For someone who has lived in Ocala since 1979, I can fully agree with all the information presented in this video. Ocala isn't perfect, but I still think it's a good balance between towns that are too small, and towns that are too big.
Growing up in Ocala was a paradise. Now there is always someone directly in front of you and someone directly behind you.Even hunting or fishing you can't escape a crowd.
It's growing, that's for sure. Compared to big cities, I still like the feel Ocala has to offer. But I realize everybody's preference will be different.
And they're inviting more to come. Most of the heads of our town aren't from here and they've changed so much that my grandfather barely recognizes it, and so much that he grew up around and my father grew up around are just gone, only to remain as memories.
I moved a year ago and loved it! Has the most beautiful sunsets and amazing smell of pine trees! I just hate the traffic and traffic lights take forever!
Because of its logistically perfect location, Ocala has become the shipping hub of the SE United States. In the past 5 years, the word has gotten out and huge companies like Amazon, Fed-ex, and Chewey have all built distribution centers here providing thousands of jobs for those wishing to work. As this goes unappreciated by many locals, it is an amazing opportunity for those elsewhere to gain an opportunity and to move to a place where you can still work, go out and live your life on your own terms, unlike many states in our country right now because Florida is awesome.
Two things right off the bat about Florida. I moved here in August 2020. #1 To register your auto here for the first time there is a $200 fee on top of everything else you pay (tax, title. etc.) #2 Auto insurance in Florida is some of the highest in the country. Spoke about this to my insurance agent and he said it was because there are so many uninsured motorists in Florida, there are many ways for your car to be damaged in Florida (accident, hurricane, flood etc) and that Florida is the 3rd most populous state in the US. Other than that the weather in winter is good and there is no state income tax. It is all personal preference.
The truth is nothing is free. If they are not going to have an income tax then you are going to has a regressive tax on other things. That is life. :( You think any Gov't runs efficiently? But it is interesting how these real-estate people don't talk about certain things like car insurance.
@M Hurst I lived in North Carolina for a number of years, and that state charges a tax every year on the value of the vehicle. I tend to keep cars a long time, and it got to the point I was paying only $9 a year while other people were paying several hundred.
@@StevenBillington I'm currently in Ohio, and this state also has no auto inspections. However, I find this somewhat disconcerting--I wonder if the person driving behind me has brakes that will stop the car in case I have to stop suddenly. As Donald Potter mentioned, there apparently are many uninsured drivers in Florida--do these same drivers bother to maintain the safety of their vehicles? However, aside from that, I appreciated your video, and am looking forward to viewing your other ones.
@@bobjacobson858 Hey, Bob - thanks for your comment. You're right, worrying about uninsured drivers and safe vehicles is inconvenient for us that do what we are supposed to do. I hope you find the videos helpful!
If you live in South Florida east of I-95, insurance is the biggest expense. I pay 4,500 for a 1,000 square ft home built in 1963 which ("knock on wood") has NEVER sustained any hurricane damage. And it's extremly hard to find an insurance company to even write a policy for homeowners here in Ft Lauderdale, Florida.
Ocala, home of equestrian life, Reba McIntyre, John Travolta, Santos Mountain Bike Trails, normal congestion, crappy lay out for shopping ( it's all spread out across the city and not close), low paying jobs and close to the biggest retirement golf cart community I have ever seen ( I work in Ocala and live just outside Lady lake/ The Villages).
The crime rate and school board is also something important to know. If any of you don't know, Ocala's crime rate is 50 per 1,000 residents, which is pretty high for a small town. And the school board is horrible. Every single public school I've been too has bullying problems and middle schools are the worst. Even the 2nd largest one in Marion County (Liberty Middle School) has serious bullying problems. Every morning there's at LEAST one fight in the gym, and the coach just blows his whistle and tells them to sit down. They're just friends fighting, but it's also grabbing and punching. The school board is even 1.5 stars. The public schools are no joke. Please be careful.
Yeah, you were a bit too nice concerning the weather. In Ocala a normal summer the temperature should reach 100 degrees. But that's not the part that's worth mentioning, it's the humidity! 100 will "feel like" 110 easy. Same goes for the winter, we still have humidity. Happy over populating our roads.
Great video Steven. Really enjoy your content. My parents are considering relocating to Ocala for retirement. Lots of positive things. One negative I'm seeing in my research is very high crime. Wondering if you could shed a little light on this. Accurate? Only in certain areas? Trying to get a better idea of what's happening in reality. Often times what we read online isn't always what's really going on. Thanks in advance for your time and appreciate the vids + info!
Hi, Matt. I usually tell people that even though theft IS SERIOUS, that is the majority of the crime statistically. When you compare the crime vs. opportunity compared to larger cities I believe it looks worse than it is. I hope that makes sense. There's also many retirement communities around that are the best in Florida and are also gated for added safety.
haha, I don't actually. I put on a beanie after I wash my hair and BOOM. Sadly I don't have time to skateboard these days, but I play with a band that's awesome to listen to while you skateboard!
I find this hilarious... But also kind of infuriating at the same time. Why are you trying to make Ocala sound better than it is for more people to move here and then spend their entire time here making it worse and overcrowded??? 1. Yes we are centrally located, but not close to anything. It takes closer to 2 hours to go to Orlando... Sometimes longer. There's nothing to do in town... And I mean nothing. 2. Yep, there are no droughts cause it rains damn near everyday. It's sooo humid you can cut the air with a knife in summer and during winter it's this bone chilling cold. We do have nice days sometimes too. 3. Cost of living is lower because the pay is MUCHHH lower. It's funny that you didn't mention that. And you featured a nice (probably gated) neighborhood but that doesn't make up majority of the housing. I advise people to look at the average salaries in their field compared to other places too. 4. Plenty of outdoor activities... If you like walking through the woods that aren't overly spectacular and spring water that you'll freeze your you know what off in. 5. This was my favorite... Because it's one of the main reasons I want to leave. I would never in my life consider Ocala to known for its arts and culture... There is no culture. I'm not trying to hate on your video... But seriously, stop making Ocala something it isn't. That's why it has went so far downhill because we continue to get more and more people who hate it after they move and then have absolutely no respect for it whatsoever... If you wanted to highlight some actual good points mention the crime rates which are much lower than some bigger cities in florida, the equine industry, it being a nice slow, old fashion place to have a family... Ohh and don't forget to mention the horrid public transportation, the fact you can't walk to anything and that many people live a half hour from where all the stores are... If not further. Please people do you research before coming here. I don't know too many people (other than myself) born and raised in Ocala. It has become overpopulated with a bunch of people that don't want to be here so they don't respect their city or take care of it. If you like a slow paced life and don't mind the humidity or having to drive to everything then this is a good place for you. I hated it my whole life... Until I had my daughter, now I am happy here because it's slower pace with lower crime rates and some okay private schools. Again, not trying to be mean just trying to watch out for the city I have always called home.
Thank you for your comment. I disagree with most of what you're saying, but everyone is different and has a different perspective. Respectfully. I will be featuring more videos in the future discussing some of your points as well as addressing the arts and culture...because it seems there are some that are highly unaware of this. Lifestyle, your environment, and your preferences all effect the points you're making. Except the weather...I agree...it's hot! But I think most people moving to Florida not only know this, but can easily see that on any weather app.
Hi Ivette. Depending on your budget, it's pricey, but the easiest and least stressful route is going to be getting into an apartment complex. They have more availability and a clear process. Do you have pets? A house rental will likely not allow a short term lease and those are hard to get into at even normal terms. Give me a call if you would like to discuss further. I can help you get into a rental and then be around when you're ready to start looking at homes to purchase later on. 352-598-0847. Email: steven@thebillingtonteam.com
@@ErickHernandez-vw9zo Welcome! Can you shoot me an email so I can learn a little about exactly what you're looking for and/or are okay with? Are you looking to rent or buy? Price range? Send me your contact info and we can chat. steven@thebillingtonteam.com
I live in ocala. I love it. If you want to move here? Don't buy a cookie cutter house. Move to surrounding areas with a few acres. So you don't have neighbors breathing down your neck. Put up a fence and a pool and relax!
