Due Diligence: What other retirement communities should I look at?

[Boston-Sean]

If you had to choose a retirement community other than TV, what would it be?

[John_W]

If you had to choose a retirement community other than TV, what would it be?

Do you want to be on the coast, Atlantic or Gulf or it doesn't matter, if you prefer the center of the state? That's the first question, location, location, location. Then what's your budget, if you say $250K, there are many communities where homes start at $300K or $400K or higher.

The 55+ website is a great place to get an idea. Start with an area, such as Tampa/St. Pete, or St. Augustine/Daytona or Naples / Fort Myers. You can get an idea of what's available in that area, prices, amenities, sights and entertainment. There also reviews and homes for sale at most locations.

When you have a general idea of where, then come here and ask "How is On Top the World" Condos in Clearwater, chances are someone has been there and looked at it already, or even lived there and then moved here. About half of the residents of TV have moved from other parts of Florida.

Here's the site, pick a city, when the results come up, click on the city name and the results will be displayed on a map which you can move around.

55+ Places to Retire Website (https://www.55places.com/?nhds_source=google&nhds_medium=cpc&nhds_campaign=6522254299&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Dynamic+Search+Ads&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=9083296486&hsa_cam=6522254299&hsa_grp=78587738575&hsa_ad=383728180473&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=dsa-54399997139&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=Cj0KCQiA6t6ABhDMARIsAONIYyzrdS3BJTqZf7fTgFDY CBgo-qXql--TwIb-SaqWusFUs5RNXkliGRgaAsnVEALw_wcB)

[Boston-Sean]

The 55+ website is a great place to get an idea. [/B]

Here's the site, pick a city, when the results come up, click on the city name and the results will be displayed on a map which you can move around.

55+ Places to Retire Website (https://www.55places.com/?nhds_source=google&nhds_medium=cpc&nhds_campaign=6522254299&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Dynamic+Search+Ads&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=9083296486&hsa_cam=6522254299&hsa_grp=78587738575&hsa_ad=383728180473&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=dsa-54399997139&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=Cj0KCQiA6t6ABhDMARIsAONIYyzrdS3BJTqZf7fTgFDY CBgo-qXql--TwIb-SaqWusFUs5RNXkliGRgaAsnVEALw_wcB)

Tx. I was not familiar with that web site.

I'm still curious what others would choose besides TV though.

[John_W]

For some quick results it's a good idea to use the 'search' button at the top of the website. When I moved here ten years ago I had a 20 page pad filled with answers to everything I would need. From painters, to golf cart stores, handyman, etc. Of course, I had already decided on moving here, I have lived in Florida off and on since I was 9 years old.

There's probably not a question that hasn't been asked before, so the search button is the most important features of this site. Slow responses might be because some people are getting tired of answering the same questions, so I did a search for you. Here are some results, this should keep you busy.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/thoughts-other-55-communities-314180/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/t-v-310824/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/what-if-villages-never-happened-310161/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/hi-future-resident-here-313313/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/would-you-continue-living-here-after-your-spouse-passes-312496/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/curious-about-villages-311970/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/exploring-villages-october-2020-there-any-singles-groups-311659/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/rent-first-before-you-buy-310867/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/retirement-community-choices-305204/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/did-you-research-other-communities-291848/?highlight=retirement+communities

[Boston-Sean]

For some quick results it's a good idea to use the 'search' button at the top of the website. When I moved here ten years ago I had a 20 page pad filled with answers to everything I would need. From painters, to golf cart stores, handyman, etc. Of course, I had already decided on moving here, I have lived in Florida off and on since I was 9 years old.

There's probably not a question that hasn't been asked before, so the search button is the most important features of this site. Slow responses might be because some people are getting tired of answering the same questions, so I did a search for you. Here are some results, this should keep you busy.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/thoughts-other-55-communities-314180/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/t-v-310824/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/what-if-villages-never-happened-310161/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/hi-future-resident-here-313313/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/would-you-continue-living-here-after-your-spouse-passes-312496/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/curious-about-villages-311970/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/exploring-villages-october-2020-there-any-singles-groups-311659/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/rent-first-before-you-buy-310867/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/retirement-community-choices-305204/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/did-you-research-other-communities-291848/?highlight=retirement+communities


It may be easier to hire you as a retirement advisor.

[Boston-Sean]

I checked out a piece on the "25 best value active adult communities 2020" from that 55+ website.

TV did not make the cut.

One that did had this listed among the amenities: A tennis court and a golf course. A. As in one. Hard to compare that to TV.

[Cupcake57]

Tx. I was not familiar with that web site.

I'm still curious what others would choose besides TV though.

I visited multiple 55+ places in Charleston SC area, Nashville, Atlanta, Savannah, Jacksonville FL etc. I liked something about each, but it came down to the huge variety of activities for any interest, knowing my interests could change as I age. For now it the was 90+ swimming pools and the golf cart lifestyle. Do I wish there was indoor swimming available? sure. But every body needs a day off for cross training. Plus I was run out of Hilton Head by hurricanes twice, so I like the feeling of being away from the coast a little. The average age here seemed a little younger/more outgoing, at least in the southern new areas.

[manaboutown]

If you had to choose a retirement community other than TV, what would it be?

Well, my brother and his wife moved to this one a few years ago. I visited them and found it very scenic but it bored me to tears. It was remote from just about everything.
Luxury Retirement Communities for Active Adults and 55+ Seniors the-preserve- The Preserve (https://www.robson.com/communities/the-preserve/)

[John_W]

To make a long story, short. The Villages (TV) is the largest retirement community with a population of about 125,000 and has more things, and more of those things than any where else. So the only other question is location, what could be a bigger draw, it's the beach. I know firsthand because I grew up in St. Petersburg and also lived in Pensacola for 6 years and Savannah for 8 years, all coastal cities. This really is the first place I've lived that I could not go to the beach in 30 minutes or less.

I've know three people who have left TV and moved to the coast. They were not retirement communities because they're always where you want to live. I have known others who moved, but it was to return to the north, the time away from the kids and grandkids was too much. That's the biggest factors, is family something you can set aside and see once a year, and are you a beach and boating type person. Otherwise you should love it here.

[John41]

If you had to choose a retirement community other than TV, what would it be?

