WELCOME Villager
The Arrival Guide leads the way into The Villages® community and into Florida. The guide provides valuable information to arriving Villagers, on businesses, local events, attractions and Florida travel. The Arrival Guide also offers advertising opportunities for businesses intent on reaching new Villagers even ahead of their arrival. The Arrival Guide is available in high-tech digital copy, ArrivalGuide.com, Facebook and Instagram.
The way I envision it, the Arrival Guide blends together two distinct categories of businesses that Villagers rely on for a smooth transition so they can “Get Things Done” and “Go Have Fun”.
Scott A. Lepper, Publisher Village of St. Johns Homeowner Scott@ArrivalGuide.com
Scott A. Lepper
Customer Service 352-552-8218
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Get Things Done!
n Make an Arrival Checklist
REAL ESTATE GUIDE
n Find a Home: Scott A. Lepper, Realtor Real Estate Guide page 6
n #1 Premier Listing of the Month: Banana Point: pg. 7-9
n Get Mortgage Pre-Approval: Abiel Sanchez I One Real Mortgage pg.12
n Need a 1031 Exchange Specialist for Your New Home? Trish Mack I First American Exchange pg. 10-11
n Find Your Home Inspector: Ed Barnes | Everyday Inspections pg. 13
n Hire a mover
n Join first club: Villagers’ Buying Club pg.32
CUSTOM HOME UPGRADES
n Enclose your lanai: Custom Windows and Exterior Design pgs.14-16
n Order blinds and shutters before move-in: Florida Blind Company pg. 17
n Complete custom home upgrades: Mastropiece pg. 18
n Buy a golf cart Bradley’s Golf Cars pg. 27-28
n Get your home security: H & W Alarm pg. 35
n Find new dog groomer
HEALTHCARE GUIDE
n AVIV: pg. 19
n Find new chiropractor: Etheredge Chiropractic pg. 20
n Need A Medical Alert Pendent or Watch for a Loved One? RescueTouch pg. 21
n Top ranked Cancer Experts | The Most Advanced Treatments: Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute Cover, pg. 22
n Find New Primary Care Doctor: Dr. Scott Harrington DO I Vegan Primary Care pg. 23
n Find new dog groomer
n Need a Florida estate attorney?
n Need an appellate attorney? Florida Appeals pgs.30-31, 39
Go Have Fun!
n Walk the Tampa Riverwalk pg. 36
n Find new favorite restaurant
AVIATION & TRAVEL GUIDE
n Learn to Fly: Cirrus Aircraft Reaches Milestone pg. 24-26
n Ride Villages Trolley
n Experience Mt. Dora pg. 33
n Ride Lake Sumter electric boat tour
n Purchase an electric bike
n Take a selfie with a Florida gator
n Weekend getaway to Florida beach
n Engage Florida sports
n Want to place a bet?
n Relax in your infrared sauna: Clearlight Saunas pg. 29
n Do a cruise
n Do a bus trip
n Explore Orlando pg. 38
Banana Point
Welcome to 5415 Banana Point Drive, a waterfront equestrian estate on the Harris Chain of Lakes. From sunrises over Lake Harris to breathtaking Florida sunsets over your peaceful equestrian pasture, Banana Point is a 5-acre estate, which includes 2.5 acres of horse-grazing pasture. From the leading edge of The Villages, the estate is only 3.9 miles east on The Villages’ Central Parkway and 45 minutes to Orlando International Airport.
This estate is a beautiful home, and a wise investment in the Central Florida real estate market.
With chain-of-lakes waterfront and horse-owner necessities in one private property, Banana Point is one lucky buyer’s future trophy home.
As you approach, a grand circular driveway leads to majestic live oaks and a private entrance with a unique indoor/outdoor pond featuring a waterfall ready for Koi. Your eye will catch the hand-carved solid wood staircase and overhead pecky cypress beams nestled in two stories of glass windows.
The residence features 3 bedrooms, 31/2 bathrooms, a newer shingle roof, and beautiful windows strategically designed to maximize the stunning lake views. The interior layout is distinctive, with bedrooms, great room, family room, kitchen, sunroom, and home office all facing the picturesque Lake Harris.
