We bought turnkey 11 years ago in the Spanish Springs area. We are so glad we did! We're still using much of the furniture, grateful for the many little items provided, from toaster, coffeepot, utensils, towels and linens, to an older golf cart that got us through our first few years. Turnkey was a new concept to us and made the decision easy for us.
We have lived in the Spanish Springs area for 10 years…perfect location…halfway between SS and LS L. Many of the houses have been updated and have new roofs and established landscaping.
I suspect the northern parts of TV are going to be seeing a demographic shift over the next several years. The "younger" folks are moving down south, but as the residents up north start aging out, someone is going to have to be moving into those properties up north. TV keeps expanding south, but eventually the lack of bonds and mature landscaping should start drawing lots of attention to the "older" sections.
Turnkey is basically the seller saying hey I’m probably on my way to assisted-living and I have no way to get all this crap out of here so I’m gonna leave it for you. Good luck. Happened to my family twice in Naples. I tried to warn them, but they wouldn’t listen.
We bought turnkey;. We weren't looking for one but there were a bunch of items like TV's, BBQ, patio furniture that were keepers but yes more often turnkey is another term for "abandoned furniture" Most often it is a former rental.
Great video, short and to the point! Lots of information, plus you brought up important things I hadn't even thought about. My favorite thing about your videos is your honesty! I love it, keep going.
The house looks great. A Florida room is a plus and the yard with a big dog is something nice and necessary. You asked for suggestions and I would say you need a pop of color. Maybe a beautiful, large ceramic bowl on the table or a plant on the table next to the Florida room door. Love the grey color of the walls. Goes with everything. I just remodeled a 22 year old house and used the same colors. I imagine with your military background, you like clean lines and no clutter. Enjoy adding the final touches.
My wife and I have considered looking at the villages. We live in Northeast Ohio. We are considering retiring and thought the Villages may be a place for us. We didn't consider it -- however, after watching your channel and listening to your insight about the rumors... makes me what to look at the community. I'm a big golfer. Thank you for providing this information.
I bought a turnkey house about 4 years ago and you are exactly right about the furniture. I didn’t keep any of it because it wasn’t my style. That being said, when I bought the house I knew I would be getting rid of the furniture. But to buy something advertised as being furnished is enticing.
I bought a turnkey home. Only kept the bedroom furniture,however, it was easy selling the rest. Between Facebook marketplace and Bargains and Treasures, who comes to your home and picks up the furniture and sells it for you and then mails you a check.
Would love to see a home tour that is slower so we can really get a feel for the house… great info… I’m far from living my TV dream as I have to get my kids grown and flown but some day!! And I agree about Spanish springs area, it feels like a better deal, although by the time it’s my turn the southern areas will be older then! 😊
Hi Laura, I should have shown more of the house I flew thru the video too fast, I’ll be doing another video going over some of the details once the house is done. Thanks for watching!!
Hi! I’ve been watching your videos for a bit, liking The Villages! I love what you’ve done to that place and wish I had your skills. I’m 62 and need to work until I’m 70 due to finances. Thanks for your informative videos!
Hi Robyn, your videos are the best in my opinion for realestate in the Villages and related issues, thanks for sharing your knowledge!! Everyone thinking of moving here needs to watch your videos!
Thank you for sharing all your improvements. My LifeStyle is in the works and i can't decide whether to go new or pre-owned. You made your home look better than some of the new homes!
Thanks Jane. I still wonder what I should have done, new or old. I've been investing just about as much in the fixing up this house as I would have with a bond on the new house. So make sure you look very carefully and take your time looking at both old and new homes would be my advice. But either way it's a great place to live.
Great information. I could not agree with you more regarding the northern sections of The Villages. I think the lots are better and I like the mature landscaping. I can see that turn-key requires a close inspection. Thanks for the information.
I much prefer the existing homes further north for the reasons you mentioned. Enjoy your home and The Villages. I saw one house that was turnkey and it was amazing. It sold in about a day or so. It appeared to be professionally decorated. I did save the video so I could dream now and again. The house sold for $349,901 cash, $1 above asking during Covid because it was an all cash offer. It was one that was worth it. There was no bond and it was fairly new. Your house looks terrific.
Thanks so much! That sounds like a great deal. We have some great things up here, lots of beauty, nice homes at decent prices, and I love Spanish Springs.
I bought a turnkey because moving lines rip you off. When I moved to South Carolina from Tennessee I had 35 items only 5 needed to guys to load it everything else could be Carried by one guy it cost me $8,000 Whitehall I thought was to much unfortunately movers were over booked so I had to settle on it. There was so much thing in they and the garage was pack to I give a lot of it away and though out a lot of old stuff. I live alone so when I sold my furniture before moving to The Villages that didn’t have a lot of things. When I sold my house after my wife passed away I sold as a turnkey I mean I probably left somewhere between $40,000 & $50,000 items, paintings China wear etc to many memories to keep it all. Thanks for your channel
I know what ya mean Ronnie, i went thru the same thing years ago, I saved a few precious pieces and sold the rest. But I have moved everything myself several times in my life, it’s not easy. In some situations it’s a fantastic option. Thanks for watching!
Your are doing a good job with your new home. I live in the north side of the Villages. Just like you, I believe the north is the better half. I have a sister in the south and she isn't happy with the neighborhood turnout. I think "brand new" was more important than the landscaping around the area, such as, "the lack of trees." The distance has become a bad issue as well. The north has the stores, medical, and is a short distance to places outside of the Villages. I am glad you mentioned the work Lowes has done in your home, I work there! They do a very nice job on most of their projects. I do not care for used furniture either, very, very new is not a problem but knowing there has been a lot of sitting and use by others, removing the furniture would have been in my contract.
Awesome! Another Spanish Springs TH-camr! Love all the tips! And we bought our comfy courtyard villa for many of the same reasons as you did. Except ours was not turn key. Our furniture was from City Furniture. I like what you did with your place so far. We love living right in between Spanish Springs and Lake Sumter Landing as well as being close to all the stores, medical facilities, and restaurants in Lady Lake. Keep up the good work!
I think turnkey would be great for someone like me who is considering being a snowbird (from Canada). I wouldn't be coming with anything but a change of clothing. But the stuff you got would just be to start, until I got settled. The furniture, and flooring you have now is way more current and classier. You have good taste. It looks more like a play you'd want to come home to. Thanks for a great perspective. I've also heard that along with the bond, property taxes are higher in the newer areas. Not sure if that is accurate.
Thanks Paula, good points great idea for a snowbird. I think you are right on the taxes, I believe Sumter county part of TV is the lowest on taxes, I think that’s what I heard. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for explaining what "turnkey" means in The Villages. That's not what it means elsewhere, where it means ready to move in with no repairs needed but not furnished. I don't own enough furniture for a home because I'm in a small apartment, so I would consider turnkey to be able to replace furniture an area at a time instead of buying a whole house full at once. But it's good to know to check under and behind furniture for hidden things! Your house looks fantastic and I love your new furniture.