I would choose a retirement community in Stuart Florida because of the weather and beaches. Also that area is more upscale than The The Villages. It’s more expensive but it’s green all year and without the stifling heat of Central Florida.

[Topspinmo]

Belle Vista Arkansas

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I love The Villages and wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Unless I had millions and could afford multiple homes. I'd have one up north and one south of here near a beach.

[vintageogauge]

I would choose a retirement community in Stuart Florida because of the weather and beaches. Also that area is more upscale than The The Villages. It’s more expensive but it’s green all year and without the stifling heat of Central Florida.

Stuart is a very high crime area, we stayed there a couple times when we were traveling in a Class A motorhome. We were warned to stay out of a lot of areas. As of today only 17% of all US cities have a higher crime rate per capita and in florida 70% of all cities and towns have a lower crime rate than Stuart. It may look nice but there are better places to go over there that are much safer such as Vero Beach.

[chalpm]

On Top Of The World

[rjm1cc]

OTOW ocala fl
The 55 Best 55+ Active Adult Communities of 2020 | 55places (https://www.55places.com/blog/the-55-best-55-communities-of-2020)

[JohnN]

My good friend used to live here and now lives in Lakewood Ranch near Sarasota.
I've visited many around here prior to buying in The VIllages, and I think TV has any local area beat hands down, not even close.

[B-flat]

On Top Of The World

Another vote here for On top of the World. We owned a court yard villa in The Villages for 2 years then 6 months ago we moved to OTOW for a number of reasons. One was we had long time friends who live in OTOW that was a factor. We were able to purchase a home the same size as the court yard villa we sold for less money than we sold the CYV for. Our home is on a corner lot with grass and a view of the 17th tee of one of the golf courses. We're far enough away from the tee box so we don't hear golfers who hit a lousy shot complain. Our HOA fees here include all landscaping services and internet. There's 24/7 guarded gates so it's very secure. Our new home is better constructed too than the villa we owned in The Villages.

Some will say it's too quiet for their lifestyle. I was a hell raiser until age 32. Today I don't need all the action some are looking for. I can still golf or play pickle ball if I want.

What we do find interesting is that as we drive our golf cart thru new homes under construction or about to be occupied we find quite a few people who are moving from The Villages to OTOW.

[patfla06]

I would caution you to look at the crime statistics wherever you look.

[b0bd0herty]

On Top Of The World

We stayed there for their 3 day special rate to experience it. HORRIFIC!

There was one barn broken into multiple rooms/activity centers and my wife would not even go into one because it smelled of urine and a hospice assisted living facility.

Their rec facilities were substandard with the flooring so uneven you could trip over it but, fortunately they were all completely empty.

Saw no one outside except for one family with grand children playing on the single miniature golf course and about 3 golf carts driving.

This was before checking out TV and happened in June 2016.

When we drove out the front gate we both LITERALLY felt a huge weight lift off of our shoulders like we'd just escaped from prison.

There is a real, person there checking IDs before letting people through the gate so there is better security.

[Tmarkwald]

I have some rather simple requirements.

1. Golf Cart Community
2. Nightly Entertainment - so if I go out I can expect a bit of it...
3. The ability to possibly play golf - never have, but want to learn
4. A couple good watering holes to swap stories
5. Florida - income taxes

I have been looing for awhile. It appears to me, in my searching, that in reality TV hits all the nails. I am intrigued by Latitude Margheritaville in Daytona. But it's just getting started.

[Girlcopper]

Tx. I was not familiar with that web site.

I'm still curious what others would choose besides TV though.
Its all personal preference. Some want golfing areas, some want parks or walking areas. Check the site and see what appeals to you and your likes for life

[matandch]

Leesburg Florida right down the road.

[skippy05]

Plantation located in Leesburg FL. Low HOA fees, No CDD fees, No Bonds, Gated. Does not have the number or quality of The Villages facilities or activities, nevertheless has them. It all depends on "what' you want for your money and what you feel is acceptable in fees and taxes in exchange for what you get. The answer to this question is specific to each person looking.

[MandoMan]

I checked out a piece on the "25 best value active adult communities 2020" from that 55+ website.

TV did not make the cut.

One that did had this listed among the amenities: A tennis court and a golf course. A. As in one. Hard to compare that to TV.

The Villages is NOT a “Best Value” sort of community. You and I may agree that it has a value surpassing all of these “best value” communities, but it isn’t cheap. I could buy a house the size and fanciness of mine a mile or two outside The Villages or in Ocala for half the price. But I wouldn’t have access to the activities here, and the neighborhood probably wouldn’t be as beautiful or safe. We are definitely getting what we are paying for, but “best value” implies “budget,” and The Villages is upscale in activities, not budget.

[Rwirish]

Citrus Hills. 30 minutes or so from TV.

[noslices1]

Sun city arizona

[dhdallas]

I checked out a piece on the "25 best value active adult communities 2020" from that 55+ website.

TV did not make the cut.

One that did had this listed among the amenities: A tennis court and a golf course. A. As in one. Hard to compare that to TV.

It is the percentage of people using a particular facility, not how many facilities they have. TV is ridiculously crowded and ever expanding. Driving anywhere around here whether its by car or cart is a pain. There are waiting lists to join many clubs. My wife made me buy here and it sucks. I would definitely find somewhere on the coast.

[Joanne19335]

On Top Of The World

I took a look at OTOTW. I loved it. You can get a lot more for your money. Then I thought about the downside(s). First, you own the structure, not the land it sits on. My favorite things to do are golf, golf and golf! There are 3 championship courses. Memberships are not cheap and greens fees are a lot like ours. They are still building and it will soon be as large as The Villages. There was no mention of adding additional golf courses to accommodate their growing population. There are no executive golf courses. If you buy a home that includes exterior maintenance (which I would love), the monthly amenity fee is about $350. I wish they would build condos here.

[Hape2Bhr]

Citrus Hills. 30 minutes or so from TV.

Had my wife been a golfer we most likely would have chosen Citrus Hills/Terra Vista as well. However, she much prefers the availability of activities here, and has never golfed. I on the other hand like the Citrus Hills area because of the golf. Better cared for courses and less expensive too. Up north I play nearly every day (18 holes). It would be very expensive to do that here, and because of the points system, maybe not possible(?).