The fact that I know this is fore ranch (I may be wrong) is great. Never thought someone would be making TH-cam videos about it however good job brotha wish you the best . But they should expect that Ocala also has its hoodlums sides and that they should always stay protected now a days.
Are you referring the the background? Close! It's just across the highway from Fore Ranch, Heathbrook! And you're right...everyone should always be aware and understand that every city has it's good and less good areas. All just depends on your lifestyle!
Sorry to say I agree. Lived there 8 years. Had to get my family out of there. There are great things about it but the crime and drugs are everywhere and I mean everywhere. I lived in a nice neighborhood but still had to carry a club when walking. New York was safer. Schools are far behind. It's a mess there. I could go on but just read their local news. Sorry to the realtor but this is overall not a safe place to live.
I live here from NY. There are areas just like anywhere else with crime.. but sorry cannot agree with you. Actually more ppl that I know believe it's still to quiet. I love it at times but happy everything is not so far away...I must admit its getting more overcrowded. The only challenge is the privileges for some not all, if you get my drift. And blatant salary challenges not only based on race, but also who you know. And they offer more hospitality jobs that pay next to nothing. Another challenge is the handful of ppl that actually run the town. I might be saying too much..but it is what it is. Nice to see that Ocala is more recognized, as I still get responses of "where is that!" LOL
I just happened to move here before seeing this video, I love it here so much that I hope this town doesn't get an influx of people fleeing big cities.
It's sad that it's loosing it's small town feel due to the influx of transplanted northerners...everyone waved at each other because we knew everyone...not anymore...rude drivers and attitudes...would rather the expansion happen further south.
Something not mentioned in this video is the development of the new World Equestrian Center. Ocala's newest attraction is proposed to be its second largest only to historical Silver Springs attraction.
@@TheScorpion615 They're getting better, but we have had some pretty bad apples in the past. We had a judge that actually owned the jail where he would send people to work on his farm as slave labor. He had 5 d.u.i's and still drove. His sister was a distract attorney, but she got caught with her hand in the cookie jar. But, thankfully, Ocala was recently put under the microscope, and many of the bad actors have retired with their golden parachutes. Many young police officers there now, but watch out for the sherif department. They don't think the Constitution and Bill of Rights apply to them. I've seen them running tags in shopping centers, probably to pull over anyone that pops up on their computer. Never seen them actually pulling people over, but I have my suspicions
As far as the storms this area has huge big old trees.. So you have to worry about trees falling down.. Knocking out the power.. Last time we had a hurricane really come through here like 3 or 4 years ago i still was out of power for 2 weeks..
I remember when I was a kid seeing you as a server at chilies but I’m glad you’ve moved on to better things thing in life. My sister and I used to call you shaggy😂
@Not Real I worked in a busy interstate restaurant in the area for 7 years and a lot of people just recognize me from there - I'm hard to forget as I have long red hair and am 6'4" 😆
Hubby and I are thinking about moving down there. We have friends there....i can see more people are moving out there but it looks like it still has some small town feel tonite. And I love to see the horse ranches!
Steven Great Video! We all love that backyard and fence!!!!! PERFECT for my German Sheperd’s ... we can’t wait to get there! Jimmy & Dad🇺🇸🇺🇸👍👍🙏🙏😇😇✝️✝️💜💜
I'm sorry but I spent 8 years in Ocala. Lived in a so called nice neighborhood. Had to carry a club to take a walk.. Unless you live in a gated community like the villages it is not a safe place. Terrible schools, crowded, lots of homeless, drugs everywhere, poor payingjobs. As soon as we could we got the heck out of there. Over the past 4 years my entire family has moved away from Florida. Paradise was a nightmare. Look up the news there. You will see. My sister was a realtor there and there are neighborhoods she wouldn't even go to for any money.
Hi, Matt. What industry are you in? Ocala was ranked #3 in November for top-performing economies in small metro areas. Ocala's average unemployment rate is lower than both the state and and the nation.
You look like a surfer dude who has strayed inland...keep rocking that hair style!!! Ocala is a wonderful place to live for all the reasons you listed and then some!!!. If you want diversity try the Silver Springs Shores neighborhood which is where I live. Rich and poor, young and old, black and white, gay and straight, family and singles, etc... There is a "Hare Krishna" temple down the street from me. I hear Spanish spoken every day. The American flag is proudly displayed on many homes. We all get along fine as long as you respect the other persons freedom to be themselves.
@@StevenBillington these comments are outrageous lol... It's all about freedom of speech until you disagree... It's madness to require someone to think a certain way or they aren't welcome... Ocala isn't the hog valley of central florida... People are pretty chill, mostly.
@@StevenBillington I've told christians that I'm an atheist, conservatives that i do not support the republican party in any way... I've politely argued a variety of consequential things and I've never had anyone tell me to go eff myself. Maybe I'm not trying hard enough 🤣
Hi Latonia. What kind of lifestyle are you looking to live? Want to be close to shopping or rural? Communities or acreage? Definitely depends on what you're looking for. Would you like to shoot me an email with your contact info and I can give you a call? steven@thebillingtonteam.com
I only agree with one part of what you say being raised in the area. The outdoors fun is all that Ocala offers as long as you dont get caught in the wrong area. Where either you will be shot at or the cops give you a nice fine. Being born and raised in the area. As far as I can see you are sitting in a development that most locals would not like. And your sod is killing what makes Ocala the horse capital of the world.
Hurricanes do come through Ocala! But, the damages are nothing like other parts of Florida - it's pretty mild in our central location, most times. A 1 story block home average *starting* price is going to be around $115,000 completely depending on many factors. If you'd like me to get more criteria from you to be able to give you a better estimate based on what you're looking for feel free to give me a call or email 352-598-0847, steven@thebillingtonteam.com
We have more hospitals than Advent Health, but just looking at their website should tell you a lot. They're offering bonus' for certain positions, too. Visit jobs.adventhealth.com & careers.adventhealth.com to check it out. Hope that helps!
Hi Jim. We do! Here's a link to their route info for more specific information to see if it's suited for her needs: www.suntran.org/home/showpublisheddocument?id=21538
Real talk, yeah there are buses but the routes are small and not comprehensive time-wise. It is not a good city/town for public transportation. Wish that it were 😓
We are looking to retire to Ocala but. Keep hearing the crime is really bad which is making us Leary I even though we are looking at a gated community is it as bad as I read?
I'm not at all saying that theft isn't serious, but I do inform to let people know that theft is the main percentage of crime. Our population compared to a big city is not a lot, but we have a lot of big city opportunities, so the statistics don't necessarily surprise me. I've never had any problems, but every family must do what they feel is best. I'd recommend making a visit and see for yourself, for sure. The Villages is a nice place to retire too - it's about 30 minutes from Ocala and I sell homes in that town as well.
Hi Steven, thank you so much for this video. I live in Miami Fl, but I would like to love more to a country area. Also, Miami is getting to crazy with spring breakers. This years they destroy south Beach. It was like you were living in a jungle. Drunk people everywhere, women almost naked walking on the stress , cars racing etccc. Also, is getting to expensive. That are some of the reasons I would like to move out of Miami. I just want a place where is quite and peaceful. 1 ) Does Ocala has good country areas? 2) I work in the medical field. Is there any opportunity for people in the medical field? Thanks 😊🙋🏻♀️
Hi Angela, thank you for you comment - I'm glad it helped. Ocala has many, many good rural areas. There's also many areas that are more suburban. There's enough options to where you can choose to be an hour from shopping etc or within 10 minutes and still be country/rural. As far as the jobs, we have - if I dare to say - too many available jobs. You can check out the Ocala Health and Advent Health websites for job openings. Those are the major medical employers. There's hundreds of doctors offices or the like as well. Hope that helps - give me a call or email if you'd like to continue discussing. What kind of timeline are you thinking to get from Miami to Ocala? 352-598-0847 email: Steven@thebillingtonteam.com
On Top of the World is one of the best retirement communities here in the county/Florida. Where are you located now - would be happy to take you on a tour of the area.
We are in the Chicago area. We are thinking of coming down in February to check out OTOW and the Villages. Depends upon COVID of course. If we decide to visit I will reach out to you in advance. Thank you.
