A son is apparently having trouble keeping up his dead parents’ home in The Villages.
The home at 1569 Andrews Ave. in the Village of Sunset Pointe was the subject of a deed compliance hearing this week before the Community Development District 5 Board of Supervisors at SeaBreeze Recreation Center.
The home was purchased in 2004 by Anthony and Annette Caruso, formerly of New York. They were married for 60 years before Anthony Caruso, who worked for many years as a supervisor for Con Edison, died in 2025. Annette Caruso, who enjoyed water aerobics and bocce, passed away in February at age 83 at UF Health-Spanish Plaines Hospital in The Villages.
The couple’s 56-year-old son, Philip Caruso has been living in the home.
On March 23, a complaint was received about overgrown grass. When Community Standards went out to investigate the complaint, other violations were discovered, including weeds, a bush growing into the eaves and a driveway that requires pressure washing. (The pressure washing requirement is not being enforced due to the drought.) A deed compliance officer explained the violations to Philip Caruso, who blamed the lack of attention on a landscaper who had fallen ill. He said he would work on the problems. When Community Standards returned to the home, some progress was noted, but there were still violations including weeds and empty planter pots.
During the hearing, supervisors noted that the home is located near the entrance to the Village of Sunset Pointe and said they believe the poor condition of the home reflects poorly on the neighborhood.
“It’s a dump,” said Supervisor Mark Schweikert.
Philip Caruso was given seven days to bring his late parents’ home into compliance. If he fails to do so, the District will maintain the property at a cost of $250 per occurrence.