Arrival Guide October 2023

Earn More With Annuities

T

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

here are now new fixed index annuities with high “participation” rates guaranteed for the entire contract term that challenge the earning power of many stocks and mutual funds but without the risk of loss due to market decline. Multi-year guaranteed annuities (MYGA) are not new. They earn a modest capped fixed rate. But today there are new fixed index annuities with uncapped participation rates exceeding 200% guaranteed for the contract term with the potential to earn far more than MYGA’s and more than many mutual funds.

Most fixed and fixed index annuities have rates guaranteed only for the 1-year or 2-year

“point-to-point” period. The insurance carrier can change rates throughout the rest of the contract term. This can reduce the earning power of the annuity. However, today, there are new annuities that guarantee 200%+ participation rates for the entire contract term. This is important because rates today are among the highest experienced and will not last without the contract term guarantee.

Retirees shouldn’t risk their retirement nest egg with stocks and mutual funds that can be impacted suddenly by market declines. The new fixed index annuities today provide a smarter way to protect, grow, and enjoy assets in retirement.

Jim McArdle, is a Certi�ied Annuity Specialist (CAS®) and a Certi�ied Tax Specialist (CTS ™ ). He is also a former practicing CPA with a Master’s degree in Taxation (MST). He is insurance and securities licensed.

Olivia Wooten, is a Certi�ied Annuity Specialist (CAS®) and a licensed insurance agent.

Securities offered through Innovation partners, LLC. Member of FINRA/SIPC. Best Fit Annuities is not affiliated with Innovation Partners LLC. Jim is a Registered Representative.

Olivia Wooten, CAS

HOW TO CHOOSE AN ANNUITY PROVIDER

There are over 1,300 annuity products offered by over 90 insurance carriers. Annuities have changed dramatically in recent years with new offerings that provide the potential for greater earnings with some that can challenge the earning power of many mutual funds but without the risk of loss due to market declines or creditors. This presents the question: Which annuity is best for my situation? For an answer, start by selecting an appropriately licensed and skilled annuity provider. Consider the following items:

Certification - Annuities are complex products. Accordingly, select an agent that has advanced training and has passed a series of exams to obtain certification. Just as you may prefer a certified public accountant (CPA) to prepare your taxes, a certified annuity specialist (CAS®) is trained to discuss and recommend annuities. A “CAS®” designation indicates an agent’s willingness to specialize in annuities and undertake continuing education. Since annuities are complex products with many on the market, it is wise to have a certified specialist as your agent.

Proper Licenses

- Annuities are either insurance-only products or a combination of insurance and security. Both must be purchased from insurance agents with the proper licenses. However, most agents only have an insurance license, not the securities license. If your agent does not have both licenses, they are less likely to offer the best annuity for your situation since they can only offer the insurance only products.

Tax and Financial Background

- Specific laws govern taxation of annuities. Also, funding the purchase of annuities is often accomplished with qualified funds (such as IRAs) governed by another set of tax laws. Each set of tax laws provides penalties or other unfavorable tax consequences, if not properly followed. Accordingly, it is best to select a provider with advanced tax training such as a CFP (certified financial planner), CPA, CAS®, CTS™ (certified tax specialist) or MST (master of science in taxation) who is familiar with the related tax laws. It’s also good to select an agent with an extensive financial background so they can help establish or modify a suitable financial plan.

Agent Association - Select an independent agent. Agents employed by insurance carriers, investment firms or banks likely sell only the products offered by that organization. These captured agents are tasked with selling products whether they’re the best for you or not. An independent agent is not limited. They can represent most any carrier permitting them to present the best annuity for your situation.

Compensation and Operating Status - Agents can be brokers and/or investment advisors. Agents who are brokers are compensated by commission paid by the insurance carrier. You pay nothing to compensate the agent either at the time of purchase or thereafter. The commission is paid from the earnings of the insurance carrier, not your funds. Agents who operate as registered investment advisors RIAs typically charge a rate based on assets under management (AUM) and/or an hourly or fixed monthly rate. Unlike the broker, you pay the fees of the investment advisor EACH YEAR.

Summary - Annuities offer benefits not available with any other product. They can be complex and there are many from which to select. Following is a checklist of items to look for when selecting an annuity agent:

1. Certified annuity specialist (CAS®)

2. Both insurance and securities licenses

3. Tax specialist (CPA, CTS™ or MST)

4. Strong financial background (CFP or CPA)

5. Independent agent

6. Broker or investment advisor (consider which is best for you)

Author:JimMcArdle,isacertifiedannuityspecialist®anda certifiedtaxspecialist™.HeisalsoaformerpracticingCPAwitha master’sdegreeintaxation.

Villager

The Arrival Guide leads the way into our 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 via hardcopy, 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 and entertaining transition into The Villages® so they can “Get Settled” and “Get Loose.”

