and bad. Thank you for watching!
Yes I agree with you, I too am a Florida native (born 1963 in Coral Gables). I remember when the area was beautiful natural Florida wilderness and not cookie cutter houses and golf carts... I now live in a home built in 1947 in Fruitlandpark.
Came to florida in 1977. I could drive from leesburg to gainesville in 1.25 hrs. Now it's 1.75 hrs on i-75 if the interstates not shutdown. Thanx fdot, county planners, and Disney for ruining our state. If you build it they will come.
@@davidrosenau3136 Yes Sir! I remember those peaceful beautiful times/Days too!
I agree, my parents retired in Wildwood in the 70’s after they passed I won’t go back. I understand there has to be development but developers have “raped” the land and it will never be the same. 😢
I'm 67. Seems to me that I'd be too young for boring old people activities like that of The Villages. Golf, oldies concerts, no kids?? And, I'd miss the melting pot of people where I've grown up: The United States of America. The Villages reminds me of a place where the Stepford wives would be comfortable. Stepford wives and drunken bigots.
Thanks for watching!
Sounds like a great place !
@@bextar6365 Are you the drunkard or the bigot? Or scarily both?
The Villages sound like a great place for all the mean girls in high school. I never got into any of that so I would just ignore them and enjoy it. Also, my doctor said that it was a good place to retire if you are dying or have a few years left.
@@jennybrandt5188 I live in a college town and being surrounded by death doesn't sound inviting to me. Even if I was part of the dying.
I'm 74 and live in MI which I LOVE, winters and all! I could NEVER live in FL due to the heat and humidity. For me, it's unbearable! FL is a nice place to visit and I love the ocean but just couldn't live there year round.
Haha! I envy your ability to weather the cold! Just got back from Chicago for Christmas. It was 🥶. Thank you for watching and Happy NY!
I would choose Michigan too. I don’t like heat and humidity either. I live in Wisconsin, our winters are not bad anymore, global warming is here!
Hi Margie! I am also a Michigander, and I agree completely! We have the best of both worlds, often within just a few hours time….
Roaches, water bugs, lice, bedbugs. I was reading they have to spray a lot in places like Cuba.
ty
Thanks for posting this. These are well defined considerations for anyone thinking about moving after retirement. I've thought a lot about it but so far stay here because of the kids and grandkids.
Family is hard to leave 😊. Thank you for watching!
That’s our problem…our 3 kids all moved out of state, 3 different states, leaving us here alone. We want to live closer to the coast but we still wouldn’t be any closer to one of our children & we don’t care to live where the kids moved to, except one & her & her husband aren’t stable enough to move close to. I think we would be lonely no matter where we live without at least one kid close by.
@@lindylou3519 I've learned not to sit around and wait for your kids to come visit. IF you can afford it move where you like and let them visit you! NOW some parents just smother their kids/grand-kids and vice-versa and if ppl prefer to live in the heart of,say, Boston and do that, then go for it! I'm single now I'm going for an long stay at T V get a part-time job and enjoy the ppl/activities and entertainment. City Fire cuts into my sleep though! lol
You know, some of these things happen wherever you go. People who complain about geriatric Disney, we ALL are going to be old or are already there. I think that you guys helping with your neighbors is fantastic! I helped neighbors wherever I lived and they have helped me. Being in Michigan and watching your vlog, makes me want to be in warm weather. And, if you have your health, WHAT A GIFT!!! Enjoy your time ladies.
Thank you!
Yes, some of them do but that is deflecting from the point they are trying to make, which is to give an honest review of the place so people can make an informed decision.
But trust me you don’t want to come live in the Villages.
I thought the HOA paid for mowing and outside work like that. What is the HOA?
Trump village there.. no thanks
Lived in Italy for half of my life before moving in US and all you are saying makes me wanna move there . If you love life and have lots of friends looks like the place to live in US
It is! It is a wonderful place to be, just not for everyone. No place is perfect. Thanks for watching!
Spend a whole summer there before buying. We lived in Texas for 19 years. The long summer can really get oppressive and tiresome. We moved north and are very happy.
Yes! Great suggestion!
Thank you for a fairly honest assessment of The Villages. Born and raised in Florida. We’ve been here for over 18 years and still love it. Still in the original house. Retired downsized and at the time could custom build, so we got exactly what we wanted. We enjoy the fact that you can do as much as you want or as little, it’s up to you. We’ve always felt due to all the activities and active lifestyle it has added years to our lives. We could never do a fraction of the things we do here, in South Florida where we were grew up. Our family is all in Florida so travel is not an issue.
That is all great to hear! Keep enjoying!
I recently watched Some Kind of Heaven and started watching the Vice documentary on the Villages and read the NYT piece by Michelle Cottle. I think this video provides an even better assessment
they sound like two Karens
We feel the same about Az!:)
@@Hhbdr Except we don’t have the humidity here in Scottsdale.🌵😎
The Villages are also a Trumper, extremist, “conservative” Hellscape.
Thanks for watching
Yes, people with brains.
People with Qanon for brains
@@johnhovorka3062 Lol. You mean brain-washed gray matter 🙄
They were extremist before tRump. Is the villages newspaper still around, it was horrible right wing stuff 30 years ago.
Maybe the alcohol consumption aids in the rumors that are being spread. Thanks for sharing these observations! Interesting. As someone who is FROM FL but living in Poland, I've always thought that staying busy is vital for seniors! Glad to hear that you all stay busy! It's so much better than just staying home and watching tv all day.