Wake up each morning to your Florida sunrise. Your spacious primary suite is located in a private wing of the home, ensuring complete privacy.
Boasting picture windows, a huge walk-in closet, and a master bathroom with double vanities, a Jacuzzi soaking tub, and a walk-in shower, the master suite is a luxurious retreat. On the upper floor of the house, the two additional bedrooms are intelligently arranged, creating a quasi-separate living space. Each bedroom enjoys its own private bathroom, and lake-facing private balcony, enhancing a sense of autonomy. Step outside to the beautiful waterfront where you’ll find your private boat dock and lift.
The expansive three-car garage has a separate workshop and two other closets to use as a wine room or additional storage.
The Villages expansion of Middleton, The Villages Charter School, Eastport, and the planned world-class senior healthcare research and development Wellness Village, along with the move inland to combat the insurance crisis has reset the Banana Point real estate market.
This real estate reset of Banana Point value is just the beginning. Interested parties of 5415 Banana Point would serve their financial interest well by doing their investor and Villages’ expansion homework.
To be clear, 5415 Banana Point Drive is not priced relative to comparative properties in the secret yet sought-after Banana Point neighborhood. Those remarkable properties were last purchased years, if not decades, before The Villages expansion to Central Parkway. 5415 Banana Point Drive is priced relative to its location to The Villages’ future business marketplace along The Villages’ Central Parkway.
Seller is accepting offers at or above $1.7M
The following links reveal the long-term growth of the area surrounding Banana Point and demonstrate that the decision to make 5415 Banana Point Drive your primary home or second home is a wise investment.
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Some people are surprised at how many grey areas there are when structuring an exchange. There are some important rules, which are generally clear, however it’s important to pay attention because a mistake can ruin your exchange. Here’s what NOT to do:
MISS THE 45-DAY IDENTIFICATION DEADLINE
Once you close on your relinquished property, you have 45 days to identify in writing what you intend to acquire in the exchange.
FAIL TO CLEARLY IDENTIFY
WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO BUY
You must identify it unambiguously. That generally means using a legal description or street address. If you are going to acquire a tenancy-in-common interest in the property, you should try to identify as closely as possible the percentage interest you will be acquiring.
MISS THE 180-DAY DEADLINE
Another crucial deadline is the 180-day exchange period. This rule states that you must acquire (close, or transfer) all replacement property(ies) by the 180th day. If the relinquished property closes escrow towards end of a tax year such that the 180th day falls after your tax filing date of the following year, you’ll need to complete your 1031 Exchange before filing your income tax return, or request an extension.
CLOSE BEFORE YOU SIGN EXCHANGE DOCUMENTS
Initially, exchanges could only be accomplished by two people simultaneously swapping properties. Eventually, the deferred exchange rules permitted taxpayers to use a qualified intermediary, such as First American Exchange Company, to act as an accommodator. The rules convert what looks like a sale followed by a purchase into an exchange. A basic requirement of this process is that an Exchange Agreement and Assignment Agreement must be signed by the taxpayer before the date the relinquished property closes escrow. In addition, the taxpayer must notify the buyer the contract has been assigned to a qualified Intermediary. The qualified intermediary will also be assigned into the replacement property contract, thus allowing the funds to be transferred within the “safe harbors”.
TAKE POSSESSION OF YOUR EXCHANGE FUNDS
Another important rule for a successful 1031 Exchange states that the taxpayer cannot have possession, or control, of the proceeds from the sale of the relinquished property. Upon closing of the relinquished property, the escrow holder will transfer the funds directly to First American Exchange Company, thus keeping the taxpayer from having receipt of the funds. One of the reasons it is so important to choose an intermediary
wisely is that they hold the proceeds of your sale until you are ready to acquire the replacement property. First American holds these funds only in FDICinsured bank accounts, and we never invest them in securities. Furthermore, funds are invested in a segregated account specific to the taxpayer’s tax ID number.
