Buying a Resale in The Villages, FL? Ask These 5 Questions First
5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Buying a Resale Home in The Villages, Florida
Thinking about buying a resale home in The Villages, Florida? Stop what you’re doing and read this first. Whether you're a retiree, pre-retiree, or simply relocating, asking the right questions before making a purchase can save you time, money, and potential heartache.
Why These Questions Matter
The Villages is the largest active adult retirement community in the U.S., and with so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. We bought a new construction home, but there are so many resales on the market right now that you can get a great deal! We just helped my parents navigate this process and learned first-hand what you need to know to make a confident, informed decision. Let’s dive into the five must-ask questions before buying a resale home in The Villages.
1. Where Do You Want to Live in The Villages?
The Villages spans over three counties and continues to expand, so choosing the right location is critical. Each area has its own amenities, proximity to town squares, and vibe.
There are 4 main areas that most residents divide The Villages into: 1)The Historic Section (North of 466A) 2. Between the 6s (Between 466A and 466) 3. Brownwood Area (Between 466 and just south of 44) 4. The Southern Area (newest section below 44 down to CR 470). We probably need to add another one: the Eastport Area which is currently under construction.
Factors to Consider:
Proximity to shopping, medical facilities, and recreation centers.
Access to golf cart paths (not all areas are equally connected).
Noise concerns (e.g., near highways or town squares).
Commute needs (especially if you still work part-time).
💡 Pro Tip: Visit at different times of year and stay in various neighborhoods to truly experience what life would be like in each location.
2. What’s the Neighborhood Vibe Like?
Not all neighborhoods in The Villages are created equal. Each one has a unique energy, appearance, and demographic makeup.
What to Look For:
Mature landscaping vs. new construction.
Social activity levels (some neighborhoods are livelier than others).
Rules and regulations governed by Community Development Districts (CDDs).
Driveway space and street parking availability.
Proximity to pools, recreation centers, and entertainment.
🔎 Visit potential neighborhoods in the morning, afternoon, and evening—especially in season (Jan–April)—to get a real feel for activity levels and traffic.
3. Does the Home and Lot Fit Your Lifestyle?
The layout and location of the home on the lot can dramatically impact your experience.
Key Considerations:
Orientation: East-facing lanais provide morning sun; west-facing can be too hot.
Privacy: Check for “kissing lanais” (where you look directly into a neighbor's lanai).
Lot layout: Pie-shaped lots on cul-de-sacs may offer more space.
ARC Approval: Ensure any hardscaping, landscaping, or additions were approved by the Architectural Review Committee.
⚠️ Unapproved changes could lead to costly fines or mandated removals.
4. What’s the Condition of the Home?
Resale homes come in all conditions. Some have been meticulously maintained; others may need immediate repairs.
Must-Check Items:
Roof: If it's more than 5–10 years old, check insurance eligibility.
HVAC System: Ensure it functions well, especially in Florida’s heat.
Termite Bond: Confirm there is an active, uninterrupted bond in place.
Sinkhole Activity: Ask if the house or surrounding area has a history of sinkholes.
Water Damage: Request disclosures and look for visual clues.
💬 Ask the seller or agent to disclose all maintenance records and improvements.
5. What’s the True Cost of Living in That Home?
Beyond the purchase price, multiple ongoing costs can significantly affect your monthly budget.
Costs to Budget For:
Bond: Many resale homes have lower or even paid-off bonds compared to new builds.
Maintenance Fees: Varies by location and home type.
Fire Assessment: Required in certain counties.
Amenity Fee: As of now, a flat $199/month for new residents.
Utilities and Insurance: Costs can vary based on home size and age.
🧾 Example: Tiffany’s parents purchased a resale with a bond payment of $110/month—compared to over $300/month for some new homes.
Real-Life Example: Buying Resale the Right Way
Tiffany’s parents followed this exact framework:
Location: Settled between Brownwood and Lake Sumter Landing. This location is near country clubs, Publix and restaurants and many recreation centers.
Neighborhood: Chose a quiet cul-de-sac with mature landscaping.
Home Layout: Selected a designer home (Begonia/Mockingbird model) with a golf cart garage and an enclosed lanai.
Condition: New roof (2024), functional HVAC, termite bond in place, and no sinkhole or water damage history.
Budget: Total monthly housing cost of $178/month, dropping to $68/month once the bond is paid off in a few years.
Final Thoughts: Is Buying Resale in The Villages Worth It?
Absolutely—if you ask the right questions. Resale homes can offer better value, mature landscaping, and lower monthly costs than new builds. But it's essential to do your research, visit multiple times, and work with a knowledgeable agent.
👉 Bonus Tip: Use these five questions as a checklist on your home tours and revisit them before making an offer.
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