[gregcharlesnelson@gmail]

We wintered in Belize for 4 winters and then built a beach home in Xcalak, Mx. We spent 12 winters there and it was paradise, BUT we got robbed three times! We sold our 3200 sq/ft home in Mexico 5 years ago. Since then we tried Az and San Diego areas..nice but expensive in Diego and rather cheap in Green Valley,Az. But we didn't like the desert and everything is brown. The other 4 years we searched Florida top to bottom and kept coming back to The Villages. The only change I'd make is to move TV further south..amen

[beckylou152]

If you had to choose a retirement community other than TV, what would it be?

We looked over a lot of Florida looking for a place. I think it is such a personal decision. If you are the type of person who wants activities, groups, and variety, I don't think you can beat The Villages. If you are a person who savors quiet time on the beach, then move somewhere on the beach. If you have a limited budget, try a nice park model resort - they are literally everywhere. If you don't want exterior home maintenance, choose a condo resort. My husband and I are extremely active, like many activities, and want to have a variety of things to do, and we don't mind the exterior maintenance, so that is why we chose The Villages. But I don't think it is for everyone. I don't think that central Florida, outside of the manicured beauty of The Villages, is really that pretty; there is limited nearby good shopping, you are at least an hour from the beach, etc. So there are plusses and minuses to everything.

[DAVES]

If you had to choose a retirement community other than TV, what would it be?

I regularly wonder why people ask this sort of question here. People who live here has a bias. That is typical of anything you have bought.

People do not say hey I was wrong to......... People who do not like it here have or should have moved.

Any place, no matter what you will find people living there unless it is abandoned.

You need to decide what you want, what you want to spend etc.

We've been here for eight years. Truth before deciding on The Villages I became aware of an island off North Carolina. It was about 8 acres, had herd of wild horses and a nice house. It was like a million bucks. No neighbor issues unless someone trespasses with a boat. No issues with the power company or if there are you are the power company.
Cable ???? perhaps dish. Go figure my wife vetoed that.

The world is your oyster. Perhaps, too many choices makes it difficult to choose.

[John_W]

I'll make one recommendation. If I didn't live in TV, why would I bother with Leesburg, Clermont or Ocala, they're just clones but with less to do and not as nice, and not near the beaches. If you go Stonecrest 5 miles north of TV in Summerfield, the salesman biggest pitch is, "it's close to The Villages".

If you don't buy in TV, then you must be looking for a bargain. The best are in Hernando and Pasco Counties. My parents retired in 1984 in Spring Hill Florida, 75 minutes southwest of here. The town is a mix of retirees and working people. It's on the coast and there is Weeki Wachee Springs in Spring Hill which has the world famous mermaid show and has a man made white sandy beach and you can swim in the crystal clear spring water. In Spring Hill there is boat launches and you can take your boat out to the Gulf quickly. There is also Pine Island at the end of Route 50, which is a county park and beach on an island and very nice, just doesn't have much commercial development.

https://s3-media4.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/0i12pQZ7icQDMSFCPvh_Dw/ls.jpg

The community of Timber Pines was finished around 2000 and is 2.3 square miles, 3,200 homes and 5,800 people. When the community was finished, the developers moved 3 miles south and built Heritage Pines in Hudson Florida. Also a great community but is also built out. The nice part is neither Timber Pines or Heritage Pines won't be getting any bigger, no more influx of people. Both communities are gated with security and a wall around the entire perimeter.

Timber Pines is the larger, with 3 golf courses and the location is right on US Hwy 19. Anything you can find in Orlando is on Hwy 19, it's stretches south to St. Petersburg which 60 miles of shopping, malls, big box stores and restaurants. It also goes north to Tallahassee and gives you quick access to Homosassa Springs and Crystal River. Besides the 3 golf courses inside the community and you can drive your golf cart anywhere inside, there are many courses in Spring Hill and the world famous Innisbrook Resort where the Valspar Golf Tournament is held is in Palm Harbor about 30 miles south on Hwy 19. Tampa is about a 45 minute drive via the new Suncoast Parkway.

Google Maps (https://www.google.com/maps/place/Heritage+Pines+Country+Club/@28.4494567,-82.63177,10483m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x88c29ef50b6c5a9b:0xba35e 3068671fe74!8m2!3d28.4251333!4d-82.6242389)

In Timber Pines of course all the homes are resales, some were built in the 80's and some in the 90's. This home is $260K, had you asked this question two years ago, this home was probably $200K, they were very reasonable but have gone up in recent years. This is example of what you can get in either community.

https://photos.zillowstatic.com/fp/475fd6e567382e519da3153e7852552d-uncropped_scaled_within_1536_1152.webp

https://photos.zillowstatic.com/fp/39ccf3920873105d1b265198ae6666fb-uncropped_scaled_within_1536_1152.webp

https://photos.zillowstatic.com/fp/f48f407e8e779ff465c8d23988f05a2b-uncropped_scaled_within_1536_1152.webp

Timber Pines Community Association Home - Timber Pines Community Association (https://www.timberpines.com/)

Home - Heritage Pines Country Club - Hudson, FL (https://www.heritagepines.net/)

Here's a villa in Timber Pines for $219K, in 2015 it was $145K, prices are still a great value.

https://ap.rdcpix.com/f76c71b39ea720859b7016d7a9bb6b21l-m2507738584xd-w1020_h770_q80.jpg

Island green at one of Timber Pines golf courses

https://sharieoakland.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/timber-pines-01-1600x770-1600x770.jpg

Heritage Pines club house

https://sharieoakland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/heritage-pines-04-new-1600x770.png

[rlcooper70]

Florida is a long state geographically ..... the temperature is very different in Naples from Tampa or Jacksonville. Think about what percentage of the year you want to be outside. If you are an indoor person it matters less. If you want to be outside, then the northern part of the state offers more months without dramatic heat/humidity

[dhdallas]

Navarre Beach is near Pensacola and is absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but not so much as to become crowded. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along. There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and markets. It is NOT a tourist trap.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices. The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV.

