55 & over (Ocala, Sweetwater: lease, HOA, modular homes)

[ellebabe]

We are thinking about moving to Ocala and want to know about Fairfield Village and/ Sweetwater Oaks?

[ellebabe]

Anyone living in Marion County? Let me know a liitle bit about the area?

[ellebabe]

Does anyone have any info regarding modular homes in a 55 and over community other than the Villages? We're looking for a nice community, safe area, close to Heart Hospital, Walmart, etc. in Ocala area.

[Dax13]

Good evening, Elle. So...you want some info. You asked about Fairfield Village. Location-wise, it is extremely convenient to the things you are looking for and actually a better location than Sweetwater Oaks, although FFV has a more varied mix of older and newer homes. SWO backs up to I-75 and has a lot of industrial businesses around. While I can't give you specifics about either, I can tell you that based on what I have seen, fences are not allowed. Not a big deal, I suppose, unless you like to enjoy your yard in private or perhaps let a dog out. The lots are small, so be sure to ask your nosy neighbor how they like their steaks grilled. ;-) You do not own the lot in either community, and many mobile home parks are like that. Florida is quite sympathetic to the Park owners and because you don't own the land, your home is treated as a vehicle, with registration stickers. Quite a sweet deal as far as taxes are concerned, because you don't pay property tax on the "home", but you have to abide by what is called a "Prospectus". Think non-negotiable HOA. Wherever you wind up, make sure you read EVERY word and paragraph in the Prospectus and the rules and regulations. For example, in some parks, such as Serenity Oaks/Harmony of Ocala, YOU are responsible for trimming the trees, maintaining and pumping out your septic system, the water lines, and the electrical service box. They are not responsible if a tree falls and destroys your home. Don't believe me? If it is in the Prospectus, filed with the state, it is so. A gentleman in FFV had a tree fall that destroyed his home and damaged a neighbor's home. He had sent a letter to the Park a few weeks prior informing them that the tree was an imminent danger. I am waiting to see how that shakes out. Also consider that after a certain age, these homes can be extremely expensive to insure relative to the value of the home, if, indeed, coverage is available. Other things Parks can regulate include how many guests you may have and the cumulative days of visitation monthly or annually before they must be added to your lease. ( Sure, you own your home, but you LEASE the land ) You may not be allowed to have small children stay with you over the summer. You may not be able to rent out your home. Check out who and how your utilities are delivered. Some communities "resell" to their captive audience. Etc, Etc, Etc.

I do understand the appeal of Modular/Mobile homes, especially at the price point, in a 55 and over community, but make no mistake. They are a depreciating commodity, and in the end.......you own nothing. Just try pricing the cost of moving one of these "Modular" Homes, should you decide that you need to get the heck outa Dodge. Most owners are reduced to cutting their losses.

I would suggest you look at Marion Landing. There is a mix of homes there at almost every price point, also very convenient, lots of activities, a clubhouse, pool, and I think the monthly HOA fee is around $112. a month that includes trash pickup, water, and sewage. That might be a good fit for what you are looking for. AND I believe you own your lot.