Thanks Becky! We figure the grim reaper can’t catch us if we keep moving! 😃
Maybe the arrest records that show people having sex in town square adds 2 rumors😂
@@Ergo8152 fake news, you just wish, you sicko
@@thevillages365 That's my motto!
@@Ergo8152 hey where, wow?!
I would not live in the Villages for two major reasons. First off the houses are so close together its a fire hazard (especially when you are dealing with that many senior citizens being so close together). The second reason would be the lack of privacy again because the houses are so close together. Some of the positives would be the beautiful environment and amenities. As far as drinking that’s a personal choice that I don’t indulge in no matter where I go. Thanks for your perspectives!
Thank you Genie for watching!
Thanks for sharing about life in the Villages ! I stayed for months (and my pug with me) with my friend who moved there back in 2017 and loved it ! We had peace at her home and at night we went out dancing hours to all the excellent bands and met so many great people both in the Villages and others visiting the area. I would not live there because it is too far from the beaches - I would leave and go to Sarasota (which I truly love) or Smyrna Beach driving the car on the sand (met the best couple who lives in that area trying to convince me to move). I am in NY and felt like I was high on life every day while in Florida - sunshine, happy people and it was a shock when I took a flight back into Kennedy for daughter's graduation. My mellow state of mind quickly altered back to high stress........... and here I remain trying to figure out life and where to move as a single divorced. I don't see my kids much and wherever I move to, they can visit me and enjoy quality time as you mentioned. Perhaps you can do a video on the healthcare system at the Villages........ access to quality care, physicians, hospitals?
Hi Jeanne! The health care system here is pretty much the same as everywhere. You would want to find a doc that accepts your insurance or medicare (whichever applies). We do have two hospitals here. Unfortunately one doesn’t have a great reputation. They have hired a new director, so she is supposed to straighten them out 🤞🏼. (We will see if we can put together enough info for a video)
Thank you for watching!
If you are like me a 65 year old married to a woman half my age and not a fan of the republican leader then this is most likely not the place to go. as a world travelled man I would go nuts.
Thanks for watching!
I find it interesting to hear about other people's life styles and i can see why people flock there however i grew up in NJ and i couldn't tolerate the humidity. I live on the west coast of Canada now and the weather is better for me. I'm an introvert and not into people around me all the time so the villages sound far to crowded and exhausting but it diffinately would be a good place for those people who are more socially oriented and all that goes with that.
Thank you for watching Denise!
Join a monastery I did after my divorce and discovered how I so much missed females lol
I cringe even driving near that place. It’s like a bad joke. Our disgusting governor is a reason to not move to Florida at all.
Thanks for watching
It's refreshing to see an actual Floridian admit to how awful the governor is.
You are right about Tenn . I am a half back. Moved to Tennessee from Florida about two years ago .
Home.prices,are reasonable taxes cheaper ,weather is not bad in the winter
Glad you found your paradise! Enjoy! Thanks for watching!
Not sure if it is true or not but I lived in Lakeland FL for a short amount of time and was told the Villages has a lot of "Swingers." I lived in a 55 and older community and I was one of the youngest and one thing I didn't like about it was the death rate, it seemed like we lost at least 1 neighbor a week. I didn't need a constant reminder that death could be around the corner. The Canadians were very friendly, the neighbors from the East Coast not so much. Childish mentality sometimes within the community. I didn't like the traffic, the crime rate, homeowner's insurance costs, my car insurance doubled moving to Florida, snakes, and alligators in the community. Too many negatives for me! Best wishes to anyone moving to Florida.
Thanks Taylor! Yes, the rumors are that everyone is a swinger. The lies are much more exciting than the truth! 😂. Many of the things you mentioned should be considered. Thank you for watching!
I would think crime rate in a 55+ community would not be high at all, especially one like TV with people being upper middle to high income overall?
@@thevillages365 ..I may be naive but I don’t believe that. But that would really turn me off! I would bet it’s mostly retired couples…who don’t want any extra drama in their lives. Maybe the old guys who are mostly alone. Other than that I doubt it.
Yes, the crime rate is pretty low. Mainly theft etc. There is a web site villages-news.com that has all of the uglies!
You are correct!
I've spent a few months in the Villages about 3 years ago. In the newspaper I couldn't believe the number of AA meeting announcements! Also, I don't golf and I hate dealing with the golf carts in the road. And the damned roundabouts? Don't get me started!
Lol! Thanks for watching!
I dislike roundabouts and I don't like being around people who drink alcohol.
Thanks for a candid and informative video. My husband and I have some apprehension about moving to the Villages. So we are looking into the East Coast of Florida, Melbourne area. We like the Villages but everyone needs to do their homework lol. Thanks ladies really appreciate your honesty need more of it ...
Yes, TV isn’t for everyone. We both love it, but as with most places and things, there are goods and there are bads. For us the goods absolutely outweigh the bads. It is definitely a personal decision though. If you do decide to check it out, we would suggest a “lifestyle visit”. This is where you pay (I think it is $90 per night) to stay in TV in a villa. They provide you with a cart, bicycles, and you get to pick an activity like a show or golf etc. It gives you a chance to live the life for a couple of days and see if this might be a good place for you. Everyone here is pretty friendly and they all love to talk about The Villages and how they ended up here. Thanks so much for watching and good luck in your search!!
You’re better off in Melbourne. The Villages is nowhere near the beach. I lived in Lake County in central FL as a travel nurse & it was a pretty long hike to beaches
Moving there has never been on my radar. Nothing about it appeals to me. In fact nothing about Florida appeals other than Disney. Thank you for your honesty.
