Opinion on The Villas at cross creek in New Tampa (renter, HOA fees)

[sandman85]

I was wondering if anybody on here could give me their opinion on The Villas in New Tampa. I checked out the place and it seemed nice and a good value to rent for a 1 bedroom with washer /dryer and 1 car garage for $650. But I read on here that some were water damaged and that the condos are in bad shape.

[NewTampaDude]

I'm an owner / resident at the villas, renting for $650/month is a good deal. Unfortunately I purchased in '05 and between my mortgage and HOA fees I'm paying nearly $1300/month for a one bedroom w/ garage.

[sandman85]

Originally Posted by NewTampaDude

I'm an owner / resident at the villas, renting for $650/month is a good deal. Unfortunately I purchased in '05 and between my mortgage and HOA fees I'm paying nearly $1300/month for a one bedroom w/ garage.

Thanks for the reply, what is your electric bill like during the summer in a 1 bedroom, is it high or normal in your opinion? Also how is the traffic on cross creek blvd going towards morris bridge road in the morning, I ask because I'll be attending USF and I heard in can be a pain to get there when you live in New Tampa.

Thanks

[NewTampaDude]

My electric bill seems average, I keep my temp around 77 degrees (maybe a bit warm for some) and the highest bill I've ever seen was $100. I head the other way in the morning, however Cross Creek / Morris Bridge traffic is very light compared to B.B. Downs.

[Keeper]

NewTampaDude.. do you know if they are renting out condo's in the building with all the problems? I know they are selling those cheap but there is a lot of work that needs to be done from what I have heard. Is there anything a new renter should watch out for?

[NewTampaDude]

All the units are privately owned so they are being rented out in every building. Structurally I believe all the buildings have the same issues, however aesthetically some do look better than others (I would definitelyavoid the building that is completely covered in TYVEK, I can't imagine it would handle a storm very well).

I think certain areas of the complex are better than others, I would try to stay as close to the front of the complex as possible and get a unit w/ a garage (for the peace of mind). I would also try to rent a unit from an owner that lives in town in case you run into any problems such as leaks.