Hey Alfredo - thank you! Belleview is a smaller town within the Ocala area. It's a lot slower as far as things to do and traffic and you're only 20 minutes from all things Ocala. Whether you'd prefer it over Ocala depends on your lifestyle and how far you'd like to be from things to do, major shopping, and restaurants. Job market here is great if you are in the supply industry. We have many distribution centers here for large companies that pay well for that line of work. It's also good for service industry workers.
@@StevenBillington Thank you for your response. I'm about to move to Belleview very soon. I understand is a smaller; I've been there once a few years ago. Would you consider Belleview as a safe place to live? I understand that someone would need to drive up to Ocala for work opportunities, which as you mentioned, isn't too far.
Alfredo M absolutely - cozy, quiet, small town. I’d be happy to assist with your move down here, where ya headed from? If you email me your contact information I can give you a ring to discuss further too: homesales@thebillingtonteam.com I can get you setup to start receiving alerts on properties as they go really fast here.
@@xrookie smaller yet would be Dunnellon which is a similar drive into Ocala and a much smaller town than Belleview or Ocala. Dunnellon is a great choice for those looking for a small town vibe, but still want to be within driving distance of a Walmart.
Sinkholes are not specific to Ocala, no. It's a Florida thing! I see it as every area has things that aren't ideal...that's ours. Good news is if a home is for sale and has a sinkhole confirmed...they have to tell you. A remediated sinkhole is safer than a home without any type of stability underneath, but home insurance will be a little higher because of its history.
Hi Jose - depends on your goals and lifestyle! Do you have a family? Prefer urban, suburbs, rural? Want to be closer to the interstate to get to larger cities? Feel free to email me with your contact info and I can give you a call if that's easier. email: steven@thebillingtonteam.com
$500 a year says either a very small place or you've been there a long time. Mine is $1500 and that's with save our homes portability! Also, dirt road and no public water or sewer. No garbage pickup either. My neighbors are paying over $3,000 moving here from up north. Not huge homes either.
The Ocala PD has a great mapping tool they recently released. You can find it at www.ocalapd.com/reports/crime-mapping. Most of the crime in our area is theft related.
Hi Melissa, thanks for your comment. Depending on what you're going for: Gainesville is slightly bigger and 40 minutes North. Orlando or the surround Orlando areas is probably what you're referring to - we are about 1-1.5 hours from there. Feel free to give me a call or email me and I'd be happy to discuss your preferences to help you determine the place that might interest you most. I probably even have a colleague I can refer you to when you're ready to move. 352-598-0847, steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Hey sorry it's my dream to go their, to visit the beaches, the rivers, horseback riding, and golf all year round!! Yup My rest of the Fam wants to move to a lake house in Tennessee, so I'm going to say screw dat because I know I'll hate the winters. So I'd rather go down to where is water, but clearer and a place that's flat, which I love flat land, and storms. Also I want a 2-4 acre property with a mobile home or tiny home, so later on I can have some horses there. That would be epic! Horses and a garden is all I would need after I visit Florida a bit :D
hello , I was wondering if there are any areas in or around Ocala with non cookie cutter homes or neighbors staring at you swimming ? I am a HAM radio operator and my antennas are as long and wide as the homes that are in back of you so I can not have a HOA telling me what I can and can not do on my own property .. Thank you
There's absolutely many areas around Ocala/Marion County that are exactly what you're describing. Funny enough, my father in law actually had similar antennas when he lived here last year...shoot me an email at steven@thebillingtonteam.com with your contact information and I'd be happy to give you a call to discuss!
Good question.. It's no doubt that the area will become bigger and more developed, however I think we will still have areas that will remain semi-rural and country-esque simply due to the large equine presence. The current generation is doing a great job at really laying the fundamentals of a progressive culture, rich in the arts and embracing the natural beauty of the area along with lifestyle, that I can see transposing into the generations to come. Growing diversity will be always be a factor, but I think buying in to what the area already is, will open up new possibilities for creation and opportunity.
@@Arlington411 my family is personally loving the growth. Still has ways of feeling like a small town, but with the benefit of gaining more ways to have fun and explore hobbies.
Hello, We are looking to move from Connecticut to Ocala FL at the end of the month. We are looking to rent a home but can’t seem to find a rental agency that will actually return calls or send the info we need to start the rental process. Would you have any suggestions for a rental agency?
As a resident of rural Ocala, the ONLY thing anyone moving here needs to know is if ur moving from a liberal run state and ur values reflect that, either leave them in ur old state or DON'T MOVE HERE.
Ocala has a fairly good balance of liberals and conservatives, I find. And you have some pretty interesting people from all walks of life. I'm fairly liberal in my thinking and have had really great conversations with more conservative people. It all depends on how you approach people. Conservative doesn't mean stupid the same way liberal doesn't equate to evil.
Usually i can't stand the libs, but Ocala libs aren't the psycho radical ones you hear about in California or Oregon. Everyone loves in harmony for the most part
@@marilope76 Nice! Feel free to shoot me an email if you'd like to receive properties ever so often to your inbox so you can start getting an idea of what kind of homes we've got here. homesales@thebillingtonteam.com or send me your number and we can keep in touch until you get closer to your timeline.
Definitely. Lots of hoa-free land around Ocala/Marion County on agricultural land so you can have what you want on your property. Shoot me an email at steven@thebillingtonteam.com with your contact information and I'd be happy to discuss further with you.
I moved here from New England almost 20 years ago and Ocala is where I’m going to stay.I’ve lived in Orlando for seven of those years but came right back here in regard to living like an American you can’t beat it things really have not stopped moving plenty of hard-working honest go get it type attitude people. They are still good and plenty of things to do through Covid I’ve been fortunate enough that my small business is booming and it’s not anything like up north you would love it I’m sure.
I just moved here from Vegas...my daughters and I got jobs immediately and I was able to by a few acres of farmland. Our free time is spent visiting the beach, going to the many springs and lakes. People are so friendly and there are diverse communities, nothing like what we are seeing on today's news.
@@ShaadaiPatton So good to hear feedback like this, thanks for your comment. I couldn't agree more with the news statement...if we look for the bad that's what we'll find.
@@StevenBillington If all works out this summer after the school year has ended. We are just beginning to think about it and make a plan! Trying to decide where God would have us go.
If you are moving to Ocala, I have a lovely home that you might be interested in. I am just ready to move on although Ocala is not bad, there is just not enough diversity here for me. I lived the international life mostly and that feel is missing for me.
Hey Linda. Is your house on the market already? I'd like to take a peek if I can view it online, maybe I have a buyer that would like it....homes are hard to come by right now so I'll look at anything you've got!
@@StevenBillington not yet on the market. I have not yet found where I want to go so I do not have another home in mind. The address is 2924 SE 14th, built by Triple Crown just for me.
@@lindacrawford4835 Thinking of staying in FL or considering venturing out further? Just from looking up your home online I can tell you that your home would go quickly and in this market....for top dollar. We need homes like yours so badly... If you have an idea of where you're thinking of heading, I'd be happy to help. If not in FL, I know good agents in other areas. Shoot me an email with your contact info or we can email too: steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Steven, Thank you for doing these Videos. I am actually thinking of Moving to the Ocala area this year. I have Family in Lake City, FL but I want to be more centrally located. Is there any other info you might be able to give one about the Ocala Area that you did not cover for someone that would be a new comer to the area.
Absolutely my pleasure. Can you shoot me an email with your contact info and I can give you a call? Steven@thebillingtonteam.com. Hope to hear from you soon!
I moved over eighteen years ago, and loving it cost of living is very affordable. I own my condo, but rent is great, and the people are very nice.we are out of the reach of the dreaded hurricane. So folks come and visit, and you'll want to live here.
@@StevenBillington thank you Steve! My husband and I have lived here in leesburg 20yrs and we've just always loved the country side of Ocala. ...so much we are looking to buy a home there. We are first time home buyers and just approved for a loan yesterday. Haven't looked for an agent yet.. yes we will definitely call. We're grandparents now four all under the age of four so we want to move somewhere quiet with backyard as the grandbabies do visit often.