Paying attention to these important issues will eliminate most reasons that exchanges can fail. When you are ready to open an exchange or have questions, call us at First American Exchange.
TRISH MACK
CALL (727) 494-5186
VISIT FIRSTEXCHANGE.COM
TMACK@FIRSTAM.COM
The Most Reliable Home Inspection in The Villages®
EveryDay Inspections provides Home Inspections, Four Point Inspections, Roof Inspections and Wind Mitigation to Sumter County, Lake County, and Marion County!
We offer Accurate and Affordable Home inspections services and can almost always accommodate your scheduling needs. We offer Home Inspection Services 7 Days a week! We want all of our customers to be confident in their purchases which is why we make sure to answer all of your questions and provide you with solutions to the issues we find. Give us a call today to schedule!
Get Enclosed!
Elevate your lanai with a beautiful versatile glass enclosure. Our process is seamless beginning with a complimentary in-home estimate. Your customized glass products are installed by an experienced crew. We acquire permits and approvals. The Custom Windows and Exterior Design team is ready to assist you every step of the way. We have been creating amazing lanais for 37 years!
• Configurations to maximize airflow
• Single-pane or energy efficient double-pane low-e glass
• Sliding doors and horizontal sliding windows
• Picture and casement windows
• White or bronze aluminum frames
• White, bronze or almond vinyl frames
• Fixed or sliding screens
Aviv Clinics is Transforming Medical Care
Our personalized, clinically-proved program focuses on brain and body to enable you to reset, retain, or restore your quality of life.
Cirrus Aircraft Reaches Milestone with 600 Vision Jet Deliveries
Cirrus Aircraft, a global leader in personal aviation, recently celebrated a significant milestone—the delivery of its 600th Vision Jet. This achievement underscores the company’s dedication to revolutionizing personal and business aviation by offering cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort, and innovative safety features. Since its introduction in 2016, the Vision Jet has set new benchmarks in the light jet category, becoming a favorite among pilots and passengers alike.
THE VISION JET’S REVOLUTIONARY DESIGN
The Cirrus Vision Jet is widely recognized as the world’s first single-engine personal jet, blending simplicity, performance, and luxury. Designed for owner-operators and private pilots, it has carved out a unique niche in the aviation market. Powered by a Williams International FJ33-5A turbofan engine, the Vision Jet is capable of cruising at a maximum speed of 311 knots and has a range of approximately 1,275 nautical miles. This makes it ideal for regional travel, connecting smaller airports often overlooked by commercial carriers.
The aircraft’s design philosophy prioritizes ease of use, with features like the Garmin Perspective Touch+ avionics system, which offers intuitive controls and advanced situational awareness. The cockpit’s ergonomic layout and streamlined interface make it accessible even to less experienced pilots, while seasoned aviators appreciate its modern capabilities.
The Vision Jet’s spacious cabin accommodates up to seven passengers, including the pilot, and offers flexible seating configurations to suit both personal and business needs. Large windows flood the cabin with natural light, enhancing the travel experience. The innovative Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS®), a hallmark of Cirrus’ aircraft, provides an added layer of safety, contributing to its reputation as one of the safest jets in its class.
A MILESTONE FOR PERSONAL AVIATION
Reaching 600 deliveries is a testament to the Vision Jet’s widespread appeal and Cirrus’ ability to meet growing demand. Dale Klapmeier, cofounder of Cirrus Aircraft, expressed his gratitude to customers and team members who have supported the Vision Jet’s journey. “This milestone reflects the trust and confidence our customers have placed in Cirrus Aircraft. It’s a privilege to see how the Vision Jet is transforming the way people travel and connect.”
The Vision Jet’s success is also attributed to its role in democratizing private aviation. With a price point significantly lower than traditional business jets, it has made jet ownership more accessible to a broader audience. Furthermore, its versatility allows it to cater to diverse applications, from personal leisure trips to corporate travel and air taxi services.