Thanks so much, down here I’m starting to feel it depends on what realtor you talk to because some realtors say that turnkey means it comes with silverware and everything and some say its partially furnished or whatever so I would definitely check with your realtor on the true definition of what turnkey means, but I think I’m pretty close in my explanation, I really appreciate your comments and thanks for watching!
they say, most people move three times when they move to the villages. we bought a year ago in spanish springs , and love the area .good luck with your new home
I've always been drawn to a fixer upper as I love doing home improvements and projects. Being single the older I get the more a turnkey sounds lovely 😂 not having a man to work on the "hard stuff "
As a fellow Villager I am happy for you that you are happy with your Villages home purchase. When we began looking to purchase a home in The Villages it was in the early part of 2022. At that time pre-owned home prices were considerably higher than new home prices, and many of the pre-owned homes we looked at were in need of both structural updating like needing near future new roofs and windows as well as they needed cosmetic updating. So our choice was to purchase a low bond or bond free older home with list price $30k+ higher than a similar model new home and then have put into it $30k worth of updates, or purchase a new home with a $30+k lower price tag that needed no updating but had a $32k bond. The choice was clear for us that it was going to be the new home with the $32k bond with the bond payment being $1,800/year which if we were to sell in a few years the new owners inherit the bond balance. And being cash buyers that $30+k we would have needed to purchase the higher priced pre-owned home plus the $30k we would have needed to do updating stayed in the bank earning interest slightly higher than the interest rate on our bond. Additionally, we are very happy with our home which is a poured concrete 3br Avondale model courtyard villa with golf cart garage on a pool sized lot with all rooms having tiled flooring located in south St. Johns which is a 15 minute golf cart ride to both Brownwood and Sawgrass Grove where we go to both places often. We could literally walk to Everglades regional RC where some shopping is available at Magnolia Plaza which is right next door to this RC. A 10 minute cart ride gets us to Okahumka and the Waterlily RCs, and just yesterday we took the cart to Lake Sumter Landing which was a lovely +/- 1/2 hour ride. We don't go to Spanish Springs area often, but if we do we go by car which is no big deal for us. My husband is also a Vet and goes to the VA CBOC and driving 301 gets him there in 20 minutes which is a shorter ride than he had going to the VA in R.I. where I also worked as an R.N. which was a good 45 minute ride from our R.I. home mostly due to the heavy traffic driving into Providence from all directions. I am certain if the housing market was different than it was when we purchased our home and we ended up purchasing that perfect for us in price point house in the north that required minimal updating instead of a new home in the south we would be just as happy living there as we are living in the south.
Hi Nightingale, thanks so much for sharing your experience. I have a feeling I’m going to be one of those folks that buys 2 or 3 times, I’ve already started looking around at new and pre owned homes all over the area now that I live here. There was one new house I almost bought before this one in deluna, it had a bond which I never heard of before so I got stuck in a paradigm that made me nervous about going forward, now that I live here and see the bond thing is not that big of a deal I might have reconsidered it, I was just afraid of that causing a problem with a resale, but I was wrong thinking that way. So if I move again I’m sure it will be a new or newer home with a bond. Again thanks so much for sharing!
They had a new roof installed before we bought it. we payed $233,000 for our turn key. We bought because of the area, the style, and our front porch swing. We used Properties of The Villages. Our agent was Great!
Your home looks lovely. I visited the Villages twice. Once we stayed at the TownePlace suites in Spanish Springs. We totally fell in love with the area. Its a great place to be.
Your living & dining rooms look wonderful. Love the living room furniture and the LVP floors. Just subscribed to your channel. I also prefer the areas of The Villages north of Lake Sumter Landing. Fingers crossed 🤞 I am retiring in December 2024. May be my next stop after retirement will be The Villages. I am planning to visit The Villages again in May.
Thanks for the info Chief . My Dad said that the VA there is the best one he’s ever been to. 3 more years and I will be there ( 55 can’t come soon enough LoL )
Can you do an update on home insurance in the villages? Florida taxes and homeowners insurance is out of control. At least that’s the message we’ve been hearing up in the Northeast. Perhaps it’s a scare tactic to keep us all here in the snow and cold. Hahaha
Your house looks great I think you done the smartest thing by buying a preowned home and picking an older location that is actually iconic to the Villages…Spanish Springs! Really enjoy your videos informative and very interesting, thanks Chief Hobie!
I wonder if it was just too much for the previous owners to get rid of the furniture (just like you experienced with having to get everything out). Love tge new decor! Good job!
Thanks Franom Ts, depends on the turnkey, but in my case I should have looked closer and thought it thru better. I'm sure there are some great turnkey deals out there tho. If the stuff is new and awesome, than it's a bonus, but not sure thats usually the case. This was a learning moment for me!
Hi Dan, It’s LVP, on the box it says waterproof vinyl plank, #1314414, I think it’s called “SS TUDOR OAK”, I also had them install a moisture barrier and white PS vinyl 4IN1 molding (the quarter round). All bought and installed through lowes.
Agree, you are smart to put the money into the house not into the bond. I’m coming down for a lifestyle visit. I’m a licensed Realtor in Ca. I really don’t want to buy with a bond.
Gr8 video. I live about 20 miles from TV now-definitely want to move in the bubble-I was looking at 713 Hernandez-it came furnished with a golf cart (electric) I would be downsizing from 2500 sq ft to 1100 sq ft-I would have to sell everything I have and sell everything that came with the new place-the thought of that was overwhelming and because it came with all the stuff-it was way overpriced for the comps. I like Spanish Springs as well-I prefer the more mature landscaping-down south looks so barren. Like the updates so far-definitely prefer plantation shutters over drapes-once it’s done - let me know-perhaps I’ll buy it 🍻
Your presentation was spot on once again. We all like the random, non rehearsed keeping it real. I there is a gym in Silver Springs rec center? Across the street from La Hacienda.
Hi Seamster. No the only downside to the rec centers is I haven’t found any real gyms with weights that are part of our amenities. I have suggested it to a recent committee. There some outdoor low impact workout areas but I like real gyms with lots of weights. For now the gym in Spanish Springs is nice, but $85 is a little steep. But the location is perfect, after a good workout, step out the gym and you’re on the square watching a band relaxing. Makes for a great day!
@@TheVillagesChief ok I seen a video posted last year and they walked through the main rec center with the large pool with the rock waterfall. There was a small gym with weights and you have to walk through it before you get to the pool. I will have to find and rewatch that video. Keep up the great pop up videos for us ice frozen people 😊
@@TheVillagesChief it was at Orange Blossom Country Club. A couple walked through with their mom showing the restaurant and rock waterfall pool area. Looked like a nice gym.
Hi Becky, I bought it last September, it was built in 2001 (I think I’ll check the paperwork). My next video coming out will be on the details of what I’ve done, paint colors, floor info, costs, and stuff like that. Hopefully launching this weekend. Thanks so much for watching!
What a nice job on the house, that flooring is beautiful! I was wondering if “The Villages” is ever threatened by hurricanes or tornadoes or if it’s in a safe zone? You said your home is near a “Blondies”, is that a restaurant? (I live in MI and haven’t heard of that before.)
So we came out of hurricane Ian with no major problems I think we are so inland and slightly above sea level so we are in a pretty safe spot. Tornados may be another story tho, i think we are susceptible to tornadoes. They are putting a blondie s in but I’m not sure if it’s a franchise or a one off, but I think it’s a bar/restaurant with outside bar area or something like that.
Great videos as a new Villager!! Are you going to meet Roy and Karen and The Village Newcomers? Maybe I'll run into you and your pooch when I get there...I'm going to get a Pooch too soon after getting there. My baby Michael is still in my heart...we had a dog act...you can see on my channel. Your poochie is ADORABLE!!
That would be great to meet all those Villages TH-camrs, but I’m still a newbie. Really appreciate your kind words, keeps me motivated to keep the channel going. Sorry about your pooch. It’s very dog friendly around here for sure, dogs are the best!
Just stumbled on your channel. We are getting ready to retire in the next year and looking to move to a warmer climate. How did you set up a lifestyle visit? Was this something you did through some formal process? We are also considering states like New Mexico or Northern California but affordability is key for us.
Hi Brenda it was real easy, just go to www.thevillages.com/lifestyle-preview-plan and call them, they’ll set ya up, it was actually pretty awesome, you stay in a nice house all to your self and with golf cart.
