Why we chose NOT to retire in The Villages

After months of research and planning, Michelle and Jeff made the decision to retire in The Villages, Florida. They loved everything about the community from the golf courses, the restaurants, and especially the social life.

They were excited to join all of their friends and family down there, however, after talking with the Explore55Plus team and agents, they realized there was a better fit that gave them everything The Villages didn't. Here's why we chose not to retire in The Villages, according to Michelle and Jeff.

The Allure of The Villages

Like most people wondering where to retire in Florida, Michelle and Jeff were attracted to the allure and prestige of The Villages, Florida.

They had a brother, a sister-in-law, and a cousin who were already living in the area and it was close to Disney, which they had been visiting ever since they got married 20+ years ago.

It wasn't until they started looking at homes when they found the problem that would ultimately be their undoing for retiring in The Villages, Florida.

The Villages didn't offer a home customization that Michelle absolutely had to have. That's when they got in touch with Explore55Plus and connected with Patti, an area expert.

Working With Explore55Plus

Instead of feeling down by the setback of not finding the right home in The Villages, the Explore55Plus team was able to introduce Michelle and Jeff to 4 different retirement communities they didn't even know existed.

The communities were also close to Disney and two of them even offered full home customizations, exactly what Michelle wanted.

Because their daughter still lived with them, they wanted to make sure there was enough entertainment and activities around the community that would appeal to someone younger.

Once they narrowed down their options, it was clear there was one community that stood out above the rest.

Choosing Their Community

Only K. Hovnanian's Four Seasons at Orlando met all the requirements Michelle and Jeff had for their retirement home in Florida.

For starters, the community was close enough to The Villages that they could hop over anytime they wanted to visit their family members.

The Four Seasons at Orlando also offered enough facilities and activities around the community to keep their daughter comfortable, as well.

The final feature that solidified Michelle and Jeff's choice was the customization options for the home. The couple was able to make structural changes, add a new pool, and have a screen installed of their choice which highlights their gorgeous backyard view.

Michelle and Jeff now live out their dream and visit Disney at least twice a week to enjoy their retirement together. The two have found their perfect home and even have a few tips to share with those still looking.

Tips For Finding Your Retirement Home

Michelle and Jeff both realized that going straight to a builder and getting a home started wasn't going to be any cheaper than working with an agent.

In fact, it was probably going to cost more. Agents know the construction builders in the communities and understand which ones can actually come through on the requests and needs of the homeowners.

The couple also learned how important exploring other options was to make their final decision. By being close to their family in The Villages and Disney, they were able to have the lifestyle they wanted without sacrificing their dream home.

If you're ready to start searching for your dream retirement home, reach out to Explore55Plus today and get connected with an agent!