Buyer Testimonials
Why I Chose Ocala Preserve | Lisa's Explore55Plus Journey
Team @ Explore55Plus
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Why I Chose Ocala Preserve | Lisa's Explore55Plus Journey
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Let’s face it, most retirees hope to enjoy their golden years of retirement basking beneath the sun and indulging in a plethora of amenities and activities. All of this, of course, with low maintenance costs. But is it possible to get an affordable retirement home with premium amenities in Florida - the most desirable destination for retirees? The short answer is yes. There are a number of Central Florida retirement communities that offer you tons of amenities without being a burden on your retirement fund. One such community is the 55+ community Shea Homes® at Ocala Preserve.
Read on to learn more about Lisa’s journey and why she chose Ocala Preserve.
Ocala Preserve: A Paradise for Retirees
“When my eyes first landed on Ocala Preserve 55+ community, I wasn’t looking to buy a house. But it still worked out somehow,” Lisa explains emphatically to our Explore55Plus team.
Located off of Highway 27, which runs through Florida, Ocala Preserve is a 600+ acre, sophisticated gated community. Relaxation and adventure come together in perfect harmony at this retirement haven. From its majestic oaks to its vibrant gardens, and a range of theme parks nearby, it's the ideal spot for retirees who are looking to appreciate life's simple pleasures.
“I am a cruise person. I love cruises. But, due to Covid, all cruises and events were getting canceled. So I thought, why not find some place in Florida for a peaceful vacation?” Lisa stated. "But I was also searching for homes and their prices for retiring in Florida someday”, she added.
“While browsing through different channels, I came across Explore55 Plus, contacted them, and we connected. I chose Florida mainly because of zero state income tax and secondly due to the proximity to cruise ports.”
Lisa continued stating her reasons for choosing Ocala saying, “When I saw Ocala Preserve, I pictured myself sitting on one of the couches near the lake reading my kindle, and everything just fell into place. I decided to build a house here from scratch.”
“Another reason I fell in love with this community is due to its easy access to amenities. There is a fast internet connection, the restaurants remain open till 8 p.m., and most importantly, I can easily drive to the Port of Fort Lauderdale,” she emphasized.
What More You Should Know?
Ocala Preserve is not an age-restricted community, so anyone can choose to live and enjoy its grandeur. A seven-acre lake fit for kayaking and canoeing, a Tom Lehman-designed golf course, and a resort-like club add to the opulence of this community.
Just over five miles away in downtown Ocala, you'll find salons, grocery stores, fine dining restaurants, arts, and clubs. Moreover, there are plenty of outdoor activities in the community, blessed by a network of hiking, biking, and walking trails.
There are a total of 1,800 homes in Ocala Preserve. You have the option to buy a pre-built home or hire a builder to build the house from scratch. The cost of a home in this beautiful community ranges from $255,000 and $650,000, with the average price around $402,188.
The HOA fees, including internet, lawn care, amenities maintenance, and guarded gate for homes at Ocala Preserve, are $437.40 monthly. While for villas, it is $476.50 per month.
Older houses have no CDD fees but monthly membership charges for amenities. Newer homes are charged a CDD fee depending on their sizes. For 50-foot lots, it is $72.20 per month, and for 60-foot lots, it is $86.65 monthly.
With all that Ocala Preserve has to offer, it is easy to see why so many retirees choose this community. From the fantastic amenities and social activities available, to the unbeatable convenience of being close to shops, restaurants, airports and cruise ports - the very best of retirement living is right outside your door!