ADVANCING AVIATION TECHNOLOGY
Cirrus has continually enhanced the Vision Jet since its launch, ensuring it stays ahead of the curve in a competitive industry. The introduction of the G2 Vision Jet in 2019 brought several upgrades, including increased range, higher cruise altitude, and advanced connectivity features. The G2+ Vision Jet, launched in 2021, further improved performance with optimized takeoff capabilities and expanded Wi-Fi options for passengers.
One of the Vision Jet’s standout features is the Safe Return™ Autoland system, introduced in 2019. This groundbreaking technology enables the aircraft to land autonomously in an emergency at the push of a button. The system communicates with air traffic control, identifies the safest nearby airport, and
safely guides the jet to the runway. This innovation earned Cirrus the prestigious Robert J. Collier Trophy in 2020, solidifying its status as a leader in aviation safety.
STRENGTHENING THE CIRRUS COMMUNITY
The Vision Jet’s popularity has also fostered a vibrant community of owners and pilots. Cirrus supports this community through its Cirrus Approach™ program, which provides comprehensive training and resources to ensure pilots feel confident and competent in operating their aircraft. This commitment to education has contributed to the Vision Jet’s exemplary safety record.
Additionally, Cirrus has expanded its global presence with service centers and delivery facilities worldwide. This ensures that Vision Jet owners receive top-notch support and maintenance, enhancing their overall ownership experience.
LOOKING AHEAD
As Cirrus Aircraft celebrates the 600th delivery of the Vision Jet, the company remains focused on the future. Pat Waddick, President of Innovation and Operations at Cirrus Aircraft, highlighted the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries. “We’re constantly exploring new ways to enhance the Vision Jet and expand the possibilities of personal aviation. This milestone is just the beginning.”
With a growing demand for private aviation solutions and an increasing emphasis on sustainability, Cirrus is poised to lead the industry in developing eco-friendly technologies and nextgeneration aircraft.
CONCLUSION
The delivery of the 600th Vision Jet marks a significant achievement for Cirrus Aircraft and the aviation industry as a whole. As Cirrus looks to the future, it is clear that the Vision Jet will remain a cornerstone of the company’s mission to make flight more personal, efficient, and inspiring for generations to come.
E40FX
The brand new EPIC E40FX is the best golf cart on the market today! Furnished with every imaginable feature, the forward-facing four-seater EPIC E40FX comes in six stylish colors and three height options. Premium 14” wheels and street-ready tires provide a solid foundation for every journey on every terrain, no matter what lift height is selected. With an abundance of storage, superior built-in marine-grade sound system and speakers, and stunning accent lighting, this EPIC golf cart illuminates the possibilities for fun and adventure.
KEY FEATURES
• 51V/105Ah ECO Lithium Battery
• 10” Multimedia Digital Display
• Marine-Grade Sound System & 4 Built-in Speakers
• 48V Onboard Charging System with Body Mounted Charge Indicator
• Storage Removable & Lockable Trunk in Rear, Latched and Lit Frunk, Storage Tray Beneath Rear Seats, Locking Glove Compartments
Brand New ICON EFI Gas Golf Cars starting at $10,999
Get on the road and go the distance with the ICON G40 gas golf cart. With a speed range of 19-24 MPH, this rugged and durable 4-passenger vehicle boasts an estimated fuel range of approximately 150+ miles. Well-equipped with a fully integrated digital instrument cluster, LED lighting and signals, and industry-leading brakes for extra safety, this gas golf cart can conquer any terrain!
KEY FEATURES
• Motor 401cc EFIA03, OHV with EFI
• Horsepower 13.5HP @3600rpm per SAE J1995
• Battery 12V
• Brakes 4-Wheel Disc Brakes & Dual Electronic Parking Brake
• Full Light Package LED Headlights, Taillights, Turn Signals
• Safety Side Hip Restraint & Retractable Seat Belts, Mirrors, Horn, Grab Bars, Windshield
• Dash Forward/Reverse Switch, USB and 12V Plugs, Cubby Storage, Multiple Cup Holders, Key Switch, Instrumentation Cluster
• Color White, Forest Green, Indigo Blue & Black
Attorney Shannon McLin, Founder of Florida Appeals Announces Name Change to her Maiden Name, McLin
Attorney Shannon McLin founder of Florida Appeals, recently announced a change back to her maiden name — McLin. With an established career and reputation spanning almost 30 years, this change reflects not only her plans for the future but also pays tribute to her family’s history. Pronounced “MACK’Lin,” the name has inspired the use of the phrase “The Mack is back” among Shannon and her friends and colleagues.