Hi Deb, I broke down the colors I used in each room in this video: th-cam.com/video/zUM2kmbOAYY/w-d-xo.html “Updating my new old house in The Villages” hope this helps ya! Thanks for watching!
Hi there! I just came across your channel this week . I’ve been thinking about The Villages for a year or so now , but i have a few drawbacks., 1 being the bond on many of the homes. 2nd.. I do not like the idea of paying an HOA , (I forget what it’s called there).. but still having to hire to do all the outside upkeep. I reeally don’t want to have to once again search for dependable yard service, painters, etc. 😔But, I understand it’s for keeping everything there in wonderful, clean shape. I love thaat. I love the idea of living among my own age range, & all the activities there! I’ve not come for a lifestyle visit yet. My adult sons live out of state, & the thoughts of selling here & moving down there alone is daunting! I’ve never moved out of state. I love the colors, floors on your home so far. I loved the golf cart video !
Hi Tennesseegirl, thanks for the kind words! So if you end up buying up north you probably won’t have a bond to worry about, because these are older homes and the bonds are most likely payed off. Also the monthly fees are pretty cheap in my opinion, I think mine is approx $180 a month. But you have access to so much and they keep all the common areas real nice, clean and beautiful. So for an amenity fee it’s very reasonable I think. I hope you enjoy your lifestyle visit it’s a great way to check everything out. It’s a brand new channel and I’m so new here I’m learning as I go but so far from what I can tell the villages is a great place to live and retire. Thanks so much for watching!!
@@TheVillagesChief Hi ! Thank you for the info. That doesn’t sound so bad. I have a question. So another TH-camr I believe said they paid like $200-300/ month for all the mowing, grounds upkeep.. so that brings the monthly fee on up further, plus I think something about “several hundred more” maybe twice a year “at least” to trim palm trees. Is all thaat true? I can be fine with with $350 -$400/ month outside maintenance.. it’s no doubt worth the beautiful areas, and soooo much to do there. Have you hear or do you know if there are homes to rent while searching to buy? Homes completely furnished? That would work best for me.. having my furniture , etc delivered to a storage unit.. after selling my Villa here.. then searching . Thank you sooo much for the info!! I’m a nurse.. I can retire anytime.
@@Cathyntn I think it depends on the yard, if you have no palm trees then you got no palm trees to trim, in my neighborhood I’d say it’s about half and half, with palms and without. If you get a patio villa or courtyard villa you may have very little yard maintenance to worry about if any, so you really need to look at all the variety of homes and yards when you visit. I cut my own grass and do my own yard work so I’m not sure the costs but I’m thinking lawn care is probably closer to 50 to 80 a month, at least that’s what I hear from my neighbors.
The Amenity fee (monthly fee) gives you access to every single rec center and the over 3,500 clubs and activities, pool (over 100!), tennis court, pickleball courts, executive golf courses that are free to play if you walk and so much more!! The Villages has a unique government that eliminates the HOA headaches. Going on 8 years here and love every day.
I guess as a public health nurse, I wouldn’t want to have furniture and carpet with other people’s dander all over it. It would give me the ick factor. There are lots of things in furniture that can be transmitted; MRSA, lice, bedbugs-you name it.
@@TheVillagesChief We are looking at a property currently on the market, exact same floor plan. That living room is what is holding me back from pulling the trigger. I heard the Cheif say he likes a foyer and I am the same way. So this floor plan is difficult to sit living room furniture and I feel it may get claustrophoic. It's only 2 of us, but still seems a bit small in living room. Cheif, do you feel you are close to most shopping and activites ? Wanted to say you have a talent for decorating, the place is perfect! In fact, I may still some of your idea's! Well done!!
@@obrientracy1 yup I’m 1.5 miles from Lowe’s, Walmart, Publix, CVS, and a bunch of stores, plus Spanish Springs has a bunch of stores about 2.7 miles away and about 15 minutes to 466 which has a new Sprouts and a bunch more stores like PetSmart and that kinda a stuff, target is about 15-20 minutes away.
Flooring too dark, You're in Florida 🌴🌴🏖️🌅!!! I live in New England and I'd never have anything so dark 😅. Our place in Palm Beach County has tile, it's nice because it keeps the place cooler.
Sorry you don’t like it Dana, I really like the darker floors, not sure why I just do. My last house in VA had hardwood floors and I really loved them so this was s good option for me here. But I appreciate you watching and thanks for the feedback!
It's perfect color, he said he was going for Farmhouse style, not Southbeach. He did a great job! As you can see most everyone has commented on the positive side. I'm not a fan of the "all white" decor either. Well done Cheif!
@@obrientracy1 Learn how to spell Chief and maybe you'll be taken seriously 😅. Also he asked for opinions, well girlfriend I gave mine. And I haven't seen any farmhouse look with almost black floors.
Yes I had a home inspection but that usually covers only structure, appliances, HVAC, stuff like that. Looking back I would have done what your suggesting, which pretty much happened, I sold everything pretty quick was a hassle for sure. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the information. How much do you think it would cost if you hired someone to do the work that you did? Also, what about adminities in the northern section? I'm your age and active and desire the walking paths and sports like tennis, pickleball, softball, etc. Do you have the same options north? Went for a lifestyle visit a few days ago and never went to the northern section. If the bond didn't exist, would you still buy in the northern section?
All great questions. First, I did the painting myself, so a couple hundred in paint and supplies, then I had Lowes rip out the old floor and install the new LVP floors, just over $9000 for that. They did a great job and fast, all in one day. I'll be doing another video on the details of what I've done so far and how much etc. As far as amenities, we have the same as down south, pretty much, although i think they have more pickle-ball courts south. Up here we have a hospital, most of the doctors, shopping out in town is much better up here, and we have mature landscaping. I probably would have bought new without the bond. But now that I live here, I think i would live closer to Lake Sumter Landing (between 466 and 466A, or between 6's as they say) only to be more central to all the villages. Up here in the north the demographic is much older, that I noticed right away compared to the south. But that will slowly change overtime. So if I buy again I imagine somewhere between 466 and 466A, something a little newer, and 3 car garage, or two car garage plus a golf cart garage. But I'll still be hanging out at Spanish Springs a lot, I love this area.
Just for reference…We moved here 2 years ago and had the whole house painted (walls and trim) for $6500. That included paint and labor. Our house is 3 bedroom about 1750 sq ft.
Thanks Joe, I looked at it closely today and yeah I may have panicked a bit, I think you’re right. I’m gonna have a tree guy look at it tho to make sure there are no bugs that can get my other palms.
You've done a great job on your house! I definitely think you'll get your money back out of it, but hopefully you'll stay! Do you find that there are people your age on the north side? I think that's my concern. I want to be around the people in their late 50s who might still be working.
Honestly, I feel like I’m the youngest in my neighborhood, don’t know for sure but I have to say yes, it seems like the younger folks do tend to buy south of 466A, I can’t say for sure just an observation. Although, I have noticed as homes up here come up for sale, then some younger folks are moving in, after all I’m one of them, we’ll I’m not that young I turn 60 this year, but I feel young still! So honestly Laura if that’s a concern I would consider buying south. Thanks for the kind words!
Havent heard of a reUse store before but thats a good idea. There are places that you can donate to, churches, thrift stores, habitat for humanity, there are a bunch around here. Some stuff I donated, some I sold, i don't remember to who all of it went. Thanks for watching!
I agree with you, that furniture is not the best with all the grey and white stripes and dark grey sofa. Hopefully, once you get rid of it you'll find some that suits your style.