Thank you for watching!
are you flying a plane
@@johnmitchell8925 yes
We were at the Villages on vacation awhile back and stayed in a nice house we liked how well kept everything was but disappointed not many trees. Would definitely not like the constant flow of alcohol. A drink now and then is fine but when it is everywhere that is very unappealing. I learned over time alcohol often cause trouble with people.
Thank you for watching!
My dear friends moved to the Villages some 15 years ago. For the first few years they loved it and thought they had found their Shangri-La! As time went on, they began to realize that many of the neighbors they met originally had passed away. And as new people moved in, my friends got to know them, only to have them pass away. My friend said that it didn’t make sense to make sense to get to know anyone because before you know it they are gone. And as fate would have it my friend passed away.
Yes, that is a definite negative. We have found the same. Thank you for watching Patrick!
Sounds like a sad place to end up - a lot of dying going on there. I'm 72 but that place would be a downer to me.
High rate of hiv in this area, people literally go there to die
@@carriemercer8168 Yikes!
😂😂 would love to see the HIV stats. These are all urban myths. People need to die somewhere, why not in a place that is so nice! Thanks for watching!
I enjoyed watching this. We visited The Villages once and had a blast. We are happy here in NC but it certainly is a fun and nice place to live in Florida. You both are really pleasant and gave lots of information.
Thank you!!
Nice job ladies. I am not sure how old this video is. I use to live close, I would visit the squares, always had fun. I will say the Villages have lots of activities, however, now I am reading alot about families being priced out. The residents driving the golf carts, many are fine, others get drunk and should not be driving, many gates broken, and some accidents when people have been hit.
Thanks Carol! This was done about 4 months ago. Honestly, yes it is becoming more expensive, but in general Florida is with so many people wanting to move here. Values seem to be settling down again a bit recently. Thank you for watching!
Thank you ladies.
A very nice insightful and well thought-out presentation.
It was very helpful.
Thank you for watching!
It sounds as though you are trying to keep people from moving there.
It makes sense that people would drink more when they're not having to get up for work the next day or get the kids to school. I suppose any place as big as the Villages would be talked about a lot.
Both very true! Thanks for watching!
Thank you ladies. Such good info all the time!
Thanks Kay!
Do the older or mature women like younger black men around 30 to 40?
I have no idea
Ok it would be nice.
If so I might visit some day soon
I was thinking in moving to The Villages, now I can see that is not the place I want to be.
Thank you for the information.
Thank you for watching!
Same here... too inclusive.
Tks for sharing! We're just beginning to look at The Villages videos on TH-cam & they are very tempting, but the cons are starting to add up! We'll keep watching videos, but this is the best video yet as you are so open & honest. I think expenses will be our next area of focus. We know homeowner's insurance will be very high with the added/necessary hurricane & flood insurance we don't need in CT. And, the higher cost for Medicare supplement plans, due to the large FL elder population will be a burden. I remember comparing the rate of our (CT) supplement plan (F) 5 years ago to the same plan in Florida & FL was several hundred dollars higher monthly. So planning and researching is critical before making such a move!
Yes, always lots of research! Thank you for watching!!
I think this is the place for seniors that love golf, socializing and conservative politics. I live in a downtown St. Petersburg condo and can walk to 2 theaters and many restaurants. I enjoy the wide variety of ages of my neighbors and the lovely gulf beaches and breezes are close by.
That sounds amazing! Yes, we all have different needs and wants and it is nice we all have a choice! Thanks for watching!
Ron DeSantis and the lack of Freedom in Florida is what keeps me from there.
Good stay in NY and California.
Everyone should be where they are happy. Thanks for watching
@@dominiquew.8181 BINGO!
We lived in Lady . Lake for 3 yrs and 3 yrs in Leesburg. The heat, bugs, Northerners made it unbearable. We lived through a hurricane. The gators and cranes were the only birds that we saw when we lived in Leesburg on Lake Griffin. We were from Ohio. I grew up in Texas. I have always loved the Southern
Lifestyle and people. I also have always wanted to live in the Mountains. We moved from Florida last April to Morristown, Tennessee and couldn’t be happier. We are surrounded by the Smokey Mountains and are on Cherokee Lake. The summer was warm , but not unbearable. The Fall was gorgeous with all its color. The winter only had a trace of snow, but it was refreshingly cold , but not bitter sub zero. And now this spring it’s so pretty with all the flowering trees and new growth. The wildlife is plentiful and I’ve become an avid birdwatcher now. I enjoyed your video and your honesty about the Village lifestyle. You were right The Villages are getting bigger and bigger. !!!!!!!
That sounds wonderful Nancy! We are glad you found your paradise! Thank you for watching!
You are welcome to come to Wisconsin anytime ! The summers are delightful.
And, I promise that I will not call you a “southerner” or equate you to nasty bugs and oppressive heat.
May I ask why are most of the Northerners unbearable? Do you find them rude, or something. I'm just curious.
The heat and the bugs are enough to keep me up North, no worries. Lol.
@@Cazzie4ever The northerners were loud and obnoxious. You’d go in a store and they treated the sales associates like dirt. They demanded this and that. In a restaurant they took over like they owned the place. We lived in a mobile home residential area when we moved to Leesburg. We always dreaded when November came and were over joyed when April came. I realize they came to enjoy the tropical climate and indulge in fun activities, but they had no respect or concerns for the full time Floridians. Like any thing I shouldn’t judge ALL folks from New England and group them into a mass. I’m sorry if I did, but I’m just talking from experience.