Scott A. Lepper, Publisher Village of St. Johns Homeowner Scott@ArrivalGuide.com

Scott A. Lepper

Custom Windows and Exterior Design, Inc. has proudly served The Villages® since 1987.

Find us at ArrivalGuide.com, on socal media platforms, monthly in our digital edition and quarterly in our print edition mailed directly to your home. Check out our “Get Settled” section, featuring loads of services you need to settle comfortably in your home here in The Villages® community. Then check out the “Get Loose” side of the guide featuring fun activities to put on your must-do list.

World-famous Grandview Clydsdale tours are a must-do in the area!

ARRI VAL CHECKLIST

Get things done and go have

fun!

Get Settled

Find a home

Secure a mortgage

Make an Arrival checklist

Start checking things off

Join first club: Villagers' Buying Club pg. 17

Hire a mover

Buy premium blinds/shutters before move-in: Window Reflections pg. 5

Paint garage floor before move-in: Innovative Concrete Coatings pg. 13

Customize cabinets and closets before move-in: Kitchen Wise I Closet Wise pg. 9

Buy a golf cart

Cable, dish or stream?

Hire lawn care / landscaper: Son Life Lawn & Landscaping pg. 17

Seal shower tile: Seal Team Shower Squad pg. 19

Find post office / shipper: Safe Ship Magnolia Plaza pg. 17

Install outlets, lights, fans and TVs: Done Right Electric pg. 8

Order lamppost sign

Decide on grocery store

Get your car washed: Mr. Clean Car Wash pg. 15

Find new dentist: Village Dental pg. 10

Find new hearing professional: Mid Florida Hearing pg. 19

Find new chiropractor: Etheredge Chiropractic pg. 9

Find new dog groomer

Find new vet

Find nearest dog park

Enclose your lanai: Custom Windows and Exterior Design pg. 1

Complete custom home upgrades: Mastropiece pg. 15

Design and commission a custom table: Pine Tree Lake Woodshop pg. 15

Find retirement financial professional: Best Fit Annuities pg. 3

Need a Florida estate attorney?

Need an appellate attorney? Florida Appeals pg. 8

Get Loose

Find new favorite restaurant

Ride Villages Trolley

Ride Lake Sumter electric boat tour

Purchase an electric bike

Take a selfie with a Florida gator

Check out our local equestrian scene: Grandview Clydesdales pg. 20

Record first hole-in-one

Weekend getaway to Florida beach

Engage Florida sports

Want to place a bet?

Find Pass-a-Grille

Do a cruise

Do a bus trip

Swim with the manatees

Walk the Tampa Riverwalk

Experience St. Pete Pier

SCAN ME

OUR COMMI T M ENT TO YOU

Staying true to our beliefs means always providing exceptional care. That’s why we offer a collection of signature services you won’t find anywhere else, honed by our unwaivering principles.

•Five-Star Service

•Gentle, Compassionate Care

•Exceptional Experience

•Leading Edge Technologies

•Complete Cosmetic Services

•Same Day Smiles

•Invisible Tooth Straightening

•Custom Payment Options

Edward J. Farrell DMD, MAGD, AFAAID

Carson C. Smith DMD

Michelle A. Dulgar DMD

Richard P. Hall II DMD, MAGD, AFAAID

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 must-visit 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

Whether you want to turn your garage into a showpiece or simply need a functional space to store and protect your valuable belongings, Innovative Concrete Coatings offer the best value in the industry for enhancing any home’s garage and concrete surfaces. More reliable and durable than epoxy, our coatings are designed for years of abuse.

• Superior to Epoxy

• Extremely Durable

• 100% UV Resistant

• Crack & Stain Resistant

• Slip-Resistant Surface

• 15 Year Warranty

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

County

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

Shannon McLin Founder

Become

Why Partner with the Arrival Guide?

• Reach 20,000+ Arrival Guide Viewers: Get your business in front of potential and current Villagers.

• Rank on #1 and #2 Search Engines: Google and YouTube love us.

• More Eyes on You: More people watch YouTube videos than any other service.

• Multichannel YouTube Strategy: Leverage the power of video to stand out in a sea of competition.

• Cutting-Edge, Turnkey Strategies: Learn from the author of the #1 Amazon best-selling video marketing book and apply strategies that are ready to go.

Limited-Time Opportunity

• One Spot Per Industry: Be the exclusive partner in your field.

• Fast Mover Pricing: Get in early and save big.

• Bonus for First 25 Qualified Applicants: Receive a complimentary copy of the #1 Best Seller "Video Testimonials That Land the Big Fish."

What’s Awesome About Working With the Arrival Guide and Video Case Story

• Arrival Guide is Run BY Villagers for Villagers, Not Some Large Corporation

• Proven Success: Video Case Story created video strategies for Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton, business powerhouse Gino Wickman and more.

Ready to Elevate Your Business?

Scan the QR Code or Visit: arrivalguide.com/VCSpartnership

Bart Mahan