Nice Video....If you don't mind how many sq. feet.?? Roughly what did you pay? What are they going now a days? Looking for 2500sq. feet preferably 3car garage..... Don't care about golf..LOL
My house is small, approx 1200 sqft, with the florida room its 1400 sqft, 2 car garage, 2 bdrm, I paid 319k and no bond. I would talk to a realtor like www.youtube.com/@Robyncavallaro . I'm thinking of upsizing if I stay here. Thanks for watching!
Couch and Chair at City Furniture, most everything else from Wayfair. I'm doing a video on all the details, paint colors, floor brand and color, furniture, etc. hopefully this weekend.
Morning Chief. Your home looks great! Question for you. You look like a young guy, I’m guessing early 50’s? They say that the younger retirees move in down south. I guess the concern would be that being in the older section of TV, your neighbors might be much older than you. How do you feel living up north as such a younger man?
Hi Fred, great question. I’m turning 60 this year, and you are right all my neighbors are much older. They are all great but yes, if I did it all over again I would consider moving south, or “between the sixes”. However some younger folks are buying up here as time goes on because there is more available without bonds up here. So the demographic may change over time.
@@TheVillagesChief Thank you for the reply. I’m sure those neighborhoods up north will eventually turnover. Not that we’d want to rush anyone ;-) One thing I have noticed is that you pay a huge premium to live in TV. I’m sure it’s worth it but damn! Keep up the videos. Be well.
@@fredhobbs3613 I also watch Skip Smith's TH-cam channel. He & his wife bought their home in the Village of Hillsborough near Brownwood Paddock Square almost 9 years ago. Skip has said in that time almost every house in his neighborhood has been sold once. Don't know if that is typical of The Villages or not.
@@lauralampe1664 Yes I do hear folks move an average of something like 3 times in TV. However, I do hear up north tends to be more mature. And I’m not just referring to the vegetation 😳
At the time I purchased the home he was alive. I think he was very elderly and moved in with one of his kids so he didn't need any of his furniture. Thanks for watching Mysweetnana!
New homes in the villages come with a bond, varies but somewhere around 20k to 30k (guessing) and that’s on top of the home price. That money is used to build the squares and rec centers and common community stuff (I’m guessing based on conversations with realtors) The older homes typically don’t have bonds, because the previous owner paid it off. But if you buy a house, and it has a bond, you have to pay the balance on the bond, from what I understand.
Plantation shutters are nice, but once installed, you will not open them. You will just open and close the louvers. This means the effect of your mullioned windows will be lost. Looking through louvers really cuts down on your enjoyment of the landscaping. There is also a lot of glare when it’s bright outside. Every louver reflects white glare, Even closed, the light that seeps is very glarey.I have them throughout. They’re an absolute disaster on a sliding glass doors, and destroy the effect of French doors. These are the downsides. The upsides are they look nice, provide privacy even when open, and insulate well. They are much better than shades for cutting out light pollution at night. Careful upstairs - even closed, someone outside on the ground can look up and see inside, especially at night when lights are on inside. Shutters and drapes together would be ideal. Pricey, but elegant and functional. This gives the effect of permanence to a home. My place doesn’t have enough wall space for draperies, though.
“Turnkey” doesn’t mean furnished. It means the property is up-to-date, fresh, and in perfect condition. Ready to move in without replacing anything, doing even the smallest repair, or spot painting. Like new.
Yikes, now that I finished watching the video and saw all the work you did, and that the windows need new seals - that is NOT TURNKEY. Idk why they misuse the term there. I don’t mean to be discourteous, but I wouldn’t even call it furnished. I’d call it the sellers leaving their old junk. Seeing your great taste, you must be asking yourself why the seller’s furniture tempted you. Anyway, enjoy your place and the community. Meet Jerry and Linda. 😆
It’s when you come down to the Villages and they put you up in a house here for a few days at a reasonable cost, near a newer area, they’ll show you some new houses but also you get a golf cart and a bicycle so you can explore yourself and just basically check out the area and see what the Villages is all about. It’s like a mini vacation, I enjoyed it. I made a video during my lifestyle visit: th-cam.com/video/UiZD1OHgPzw/w-d-xo.html
Support this channel and get some cool merch at ChiefHobie.com
We bought turnkey 11 years ago in the Spanish Springs area. We are so glad we did! We're still using much of the furniture, grateful for the many little items provided, from toaster, coffeepot, utensils, towels and linens, to an older golf cart that got us through our first few years. Turnkey was a new concept to us and made the decision easy for us.
That’s awesome! You got all kinds of goodies in that purchase, thanks for sharing!
We have lived in the Spanish Springs area for 10 years…perfect location…halfway between SS and LS L. Many of the houses have been updated and have new roofs and established landscaping.
Yup it’s great here! Thanks for watching Jan!
I suspect the northern parts of TV are going to be seeing a demographic shift over the next several years. The "younger" folks are moving down south, but as the residents up north start aging out, someone is going to have to be moving into those properties up north. TV keeps expanding south, but eventually the lack of bonds and mature landscaping should start drawing lots of attention to the "older" sections.
Exactly. I’m one of those younger ones that did just that. (well sorta younger, i turn 60 this year)
Turnkey is basically the seller saying hey I’m probably on my way to assisted-living and I have no way to get all this crap out of here so I’m gonna leave it for you. Good luck. Happened to my family twice in Naples. I tried to warn them, but they wouldn’t listen.
Thanks for watching Maria :)
We bought turnkey;. We weren't looking for one but there were a bunch of items like TV's, BBQ, patio furniture that were keepers but yes more often turnkey is another term for "abandoned furniture" Most often it is a former rental.
That sounds like win, some turnkeys are a good deal for sure, I could have used a BBQ with this house, probably would kept that too!
Great video, short and to the point! Lots of information, plus you brought up important things I hadn't even thought about. My favorite thing about your videos is your honesty! I love it, keep going.
Thanks so much Coco!
The house looks great. A Florida room is a plus and the yard with a big dog is something nice and necessary. You asked for suggestions and I would say you need a pop of color. Maybe a beautiful, large ceramic bowl on the table or a plant on the table next to the Florida room door. Love the grey color of the walls. Goes with everything. I just remodeled a 22 year old house and used the same colors. I imagine with your military background, you like clean lines and no clutter. Enjoy adding the final touches.
Thanks so much Irene good idea!
You made very nice choices in paint colors and the flooring Your furnishings equally good taste. Wish you happiness on this journey👍
Thanks Aurora!
My wife and I have considered looking at the villages. We live in Northeast Ohio. We are considering retiring and thought the Villages may be a place for us. We didn't consider it -- however, after watching your channel and listening to your insight about the rumors... makes me what to look at the community. I'm a big golfer. Thank you for providing this information.
Thanks Bob! Good luck to ya where ever you live!
I bought a turnkey house about 4 years ago and you are exactly right about the furniture. I didn’t keep any of it because it wasn’t my style. That being said, when I bought the house I knew I would be getting rid of the furniture. But to buy something advertised as being furnished is enticing.
Thanks Lezlie:)
I bought a turnkey home. Only kept the bedroom furniture,however, it was easy selling the rest. Between Facebook marketplace and Bargains and Treasures, who comes to your home and picks up the furniture and sells it for you and then mails you a check.
Thanks for sharing Anthony!
Would love to see a home tour that is slower so we can really get a feel for the house… great info… I’m far from living my TV dream as I have to get my kids grown and flown but some day!! And I agree about Spanish springs area, it feels like a better deal, although by the time it’s my turn the southern areas will be older then! 😊
Hi Laura, I should have shown more of the house I flew thru the video too fast, I’ll be doing another video going over some of the details once the house is done. Thanks for watching!!
Hi! I’ve been watching your videos for a bit, liking The Villages! I love what you’ve done to that place and wish I had your skills. I’m 62 and need to work until I’m 70 due to finances. Thanks for your informative videos!
Thanks so much Karen!