@@hollyroberts632 First time home buyers - exciting! Homes are going quickly around here, so I can help with being able to snag one. 4 grandkids, what a blessing. My email is steven@thebillingtonteam.com if you'd like to send me your contact info and I can get you going with at least some alerts and speak with you about your exact criteria so I know what to keep an eye out for. I look forward to hearing from you both soon!
@Cate Freedom Hey Cate - I also responded on your other comment, but as I'm sure you know - every town and city has safer areas/neighborhoods than others. My wife is from here and I've been here 20 years - we've never had a problem. Everyone's perception is going to vary based on what's important to them and their lifestyle.
Nothing wrong with that. I was born here back in the 60's. It was so much better and less crowded years ago before so many people moved here. When we went anywhere we would actually see people we knew. Now it's a rarity. I loved it when it was a small town. Im not faulting anyone who moves here. All Im saying is there is nothing wrong with a small town or small town frame of mind. I wish it was still a small town instead of the huge city it has become. 😉🙂
@@StevenBillington my younger sister is a single mom with preteen boys who don't have any kind of positive men around and I don't want them heading down the wrong paths plus I'm their favorite uncle
@@StevenBillington Thanks for making these videos. I still have about 1 1/2 yrs to make up my mind of moving. I’m sure these videos will help to decide.
@@lorenaruiz5712 My facebook and/or instagram might help, too. I share a lot more over there. FB is @thebillington team. IG is @_stevebillington. Where are you living now?
For someone who has lived in Ocala since 1979, I can fully agree with all the information presented in this video. Ocala isn't perfect, but I still think it's a good balance between towns that are too small, and towns that are too big.
Couldn't agree more, thank you for your comment.
Growing up in Ocala was a paradise. Now there is always someone directly in front of you and someone directly behind you.Even hunting or fishing you can't escape a crowd.
It's growing, that's for sure. Compared to big cities, I still like the feel Ocala has to offer. But I realize everybody's preference will be different.
And they're inviting more to come. Most of the heads of our town aren't from here and they've changed so much that my grandfather barely recognizes it, and so much that he grew up around and my father grew up around are just gone, only to remain as memories.
So very true. To many people and cars. It was nice when I moved here 31 years ago.
That's what our daughter says too. We are going way more rural. Ocala has become a nightmare!
I moved a year ago and loved it! Has the most beautiful sunsets and amazing smell of pine trees! I just hate the traffic and traffic lights take forever!
I couldn’t agree more about the sunsets!
It's weird hearing Ocala get mentioned in TH-cam 😂
Lol - we're growing!
Especially when most of Ocala is trashed now 😂 and the “ white “ side is the good stuff he talking about .
@@MrsHaig i’m surprise to see ocala in my recommendation 😂😂😂
Ocala is lowkey lit
@@TheChelsiWaters unfortunately it won’t stay that for long, I like it low key.
Because of its logistically perfect location, Ocala has become the shipping hub of the SE United States. In the past 5 years, the word has gotten out and huge companies like Amazon, Fed-ex, and Chewey have all built distribution centers here providing thousands of jobs for those wishing to work. As this goes unappreciated by many locals, it is an amazing opportunity for those elsewhere to gain an opportunity and to move to a place where you can still work, go out and live your life on your own terms, unlike many states in our country right now because Florida is awesome.
Agreed!
Two things right off the bat about Florida. I moved here in August 2020. #1 To register your auto here for the first time there is a $200 fee on top of everything else you pay (tax, title. etc.) #2 Auto insurance in Florida is some of the highest in the country. Spoke about this to my insurance agent and he said it was because there are so many uninsured motorists in Florida, there are many ways for your car to be damaged in Florida (accident, hurricane, flood etc) and that Florida is the 3rd most populous state in the US. Other than that the weather in winter is good and there is no state income tax. It is all personal preference.
Agree its personal preference. I'm glad we don't have the auto inspections like a lot of other states and no income tax for the win!
The truth is nothing is free. If they are not going to have an income tax then you are going to has a regressive tax on other things. That is life. :( You think any Gov't runs efficiently? But it is interesting how these real-estate people don't talk about certain things like car insurance.
@M Hurst I lived in North Carolina for a number of years, and that state charges a tax every year on the value of the vehicle. I tend to keep cars a long time, and it got to the point I was paying only $9 a year while other people were paying several hundred.
@@StevenBillington I'm currently in Ohio, and this state also has no auto inspections. However, I find this somewhat disconcerting--I wonder if the person driving behind me has brakes that will stop the car in case I have to stop suddenly. As Donald Potter mentioned, there apparently are many uninsured drivers in Florida--do these same drivers bother to maintain the safety of their vehicles?
However, aside from that, I appreciated your video, and am looking forward to viewing your other ones.
@@bobjacobson858 Hey, Bob - thanks for your comment. You're right, worrying about uninsured drivers and safe vehicles is inconvenient for us that do what we are supposed to do. I hope you find the videos helpful!
If you live in South Florida east of I-95, insurance is the biggest expense. I pay 4,500 for a 1,000 square ft home built in 1963 which ("knock on wood") has NEVER sustained any hurricane damage. And it's extremly hard to find an insurance company to even write a policy for homeowners here in Ft Lauderdale, Florida.
That's' why we like Ocala!
Stop coming to Florida .... we're full xD
Haha!
This!
Na fux that!! I wanna be the next Florida man raids a walmart meme 😂🤣 thats my goal in life
@@AnonYmous-xq4so What???
Yessss!!!!
I moved to Ocala in 2003 and it has really become my home.
Keep the great videos coming man.
Thanks man!
Ocala, home of equestrian life, Reba McIntyre, John Travolta, Santos Mountain Bike Trails, normal congestion, crappy lay out for shopping ( it's all spread out across the city and not close), low paying jobs and close to the biggest retirement golf cart community I have ever seen ( I work in Ocala and live just outside Lady lake/ The Villages).
If you live just outside of The Villages, I'm not surprised you see so many golf carts! lol
The crime rate and school board is also something important to know. If any of you don't know, Ocala's crime rate is 50 per 1,000 residents, which is pretty high for a small town. And the school board is horrible. Every single public school I've been too has bullying problems and middle schools are the worst. Even the 2nd largest one in Marion County (Liberty Middle School) has serious bullying problems. Every morning there's at LEAST one fight in the gym, and the coach just blows his whistle and tells them to sit down. They're just friends fighting, but it's also grabbing and punching. The school board is even 1.5 stars. The public schools are no joke. Please be careful.
Thank you for your comment. Not that theft is not serious, by any means...that is most of the crime rate statistics. Important to point that out, too.
Great testimonial to the strength of the Ocala area! Well done sir. Been here a year now, and loving it more every day.
Thanks man...so good to hear people not from here...moving here and loving it. Welcome to Ocala!
Yeah, you were a bit too nice concerning the weather. In Ocala a normal summer the temperature should reach 100 degrees. But that's not the part that's worth mentioning, it's the humidity! 100 will "feel like" 110 easy. Same goes for the winter, we still have humidity. Happy over populating our roads.
Thank you for the feedback!
Great video Steven. Really enjoy your content. My parents are considering relocating to Ocala for retirement. Lots of positive things. One negative I'm seeing in my research is very high crime. Wondering if you could shed a little light on this. Accurate? Only in certain areas? Trying to get a better idea of what's happening in reality. Often times what we read online isn't always what's really going on. Thanks in advance for your time and appreciate the vids + info!
Hi, Matt. I usually tell people that even though theft IS SERIOUS, that is the majority of the crime statistically. When you compare the crime vs. opportunity compared to larger cities I believe it looks worse than it is. I hope that makes sense. There's also many retirement communities around that are the best in Florida and are also gated for added safety.
Feel free to email me with your contact information if you'd like to discuss further than what my comment explains: steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Ocala, Florida...central to everything...close to nothing. 😂
Close to so much depending on your lifestyle :)
For some that's the reason for looking there.... I want to visit the touristy places. Not live there.
@@scottfeltner6066 Totally!
Don’t come to Ocala it’s boring asf ain’t shit out here ✨respectfully✨
LOL, "respectfully" It definitely depends on one's lifestyle...sounds like it's not your preference 🤣
Do you use hot curlers to get that duo? Also what type of skateboard are you riding on these days?
haha, I don't actually. I put on a beanie after I wash my hair and BOOM. Sadly I don't have time to skateboard these days, but I play with a band that's awesome to listen to while you skateboard!