I live in GA going to visit T V again in the summer for 3 months I LOVE TN and the weather in GA is favorable I can't afford T V and wouldn't live even if I could I love hiking/walking/running where I go in GA T V will help me appreciate that more when I return! I just need to spend time there again and enjoy the ppl/activities and entertainment at night!
Thank you ladies . I enjoyed your views of the Villages. My wife & I were there checking the place out right after it was first started. I lost her 2 years ago
from cancer. We have been living here in this retirement center for some 17 years now since we got off the road. We lived in our RV on the road for 6 years. Thanks again for the update.😎
Thanks for watching! Our deepest sympathies in losing your wife. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
P
We rented in The Villages for 5 weeks and decided it definitely was not for us. We found the Tavares and Mt Dora area and fell in love with the laid back atmosphere and the progressive attitude. Cute downtown areas with shopping and entertainment and both towns are on Lake Dora. We decided on Royal Harbor community in Tavares which is located on Lake Harris. Water volleyball, pickleball, tennis, boating and loads of other activities. If you are a progressive minded person you will fit right in here and will find liberal friends waiting for you!
Those are both such nice towns! Congrats! Enjoy!
"Progressive attitude", that's hilarious!!!
I just joined the marxist club at my condo. That is wonderful!
@@MVos-md3rp 😂😂😂
Dean, you are way too old to be a leftist. What's wrong with you?
These would be all the reasons we want to move to the Villages, lol. Except, that the beach is so far away. We retired to Pompano Beach, a few years ago. We are still going for a Lifestyle visit in November, to check everything out. What’s drawing us, is all the activities, socializing, and dancing in the squares. We don’t play golf, however. If we love it after our visit, we will rent for a month, to check things out further. We are really happy where we live in Florida, but not a lot of amenities, etc. can’t wait to see what it’s all about in the Villages.
Sounds like you may be a great fit then! Staying for a month is a great idea. That will also give you a chance to figure out where you do your activities, so that would help you with where to look for a home. Thanks for watching!!!
@@thevillages365 looking forward to the visit. When we moved here, we thought it would be forever. It’s really nice, and close to the beach. But, now, idk. Hard to make friends, many work, etc. We live on a golf course overlooking a lake, but, not many other amenities, and no dancing on the squares, lol.
I loved it---but I didn't have the monthly income that some (federal or military mostly).
Hi Janice I wanted to ask if you went for your Lifestyle visiit in November and what you thought? I am planning one in May this year. It looks really nice. Thanks Ruth
The Villages was a lot prettier when it was pasture. A swingers club for GOP geriatrics is how many Floridians see it.
That is unfortunate if people have that view. We have both lived here almost 10 years and it just doesn’t have that vibe. I wish people would visit before making their judgments. Thanks for watching
Extremely interesting and informative.Thank You ladies!
Glad you enjoyed it!
You're going to have all these problems in Florida no matter where you go. Whether it's the villages or not. We live outside of the villages we love going over there for the restaurants the entertainment walking around, it's absolutely beautiful and I would say anybody that wants to move there will really enjoy it, as long as they don't expect it to be where they're leaving now. It's definitely different there, definitely conservative, but a beautiful place to live.
Thank you Bonnie!
I am very left, but I don't talk about my politics.
It seems a lot of conservatives push their politics on you.
Probably not the place for me.
The villages has destroyed what little was left of Central Florida. I absolutely despise everything & everyone responsible for that large scale destruction of wildlife.
I am sorry you feel that way. They have left lots of ponds and natural areas. Many many birds, gators etc. I don’t know what it was like before to be fair but it seems that they made an effort to try not to disturb the wildlife, trees etc. Thank you for watching.
It's happening all over Fl..
Not to mention what all the suburban lawns and golf courses have done to the water table. Sinkholes!
Thank you ladies for an excellent video. I'd like to expand a bit on the rule against school age children in the community. You talked about some of the "soft" reasons, but the "hard" reason is the Property Tax treatment granted to 55+ communities by the taxing authority. My mom's 55+ community (not TV) recently took legal action against a homeowner who rented to a family with a child in the local school system. The result was the homeowner was forced to sell their property after the renting family revealed in deposition that the owner knew of the child.
The legal issue was the entire community was granted partial exemption from local school taxes, estimated to be over $1000 savings per residence per year. The local govt taxing authority stated that the entire community would lose their exempt status, to the estimate of over $1 million in school tax revenue per year. Needless to say the other homeowners in the community supported the legal action nearly unanimously. While what I describe happened in another state, I'm quite sure that similar risk exists in Florida law.
Thank you for the additional information! This will help a lot of people understand the “why” of it. Thanks for watching!!
There are several developements that allow children as long as 1 person in the houshold is 55+ So please be sure to taste thos words before you spit them out!!!
You have no business moving a child into a 55+ community. There's a reason it's a 55+ community.
This reminds me of northern Indiana! "Where are all the minorities?" I'm not expecting to see nothing but white people. It hasn't been like that for me for over fifty years, were I live. I can never see myself living in Florida. Just too bland.
Thank you for watching!
If you’re a Trumpster or Republican you will fit right in.I find it interesting politics are not mentioned here when at this time it is a major consideration for many retirees.
We don’t talk politics on our channel. There are plenty of outlets for that. Thank you for watching!