Well said! Thanks for recommending my video.
You guys could collaborate on a video and do a motorcycle riding video with both of you!! 😂
Hi Robyn, your videos are the best in my opinion for realestate in the Villages and related issues, thanks for sharing your knowledge!! Everyone thinking of moving here needs to watch your videos!
Great idea Laura! This is a nice area to ride and hangout with other motorcyclists. A colab sounds great especially with a TV TH-cam celeb like Robyn!
Thank you for sharing all your improvements. My LifeStyle is in the works and i can't decide whether to go new or pre-owned. You made your home look better than some of the new homes!
Thanks Jane. I still wonder what I should have done, new or old. I've been investing just about as much in the fixing up this house as I would have with a bond on the new house. So make sure you look very carefully and take your time looking at both old and new homes would be my advice. But either way it's a great place to live.
Great information. I could not agree with you more regarding the northern sections of The Villages. I think the lots are better and I like the mature landscaping. I can see that turn-key requires a close inspection. Thanks for the information.
Thanks Sue!
Beautiful house! When I'm able to retire, in a year or two, I plan to visit The Villages as a snowbird.
Nice!
I much prefer the existing homes further north for the reasons you mentioned. Enjoy your home and The Villages. I saw one house that was turnkey and it was amazing. It sold in about a day or so. It appeared to be professionally decorated. I did save the video so I could dream now and again. The house sold for $349,901 cash, $1 above asking during Covid because it was an all cash offer. It was one that was worth it. There was no bond and it was fairly new. Your house looks terrific.
Thanks so much! That sounds like a great deal. We have some great things up here, lots of beauty, nice homes at decent prices, and I love Spanish Springs.
I bought a turnkey because moving lines rip you off. When I moved to South Carolina from Tennessee I had 35 items only 5 needed to guys to load it everything else could be Carried by one guy it cost me $8,000 Whitehall I thought was to much unfortunately movers were over booked so I had to settle on it. There was so much thing in they and the garage was pack to I give a lot of it away and though out a lot of old stuff. I live alone so when I sold my furniture before moving to The Villages that didn’t have a lot of things. When I sold my house after my wife passed away I sold as a turnkey I mean I probably left somewhere between $40,000 & $50,000 items, paintings China wear etc to many memories to keep it all. Thanks for your channel
I know what ya mean Ronnie, i went thru the same thing years ago, I saved a few precious pieces and sold the rest. But I have moved everything myself several times in my life, it’s not easy. In some situations it’s a fantastic option. Thanks for watching!
Love the changes you made. So tastefully done. Enjoy your new home.
Thanks so much! 😊
Your are doing a good job with your new home. I live in the north side of the Villages. Just like you, I believe the north is the better half. I have a sister in the south and she isn't happy with the neighborhood turnout. I think "brand new" was more important than the landscaping around the area, such as, "the lack of trees." The distance has become a bad issue as well. The north has the stores, medical, and is a short distance to places outside of the Villages. I am glad you mentioned the work Lowes has done in your home, I work there! They do a very nice job on most of their projects. I do not care for used furniture either, very, very new is not a problem but knowing there has been a lot of sitting and use by others, removing the furniture would have been in my contract.
Hi Vickie, thanks for watching and thanks for the kind words!
Floors look great. My relatives live in Sarasota and told me to sell my furniture, do not ship it south, buy new, or at second hand stores.
Good advice!
You did a great job on the painting and love the floors.
Thank you so much!
Awesome! Another Spanish Springs TH-camr! Love all the tips! And we bought our comfy courtyard villa for many of the same reasons as you did. Except ours was not turn key. Our furniture was from City Furniture. I like what you did with your place so far. We love living right in between Spanish Springs and Lake Sumter Landing as well as being close to all the stores, medical facilities, and restaurants in Lady Lake. Keep up the good work!
Hi GracejoyTV, you have great videos, I’m a big fan! I got some of my stuff from city furniture and was very happy. Yeah this area is great :)
@@TheVillagesChief thanks so much for checking out my channel as well! Glad you're enjoying our area so far. I just subscribed :)
I think turnkey would be great for someone like me who is considering being a snowbird (from Canada). I wouldn't be coming with anything but a change of clothing. But the stuff you got would just be to start, until I got settled. The furniture, and flooring you have now is way more current and classier. You have good taste. It looks more like a play you'd want to come home to.
Thanks for a great perspective.
I've also heard that along with the bond, property taxes are higher in the newer areas. Not sure if that is accurate.
Thanks Paula, good points great idea for a snowbird. I think you are right on the taxes, I believe Sumter county part of TV is the lowest on taxes, I think that’s what I heard. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for explaining what "turnkey" means in The Villages. That's not what it means elsewhere, where it means ready to move in with no repairs needed but not furnished. I don't own enough furniture for a home because I'm in a small apartment, so I would consider turnkey to be able to replace furniture an area at a time instead of buying a whole house full at once. But it's good to know to check under and behind furniture for hidden things!
Your house looks fantastic and I love your new furniture.
Thanks so much, down here I’m starting to feel it depends on what realtor you talk to because some realtors say that turnkey means it comes with silverware and everything and some say its partially furnished or whatever so I would definitely check with your realtor on the true definition of what turnkey means, but I think I’m pretty close in my explanation, I really appreciate your comments and thanks for watching!
Thanks for your insights! Really like your channel!
Thanks Donna!
I like the mature trees of the Spanish Springs area.
Me too :)
Your house is beautiful and in love with your dog, gorgeous!! Thanks for sharing!💙
Thanks Taylor!
they say, most people move three times when they move to the villages. we bought a year ago in spanish springs , and love the area .good luck with your new home
Yeah I might be the one who moves twice, three times seems a bit too much, I’m just gonna be careful and make sure the next one is perfect.
You are absolutely right and you did a great job.
Thanks Jill!
You did a great job on your house. It's really beautiful, warm and inviting.
Thank you so much!
I've always been drawn to a fixer upper as I love doing home improvements and projects.
Being single the older I get the more a turnkey sounds lovely 😂 not having a man to work on the "hard stuff "
Sure works out great for a lot of folks, thanks for watching!
As a fellow Villager I am happy for you that you are happy with your Villages home purchase. When we began looking to purchase a home in The Villages it was in the early part of 2022. At that time pre-owned home prices were considerably higher than new home prices, and many of the pre-owned homes we looked at were in need of both structural updating like needing near future new roofs and windows as well as they needed cosmetic updating. So our choice was to purchase a low bond or bond free older home with list price $30k+ higher than a similar model new home and then have put into it $30k worth of updates, or purchase a new home with a $30+k lower price tag that needed no updating but had a $32k bond. The choice was clear for us that it was going to be the new home with the $32k bond with the bond payment being $1,800/year which if we were to sell in a few years the new owners inherit the bond balance. And being cash buyers that $30+k we would have needed to purchase the higher priced pre-owned home plus the $30k we would have needed to do updating stayed in the bank earning interest slightly higher than the interest rate on our bond. Additionally, we are very happy with our home which is a poured concrete 3br Avondale model courtyard villa with golf cart garage on a pool sized lot with all rooms having tiled flooring located in south St. Johns which is a 15 minute golf cart ride to both Brownwood and Sawgrass Grove where we go to both places often. We could literally walk to Everglades regional RC where some shopping is available at Magnolia Plaza which is right next door to this RC. A 10 minute cart ride gets us to Okahumka and the Waterlily RCs, and just yesterday we took the cart to Lake Sumter Landing which was a lovely +/- 1/2 hour ride. We don't go to Spanish Springs area often, but if we do we go by car which is no big deal for us. My husband is also a Vet and goes to the VA CBOC and driving 301 gets him there in 20 minutes which is a shorter ride than he had going to the VA in R.I. where I also worked as an R.N. which was a good 45 minute ride from our R.I. home mostly due to the heavy traffic driving into Providence from all directions. I am certain if the housing market was different than it was when we purchased our home and we ended up purchasing that perfect for us in price point house in the north that required minimal updating instead of a new home in the south we would be just as happy living there as we are living in the south.