I find this hilarious... But also kind of infuriating at the same time. Why are you trying to make Ocala sound better than it is for more people to move here and then spend their entire time here making it worse and overcrowded??? 1. Yes we are centrally located, but not close to anything. It takes closer to 2 hours to go to Orlando... Sometimes longer. There's nothing to do in town... And I mean nothing. 2. Yep, there are no droughts cause it rains damn near everyday. It's sooo humid you can cut the air with a knife in summer and during winter it's this bone chilling cold. We do have nice days sometimes too. 3. Cost of living is lower because the pay is MUCHHH lower. It's funny that you didn't mention that. And you featured a nice (probably gated) neighborhood but that doesn't make up majority of the housing. I advise people to look at the average salaries in their field compared to other places too. 4. Plenty of outdoor activities... If you like walking through the woods that aren't overly spectacular and spring water that you'll freeze your you know what off in. 5. This was my favorite... Because it's one of the main reasons I want to leave. I would never in my life consider Ocala to known for its arts and culture... There is no culture. I'm not trying to hate on your video... But seriously, stop making Ocala something it isn't. That's why it has went so far downhill because we continue to get more and more people who hate it after they move and then have absolutely no respect for it whatsoever... If you wanted to highlight some actual good points mention the crime rates which are much lower than some bigger cities in florida, the equine industry, it being a nice slow, old fashion place to have a family... Ohh and don't forget to mention the horrid public transportation, the fact you can't walk to anything and that many people live a half hour from where all the stores are... If not further. Please people do you research before coming here. I don't know too many people (other than myself) born and raised in Ocala. It has become overpopulated with a bunch of people that don't want to be here so they don't respect their city or take care of it. If you like a slow paced life and don't mind the humidity or having to drive to everything then this is a good place for you. I hated it my whole life... Until I had my daughter, now I am happy here because it's slower pace with lower crime rates and some okay private schools. Again, not trying to be mean just trying to watch out for the city I have always called home.
Thank you for your comment. I disagree with most of what you're saying, but everyone is different and has a different perspective. Respectfully. I will be featuring more videos in the future discussing some of your points as well as addressing the arts and culture...because it seems there are some that are highly unaware of this. Lifestyle, your environment, and your preferences all effect the points you're making. Except the weather...I agree...it's hot! But I think most people moving to Florida not only know this, but can easily see that on any weather app.
We are moving to Ocala. We are planning g ro buy a house, mean whie We are looking for a short term lease Do you have any suggestions?.
Hi Ivette. Depending on your budget, it's pricey, but the easiest and least stressful route is going to be getting into an apartment complex. They have more availability and a clear process. Do you have pets? A house rental will likely not allow a short term lease and those are hard to get into at even normal terms. Give me a call if you would like to discuss further. I can help you get into a rental and then be around when you're ready to start looking at homes to purchase later on. 352-598-0847. Email: steven@thebillingtonteam.com
This was very helpful I currently live in Baltimore and I’m in the works of accepting a new job in Ocala
Good luck with the new job - reach out if you need any assistance with the relocation!
Hey I just came into town on 02/27/21 where's a cheap place to live at I'm working I'm the area
@@ErickHernandez-vw9zo Welcome! Can you shoot me an email so I can learn a little about exactly what you're looking for and/or are okay with? Are you looking to rent or buy? Price range? Send me your contact info and we can chat. steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Any place is better than Baltimore.
I live in ocala. I love it. If you want to move here? Don't buy a cookie cutter house. Move to surrounding areas with a few acres. So you don't have neighbors breathing down your neck. Put up a fence and a pool and relax!
My favorite thing about Ocala is that you can easily find whatever lifestyle you're looking for whether it be rural, urban or the suburbs.
The fact that I know this is fore ranch (I may be wrong) is great. Never thought someone would be making TH-cam videos about it however good job brotha wish you the best . But they should expect that Ocala also has its hoodlums sides and that they should always stay protected now a days.
Are you referring the the background? Close! It's just across the highway from Fore Ranch, Heathbrook! And you're right...everyone should always be aware and understand that every city has it's good and less good areas. All just depends on your lifestyle!
@@StevenBillington ahhhh close haha ! Great video man keep it up ! Love from the 352 :)
@@Volostic Thanks so much man!
where are the "bad" areas? Ocala is on my radar, Thanks in advance
Word of advice for anyone considering moving to Ocala: DONT 💀
~an Ocala native of 21+ years :)
Sorry to say I agree. Lived there 8 years. Had to get my family out of there. There are great things about it but the crime and drugs are everywhere and I mean everywhere. I lived in a nice neighborhood but still had to carry a club when walking. New York was safer. Schools are far behind. It's a mess there. I could go on but just read their local news.
Sorry to the realtor but this is overall not a safe place to live.
It is nice to still keep some of that small-town feel
Seriously...
I live here from NY. There are areas just like anywhere else with crime.. but sorry cannot agree with you. Actually more ppl that I know believe it's still to quiet. I love it at times but happy everything is not so far away...I must admit its getting more overcrowded. The only challenge is the privileges for some not all, if you get my drift. And blatant salary challenges not only based on race, but also who you know. And they offer more hospitality jobs that pay next to nothing. Another challenge is the handful of ppl that actually run the town. I might be saying too much..but it is what it is. Nice to see that Ocala is more recognized, as I still get responses of "where is that!" LOL
@@tammyharris2642 please dont lie
I just happened to move here before seeing this video, I love it here so much that I hope this town doesn't get an influx of people fleeing big cities.
I can understand that. Over the last decade I've seen it grow a lot, but it has not lost that small-town feel.
It's sad that it's loosing it's small town feel due to the influx of transplanted northerners...everyone waved at each other because we knew everyone...not anymore...rude drivers and attitudes...would rather the expansion happen further south.
@@StevenBillington it has lost it's small town appeal...thanks
Something not mentioned in this video is the development of the new World Equestrian Center. Ocala's newest attraction is proposed to be its second largest only to historical Silver Springs attraction.
Yes! They're open now and will be adding more to what they already have on site. It's an amazing place - I visited a few weeks ago.
Supposed to be world class....
It's AWESOME. You couldn't see the whole thing in one day. Just beware of our police, and our judges. They are pretty corrupt.
@@youtubernaz1scensoredbythe201 I was just wondering how the police are in Ocala do they profile people and pull them over for no reason?
@@TheScorpion615 They're getting better, but we have had some pretty bad apples in the past. We had a judge that actually owned the jail where he would send people to work on his farm as slave labor. He had 5 d.u.i's and still drove. His sister was a distract attorney, but she got caught with her hand in the cookie jar. But, thankfully, Ocala was recently put under the microscope, and many of the bad actors have retired with their golden parachutes. Many young police officers there now, but watch out for the sherif department. They don't think the Constitution and Bill of Rights apply to them. I've seen them running tags in shopping centers, probably to pull over anyone that pops up on their computer. Never seen them actually pulling people over, but I have my suspicions
Oh my Goodman I didn't know he had the TH-cam page he is such a sweet person I'll call him Shaggy from Scooby Doo
hahaha - I get that a lot about Shaggy!
❤️❤️❤️ Love this video 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
Thank you!!!
Thank you Jackie, very much appreciated!
The Billington Team you guys are welcome!
As far as the storms this area has huge big old trees.. So you have to worry about trees falling down.. Knocking out the power.. Last time we had a hurricane really come through here like 3 or 4 years ago i still was out of power for 2 weeks..
That's rough - yes, we have lots of trees. More and more areas getting underground power helps
I'm from florida. now I live in Texas 😔 I can't believe I left . coming back home soon 😁
When's the big move?!
@@StevenBillington within the next 2 months forsure 😁
Steve! Always was a good dude.. super informative 👌
Haha, thanks man!
I remember when I was a kid seeing you as a server at chilies but I’m glad you’ve moved on to better things thing in life. My sister and I used to call you shaggy😂
haha - too funny! I get shaggy and Shaun White a lot, actually!