Are you kidding me? That's the one thing they say about the villages as B if you don't want to do anything and stay home you're welcome to. So because she hated what was going on around her, she met her husband move when he was enjoying it? That's so sad.
Huh?
We just completed a lifestyle visit and really enjoyed everything about it except flying into and out of Orlando International Airport. Thanks for the videos.
Awesome! Just a hint…there is a small airport called Sanford that many people use. Not all airlines fly in there though. Tampa is also only about 10 minutes further than Orlando, if that airport is easier to work through. Thank you for watching!
Try Tampa!
@@thevillages365 I Use Tampa airport much more often than Orlando.
Whatever you do, don't go to the Villages, FL. Go anywhere, but this place.
🤣🤣
Sounds perfect for 55 & over singles who do not have kids or family & who are active & looking for friends/neighbors with similar interests.
It is! Great place to live! Thanks for watching!
Rented in The Villages for 5 months and decided it wasn't a place for us. Found a new community in Ocala instead with young and older ppl and all is well. Of course, Ocala is exploding with new construction.😢😢
Yes, everyone should find their own paradise!
Oh yeah Ocala is alright
1. Worst healthcare in US. 2. Crazy drivers or drunk drivers / speeders 3. House insurance cost and issues with insurance. 4. Crime is on rise. 5. Drugs usage
😬 thanks for watching!
Hi Alex. Can you explain a little more about why you feel health care is the worst and issuses with insurance. Also I've read something about the bonds. Sorry to hear about all of that. Thank you though.
issues.....spelled it incorrectly
I know people who live at and love The Villages. I would be embarrassed to tell people I live there because of the loofah and STD media coverage. I verified that both stories (unbelievable as they are) are indeed true. 😬
Hi Jay! I am curious how you verified 🤔😂😂. No need to share! 😆😆. Just kidding with you. I think the legends are just more exciting than the truth 🥱. Thanks for watching!
@@thevillages365 My friend keeps visiting her friend down there, and she verified the loofah story. Another friend has (nonswinging, conservative) parents who live there and love it too!
😄
🤣🤣🤣I forgot about that😆😆
Jay stds is not even a topic in the villages. It would be interesting to know your sources.. I’m not a village person, however Im interested to know the theory, please shaw what the loofah story is about.
Thanks
Tammy
Very nice woman both are very attractive especially Jan
Thank you!
Good job pointing out the pro and cons of moving to The Villages of Florida. Debbie wastes little time in debunking the myths and the validating the truths. I happen to like the idea of living in a mature senior community. There are many good things to occupy ones time but one of the best is the availability of people especially older 60+ single women. If you looking for great senior friends and dating opportunities. The Villages is your place.
Thanks Andre! And thank you for the info on singles. We get that question a lot and since we are married, we can only pass along what single people tell us. Have a happy holiday!
There is nothing like going on a date with a 60+ women ( i don.t mean boob size ) because you can't wait to tell your buddy's at the bar.........lol..................
@@kensnyder9372 Wow, you really do go back to your silly teenage years when you get older if that's what you like to do. I guess the old saying is true: Once an adult and twice a child.
1 man for every 7 women in the Villages. If you're a guy that's paradise. For a single woman trying to date, forget it. There are 6 other women sharing your newfound "soulmate". The men usually die younger, so there's that, too.
Watch the STDs 😂
I’ve been to Florida 🥵🥵🥵🥵 I would NEVER live there the HUMIDITY is crazy 🥺humidity and hot 🥵 is not for me ! We live in California🌴 we were born and raised in California and the weather is beautiful NO HUMIDITY ❤️❤️and we DONT have CROCODILE’S and ALLIGATORS 🎊🎉🎊🎉
Glad you have your paradise! Enjoy! Thanks for watching!
Good stay there Commiefornia Bahahahaha!
You beautiful young ladies are being honest. I like that. A lot. I have friends from my hometown who were drunks back in high school and drunks there in the Villages. Each to their own. But, it's not for me. My brother is a drunk and so is his kid. It has ruined our relationship. I'm certainly not perfect, but I had a girl tell me how silly I was back in 2004 so I quit. She said, "drunks smell." I agree. Drunks like to get together, sit around and talk about how wonderful the GOP and Donald Trump are. Nope, I would rather spend quiet time with my REAL friends.
Everyone should live in a place that makes them happy. Thanks for watching!
@@thevillages365 I agree. I'm further south in an HOA in Lake Worth Beach. I have been here for 17 years and happy that I have the choice between here and NH. I have seen my maintenance fees rise with much less bang for the buck. I'm 4 miles from the ocean and we seem to get that trade wind. Florida has a lot of history and I like riding my Vespa Scooter. I'm not suppose to have it here but I told them it was "electric."🤣
Substance abusers who hang around with each other are enablers of self-destructive behavior, and not friends, in my opinion.
What about Sleepy Joe?
While Druggies sit around and praise beady eyes BIDEN....
I couldn’t live there. The political atmosphere would not be for me.
Thank you for watching!
Don’t forget the helicopters disguised as mosquitoes.
😂😂😂
It's always good to hear more than one side of things.
😊 thank you for watching!
AARP reports more people become alcoholics after age 65 because they are retired and not accountable to a boss, job, they are lonely and become depressed.
OK
Retirement is to have your own life, not to keep raising kids.. sooo I'm glad there are rules if you wanna keep raising your kids Go somewhere else. I'm sure the residents will not miss you Bye!!
😁 thanks for watching!
🎯
Enjoyed the video, read all the comments and decided you ladies have the most patience on all the internet.