Hi Nightingale, thanks so much for sharing your experience. I have a feeling I’m going to be one of those folks that buys 2 or 3 times, I’ve already started looking around at new and pre owned homes all over the area now that I live here. There was one new house I almost bought before this one in deluna, it had a bond which I never heard of before so I got stuck in a paradigm that made me nervous about going forward, now that I live here and see the bond thing is not that big of a deal I might have reconsidered it, I was just afraid of that causing a problem with a resale, but I was wrong thinking that way. So if I move again I’m sure it will be a new or newer home with a bond. Again thanks so much for sharing!
They had a new roof installed before we bought it. we payed $233,000 for our turn key. We bought because of the area, the style, and our front porch swing. We used Properties of The Villages. Our agent was Great!
Sounds like a great deal!
Your home looks lovely. I visited the Villages twice. Once we stayed at the TownePlace suites in Spanish Springs. We totally fell in love with the area. Its a great place to be.
Thanks so much! Yeah this area is great, thanks for watching!
Your living & dining rooms look wonderful. Love the living room furniture and the LVP floors. Just subscribed to your channel. I also prefer the areas of The Villages north of Lake Sumter Landing. Fingers crossed 🤞 I am retiring in December 2024. May be my next stop after retirement will be The Villages. I am planning to visit The Villages again in May.
Thanks Laura!
I agree Laura time for North representation.
Thanks for the info Chief . My Dad said that the VA there is the best one he’s ever been to. 3 more years and I will be there ( 55 can’t come soon enough LoL )
Yup I like the VA here, good folks and I’m always in and out pretty quick, and ya can’t beat the location. Thanks for watching Rob!
Great video. Lots of good points to consider. Thanks.
Thanks Brian!
You’ve done a fantastic job, it looks beautiful!
Thanks so much Beth that’s very sweet!
Can you do an update on home insurance in the villages? Florida taxes and homeowners insurance is out of control. At least that’s the message we’ve been hearing up in the Northeast. Perhaps it’s a scare tactic to keep us all here in the snow and cold. Hahaha
Will do Kim probably gonna do a budget type video here in the next few weeks. Hang in there!
Your house looks great I think you done the smartest thing by buying a preowned home and picking an older location that is actually iconic to the Villages…Spanish Springs! Really enjoy your videos informative and very interesting, thanks Chief Hobie!
Thanks so much!!
I wonder if it was just too much for the previous owners to get rid of the furniture (just like you experienced with having to get everything out). Love tge new decor! Good job!
Probably, thanks for watching!
Love the new floors. Congratulations!
Thanks so much!
Thanks for the vid. My wife has the same viewpoint as you with respect to turnkey. I’ve been coming around to that viewpoint as well.
Thanks Franom Ts, depends on the turnkey, but in my case I should have looked closer and thought it thru better. I'm sure there are some great turnkey deals out there tho. If the stuff is new and awesome, than it's a bonus, but not sure thats usually the case. This was a learning moment for me!
My wife and I would like to know where the chair in the background was purchased. Keep up the good work - love the videos.
City Furniture in Spanish Springs. Thanks!
Your flooring looks sharp. Please tell me the name of the product that you used. Thanks.
Hi Dan, It’s LVP, on the box it says waterproof vinyl plank, #1314414, I think it’s called “SS TUDOR OAK”, I also had them install a moisture barrier and white PS vinyl 4IN1 molding (the quarter round). All bought and installed through lowes.
Agree, you are smart to put the money into the house not into the bond. I’m coming down for a lifestyle visit. I’m a licensed Realtor in Ca. I really don’t want to buy with a bond.
Thanks for watching Geri!
Your doing great. Watching a lot of Villages vloggers. Trying to decide on my retirement there
Thanks! It’s a great place to live, take your time and visit all the areas you can, it’s a big community, best of luck!
Gr8 video. I live about 20 miles from TV now-definitely want to move in the bubble-I was looking at 713 Hernandez-it came furnished with a golf cart (electric) I would be downsizing from 2500 sq ft to 1100 sq ft-I would have to sell everything I have and sell everything that came with the new place-the thought of that was overwhelming and because it came with all the stuff-it was way overpriced for the comps. I like Spanish Springs as well-I prefer the more mature landscaping-down south looks so barren. Like the updates so far-definitely prefer plantation shutters over drapes-once it’s done - let me know-perhaps I’ll buy it 🍻
Awesome David, thanks for watching!
Your presentation was spot on once again. We all like the random, non rehearsed keeping it real. I there is a gym in Silver Springs rec center? Across the street from La Hacienda.
Hi Seamster. No the only downside to the rec centers is I haven’t found any real gyms with weights that are part of our amenities. I have suggested it to a recent committee. There some outdoor low impact workout areas but I like real gyms with lots of weights. For now the gym in Spanish Springs is nice, but $85 is a little steep. But the location is perfect, after a good workout, step out the gym and you’re on the square watching a band relaxing. Makes for a great day!
@@TheVillagesChief ok I seen a video posted last year and they walked through the main rec center with the large pool with the rock waterfall. There was a small gym with weights and you have to walk through it before you get to the pool. I will have to find and rewatch that video. Keep up the great pop up videos for us ice frozen people 😊
I think I seen that one too
@@TheVillagesChief it was at Orange Blossom Country Club. A couple walked through with their mom showing the restaurant and rock waterfall pool area. Looked like a nice gym.
You did a great job. Place looks beautiful!
Thanks Noreen!
When did you buy your home? You did a great job with the upgrades, well done. How old is your home I’m curious 😊
Hi Becky, I bought it last September, it was built in 2001 (I think I’ll check the paperwork). My next video coming out will be on the details of what I’ve done, paint colors, floor info, costs, and stuff like that. Hopefully launching this weekend. Thanks so much for watching!
Looks good! How did you get rid of the old furniture?
I don’t remember, it happened so fast it was all gone in a day, I can’t remember where I got the contact
What a nice job on the house, that flooring is beautiful!
I was wondering if “The Villages” is ever threatened by hurricanes or tornadoes or if it’s in a safe zone?
You said your home is near a “Blondies”, is that a restaurant? (I live in MI and haven’t heard of that before.)
So we came out of hurricane Ian with no major problems I think we are so inland and slightly above sea level so we are in a pretty safe spot. Tornados may be another story tho, i think we are susceptible to tornadoes. They are putting a blondie s in but I’m not sure if it’s a franchise or a one off, but I think it’s a bar/restaurant with outside bar area or something like that.
Your home looks great!
Thanks!!
i think your updates are great.
thanks!
Great videos as a new Villager!! Are you going to meet Roy and Karen and The Village Newcomers? Maybe I'll run into you and your pooch when I get there...I'm going to get a Pooch too soon after getting there. My baby Michael is still in my heart...we had a dog act...you can see on my channel. Your poochie is ADORABLE!!
That would be great to meet all those Villages TH-camrs, but I’m still a newbie. Really appreciate your kind words, keeps me motivated to keep the channel going. Sorry about your pooch. It’s very dog friendly around here for sure, dogs are the best!
Just stumbled on your channel. We are getting ready to retire in the next year and looking to move to a warmer climate. How did you set up a lifestyle visit? Was this something you did through some formal process? We are also considering states like New Mexico or Northern California but affordability is key for us.
Hi Brenda it was real easy, just go to www.thevillages.com/lifestyle-preview-plan and call them, they’ll set ya up, it was actually pretty awesome, you stay in a nice house all to your self and with golf cart.