Shannon founded The Carlyle Appellate Law Firm in 1997 which her thenhusband Chris joined in 2004. The firm grew to seven lawyers with three offices across Florida. Following their dissolution of marriage in 2017, Shannon and Chris continued as law partners and Shannon maintained her married name. In 2019, Shannon left the firm and founded Florida Appeals, a boutique firm offering appellate representation and trial support to trial lawyers and their clients throughout Florida. Because the firm was new, Shannon continued to
maintain the name Carlyle, believing it was important for colleagues and clients to know she was the same attorney with a new appellate firm.
“The MACK is back. ”
With Florida Appeals now well established and with the full support of her three children, Shannon decided to go back to using the McLin name professionally. This change is rooted in enormous pride for her family’s history. Shannon is a fifthgeneration Florida McLin, with her father, Walter S. “Buddy” McLin III of McLin Burnsed, being a well-regarded Florida attorney for nearly 50 years. Shannon owes a large part of her success to her father who was known for his honesty and integrity, believing your word is your stock in trade. For Shannon, the McLin name represents the ethics, character, and values inspired by her father. Aside from her father’s legal profession, the McLin name has a long history in Florida stemming from her great, great, great grandfather Benjamin Earnest McLin,
who began as a citrus farmer in Lake County and when the Great Freeze of 1898 destroyed his livelihood, he ran for and was elected Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, a position he held until his death in 1912.
Shannon McLin and the Florida Appeals team are excited for a new chapter in their firm’s story — a story that now more clearly connects the firm to Shannon McLin’s deep roots in Florida’s history.
LOCATIONS: THE VILLAGES
ORLANDO TAMPA FORT LAUDERDALE
CALL (866) 352-7732
VISIT FLORIDAAPPEALS.COM
LAKE COUNTY
Villagers that explore other active areas of Florida will want to seek out Lake County. It was named for the many lakes contained within its borders, 250 named lakes and 1,735 other bodies of water.
In the 1800s, the two main industries in the area were growing cotton and breeding cattle. In the latter part of the 19th century, people started to grow citrus trees. Throughout the 1940s and 50s, citrus production increased and grew into the area’s leading industry. The December 1989 United States cold wave destroyed most of the citrus groves, dealing an economic blow from which many growers could not recover. Grove owners sold massive amounts of land to developers, resulting in increasing urban sprawl.
Travares Florida is less than an hour by car from the attractions of Orlando, the lakefront city of Tavares is an entirely different taste of Central Florida. Visitors of downtown Tavares will find an entertainment district that has an international assortment of restaurants, pubs and music
venues. You will also enjoy Wooton Park, home of the Tavares Seaplane Base, the children’s Splash Park and more than 16 major community events each year. Enjoy a seaplane ride, take a boat tour, or maybe glimpse long-gone historical figures on the Séance Ghost Tours.
Eustis Florida where you can enjoy a two hour glass bottom guided kayak tour.
Get a 360 degree look at Rock Springs Run on a small-group clear kayak excursion. The leisurely river tour is perfect for nature lovers, families, and photographers. With a completely clear frame, the kayak allows you to see any turtles, fish, or small alligators you pass over. Listen to entertaining commentary on the surrounding flora and fauna along the way.
Mount Dora: is a relaxing lakefront getaway with a bustling downtown, charming bed and breakfasts, and an abundance of parks and green spaces.
Dubbed “Festival City,” Mount Dora hosts more than 30 festivals a year, and its year-round entertainment schedule means there’s always something to do. In addition to the longstanding Mount Dora Arts Festival, the city’s arts and culture scene offers a variety of galleries and museums, including Modernism Museum Mount Dora, where visitors can also dine on contemporary Florida cuisine.