[chrissy2231]

Top of the world

[Barborv]

I have visited a lot of 55 + places in

[Bitsee]

We moved to Ocala OTOW 3 yrs. ago this week from The Villages.
OTOW has outstanding amenities; state of the art " new " recreation center (s), indoor/ outdoor pools, hot tubs "new" pickleball courts, wood hobby shop, clubs, R/C flying field, RV storage, free Gym membership, Lifelong Learning Center, miniature golf, several new dog friendly parks, beautiful walking trails, weekend entertainment at the square, farmers market , and golf courses just to name a few.
The homes here a better quality, less expensive with no bonds. They actually have green space behind each home for privacy...amazing.
A person has to rent at least 6 months in OTOW so there is no constant revolving renters in here.
You can actually ride a bike here without fear of being mowed down by a drunk driver.
The 3 gates have a 24 hr. attendant every single day.
Ocala shopping, restaurants, and medical facilities are way above what the The Villages offers.
People here in OTOW seem very relaxed and down to earth...they don't feel the need to impress anyone else.
The one thing we absolutely love here is the fact that there is a build-out plan in here after Longleaf and Weybourne. The next project will be Calesa across the way which does not affect our lifestyle what so ever.
Anyone from The Villages would quite impressed if they took a tour of OTOW today, I would bet money on that !
Oh, and if this is prison..sign me up !!

[Barborv]

I have visited a lot of 55 + places in Fla and I visited the Hilton Head Sun city. It had more amenities than other communities. Now back to Fla. When we were first looking , it spanned over 2 summers. I liked Solivita, BUT i wouldn't want to leave the community at night! Went to a lot of Del Webbs along the way, very nice but boring. One large clubhouse. The villages of Citrus Hills was also very nice. On top of the world seemed like they had more to do than other communities, but a lot of those classes they advertise you have to pay for including that really nice gym they show on line. We visited Mt Dora and was also nice, but boring and the surrounding area was eh. Now I heard Margaritaville was really nice, but wasn't there and cant say. Visited Sun city in Tampa. Large community, but the main recreation building at that time (8 years ago) seemed like I was in a school building. Wasn't appealing to me. Plus when you drove into the community you drove through the very OLD section to get to the newer homes and it wasn't aesthetically pleasing. Went to 2 communities in Naples, beautiful area but also one big beautiful club house. Other communities along the way were older, and some even felt like a nursing home. We stayed by a friends house in Clermont called Heritage Hills. Also very nice, One clubhouse and boring as anything. all I have to say is at the end of the 2nd summer of looking into communities, our last stop before heading home was the Villages and the rest is history!!!
Go on 55 places.com as someone else mentioned. Its a good place to start. Go visit other communities. What might be pleasing to one , won't be for another. I like BIG AND VERY ACTIVE! Love the accessibility to shopping and dining and all the recreation and clubs and all by golf cart! For me, The Villages was it.

[sdfarr]

I picked Sun City West in AZ.

[John41]

Stuart is a very high crime area, we stayed there a couple times when we were traveling in a Class A motorhome. We were warned to stay out of a lot of areas. As of today only 17% of all US cities have a higher crime rate per capita and in florida 70% of all cities and towns have a lower crime rate than Stuart. It may look nice but there are better places to go over there that are much safer such as Vero Beach.

We lived in Stuart for 20 years and the crime is in the area East of Rt 1 in the south part of town. Jack Nicklaus has his retirement community in the good area.

Consider the new area of The Villages. Would you feel safe there knowing a few miles away is Wildwood with its high crime rate twice the average of Florida? And some of the new TV homes are actually in Wildwood.
————————————————� �—————

Based on FBI crime data, Wildwood is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Florida, Wildwood has a crime rate that is higher than 75% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

[PugMom]

For some quick results it's a good idea to use the 'search' button at the top of the website. When I moved here ten years ago I had a 20 page pad filled with answers to everything I would need. From painters, to golf cart stores, handyman, etc. Of course, I had already decided on moving here, I have lived in Florida off and on since I was 9 years old.

There's probably not a question that hasn't been asked before, so the search button is the most important features of this site. Slow responses might be because some people are getting tired of answering the same questions, so I did a search for you. Here are some results, this should keep you busy.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/thoughts-other-55-communities-314180/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/t-v-310824/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/what-if-villages-never-happened-310161/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/hi-future-resident-here-313313/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/would-you-continue-living-here-after-your-spouse-passes-312496/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/curious-about-villages-311970/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/exploring-villages-october-2020-there-any-singles-groups-311659/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/rent-first-before-you-buy-310867/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/retirement-community-choices-305204/?highlight=retirement+communities

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-new-members-forum-115/did-you-research-other-communities-291848/?highlight=retirement+communities

this is why i read your posts for accurate info. :)

[cj1040]

Probably Latitude Margaritaville...lovely homes, golf cart friendly, private beach access, close to airport and shopping, great indoor fitness center...golf is public courses nearby but that it not our main thing anyway.

[cj1040]

Probably Latitude Margaritaville, Daytona..lovely homes and pool and town center, indoor fitness center, private beach access, airport and shopping close by. Golf is at public courses nearby but that is not our main thing....

[Dlbonivich]

I’m 54 and I visited and sold other retirement communities and I would choose only The Villages.

[John_W]

Navarre Beach is near Pensacola and is absolutely gorgeous. Sugar white sand with the turquoise water of the Gulf on one side of Santa Rosa Island and the sound on the other. It is in the Central Time Zone. No bugs or alligators (at least on the island).

There is 20 miles of protected seashore with wind swept dunes and sparsely populated beaches with a bike/hike trail almost the entire length of the island. At one end of the island is a historic fort dating back to the civil war and toward the eastern end is a Marine Science Station. Golf carts are used by some residents but not so much as to become crowded. Overall traffic is extremely light on the island. The 4-lane on the mainland can be busy but there are no roundabouts and traffic moves right along. There are many fresh seafood, authentic southern BBQ restaurants and markets. It is NOT a tourist trap.

Beautiful homes and condos (some <$300k) on the waterfront at reasonable prices. The condo amenities/fees are next to nothing compared to TV. From our rental condo's bedroom window, we could watch porpoises playing in the water. I wanted to buy there but my wife insisted on TV.

My best friend lives in Navarre, we were in the Army together and then later worked for the government together in Pensacola. Housing is very cheap in that area. Navarre Beach I did post about in another thread when I posted about the making Jaws 2 the movie and I visited the set a few times in 1977. Unfortunately the Holiday Inn at Navarre Beach where the movie was set was destroyed in 2004 by a hurricane.