Absolutely beautiful! Can I ask what color paint you went with? I am repainting my home and I really like that color.
I found it on your other video. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Deb, I broke down the colors I used in each room in this video: th-cam.com/video/zUM2kmbOAYY/w-d-xo.html “Updating my new old house in The Villages” hope this helps ya! Thanks for watching!
Hi there! I just came across your channel this week . I’ve been thinking about The Villages for a year or so now , but i have a few drawbacks., 1 being the bond on many of the homes. 2nd.. I do not like the idea of paying an HOA , (I forget what it’s called there).. but still having to hire to do all the outside upkeep. I reeally don’t want to have to once again search for dependable yard service, painters, etc. 😔But, I understand it’s for keeping everything there in wonderful, clean shape. I love thaat. I love the idea of living among my own age range, & all the activities there! I’ve not come for a lifestyle visit yet. My adult sons live out of state, & the thoughts of selling here & moving down there alone is daunting! I’ve never moved out of state.
I love the colors, floors on your home so far. I loved the golf cart video !
Hi Tennesseegirl, thanks for the kind words! So if you end up buying up north you probably won’t have a bond to worry about, because these are older homes and the bonds are most likely payed off. Also the monthly fees are pretty cheap in my opinion, I think mine is approx $180 a month. But you have access to so much and they keep all the common areas real nice, clean and beautiful. So for an amenity fee it’s very reasonable I think. I hope you enjoy your lifestyle visit it’s a great way to check everything out. It’s a brand new channel and I’m so new here I’m learning as I go but so far from what I can tell the villages is a great place to live and retire. Thanks so much for watching!!
@@TheVillagesChief Hi ! Thank you for the info. That doesn’t sound so bad. I have a question. So another TH-camr I believe said they paid like $200-300/ month for all the mowing, grounds upkeep.. so that brings the monthly fee on up further, plus I think something about “several hundred more” maybe twice a year “at least” to trim palm trees. Is all thaat true? I can be fine with with $350 -$400/ month outside maintenance.. it’s no doubt worth the beautiful areas, and soooo much to do there.
Have you hear or do you know if there are homes to rent while searching to buy? Homes completely furnished?
That would work best for me.. having my furniture , etc delivered to a storage unit.. after selling my Villa here.. then searching .
Thank you sooo much for the info!! I’m a nurse.. I can retire anytime.
@@Cathyntn I think it depends on the yard, if you have no palm trees then you got no palm trees to trim, in my neighborhood I’d say it’s about half and half, with palms and without. If you get a patio villa or courtyard villa you may have very little yard maintenance to worry about if any, so you really need to look at all the variety of homes and yards when you visit. I cut my own grass and do my own yard work so I’m not sure the costs but I’m thinking lawn care is probably closer to 50 to 80 a month, at least that’s what I hear from my neighbors.
@@TheVillagesChief Thanks! I’ll check on those!
The Amenity fee (monthly fee) gives you access to every single rec center and the over 3,500 clubs and activities, pool (over 100!), tennis court, pickleball courts, executive golf courses that are free to play if you walk and so much more!! The Villages has a unique government that eliminates the HOA headaches. Going on 8 years here and love every day.
The LVP is really nice!
Thanks!
We bought a turnkey, kept the furniture. Defiantly wanted to be in Lady Lake. 2nd Gen Villager
Very cool
I guess as a public health nurse, I wouldn’t want to have furniture and carpet with other people’s dander all over it. It would give me the ick factor. There are lots of things in furniture that can be transmitted; MRSA, lice, bedbugs-you name it.
Yup! That's why I purged the place
Have you considered making the wall on the left (when you walk in the front door) your tv wall? That's what we would do with this floorplan.
It was that way when I bought it, but I wanted more of an entrance area, and make the TV area a little more cozy. But you could do either.
@@TheVillagesChief We are looking at a property currently on the market, exact same floor plan. That living room is what is holding me back from pulling the trigger. I heard the Cheif say he likes a foyer and I am the same way. So this floor plan is difficult to sit living room furniture and I feel it may get claustrophoic. It's only 2 of us, but still seems a bit small in living room. Cheif, do you feel you are close to most shopping and activites ? Wanted to say you have a talent for decorating, the place is perfect! In fact, I may still some of your idea's! Well done!!
@@obrientracy1 yup I’m 1.5 miles from Lowe’s, Walmart, Publix, CVS, and a bunch of stores, plus Spanish Springs has a bunch of stores about 2.7 miles away and about 15 minutes to 466 which has a new Sprouts and a bunch more stores like PetSmart and that kinda a stuff, target is about 15-20 minutes away.
Flooring too dark, You're in Florida 🌴🌴🏖️🌅!!! I live in New England and I'd never have anything so dark 😅. Our place in Palm Beach County has tile, it's nice because it keeps the place cooler.
Sorry you don’t like it Dana, I really like the darker floors, not sure why I just do. My last house in VA had hardwood floors and I really loved them so this was s good option for me here. But I appreciate you watching and thanks for the feedback!
@@TheVillagesChief God bless you and your endeavors 🙏. Congratulations on your lovely home☺️
It's perfect color, he said he was going for Farmhouse style, not Southbeach. He did a great job! As you can see most everyone has commented on the positive side. I'm not a fan of the "all white" decor either. Well done Cheif!
@@obrientracy1 Learn how to spell Chief and maybe you'll be taken seriously 😅. Also he asked for opinions, well girlfriend I gave mine. And I haven't seen any farmhouse look with almost black floors.
@@obrientracy1 thanks!
Did you not have a home inspection? I would have asked for all furniture to be removed upon he sale! 🤷🏼♀️
Yes I had a home inspection but that usually covers only structure, appliances, HVAC, stuff like that. Looking back I would have done what your suggesting, which pretty much happened, I sold everything pretty quick was a hassle for sure. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the information. How much do you think it would cost if you hired someone to do the work that you did? Also, what about adminities in the northern section? I'm your age and active and desire the walking paths and sports like tennis, pickleball, softball, etc. Do you have the same options north? Went for a lifestyle visit a few days ago and never went to the northern section. If the bond didn't exist, would you still buy in the northern section?
All great questions. First, I did the painting myself, so a couple hundred in paint and supplies, then I had Lowes rip out the old floor and install the new LVP floors, just over $9000 for that. They did a great job and fast, all in one day. I'll be doing another video on the details of what I've done so far and how much etc. As far as amenities, we have the same as down south, pretty much, although i think they have more pickle-ball courts south. Up here we have a hospital, most of the doctors, shopping out in town is much better up here, and we have mature landscaping. I probably would have bought new without the bond. But now that I live here, I think i would live closer to Lake Sumter Landing (between 466 and 466A, or between 6's as they say) only to be more central to all the villages. Up here in the north the demographic is much older, that I noticed right away compared to the south. But that will slowly change overtime. So if I buy again I imagine somewhere between 466 and 466A, something a little newer, and 3 car garage, or two car garage plus a golf cart garage. But I'll still be hanging out at Spanish Springs a lot, I love this area.
Just for reference…We moved here 2 years ago and had the whole house painted (walls and trim) for $6500. That included paint and labor. Our house is 3 bedroom about 1750 sq ft.
I keep hearing about "Bond". What is it? Is it only there in The Villages or is it the whole state of FL?
Apparently some communities around the country do it this way, its to fund the infrastructure and development of the new area and facilities.
You did a great job.
Thanks!
Palm tree looks great. Do not cut it down. If it still pods,no problem
Thanks Joe, I looked at it closely today and yeah I may have panicked a bit, I think you’re right. I’m gonna have a tree guy look at it tho to make sure there are no bugs that can get my other palms.