@curtis allen haha, I get that a lot
@Not Real I worked in a busy interstate restaurant in the area for 7 years and a lot of people just recognize me from there - I'm hard to forget as I have long red hair and am 6'4" 😆
Ocala native here 😊
Hi, neighbor!
Ocala is my new home... I love it !
Welcome to Ocala!
Hubby and I are thinking about moving down there. We have friends there....i can see more people are moving out there but it looks like it still has some small town feel tonite. And I love to see the horse ranches!
@@Dee2now That's spot on...we're growing, but still have that small-town feel.
Steven
Great Video! We all love that backyard and fence!!!!! PERFECT for my German Sheperd’s ... we can’t wait to get there!
Jimmy & Dad🇺🇸🇺🇸👍👍🙏🙏😇😇✝️✝️💜💜
Thank you!
My wife and I are looking to move there. How are the jobs around Ocala?
I'm sorry but I spent 8 years in Ocala. Lived in a so called nice neighborhood. Had to carry a club to take a walk.. Unless you live in a gated community like the villages it is not a safe place. Terrible schools, crowded, lots of homeless, drugs everywhere, poor payingjobs. As soon as we could we got the heck out of there. Over the past 4 years my entire family has moved away from Florida. Paradise was a nightmare. Look up the news there. You will see. My sister was a realtor there and there are neighborhoods she wouldn't even go to for any money.
Hi, Matt. What industry are you in? Ocala was ranked #3 in November for top-performing economies in small metro areas. Ocala's average unemployment rate is lower than both the state and and the nation.
@@StevenBillington I’m a veterinarian assistant and my wife is a dental assistant.
Or you can go like 20 minutes away and move to a small town called Williston fl whare it’s more country setting
If someone is looking for something more rural, Williston is a nice area! And close to Gainesville for city access.
🤣😂 Williston, the most rural town in central Florida.
@@khbhorses Nah...try Welaka
I have used Steve as a realtor . He is extremely professional . He has been in the area a long time and is very knowledgeable I highly recommend
Is that an alias Bobby Brown?
You look like a surfer dude who has strayed inland...keep rocking that hair style!!! Ocala is a wonderful place to live for all the reasons you listed and then some!!!. If you want diversity try the Silver Springs Shores neighborhood which is where I live. Rich and poor, young and old, black and white, gay and straight, family and singles, etc... There is a "Hare Krishna" temple down the street from me. I hear Spanish spoken every day. The American flag is proudly displayed on many homes. We all get along fine as long as you respect the other persons freedom to be themselves.
The Shores is a nice, affordable area...have helped many families find a place in there!
Just keep your politics back in the state you moved from. After all, that's why you moved here, right?
That Part!
I moved to Ocala as a teen!
@@StevenBillington these comments are outrageous lol... It's all about freedom of speech until you disagree... It's madness to require someone to think a certain way or they aren't welcome... Ocala isn't the hog valley of central florida... People are pretty chill, mostly.
@@WillPhil290 I agree completely!
@@StevenBillington I've told christians that I'm an atheist, conservatives that i do not support the republican party in any way... I've politely argued a variety of consequential things and I've never had anyone tell me to go eff myself. Maybe I'm not trying hard enough 🤣
Great video! Good info! Thanks for making it so nice.
Glad it was helpful!
Very good explaining storms is important to me , a lot safer.
Glad I could help, Frank. Love our central FL location.
My husband and I are going to visit In Feb. We are looking for rental properties. What's the best area to reside in?
Hi Latonia. What kind of lifestyle are you looking to live? Want to be close to shopping or rural? Communities or acreage? Definitely depends on what you're looking for. Would you like to shoot me an email with your contact info and I can give you a call? steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Hubby and I are having a house built in Ocala, having moved from VA. Never been to Ocala but so glad we are retiring there.
That's exciting - when will your home be finished?
1st thing is this gentleman Steve was my first person to meet ! Hi 🙋♀️
Hi!
@@StevenBillington nicks Mom LoL 😂
Great job
Thank you for your comment!
Are there properties that are zoned for multi-family and agricultural? Thanks!
Absolutely. If you'd like to discuss in detail feel free to give me a call or email: 352-598-0847, steven@thebillingtonteam.com
I only agree with one part of what you say being raised in the area. The outdoors fun is all that Ocala offers as long as you dont get caught in the wrong area. Where either you will be shot at or the cops give you a nice fine. Being born and raised in the area. As far as I can see you are sitting in a development that most locals would not like. And your sod is killing what makes Ocala the horse capital of the world.
Thank you for the feedback!
? No hurricanes go thru ocala..great informative video dude.👍! 1 story new homes starting price? Thanks
Hurricanes do come through Ocala! But, the damages are nothing like other parts of Florida - it's pretty mild in our central location, most times. A 1 story block home average *starting* price is going to be around $115,000 completely depending on many factors. If you'd like me to get more criteria from you to be able to give you a better estimate based on what you're looking for feel free to give me a call or email 352-598-0847, steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Great video 👍
Thank you, hope it helps!
@@StevenBillington it’s just cool to see I live in Ocala
How’s is the medical professional job in Ocala? I’m a nurse practitioner, planning to move to Ocala soon.
We have more hospitals than Advent Health, but just looking at their website should tell you a lot. They're offering bonus' for certain positions, too. Visit jobs.adventhealth.com & careers.adventhealth.com to check it out. Hope that helps!
@@StevenBillington thank you
@@jesuslovesyou8 Absolutely!
Hi! I want to know about schools in Ocala for my 12 years old daughter please
Hi! What would you like to know? Greatschools.org is a good place to start.
Stay away. Traffic is terrible, building Everywhere, homeless people wandering around. This guy is not telling all.
Hi Tim. Depends on what you're comparing it to - a smaller town?
@@StevenBillington No same size maybe bigger.
I'm from Brazil,I want to visit Ocala one day, I'm trying to learn some English first 😊
We will look forward to your visit!
Great video buddy I hope ur doing great
Thank you David, hope you're well!
I'm closing on my house in ocala in 2 weeks
Congratulations!
Sorry.
Question...my sis is looking to move to Florida, but requires public transportation to market and shopping. Does ocala have a lot of bus routes
Hi Jim. We do! Here's a link to their route info for more specific information to see if it's suited for her needs: www.suntran.org/home/showpublisheddocument?id=21538
Real talk, yeah there are buses but the routes are small and not comprehensive time-wise. It is not a good city/town for public transportation. Wish that it were 😓
We are looking to retire to Ocala but. Keep hearing the crime is really bad which is making us Leary I even though we are looking at a gated community is it as bad as I read?
I'm not at all saying that theft isn't serious, but I do inform to let people know that theft is the main percentage of crime. Our population compared to a big city is not a lot, but we have a lot of big city opportunities, so the statistics don't necessarily surprise me. I've never had any problems, but every family must do what they feel is best. I'd recommend making a visit and see for yourself, for sure. The Villages is a nice place to retire too - it's about 30 minutes from Ocala and I sell homes in that town as well.
@@StevenBillington thank you my girlfriend who lives in OTOW said pretty much the same although she does pack heat ... she said it is situational
@@kristenschnese698 are you thinking of making a visit in the near future to check it out?
TH-cam how did you find my location lmao
haha
lol right tf
Hi Steven, thank you so much for this video. I live in Miami Fl, but I would like to love more to a country area.
Also, Miami is getting to crazy with spring breakers. This years they destroy south Beach. It was like you were living in a jungle. Drunk people everywhere, women almost naked walking on the stress , cars racing etccc. Also, is getting to expensive. That are some of the reasons I would like to move out of Miami. I just want a place where is quite and peaceful.
1 ) Does Ocala has good country areas?
2) I work in the medical field. Is there any opportunity for people in the medical field?
Thanks 😊🙋🏻♀️
Hi Angela, thank you for you comment - I'm glad it helped. Ocala has many, many good rural areas. There's also many areas that are more suburban. There's enough options to where you can choose to be an hour from shopping etc or within 10 minutes and still be country/rural. As far as the jobs, we have - if I dare to say - too many available jobs. You can check out the Ocala Health and Advent Health websites for job openings. Those are the major medical employers. There's hundreds of doctors offices or the like as well. Hope that helps - give me a call or email if you'd like to continue discussing. What kind of timeline are you thinking to get from Miami to Ocala? 352-598-0847 email: Steven@thebillingtonteam.com
I use to live in st pete my grandmother lived in Ocala i definitely prefer living in Ocala than st pete . So much better
St Pete is fun for a visit
@@StevenBillington oh most definitely but overpriced as hell
Looking to retire in a few years and considering On Top of the World. What’s your opinion of that community?