😂 thank you Dale! We feel if people take time to comment, we try to respond. Thank you for watching!
It’s not for everyone, but there seems to be a lot of happy people living there! We chose to live on the coast south of Cocoa Beach, and we love the cool breezes coming in from the Atlantic..😊
Yes, we do love it! No place is perfect, but a place on the beach….jealous!! We love Cocoa and that area! Enjoy and thanks for watching!
@@thevillages365 Satellite Beach, to be more precise 😄
I live in the Emerald Coast. I visited. It is a horrific place to live. Is busy. The alcohol seems to be the only fun thing they do. Everything is organized around alcohol. Boring. Here the adult community is very active and people more oriented to healthy at times. Good video. Tks!
It is busy Maria, and getting more so. Interesting to hear about the alcohol. There is definitely a lot of socializing with alcohol involved, but there are so many activities here where it isn’t included. Tennis, pickleball, lots of workout activities at the rec centers. Anyway, glad you have found your paradise! Thank you for watching!
The two of you are very helpful with great information I am coming down early September for a lifestyle visit and bringing my Mom so that she can see why I am so interested in buying and moving down I hope to maybe meet the two of you
Thanks Jay! A lifestyle visit is a great way to visit TV!
This is the most helpful video I’ve seen on the Villages! So much sounds wonderful, but I did have concerns which you addressed. Thank you so much! 💙🙏
Hi Tinkershell! It is definitely a wonderful place to live and we both love it here, however no place is perfect. We just tried to share some things to keep in mind. Thank you for watching!
The Villages and all of Florida use to be a wonderful place for retirees and disabled people living on a fixed income to live. BUT every since covid, property prices have risen 3 times over. Rentals are outrageous and even mobile home lot rent have gone crazy. Florida is just not an economical place to live anymore. Money wise the plus thing about the Villages is the HOA fee is very resonable for all the amenities provided. Hopefully that does not change. You ladies seem very nice and would make excellent neighbors.
Yes, it has definitely changed. My family has been here since the 80s and it isn’t the same place. Thanks for the kind words and for watching!
Great video! We're one of those younger people that had to get a waiver when we bought- we're 52 years old!
Very nice! Welcome! Glad to see some more youngsters here! 😉
@@thevillages365 Did you not know that before buying? You seem surprised so much to have to complain about it. It should never have been built.
@@Daisy_982 unsure of what you are saying here? Are we surprised it is an over 55 community and a waiver was requested…no. We are not complaining about anything. We love TV which is why we do these videos. We are simply trying to provide information to people so they can try to make a decision for themselves if this is a place for them to consider living.
We simply welcomed a resident in this comment. Not sure how that would be considered complaining. Try to have a good day and thank you for watching!
Before my husband died we had a place south of The Villages in Leesburg. Staying from just after Thanksgiving until just before Easter - it wasn't bad. Then after he died I had 10 acres in Live Oak for a couple of years - again about the same time limit - but one year went down in August - - I thought I would die. For health reasons I'll just stay up here in West Virginia - winters aren't bad and summers have their good and bad times.
Sorry for your loss Janie. Glad you are in a place that sounds comfortable. Thanks for watching!
Why would any sane person live in a place where you pay monthly HOA fees? That's just nuts. No freedom there!
Hi Janet! Well, we have over 30 executive golf courses that are included in that, as well as beautiful landscaping that is kept up extremely well, 96 recreational facilities that include pools and horseshoes and meeting rooms, and tennis and pickleball courts and so many other activities. If you are someone who is not very active, it may not make sense then, but $170 per month for all that we get is a great deal. Thanks for watching.
@@thevillages365 it's not about recreation, it's about the freedom to paint your home your color choice and landscape as you wish. It's about having the mailbox you want. It's about freedom to live as you desire.
It isn’t the place for everyone and that is OK. We should all try to be in a place that makes us happy. Enjoy your day!
@@thevillages365 "the villages365"? I get it. You have everything to gain by zero negative comments.
Haha! What is to gain? We live here. There are plenty of people coming here, which only makes things more crowded for those of us who have been here! I simply replied to your comment and then offered for you to enjoy your day….wow! We choose not to be negative.
If i EVER move to Florida... it'll be in Bradenton/Cortez..near the water w/ a BREEZE 💨🏝️🌥️
That is beautiful there! Thank you for watching!
Thank you for the honesty and straight talk. Much appreciated.
Thank you for watching!
I visited the Villages when I went to Fruitland Park, FL to visit my sister. Its was well manicured and clean. But I would not live there. Its off of a main hwy and leads right into Leesburg. Do what's best for you. Different strokes for Different folks.I luv my privacy in the country.
Exactly Michael! Thank you for watching!
Great honest video ! We live in Iowa and wife wants to move to Florida. I think I am convincing her that Florida is to expensive. I want to buy a big diesel motor home instead, that way you are never tied down to 1 area !
Haha! Thanks! Just for the record, RVing is expensive too 😂. We had two class Cs and a pull behind. But, yes, so much fun to see different places! Enjoy no matter what you choose!
Witz that rv thing is overrated and can be a world class pain. Florida's cool but look at central NC and parts of Texas. We barely get snow here in central NC. Sunny and mid 60s today.
I would hate it, too.. I've lived my entire life on a 40 acre farm 10 miles from the nearest gas station.
That is fair! I have many family members who are farmers. Beautiful country 💕. Enjoy!