You've done a great job on your house! I definitely think you'll get your money back out of it, but hopefully you'll stay! Do you find that there are people your age on the north side? I think that's my concern. I want to be around the people in their late 50s who might still be working.
Honestly, I feel like I’m the youngest in my neighborhood, don’t know for sure but I have to say yes, it seems like the younger folks do tend to buy south of 466A, I can’t say for sure just an observation. Although, I have noticed as homes up here come up for sale, then some younger folks are moving in, after all I’m one of them, we’ll I’m not that young I turn 60 this year, but I feel young still! So honestly Laura if that’s a concern I would consider buying south. Thanks for the kind words!
Is there a reUse store near by? they usually will take and pick up the old furniture
Havent heard of a reUse store before but thats a good idea. There are places that you can donate to, churches, thrift stores, habitat for humanity, there are a bunch around here. Some stuff I donated, some I sold, i don't remember to who all of it went. Thanks for watching!
Cheif hello,did you get an article about the SQUALUS ?, if not let me know,thanks 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Nope
I agree with you, that furniture is not the best with all the grey and white stripes and dark grey sofa. Hopefully, once you get rid of it you'll find some that suits your style.
Haha Bryan, unfortunately that is the new stuff! The old stuff was in the “before” video clips. I’m into grey tones. But I appreciate your honesty!
I was only joking. I knew that was the new stuff.
@@bryant6524 you got me good Bryan! 😂😂😂😂
Nice Video....If you don't mind how many sq. feet.?? Roughly what did you pay? What are they going now a days? Looking for 2500sq. feet preferably 3car garage..... Don't care about golf..LOL
My house is small, approx 1200 sqft, with the florida room its 1400 sqft, 2 car garage, 2 bdrm, I paid 319k and no bond. I would talk to a realtor like www.youtube.com/@Robyncavallaro . I'm thinking of upsizing if I stay here. Thanks for watching!
Turn key is easier for the seller. Some people like this if they're going to rent the place on a vacation site.
Very true, thanks Sharker!
Where did you end up getting your new furniture?
Couch and Chair at City Furniture, most everything else from Wayfair. I'm doing a video on all the details, paint colors, floor brand and color, furniture, etc. hopefully this weekend.
Morning Chief. Your home looks great! Question for you. You look like a young guy, I’m guessing early 50’s? They say that the younger retirees move in down south. I guess the concern would be that being in the older section of TV, your neighbors might be much older than you. How do you feel living up north as such a younger man?
Hi Fred, great question. I’m turning 60 this year, and you are right all my neighbors are much older. They are all great but yes, if I did it all over again I would consider moving south, or “between the sixes”. However some younger folks are buying up here as time goes on because there is more available without bonds up here. So the demographic may change over time.
@@TheVillagesChief Thank you for the reply. I’m sure those neighborhoods up north will eventually turnover. Not that we’d want to rush anyone ;-) One thing I have noticed is that you pay a huge premium to live in TV. I’m sure it’s worth it but damn! Keep up the videos. Be well.
@@fredhobbs3613 I also watch Skip Smith's TH-cam channel. He & his wife bought their home in the Village of Hillsborough near Brownwood Paddock Square almost 9 years ago. Skip has said in that time almost every house in his neighborhood has been sold once. Don't know if that is typical of The Villages or not.
@@lauralampe1664 Yes I do hear folks move an average of something like 3 times in TV. However, I do hear up north tends to be more mature. And I’m not just referring to the vegetation 😳
You probably are going to get calls to paint and decorate other peoples homes. Your house looks gorgeous. Great video
Wow thanks so much Lisa!
Absolutely love the changes you made to the furniture and the house. Definitely a BIG improvement.
Thanks so much Carolyn!!
WOW, love your house. Next year can we do a Life Style Visit at your place? :D
Haha! Maybe I could start a side biz! Life style Chief style!
@@TheVillagesChief Air B’n’B the way it was intended.
Looks very nice
Thanks Sharon!
Can you have a vegetable garden in your yard???
Apparently, there’s a law in Florida which allows it, I think so
I wonder if the previous owner passed away and they sold everything with the house
At the time I purchased the home he was alive. I think he was very elderly and moved in with one of his kids so he didn't need any of his furniture. Thanks for watching Mysweetnana!
Did you go down for a visit and buy at the same time? 1st visit?
I came down for a lifestyle visit last July, then bought in September on a second visit.
Could you explain the bond ?
New homes in the villages come with a bond, varies but somewhere around 20k to 30k (guessing) and that’s on top of the home price. That money is used to build the squares and rec centers and common community stuff (I’m guessing based on conversations with realtors) The older homes typically don’t have bonds, because the previous owner paid it off. But if you buy a house, and it has a bond, you have to pay the balance on the bond, from what I understand.
Women like to decorate their home themselves. I understand buying turnkeys homes but prefer to design myself.
Me too for sure
Nice
Thanks!
What does it mean to have a bond on your house?
Here’s a good video exposing it: th-cam.com/video/HX_A_7yfaW0/w-d-xo.html
Is there a traditional value, conservative area of the Villages?
Honestly I believe that’s most of The Villages.
Bond?! Why?
Also, what's 'Blondie's?'
Hi Terry, here's a good video on the bond: th-cam.com/video/HX_A_7yfaW0/w-d-xo.html . I think blondies is a restaurant bar coming to Spanish Springs.
😊👍!!
Thanks!!
Plantation shutters are nice, but once installed, you will not open them. You will just open and close the louvers. This means the effect of your mullioned windows will be lost. Looking through louvers really cuts down on your enjoyment of the landscaping. There is also a lot of glare when it’s bright outside. Every louver reflects white glare, Even closed, the light that seeps is very glarey.I have them throughout. They’re an absolute disaster on a sliding glass doors, and destroy the effect of French doors. These are the downsides.
The upsides are they look nice, provide privacy even when open, and insulate well. They are much better than shades for cutting out light pollution at night.
Careful upstairs - even closed, someone outside on the ground can look up and see inside, especially at night when lights are on inside. Shutters and drapes together would be ideal. Pricey, but elegant and functional. This gives the effect of permanence to a home. My place doesn’t have enough wall space for draperies, though.
Good advice
“Turnkey” doesn’t mean furnished. It means the property is up-to-date, fresh, and in perfect condition. Ready to move in without replacing anything, doing even the smallest repair, or spot painting. Like new.
th-cam.com/video/-CHpwDXzMQU/w-d-xo.html
Yikes, now that I finished watching the video and saw all the work you did, and that the windows need new seals - that is NOT TURNKEY. Idk why they misuse the term there. I don’t mean to be discourteous, but I wouldn’t even call it furnished. I’d call it the sellers leaving their old junk. Seeing your great taste, you must be asking yourself why the seller’s furniture tempted you. Anyway, enjoy your place and the community. Meet Jerry and Linda. 😆
Yeah I was hasty, but ended up ok, thanks for watching!
@@TheVillagesChief It’s lovely. I really like everything you did!
@@genxx2724 Thanks!
What is a lifestyle visit.
It’s when you come down to the Villages and they put you up in a house here for a few days at a reasonable cost, near a newer area, they’ll show you some new houses but also you get a golf cart and a bicycle so you can explore yourself and just basically check out the area and see what the Villages is all about. It’s like a mini vacation, I enjoyed it. I made a video during my lifestyle visit: th-cam.com/video/UiZD1OHgPzw/w-d-xo.html
What real estate agent did you use to find your home?
Hi Laura, sorry I’d rather not post that on here.
@@TheVillagesChief totally understand!
Thanks!
Not me :(
Next time!!
So you may be flipping?
Not sure, I might wait several months to a year if I do sell.
It looks very.
Thanks!