I lived in Pensacola from 1977 to 1982. In fact, if not for TV, I would maybe have retired either there or Spring Hill. The problem with Pensacola and Gulf Breeze (Santa Rosa Island) is hurricanes. In fact right now the 3 mile bridge was knocked last September by Hurricane Sally and at best, not expected to reopen until March. So you can't get to Pensacola from Gulf Breeze without going about 30 miles around and crossing two other bridges and Pensacola residents can't go to Gulf Breeze or Pensacola Beach without a going over the I-10 Bridge to Garcon Point and then taking Garcon Point Toll Bridge.

https://www.google.com/maps/vt/data=tpSWXEHE4DrNwkrbYjSUPsLp44h13Fcll2BHYD8UO_1_0 nq6PsLLPP5VH-wikOuLJkaJW3JSstZeHgqp3D-LtSMzbXHLHRj88Fxg7PtvntrDejZ8JlT8HloBrsHLxp11Kp-XU9ZF3qOLM43_mSj82ZTUhSjfUONc9FjW2vm8ZE6pKEWKzIt49 GqrLGP_,3LPYuB0lssN7vLOk9vPWcHJU-PxfkH0vKwmH9ovVgI5D5-Qzf4L4P8ymWwwg_xP54HojFEhTO3XMEGk1RbQS8P1pxo_Xt5pa k_26OEoXPJ5n2Qc63xrA19tbKJ9D46B-y-5XZZkcyy4aSKrm_o7ai5DVHndS1bZBDUjNkkLVhWHT7FgGlFwj DYBIm8B9NXVNNlcEbaBiNOUDUOjXg2PvWJrhxx_i73WNXtx4Rb PBL2If3l65I9fxSCKsxqOjpEx_9X9LhQG2-YHEsu5HupMBAfZpy2ng9FrrdeMVRhOsOp8AvkspDnV2v3m32wC eSGnTtK-cd1wLCviYLZekjZJQriFz8RRK5tMctfxuX_tL8GAs3y1Ifj8Nv cZvKx9X-ZN0leA2qkTrzSdV8I-hNb3kOMt-st47SlbGRw?scale=1&h=200&w=618

The 3 Mile Bridge was not actually damaged by Hurricane Sally but by 3 barges that broke free during the storm.

https://weartv.com/resources/media/b3a52913-bf60-41c4-af2d-04537799992c-large16x9_efe13d5858c44391a341b04c14ee77a4large16x 9_barge2.png?1601584550885

[Cranford61]

Plantation located in Leesburg FL. Low HOA fees, No CDD fees, No Bonds, Gated. Does not have the number or quality of The Villages facilities or activities, nevertheless has them. It all depends on "what' you want for your money and what you feel is acceptable in fees and taxes in exchange for what you get. The answer to this question is specific to each person looking.
Cheaper yet is the Holiday Resorts in nearby Okahumpya.

[Sherry8bal]

If you had to choose a retirement community other than TV, what would it be?

I would recommend On Top Of The World, in Ocala FL. They are a much smaller and REALLY GATED community with used homes and new homes, in many styles and prices. Some have a higher HOA fee and includes your lawn maintenance and other things and then there are other sections with a smaller HOA fee but you get less.

They have added lots of new amenities and new recreation buildings and pools in the last few years too.

Even though you don't own the land your home is built on, you get a 99 year lease so what difference does that make!!!

The fact that it really is GATED unlike the Villages who lie about this being a gated community is a real plus. They have also added a new frontage road so you now have access to a bank, a new Publix and a few restaurants accessible by golf cart.

[macawlaw]

Pelican Preserve in Ft Myers.

[B-flat]

We moved to Ocala OTOW 3 yrs. ago this week from The Villages.
OTOW has outstanding amenities; state of the art " new " recreation center (s), indoor/ outdoor pools, hot tubs "new" pickleball courts, wood hobby shop, clubs, R/C flying field, RV storage, free Gym membership, Lifelong Learning Center, miniature golf, several new dog friendly parks, beautiful walking trails, weekend entertainment at the square, farmers market , and golf courses just to name a few.
The homes here a better quality, less expensive with no bonds. They actually have green space behind each home for privacy...amazing.
A person has to rent at least 6 months in OTOW so there is no constant revolving renters in here.
You can actually ride a bike here without fear of being mowed down by a drunk driver.
The 3 gates have a 24 hr. attendant every single day.
Ocala shopping, restaurants, and medical facilities are way above what the The Villages offers.
People here in OTOW seem very relaxed and down to earth...they don't feel the need to impress anyone else.
The one thing we absolutely love here is the fact that there is a build-out plan in here after Longleaf and Weybourne. The next project will be Calesa across the way which does not affect our lifestyle what so ever.
Anyone from The Villages would quite impressed if they took a tour of OTOW today, I would bet money on that !
Oh, and if this is prison..sign me up !!

Very well stated bitsee and as a resident of OTOW I second everything you wrote!

[vintageogauge]

I would recommend On Top Of The World, in Ocala FL. They are a much smaller and REALLY GATED community with used homes and new homes, in many styles and prices. Some have a higher HOA fee and includes your lawn maintenance and other things and then there are other sections with a smaller HOA fee but you get less.

They have added lots of new amenities and new recreation buildings and pools in the last few years too.

Even though you don't own the land your home is built on, you get a 99 year lease so what difference does that make!!!

The fact that it really is GATED unlike the Villages who lie about this being a gated community is a real plus. They have also added a new frontage road so you now have access to a bank, a new Publix and a few restaurants accessible by golf cart.

I would prefer a deed over a lease any time. I don't believe I was ever told TV was a gated community by any one associated with TV. A gated community doesn't keep criminals out, I have lived in true gated communities and just about anyone who would like to commit a crime can easily get through in a number of different ways, I don't see it as being a plus. Most of the crime in TV is not within the gates but in public areas within and around TV. I haven't heard or read of a residential burglary in the nearly 4 years I have been full time so there must not be many if any of them. 130,000 people in a gated community would be a nightmare, there would be a line of non-residents a mile long at every entry point waiting to gain permission to get in for whatever reason. And more long lines with residents waiting their turn to get through the gates.