I think I have the best place to live in Florida! I live in the middle of Hollywood Beach right in the middle of the Broadwalk on the fifth floor overlooking the ocean on one balcony and on my side balcony I have Margaritaville hotel and resort! Miami is 20 minutes away. Ft Lauderdale is 15 minutes away And the Bahamas a short plane ride away! I can get to the Florida Keys in an hour and a half and go snorkeling. There's nothing in the villages for me there because I like nature and the ocean and to me that's just one big development of houses, but to each his own!
That sounds beautiful! Enjoy!
I have concerns about moving to The Villages, even before our lifestyle visit, and this includes expenses to live there. Can I afford The Villages?
INSURANCE - I've heard the Homeowner Insurance is a mess, high premiums with the requirement to replace your roof every 10 years, whether it needs it or not.
AMENITY FEE - About $200 per month? We don't golf. Are we subsidizing those that golf for free?
BONDS - Every home has a Bond assigned to it, to be paid off over 30 years plus interest. I read these Bonds could be $40,000 or more in addition to the cost of your home.
ASSESSMENT FEES - I also read that in addition to your Property Taxes and Bond Fees, this additional fee comes with your annual property tax bill, and covers what would normally be covered with regular property taxes.
Of course there are regular expenditures like utilities, cable TV, trash, water and sewer, but also yard care service and pest control, and of course a golf cart purchase.
What else am I missing? While I want to keep an open mind, I think it's important to be aware of all the extras before making such a big commitment.
Thanks for your channel and all the information you provide. Maybe we'll run into you next month during our visit.
Hi Jeff! We have a video coming out on 9/9 that you may find helpful and will answer some of these questions.
Insurance - we did just receive our renewal and had a 60% increase in our premium, so yes, that was shocking! I have heard some companies will threaten to drop you if you don’t replace your roof, but I haven’t heard 10 years as that benchmark. I have heard 20. I also have a family member whose home is 22 years old, and still same roof. She has had it inspected and they keep telling her it is fine. She has not been threatened to be dropped by her company. Possibly it varies from company to company?
Amenity fee varies slightly based on where you live. Mine is $157 currently. I understand some of the homes are up to about $165. You are paying for all of the pools, rec centers, executive golf courses, landscaping, etc. The championship courses are all owned by TV, so nothing goes toward them from your amenity fee.
The bonds vary depending on where you are. Yes, the newer homes carry a bond of $40,000. We recently had a viewer tell us that he purchased a villa in Fenney which was new and his bond was $20,000. That said, the further north you go, the older the homes, and the lesser the bond. Many up north may even be paid off. You do have that option at any time. Otherwise, the bond is added to your tax bill annually. The assessment fees you are referring to (I believe) are shown on the tax bill. They just separate it out. Pretty much the same as in Illinois (it is just all in the definition).
The best advice we can give is to take advantage of your lifestyle visit. Ask the realtor to show you homes and ask these specific questions. Also, feel free to ask the residents you meet. Everyone is friendly and most are more than happy to share their experience.
Hope you have a great visit!! Just try to relax and enjoy!!
@@thevillages365 Great info, and again, thanks for the reply. As far as amenity fees going to supplement activities, I think there are over 40 Executive golf courses to maintain, but 10 Champion courses. I might be overthinking or over analyzing things that really don't matter. I did like your idea of finding a realtor to work with inside and outside the bubble from one of your previous videos. And, I will definitely take your best advice - relax and have fun while we are there! Thanks again!
I have rented in The Villages for 10 years because my bestie lives there. Wouldn't buy for all the reasons above. Also houses way to close and getting to be just another expensive city, only difference being it's all adults. I mean, who wants to spend all that money on a home when you have so little privacy from your neighbors?
I’m born and raised Floridian. I live in Brevard County on the east coast. Regular quiet subdivision. Only leave home average of once per month. 72 not interested in crowds. I’m very happy here and love our Governor . Thx for the info. Plus all our families are here.
Glad you love where you are! Thank you for watching!
@helenwalker716 I'm curious what you love so much about the governor?
Your video is very helpful. Helps put things in perspective.😊
Thanks so much Jean!
it's like living in a Disney controlled environment. Houses are literally feet away from each other, no privacy and so crowded, everything looks the same, no mature trees, no breeze. I'm sure the HOA rules are very strict and controlling, faux town centers. That part of inland Fla just cooks with humidity in summer.
Thanks for watching Michael!
Sounds like a high school for geriatrics.
🤣
It's called Tropical Paradise 🌴🌊🌀⛱️🏖️ 🌅🌴 or Tropical Hell 🔥🔥 , it's all a matter of Personal perspectives , I've lived in Florida for 15 years Tampa Palm Beach Lake Worth Stuart, Brooksville , I left because I got tired of starting my life over with nothing after the hurricanes and tropical storms, and there is no such thing as hurricane or flood insurance in the State of Florida doesn't exist ‼️
Exactly! Everything in life is about perspective and based on our own life experiences, we make our decisions. So sorry to hear that you were clearly affected by hurricanes or storms. It is heartbreaking to see the damage that can be done. Wishing you happiness wherever you landed!
@@thevillages365 Thank U 4 the response 🙏‼️ absolutely correct , I just went through a winter vortex in Cleveland Ohio ,( the reason I retired in Cleveland is because it's affordable) the temperature here reach 32 below zero, 🥶🥶🥶🥶 Brrrrrrr that's friggin cold bitter and hostile , the scientific fact remains human beings have no control or impact on the weather whatsoever, David Staudohar PhD physics Stanford University ‼️
No place is perfect …you just have to decide what you want to settle for
Exactly! We love it, but we feel people should look at all sides before making a move. Thank you for watching!