LAKE
COUNTY
DISTANCE: 26.4 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 40 MINUTES BY CAR
TAMPA BAY
While The Villages® itself boasts numerous amenities and activities, there’s no denying the allure of exploring the surrounding areas. One such gem is Tampa Bay, located just a short drive away. Here are some exciting things for Villagers to do in Tampa Bay, Florida.
Visit the Beaches: Tampa Bay is home to some stunning Gulf Coast beaches. St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach and Fort De Soto Park offer pristine white sands and crystalclear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation or water sports.
Explore the Arts: Tampa Bay has a vibrant arts scene. The Tampa Museum of Art and The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg are mustvisit spots for art enthusiasts. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts hosts various shows and concerts throughout the year.
Sports Fanatics Rejoice: Tampa Bay is a sports lover’s paradise. Catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers
game at Raymond James Stadium, or cheer for the Tampa Bay Lightning team at Amalie Arena. Baseball fans can watch the Tampa Bay Rays in action at Tropicana Field.
Cruise Adventures: Enjoy a scenic cruise along Tampa Bay or the Hillsborough River. You can choose from dinner cruises, wildlife tours or even pirate-themed adventures. If a cruise ship is what you’re looking for, Tampa Bay is a major cruise port, making it easy for residents to embark on cruises to the Caribbean and other destinations.
Tampa Riverwalk: Take a leisurely stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile path along the Hillsborough River. Enjoy beautiful views, public art installations and waterfront dining.
Foodie Paradise: Tampa Bay offers diverse culinary experiences. Try Cuban sandwiches, seafood and craft breweries. Don’t forget to sample some key lime pie for dessert.
Whether it’s soaking up the sun on the beach, indulging in culinary delights or immersing yourself in the local culture, Tampa Bay has something for every Villager.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
DISTANCE:
79.1 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 1 HOUR 20 MINUTES BY CAR
PINELLAS COUNTY
DISTANCE:
101 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 2 HOURS BY CAR
ORLANDO
Villagers feeling the urge to burst through the bubble and explore Florida should indulge in the abundance of attractions and opportunities to enjoy in nearby Orange County.
Explore Orlando’s Fun Spots: Southeast of The Villages® lies the magical city of Orlando, home to world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando. Whether you're seeking exhilarating rides, enchanting characters or aquatic adventures, Orlando offers endless entertainment for all ages.
Discover Natural Beauty: Orange County boasts several picturesque parks and outdoor spaces. The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is a serene oasis with hiking trails, wildlife and stunning views. Lake Eola Park, located in downtown Orlando, offers a scenic lake with a walking trail along its perimeter, swan-shaped paddleboats and regular events like farmers markets and concerts.
Shop and Dine: Shopaholics and food enthusiasts must visit The Florida Mall for modish stores and
a food court with a multitude of choices. Or try The Mall at Millenia for upscale shopping featuring renowned fashion brands and luxurious boutiques. For a more eclectic experience, explore Winter Garden, where charming streets are lined with independent shops, trendy restaurants and cozy cafes.
Cultural Immersion: The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts world-class Broadway shows, concerts and ballet performances.
The Orlando Museum of Art and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art showcase an impressive collection of visual arts.
Sports: Catch NBA action at the Amway Center, home of the up-andcoming Orlando Magic, led by 2023 Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero. Hockey enthusiasts should check out the Orlando Solar Bears. Get a kick out of Major League Soccer at Exploria Stadium, where Orlando City SC plays. Football fans have two choices of teams to follow – the Orlando Guardians of the XFL or the Orlando Predators in the Arena League. Golf lovers will find a multitude of challenging courses throughout the county, perfect for honing their skills.
With all that just a hop, skip and jump away, head on out Villagers and enjoy a diverse range of activities and experiences beyond the bubble. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture or entertainment, Orange County offers something for everyone. So, take a day trip or weekend getaway and explore the many treasures of Orange County.
ORANGE COUNTY
DISTANCE: 57.8 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 1 HOUR BY CAR
