To the Editor:
It seems The Villages should be more proactive on the abandoned homes issue. With the population they are selling to being older and buying what they think will be their last retirement home they need to come up with a procedure to take care of the eventuality of deaths of the owners of these homes before sales.
Possibly add a form to the sales papers that includes name of mortgage company, and the name and address of beneficiary of the home in case of death of resident. Yes, I know it’s more paperwork but they have them sign papers for upkeep of homes and lawn ornaments. Add a clause that gives permission to neighbors or others to mow in case of death of property owners without worry about arrest for trespassing.
They can have a center where residents can report homes that have been abandoned for more than one month. It could be the same place the trolls turn in the lawn ornaments what is one more. Especially one that will help The Villages take care of these properties when they no longer can.
They could also add $5 a month to amenities fees and deposit it in a dedicated account to pay for lawn services for abandoned properties until the bank takes over or the heirs take over or the property is sold.
Jody Simonton