On Top of the World is one of the best retirement communities here in the county/Florida. Where are you located now - would be happy to take you on a tour of the area.
We are in the Chicago area. We are thinking of coming down in February to check out OTOW and the Villages. Depends upon COVID of course. If we decide to visit I will reach out to you in advance. Thank you.
Absolutely, please do.
Nice video, your thoughts of Belleview? How is the job market in Ocala?
Hey Alfredo - thank you! Belleview is a smaller town within the Ocala area. It's a lot slower as far as things to do and traffic and you're only 20 minutes from all things Ocala. Whether you'd prefer it over Ocala depends on your lifestyle and how far you'd like to be from things to do, major shopping, and restaurants. Job market here is great if you are in the supply industry. We have many distribution centers here for large companies that pay well for that line of work. It's also good for service industry workers.
@@StevenBillington Thank you for your response. I'm about to move to Belleview very soon. I understand is a smaller; I've been there once a few years ago. Would you consider Belleview as a safe place to live? I understand that someone would need to drive up to Ocala for work opportunities, which as you mentioned, isn't too far.
Alfredo M absolutely - cozy, quiet, small town. I’d be happy to assist with your move down here, where ya headed from? If you email me your contact information I can give you a ring to discuss further too: homesales@thebillingtonteam.com I can get you setup to start receiving alerts on properties as they go really fast here.
@@xrookie smaller yet would be Dunnellon which is a similar drive into Ocala and a much smaller town than Belleview or Ocala. Dunnellon is a great choice for those looking for a small town vibe, but still want to be within driving distance of a Walmart.
I heard that there are lots of sink holes that could be occurred any where any time ... .ocala has got the most of them???
Sinkholes are not specific to Ocala, no. It's a Florida thing! I see it as every area has things that aren't ideal...that's ours. Good news is if a home is for sale and has a sinkhole confirmed...they have to tell you. A remediated sinkhole is safer than a home without any type of stability underneath, but home insurance will be a little higher because of its history.
What are the sink holes from?
@@Kwood10 Moisture underground can create voids or holes in the soil and can sometimes cause the surface to collapse into them.
Moving from NH to Ocala in 9 weeks
Nice! Found a place yet?
conrete and useful..thanks!!..i will be there very soon :)
Glad I could help! Reach out if you need some assistance 352-598-0847
@@StevenBillington thanks a lot Steven.. I definitely will. I'm in Peru now... Will contact once there. Vibes ⚡
Live in Connecticut I got two years to finish paying my mortgage what's a good place or the ZIP code to live in Ocala Florida
Hi Jose - depends on your goals and lifestyle! Do you have a family? Prefer urban, suburbs, rural? Want to be closer to the interstate to get to larger cities? Feel free to email me with your contact info and I can give you a call if that's easier. email: steven@thebillingtonteam.com
@@StevenBillington okay thanks
I moved to Florida from
Connecticut in 08. Been in Ocala since '15. Love it here. The "Shores" kis building up with new hiuses abou tg $150k+ I think.
@@R8DRBeagle thanks
@@R8DRBeagle Glad to hear your love for the Ocala area!
I am visiting Ocala later this year if restrictions allow. I hope to stay in Marion County
Safe travels! Feel free to reach out before you head this way - planning to move here?
Don't move to NE 25th ave and 28th street area....the wireless phone and internet is the slowest there.
What kind of providers do you use?
@@StevenBillington t-mobile.
I live in Ocala and I'm trying to get the hell out! Ocala freaking sucks. No one needs to waste their time here!
Agree to disagree! :)
@jenniferbarber why does it suck? thanks in advance
Not much night life.... If it's important to you.
Number one question is what is homeowner's insurance going to cost?
Depends on your coverage and other things, of course. For reference: mine is less than $500/year. Hope that helps!
$500 a year says either a very small place or you've been there a long time.
Mine is $1500 and that's with save our homes portability! Also, dirt road and no public water or sewer. No garbage pickup either.
My neighbors are paying over $3,000 moving here from up north.
Not huge homes either.
What about information on crime in Ocala?
The Ocala PD has a great mapping tool they recently released. You can find it at www.ocalapd.com/reports/crime-mapping. Most of the crime in our area is theft related.
Hi. Can you tell me cities close to Ocala were I can live. My job is transferring to Ocala but I want to live in a bigger city close.
Hi Melissa, thanks for your comment. Depending on what you're going for: Gainesville is slightly bigger and 40 minutes North. Orlando or the surround Orlando areas is probably what you're referring to - we are about 1-1.5 hours from there. Feel free to give me a call or email me and I'd be happy to discuss your preferences to help you determine the place that might interest you most. I probably even have a colleague I can refer you to when you're ready to move. 352-598-0847, steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Hey sorry it's my dream to go their, to visit the beaches, the rivers, horseback riding, and golf all year round!! Yup My rest of the Fam wants to move to a lake house in Tennessee, so I'm going to say screw dat because I know I'll hate the winters. So I'd rather go down to where is water, but clearer and a place that's flat, which I love flat land, and storms. Also I want a 2-4 acre property with a mobile home or tiny home, so later on I can have some horses there. That would be epic! Horses and a garden is all I would need after I visit Florida a bit :D
I'm envisioning that lifestyle and it sounds dreamy!
hello , I was wondering if there are any areas in or around Ocala with non cookie cutter homes or neighbors staring at you swimming ? I am a HAM radio operator and my antennas are as long and wide as the homes that are in back of you so I can not have a HOA telling me what I can and can not do on my own property .. Thank you
There's absolutely many areas around Ocala/Marion County that are exactly what you're describing. Funny enough, my father in law actually had similar antennas when he lived here last year...shoot me an email at steven@thebillingtonteam.com with your contact information and I'd be happy to give you a call to discuss!
I Would love to move away from the far left Miami Dade county. Looking at a small 2/2 near 34476 🤞🏼🤞🏼
Hi Leonard. Can you send me your email address and I can send you some properties? You can email me at steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Same here 😂
I’m sell one 1,200sq. 2/2 with 2 car garage 34474 close to I 75. You can contact me jmaldo81@yahoo.com
Miami Cubans are becoming far right.
@@holacomoestas2640 not anymore the rents will rise now and have steadily .I have move more North of Florida
How do you see Ocala changing next 10 to 20 years
Good question.. It's no doubt that the area will become bigger and more developed, however I think we will still have areas that will remain semi-rural and country-esque simply due to the large equine presence. The current generation is doing a great job at really laying the fundamentals of a progressive culture, rich in the arts and embracing the natural beauty of the area along with lifestyle, that I can see transposing into the generations to come. Growing diversity will be always be a factor, but I think buying in to what the area already is, will open up new possibilities for creation and opportunity.
@@StevenBillington I live in Arlington, VA mostly. It is going through the change you mention, moreso than the last 20 years.
@@Arlington411 my family is personally loving the growth. Still has ways of feeling like a small town, but with the benefit of gaining more ways to have fun and explore hobbies.
Hello, We are looking to move from Connecticut to Ocala FL at the end of the month. We are looking to rent a home but can’t seem to find a rental agency that will actually return calls or send the info we need to start the rental process. Would you have any suggestions for a rental agency?
Hi there, I believe you called and left me a voicemail...I'll give you a call today.
@@StevenBillington can you help us find a rental agency that can help us find a house to rent?
@@WoodRite1 I'm from. New London. Youll miss it
As a resident of rural Ocala, the ONLY thing anyone moving here needs to know is if ur moving from a liberal run state and ur values reflect that, either leave them in ur old state or DON'T MOVE HERE.
Ocala has a fairly good balance of liberals and conservatives, I find. And you have some pretty interesting people from all walks of life. I'm fairly liberal in my thinking and have had really great conversations with more conservative people. It all depends on how you approach people. Conservative doesn't mean stupid the same way liberal doesn't equate to evil.
