Here are a few tips to consider before you begin your search for a home for rent.
 

What Time of Year Do You Want to Visit?

Most properties are offered as monthly rentals (calendar month) but some weekly and annual rental options are available.

Most homes are fully furnished. This generally includes all linen, kitchen supplies, etc. But inquire. Some annual rentals are offered fully furnished; others are unfurnished.

As one might expect, the busiest rental months are
winter months. "Off season" rates are sometimes as much as half off of the prime season rates.

February and March are particularly busy and you should make your reservations very early for winter month rentals.

What "Type" of Home Do You Prefer?

Before you actually begin your search, become acquainted with the types of homes available
 in The Villages. 

Some visitors prefer the amenities (or short stay options) offered by hotels. Several very nice hotels & motels are located on or near The Villages properties. Some are value priced and others are more "deluxe" in character. There is at least one hotel in each of the "downtown" areas (offering shopping, dining and nightly entertainment options) . 

But most visitors to the Villages prefer to rent a villa or house. This is especially recommended for potential future residents because it allows you to realistically "experience" life in a Villages neighborhood. And, you can "test drive" the home model you are considering purchasing. Plus, you'll enjoy the neighborhood pool and recreation center. You'll meet interesting neighbors and perhaps establish long term friendships.

Those preferring to rent a villa or house may use this as an approximate listing from least expensive to more expensive rentals. The list correlates somewhat with size of the rental unit. Prices vary significantly with the season, amenities, golf course or waterfront location, golf cart access, etc.

The general home "types" are listed below.  Several "models" are offered within each home "type".

Types of Homes Available

(The names of individual models have varied from time to time but the model layouts have remained amazingly consistent)

Manufactured Homes

are generally located in our "Historic Section" and most are priced in the 100's

Patio Villas

have one or two bedrooms with a maximum of 1160 square feet and are recently priced between $130K and $190K. Very popular as seasonal rentals. Easily recognized by the white picket fence in front. Vinyl siding.

Ranch Homes

have two or three bedrooms with a maximum of 1527 square feet.  Currently priced between $170K and $250K. Vinyl siding.

Courtyard Villas

have a maximum of 1696 square feet and are now priced between $200K and high 300s. Vinyl siding or block stucco. Provide a very private walled courtyard in the rear. Very popular among serious gardeners and dog owners, for example.

Designer Homes

normally have three bedrooms with a maximum of 2020 square feet. Recently priced between $230K and $600K. Golf course lots command a handsome premium. Vinyl siding or block stucco.

Premier Homes

have a maximum of 3600 square feet and prices vary widely. A few are in the 400s but most are more. All are block stucco. 

How do You Wish to Search for Your Rental?

For whichever home type your are targeting, you have at least three basic options to investigate

as you begin your search for your Villages rental:

First, you may wish to contact home owners directly.
Check the internet (e.g., Google: The Villages Florida Rentals) and the classifieds in The Daily Sun (this is your link to today's home rental classifieds on line)

(The Daily Sun is our terrific newspaper in The Villages).

Or, you may wish to contact one of several private
rental agents who advertise rentals for the
home owners. Many of these companies also manage the properties for the owners. Again, rely on the Internet and
The Daily Sun to give you leads to private rental agents.  Remember: These are independent
entities and the service level varies considerably.

Finally, you may decide to contact The Villages offices.
The Villages manages hundreds of rentals
and they can offer you comprehensive information
and many rental options. Their service level is very high.

Are you Interested in a Golf Cart?

Whether you play golf or not, The Villages is a golf cart community. We have some 100 miles of golf cart paths. Some home owners provide use of a golf cart. But you can easily rent your cart (gas or electric) by the day, week or month after you arrive. Most golf carts have two seats but carts with four seats are readily available so if you are a two couple group, be sure to inquire.

Do You Have a Pet?

Be sure to inquire if the owner will allow you to bring your pet.

Many owners have strict "no pet" policies.

Anyone in Your Group a Smoker?

Most owners will not permit smoking so be certain to inquire.

What are your Other Special Requirements?

 Don't forget to ask about your other special needs or preferences. WiFi? Handicap access?