[manaboutown]

Just a thought and I do not know of any other 55 and over communities enjoying boards like TOTV, but the OP could find one or more, maybe a Sun City somewhere (FL, AZ...) site, and post the same inquiry.

[Rosebud2020]

Stuart is a very high crime area, we stayed there a couple times when we were traveling in a Class A motorhome. We were warned to stay out of a lot of areas. As of today only 17% of all US cities have a higher crime rate per capita and in florida 70% of all cities and towns have a lower crime rate than Stuart. It may look nice but there are better places to go over there that are much safer such as Vero Beach.

Speaking of crime, being a sister community next to Wildwood ain't no bargain! In addition, TV isn't a gated community -- it's a community with gates giving residents a false sense of security. Anyone can gain access to anywhere in TV.

The OP asked for other communities. Spruce Creek is a nce but older community offering larger lots where you aren't on top of one another. You can also have a fenced yard. Prices are less there, also. There are many differences but Spruce Creek is a nice, well-maintained place to live.

Port St.L ucie is another growing area. There is a multitude of 55+ communities in that general area.

[Pairadocs]

Do you want to be on the coast, Atlantic or Gulf or it doesn't matter, if you prefer the center of the state? That's the first question, location, location, location. Then what's your budget, if you say $250K, there are many communities where homes start at $300K or $400K or higher.

The 55+ website is a great place to get an idea. Start with an area, such as Tampa/St. Pete, or St. Augustine/Daytona or Naples / Fort Myers. You can get an idea of what's available in that area, prices, amenities, sights and entertainment. There also reviews and homes for sale at most locations.

When you have a general idea of where, then come here and ask "How is On Top the World" Condos in Clearwater, chances are someone has been there and looked at it already, or even lived there and then moved here. About half of the residents of TV have moved from other parts of Florida.

Here's the site, pick a city, when the results come up, click on the city name and the results will be displayed on a map which you can move around.

55+ Places to Retire Website (https://www.55places.com/?nhds_source=google&nhds_medium=cpc&nhds_campaign=6522254299&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Dynamic+Search+Ads&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=9083296486&hsa_cam=6522254299&hsa_grp=78587738575&hsa_ad=383728180473&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=dsa-54399997139&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=Cj0KCQiA6t6ABhDMARIsAONIYyzrdS3BJTqZf7fTgFDY CBgo-qXql--TwIb-SaqWusFUs5RNXkliGRgaAsnVEALw_wcB)

Very good advice, so much available, inland, coast. For us is not golfers.... probably build or buy at Margaritaville near Daytona since cruising and beach days would be our next choice. Figure hobbies and interests should be on the high priority list for retirement living, while that would not be a high priority item in the career years when other things move to the top of the priorities.

[Bilyclub]

I would probably give a hard look at Margaritaville in Daytona. Is the beach and bus up and running there?
Funny that people in OTOW are lurking here.

[Pairadocs]

I checked out a piece on the "25 best value active adult communities 2020" from that 55+ website.

TV did not make the cut.

One that did had this listed among the amenities: A tennis court and a golf course. A. As in one. Hard to compare that to TV.

Possibly ? But, also could be much smaller and that is sufficient ? Not incredibly unhappy here at all, but really not like a smaller community. We're so tired of spending so much time in "line" out on 466 just to get to turn into the villages and get in 'line" again to go to our home when the lines are actually caused by the wish to give the illusion of a private gated community so folks back home are impressed... just our opinion, not worth it just to be able to impress friends who come to visit. When they see we are able to afford live "guards" in little "guard houses" they assume we must have inherited some real wealth...LOL... they are really impressed, LOL ! Traffic was not a major thing when we first built on a lot we bought in the "new" lake sumter area, kind of rethinking at this point. Love the idea of communities where there are some restrictions on rentals, that too seems to be very different and pretty much unregulated, a night, a week, whatever. If doing it again probably would consider a bit less "in and out" community, but probably not at all of concern to others, such a mixed bag. "Free music" was quite nice, still enjoy, but again, would move down the list now. The number of door bell ringing "sales" people is getting to us a bit. Unbelievable how this has become ! Have never lived anywhere in any state with what it is here now...was not that bad in the beginning ! That is getting tiresome, but of course to others, it's of no concern, don't go to the door is an easy solution. Family members just moved out of V's after some years, to Spring Hill area. They didn't know either if it was the right decision, knew they may miss it here an move back. So far, you could not bribe them enough to come back here, so that's why we've at least opened our mind to other possibilities !

[Pairadocs]

Another vote here for On top of the World. We owned a court yard villa in The Villages for 2 years then 6 months ago we moved to OTOW for a number of reasons. One was we had long time friends who live in OTOW that was a factor. We were able to purchase a home the same size as the court yard villa we sold for less money than we sold the CYV for. Our home is on a corner lot with grass and a view of the 17th tee of one of the golf courses. We're far enough away from the tee box so we don't hear golfers who hit a lousy shot complain. Our HOA fees here include all landscaping services and internet. There's 24/7 guarded gates so it's very secure. Our new home is better constructed too than the villa we owned in The Villages.

Some will say it's too quiet for their lifestyle. I was a hell raiser until age 32. Today I don't need all the action some are looking for. I can still golf or play pickle ball if I want.

What we do find interesting is that as we drive our golf cart thru new homes under construction or about to be occupied we find quite a few people who are moving from The Villages to OTOW.

We are definitely in the "thinking stage" about OTOTW & a few others. Now have friends and relatives relate exactly what you have found. Our one unknown is how paying annual membership dues to play golf compares to a high amenity fee in the villages; to non golfers of course it is of no concern, but as the years march on, nice to be able to just play a 9 hole exec, not have to get in the car to drive to a golf course, and not always wanting to pay game by game at a place like OTOTW.... but.... looking into it.

[Pairadocs]

We looked over a lot of Florida looking for a place. I think it is such a personal decision. If you are the type of person who wants activities, groups, and variety, I don't think you can beat The Villages. If you are a person who savors quiet time on the beach, then move somewhere on the beach. If you have a limited budget, try a nice park model resort - they are literally everywhere. If you don't want exterior home maintenance, choose a condo resort. My husband and I are extremely active, like many activities, and want to have a variety of things to do, and we don't mind the exterior maintenance, so that is why we chose The Villages. But I don't think it is for everyone. I don't think that central Florida, outside of the manicured beauty of The Villages, is really that pretty; there is limited nearby good shopping, you are at least an hour from the beach, etc. So there are plusses and minuses to everything.