I agree, William!
Usually i can't stand the libs, but Ocala libs aren't the psycho radical ones you hear about in California or Oregon. Everyone loves in harmony for the most part
@@MrAlexito305 there are always those who go to the extreme.
@Aaron Bass agreed!!👍🏽
this video makes me glad i moved to Ocala.
We love Ocala too!
I’m planning on moving from Pinellas park to Ocala in the future
@@marilope76 Have you been here before? How soon are you thinking of trying to get this way?
The Billington Team by next year November
@@marilope76 Nice! Feel free to shoot me an email if you'd like to receive properties ever so often to your inbox so you can start getting an idea of what kind of homes we've got here. homesales@thebillingtonteam.com or send me your number and we can keep in touch until you get closer to your timeline.
I'm just looking for freedom as I am in NY lockdown maskville. Please tell me I could live like an American if I move my family here.
Definitely. Lots of hoa-free land around Ocala/Marion County on agricultural land so you can have what you want on your property. Shoot me an email at steven@thebillingtonteam.com with your contact information and I'd be happy to discuss further with you.
I moved here from New England almost 20 years ago and Ocala is where I’m going to stay.I’ve lived in Orlando for seven of those years but came right back here in regard to living like an American you can’t beat it things really have not stopped moving plenty of hard-working honest go get it type attitude people. They are still good and plenty of things to do through Covid I’ve been fortunate enough that my small business is booming and it’s not anything like up north you would love it I’m sure.
@@Exotic_pet_company Glad to hear your small business is booming, that's fantastic!
I just moved here from Vegas...my daughters and I got jobs immediately and I was able to by a few acres of farmland. Our free time is spent visiting the beach, going to the many springs and lakes. People are so friendly and there are diverse communities, nothing like what we are seeing on today's news.
@@ShaadaiPatton So good to hear feedback like this, thanks for your comment. I couldn't agree more with the news statement...if we look for the bad that's what we'll find.
I live in ocala my friend. It's ok met alot of different people here.
Hello, neighbor!
@@StevenBillington hi
We are considering moving to Ocala from Ohio. We aren't familiar at all, but want something central as you've described.
Hi Chantelle, what kind of timeline are you looking at? Planning a visit anytime soon before deciding?
@@StevenBillington If all works out this summer after the school year has ended. We are just beginning to think about it and make a plan! Trying to decide where God would have us go.
@@chantellenolan Sounds like a smart plan! I'm happy to help once you decide if here is where you want to be! Reach out anytime...
If you are moving to Ocala, I have a lovely home that you might be interested in. I am just ready to move on although Ocala is not bad, there is just not enough diversity here for me. I lived the international life mostly and that feel is missing for me.
Hey Linda. Is your house on the market already? I'd like to take a peek if I can view it online, maybe I have a buyer that would like it....homes are hard to come by right now so I'll look at anything you've got!
@@StevenBillington not yet on the market. I have not yet found where I want to go so I do not have another home in mind. The address is 2924 SE 14th, built by Triple Crown just for me.
@@lindacrawford4835 Thinking of staying in FL or considering venturing out further? Just from looking up your home online I can tell you that your home would go quickly and in this market....for top dollar. We need homes like yours so badly... If you have an idea of where you're thinking of heading, I'd be happy to help. If not in FL, I know good agents in other areas. Shoot me an email with your contact info or we can email too: steven@thebillingtonteam.com
Steven, Thank you for doing these Videos. I am actually thinking of Moving to the Ocala area this year. I have Family in Lake City, FL but I want to be more centrally located. Is there any other info you might be able to give one about the Ocala Area that you did not cover for someone that would be a new comer to the area.
Absolutely my pleasure. Can you shoot me an email with your contact info and I can give you a call? Steven@thebillingtonteam.com. Hope to hear from you soon!
I moved over eighteen years ago, and loving it cost of living is very affordable. I own my condo, but rent is great, and the people are very nice.we are out of the reach of the dreaded hurricane. So folks come and visit, and you'll want to live here.
Glad to hear how much you love Ocala, Marjorie. Thanks for the comment!
We are moving there next week where you watch a lot of videos online keep making cool videos
Thank you for your comment. Welcome to Ocala!
I know that neighborhood that he is in I used to live there with my momma
We love Heathbrook!
Wow, the hair!
🤙
I want to cut it or make a part. 😂
I'm moving from Leesburg to Ocala. House hunting.... Wish me luck!!!
Good luck! What brings you to Ocala? Feel free to reach out if you need any assistance or have any questions! 352-598-0847
@@StevenBillington thank you Steve! My husband and I have lived here in leesburg 20yrs and we've just always loved the country side of Ocala. ...so much we are looking to buy a home there. We are first time home buyers and just approved for a loan yesterday. Haven't looked for an agent yet.. yes we will definitely call. We're grandparents now four all under the age of four so we want to move somewhere quiet with backyard as the grandbabies do visit often.
@@hollyroberts632 First time home buyers - exciting! Homes are going quickly around here, so I can help with being able to snag one. 4 grandkids, what a blessing. My email is steven@thebillingtonteam.com if you'd like to send me your contact info and I can get you going with at least some alerts and speak with you about your exact criteria so I know what to keep an eye out for. I look forward to hearing from you both soon!
@@StevenBillington thank you Steve. I just sent you my information.
@@hollyroberts632 Thanks for letting me know - it's not in my inbox or spam folder. Hopefully it was a typo? Steven@thebillingtonteam.com
We love Ocala. It has it all!
We agree! So close to anything you’d ever want to do.
@Cate Freedom Hey Cate - I also responded on your other comment, but as I'm sure you know - every town and city has safer areas/neighborhoods than others. My wife is from here and I've been here 20 years - we've never had a problem. Everyone's perception is going to vary based on what's important to them and their lifestyle.
@Cate Freedom One of the safest in my opinion!
Wait dude? Did you used to work at chilies?! ThERE USED TO BE A SHAGGY THATVWORKED AT CHILLIES
That's me!
We had hurricane Irma and went right through my yard
That was a scary one. So glad we aren't on the coast!
Comes with a small town mentality unfortunately
Nothing wrong with that. I was born here back in the 60's. It was so much better and less crowded years ago before so many people moved here. When we went anywhere we would actually see people we knew. Now it's a rarity. I loved it when it was a small town. Im not faulting anyone who moves here. All Im saying is there is nothing wrong with a small town or small town frame of mind. I wish it was still a small town instead of the huge city it has become. 😉🙂
That part has been good. That’s not the mentality I am talking about.
I think it's everywhere, just depends who you're surrounded by.
Moving to ocala tomorrow from Warner Robins ga.
Have a safe trip! What brings you to the area?
@@StevenBillington my younger sister is a single mom with preteen boys who don't have any kind of positive men around and I don't want them heading down the wrong paths plus I'm their favorite uncle
@@actone2659 I'm not surprised you're their favorite uncle - fun memories ahead.
@@StevenBillington thanks for the kind words and encouragement
Could you point me in the right direction as far as what side of Ocala has better K-12 schools ?
Hi Lorena. NW Ocala has the best rated schools in the area. This website is a great resource: www.greatschools.org/florida/ocala/ Hope that helps!
@@StevenBillington Thank you so much. Will definitely check that out.
@@lorenaruiz5712 You're very welcome!
@@StevenBillington Thanks for making these videos. I still have about 1 1/2 yrs to make up my mind of moving. I’m sure these videos will help to decide.
@@lorenaruiz5712 My facebook and/or instagram might help, too. I share a lot more over there. FB is @thebillington team. IG is @_stevebillington. Where are you living now?
Yoooo , i found my Tupperware bowl!! Ima need that back .. got the bowl cut at 35 .. i cant take u seriously with that du bro ..lmfao
🤭
Um, why do you have a floating finger? (Thumbnail pic)
I can't believe it took someone so long to comment on this. When I removed the background from the photo, it edited out my wedding ring🤣
Nice hair Sir
Thanks
I have been here for 21 years here would never move, closeness to beaches lakes and activities
Thank you for your comment, Angela. I agree the proximity to so many different things and areas is my favorite thing too.
Nice hat👍
;)