Before moving to Florida you need to worry about property taxes and insurance cost first.
Those are definitely two considerations! Thank you for watching!
I was told that Florida dont have property tax?
@@dianabirdsall5757 Florida ranks 26th in property taxes. Florida does not have a state income tax.
As a newbie, I agree with everything you said in this video. THIS PLACE IS HUGE! However, as you briefly mentioned, if you stay at home, it's nice and comfortable. I'm an in-betweener. I get out, but most of the things I do are pretty much isolated between 466 and 466A. While that's still a lot of area (and a lot of golf courses), I don't even consider heading south of 466A. To me, it's really just more of the same for my interests. To me it's no different than living in a city. Yes, there are multiple Targets and WalMarts, but I never went to them all--I went to the ones I'm used to. The big draw here is the weather and there are SO many things to do.
Exactly! All things in life are what we make of them! Thank you for watching!
I’m over 55 & would never move to any 55+ community. I’m still working & not retiring for at least 10-15 years but these places don’t appeal to me at all.
Thank you for watching!
If you two are an example of the kind of people that would be a newcomers neighbors, I’d say it’s a great place to live.
Thanks Kathryn! There are pluses and minuses everywhere. We were just trying to make people aware of some things to think of. It is a great place to live and we love it here! Thanks for watching!
I think they both look completely miserable esp the one in black. A constant embedded frown. No thanks.
Haha! You couldn’t be more wrong, but with 150,000 other people here, unlikely you would have to see us. 🙄
@@thevillages365 damn gurl! lol
Moving to AZ about 25 yrs ago, most of what you said about The Villages was said about Sun City and the surrounding communities. It goes with this type of community.
Yes, that is true. We are just trying to show all sides of things. Thanks for watching!
I am new to The Villages. I love living in The Villages.
My neighbors are wonderful, successful, accomplished, kind, polite, friendly people. Thank you neighbors.
I love the Village Squares, they are fun. I love the people and the live bands.
I am from Arizona, The Villages are not hot to me.
Awesome! Thanks for watching!
I live in Florida and the Villages is way too expensive. I live in an old condo complex. My father lives in the Valencias. I like that better and there’s always so much to do, as well. I also don’t like to drink. Though, I don’t mind others drinking. I don’t do rumors about neighborhoods, that I don’t live in. My father is elderly and has disabled friends. I help them. But, they are sharp and help me out. I also am a senior citizen. I used to be the youngest one, everywhere. Now, I am one of the oldest ones wherever I go. I think if you are active, you live longer. But, not everyone can be active if disabled, have mental illnesses.
Thank you for watching!
This info dsnt apply to just The Villages, all southeast states are uncomfortably humid.
Very fair! We love it here. Just trying to share information. Thanks for watching!
We've visited twice and have wonderful family members who live there but it isn't for people who value individuality IMHO. We felt kind of imprisoned in a cookie cutter environment when we visited. We also felt that at least some of the offered "classes" were all on an entry level so if you have a sincere hobby, you probably have to leave the Villages to pursue your passion. We also couldn't imagine living away from the ocean. Overall, you are surrounded by older people, almost all white, so it's a kind of Stepford Old White People community, no signs of diversity and we did miss the sounds of children!
Thanks for the input Karen. Thank you for watching!
I currently live in Orlando and had the grand idea of moving to The Villages when I turned 55. So when 55 was approaching, I thought it might be a good idea to actually go see it. No way! The traffic is just as bad as any city and there is absolutely nothing relaxing about living there. Not to mention that the "amenities" are basically the same as you would get in most subdivisions. Fortunately, I found a great place not far from The Villages that many people have left there to move to.
That is great Cindee! Everyone should be in a place that makes them happy! Enjoy and thanks for watching!
Where? I’m interested
@@carolm.4623 It's called Lakeview Terrace, it's in Altoona. It is nothing at all like The Villages, but it is exactly what I wanted. 😁
@@thevillages365 I did very much enjoy the video I watched and have since seen that you have made others. You do a great job covering important things that people should consider before moving to any community. Have a Happy Easter, ladies!
Thanks so much! Happy Easter!
So drunkenness, very busy, cars and golf carts, biking, running, plus gossip by nosy neighbors, traffic bottlenecks. Hmm….not for me as I do not drink alcohol at all and do like a quieter community. To be fair, you did mention a lot of pluses.Thanks for your information!
Thanks again for watching!
Go to Canadian lakes
we are on the younger side of residents here and we love it! so much to do. so friendly. and safe. as I've told some people, if you're retiring in florida, what place is better than this one? A 55+ community or tower on the water where people don't know each other and there is little to do? I think that's the point. TV rocks even if it isn't perfect but where is?
Exactly! We love it too! It is what you make it! Merry Christmas! Thanks for watching!
Hi Can I ask how long have you been there? Thanks Ruth
@@ruthlyons2370 almost 2 years
Right now I have the best of both worlds. My son has a place in Miami. My wife and I live in New York. We go back and forth for now and it works for us. My son has even more options to traveling to many places. He made Florida his main residence for the tax breaks and for being only 15 minutes from Miami International airport. Wherever he goes he puts a positive spin on those places he visits.
Very nice! Thanks for watching!
ok..........
The political GOP support is my main reason to NEVER live there.
Fair enough. Thanks for watching!
People with brains scare you?
@@johnhovorka3062People with attitudes like yours do.