Such a good, valuable, honest reply ! It is true you can have a lively party/nightlife in the villages, pretty unusual in that most retirement communities you would have to get in an auto and drive a small distance while here you need no car and can go to a variety of bars for dancing, drinking, etc.
A small community may have A country club with a dinning room and a bar, but the model here is quite different, 3 "towns" with many bars and other businesses of course, and many dues "free" country clubs which actually are public restaurants, very public restaurants any one can go to, but it provides a "vibe" you are not going to find in (most) other retirement communities for sure. The one country club in a smaller community would be more like the country club you knew if you belonged to one before retirement. It is perfectly possible to live a very relaxed life here too, with a few activities and a few "clubs", but the choice here from scuba clubs to beach clubs to baseball fan, railroad, cycling, figurine collecting... name it they have a club. So you can have active night life (singles also) here probably not available at smaller communities.

[B-flat]

We are definitely in the "thinking stage" about OTOTW & a few others. Now have friends and relatives relate exactly what you have found. Our one unknown is how paying annual membership dues to play golf compares to a high amenity fee in the villages; to non golfers of course it is of no concern, but as the years march on, nice to be able to just play a 9 hole exec, not have to get in the car to drive to a golf course, and not always wanting to pay game by game at a place like OTOTW.... but.... looking into it.

Good luck with your search, here's hoping you'll find something you'll like.

[fmeans]

Save yourself a lot of time, trouble and expense. It doesn't get any better than The Villages. It just doesn't.

[j_vermilya]

We have family here in the villages, for about 10 years. We've been here about 3 and 1/2. We are all very concerned and unhappy about the huge amount of "development", especially remembering the promise it would never go south of 44. We are in a pandemic and see greater crowds, more traffic, harder to find tee times. Just wait til things return to "normal". Apartments being added both in and out of the villages will add to these numbers as well. No more town squares are being added...yes, they are adding some rec centers and other amenities in the south, but it will be quite some time before there will be a sufficient amount, if ever. (Comments like, then move, or growth is inevitable" don't help by the way). Absolutely, there are many positives about living here. But it will not be the same. Frankly, we are leaning towards moving because of these changes.

[John_W]

...Apartments being added both in and out of the villages will add to these numbers as well. No more town squares are being added...yes, they are adding some rec centers and other amenities in the south, but it will be quite some time before there will be a sufficient amount, if ever. (Comments like, then move, or growth is inevitable" don't help by the way). Absolutely, there are many positives about living here. But it will not be the same. Frankly, we are leaning towards moving because of these changes.

So when you moved to TV were you under impression you were last person to buy a home and the developer was going retire and TV would stay exactly the same. People who move to Florida always seem to think it's going to stay the same and not grow or get any bigger. When Walt Disney bought all that land in Orlando, it was small town about the size of Ocala is now, and had a military base and the Navy conducted their basic training there.

I grew up in St. Petersburg, we didn't have interstate through town until the end of the 70s, everywhere you went you traveled by surface streets. This is how downtown looked in 1965, the tallest building was a 7 story hotel built in the 20s.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0257/3165/products/adi657.jpeg?v=1497471125

This is downtown St. Petersburg now, and I can't begin to tell the difference in Miami then and now. You could drive on Hwy 19 from St. Petersburg to Clearwater 15 miles and not see a building. Today Hwy 19 is non-stop big box stores, malls, restaurants, fast food, all the way for 60 miles to Spring Hill.

https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55467dc6e4b0ebaf8fab24a0/1581302989124-RTWR86YJ81ZGM2FVGLZO/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kE6fByfKHoDrXXz_-21gp0UUqsxRUqqbr1mOJYKfIPR7LoDQ9mXPOjoJoqy81S2I8N_ N4V1vUb5AoIIIbLZhVYxCRW4BPu10St3TBAUQYVKccxWlcrcu_ yYxwWt1XoLRIvTwbk5xfYZAY1unwypeiL95Ih7wkxyNLm0muyB oh05N/IMG_7162+2.jpeg?format=1500w

[Bonnevie]

except I would hazard that every one of us was told that "build out" was in a few years....

[spk7951]

I took a look at OTOTW. I loved it. You can get a lot more for your money. Then I thought about the downside(s). First, you own the structure, not the land it sits on. My favorite things to do are golf, golf and golf! There are 3 championship courses. Memberships are not cheap and greens fees are a lot like ours. They are still building and it will soon be as large as The Villages. There was no mention of adding additional golf courses to accommodate their growing population. There are no executive golf courses. If you buy a home that includes exterior maintenance (which I would love), the monthly amenity fee is about $350. I wish they would build condos here.

Sorry but some of this info is not correct. We moved out of TV last year after being there 12yrs and now live in OTOW.
We do own the house and land
Golf membership is around $3,400 a year but you then do not pay green fees
Without a golf membership the green fee on Candler Hills is $34
Our monthly amenity fee is $280 which includes items not included in our amenity fee in TV

Lastly someone else mentioned the size of OTOW, while they do have quite a bit of land left to develop and I remember hearing population should be 20-30,000 when done.

[laboutj]

Sorry but some of this info is not correct. We moved out of TV last year after being there 12yrs and now live in OTOW.
We do own the house and land
Golf membership is around $3,400 a year but you then do not pay green fees
Without a golf membership the green fee on Candler Hills is $34
Our monthly amenity fee is $280 which includes items not included in our amenity fee in TV

Lastly someone else mentioned the size of OTOW, while they do have quite a bit of land left to develop and I remember hearing population should be 20-30,000 when done.

From OTOW's website:
Annual World Golf Membership Fees
Single $4200 | Couple $6300
Cart Lease – Single $800 | Couple $1215

Golf would be $525/month for a couple, on top of the $280 amenity fee per month.

[Garywt]

Friends of ours looked at other places over the years but bought in The Villages when it was time to. Since they were here we did not look at anything else as we wanted to hand with them. Plus, no place has this many miles of golf cart driving.

[VApeople]

Frankly, we are leaning towards moving because of these changes.

Better go home son and make up your mind.

At least that is what we learned in the glorious 60's.

Did You Ever Have To Make Up Your Mind - Lovin' Spoonful 1966 {Stereo} - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoSG-ifn2DM)

[Catalina36]

I have been looking for a place to get away from the cold winters up north. My wife and I are boaters and beach people we love the ocean etc. etc. We love the west coast of Florida, the beautiful sandy beaches and the blue water. Clearwater beach is our favorite.
We decided on The Villages because of the low cost of living, all of the 100's of activities and clubs available, the beautiful landscape and the entire concept of town squares with music and entertainment almost every night. There is NO PLACE THAT CAN COMPARE TO THE VILLAGES!!!!! Clearwater does not have any community that compares to the Villages. I searched condos for 2 years only to find small condo's that needed big updated renovations and high common charges and higher taxes, usually in unsafe neighborhoods that I would have a concern leaving for several months. Oh and lets not forget the HURRICANES. No hurricanes here in TV. The only thing missing here for us is the white sandy beach at Clearwater beach. Only 1 hour and 45 minute drive away we booked a few days there in February. Very Happy here in The Villages.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Stuart is a very high crime area, we stayed there a couple times when we were traveling in a Class A motorhome. We were warned to stay out of a lot of areas. As of today only 17% of all US cities have a higher crime rate per capita and in florida 70% of all cities and towns have a lower crime rate than Stuart. It may look nice but there are better places to go over there that are much safer such as Vero Beach.

I agree. If I was going to relocate closer to a beach it would be on the Gulf Coast. Probably Naples.

[Boston-Sean]

Found this on youtube. Looks pretty nice. If all I cared about was golfing once or twice a week I'd seriously consider it.

The Villages Florida vs On Top of The World - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81zzzgK2SoI)

[VApeople]

Sailfish Point in Stuart is my idea of a nice downhome beach community.

Sailfish Point (https://www.sailfishpoint.com/pages/real-estate/listings.aspx?Statuses=2)

[spk7951]

From OTOW's website:
Annual World Golf Membership Fees
Single $4200 | Couple $6300
Cart Lease – Single $800 | Couple $1215

Golf would be $525/month for a couple, on top of the $280 amenity fee per month.

Those golf membership fees are for the two private 18 hole courses in OTOW.
Candler Hills, which I was referring to, has a membership fee of $3,400yr for a single or $35 per round without a membership.
Cart Lease is if you do not own an electric golf cart otherwise there is no cart fee.

[John41]

I agree. If I was going to relocate closer to a beach it would be on the Gulf Coast. Probably Naples.

The Gulf of Mexico is not as desirable as the Atlantic. It’s just a gulf not an ocean.

[Topspinmo]

Sorry but some of this info is not correct. We moved out of TV last year after being there 12yrs and now live in OTOW.
We do own the house and land
Golf membership is around $3,400 a year but you then do not pay green fees
Without a golf membership the green fee on Candler Hills is $34
Our monthly amenity fee is $280 which includes items not included in our amenity fee in TV

Lastly someone else mentioned the size of OTOW, while they do have quite a bit of land left to develop and I remember hearing population should be 20-30,000 when done.


Nowhere in the world can compete with villages when it comes to golf courses. TOTW will never compare to villages in golf.

[Topspinmo]

The Gulf of Mexico is not as desirable as the Atlantic. It’s just a gulf not an ocean.

So how do you know the difference? You can’t see across it? It’s all water out there.

[John_W]

The Gulf of Mexico is not as desirable as the Atlantic. It’s just a gulf not an ocean.

You have never been to a Gulf beach, if you had you would never made that statement, or was it a joke and you forgot the smiley face. That Atlantic beaches are sand mixed with tiny crushed shells and the water is cold to colder, and water is dark. Gulf Beaches are usually white powdery sand in appearance and the water is aqua blue, and is usually warmer by the Gulf Stream.

The following beaches are in Trip Advisor's top 10 beaches, Siesta Key, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Pensacola and Panama City. That's five in the top 10, the Atlantic side of Florida has only one, Hollywood.

Best Beaches in the United States - Travelers' Choice Awards - Tripadvisor (https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Beaches-cTop-g191)

Clearwater Beach

https://blogstudio.s3.amazonaws.com/epicwaterfilters/648df59363b5429116e007323879d6a3.jpg

[Pairadocs]

We have family here in the villages, for about 10 years. We've been here about 3 and 1/2. We are all very concerned and unhappy about the huge amount of "development", especially remembering the promise it would never go south of 44. We are in a pandemic and see greater crowds, more traffic, harder to find tee times. Just wait til things return to "normal". Apartments being added both in and out of the villages will add to these numbers as well. No more town squares are being added...yes, they are adding some rec centers and other amenities in the south, but it will be quite some time before there will be a sufficient amount, if ever. (Comments like, then move, or growth is inevitable" don't help by the way). Absolutely, there are many positives about living here. But it will not be the same. Frankly, we are leaning towards moving because of these changes.

Amen, we hear you and agree. And yes, have not been real social media savvy, but even this TOTV's was more a community bulletin board "back then",but now, yes, you'll get many nasty comments like: move, get out, etc. We built from scratch, love it here, but last 3 years have just been so many negative changes, never expected it to have so many high rise multi family complexes, senior complexes, it's beginning to look and be as crowded as what we hoped to leave behind. Had relatives who came to escape the south Florida life style of traffic, crowded restaurants, etc. and now found the villages is becoming the same as what they left. They just sold in
Dec. and love their new place in the Spring Hill area. Others moved to Margaritaville, which may eventually become another Villages, but, for now, they love it, the friendliness of the residents, said just like the "old days" in the villages. So we too are"thinking", looking, may just do it sometime in this new year.

[John41]

You have never been to a Gulf beach, if you had you would never made that statement, or was it a joke and you forgot the smiley face. That Atlantic beaches are sand mixed with tiny crushed shells and the water is cold to colder, and water is dark. Gulf Beaches are usually white powdery sand in appearance and the water is aqua blue, and is usually warmer by the Gulf Stream

I have been to beaches on both coasts of Florida and although the sand is a little nicer in some areas of the gulf, the waves on the Atlantic side are much larger and the onshore breeze more enjoyable in Summer.