Hot Springs Village Inside Out

  A couple of months ago, I made up my mind to begin learning the guitar. For over 45 years, I've owned a guitar. Not the same one the entire time, but I've always had a guitar (in a case) sitting within 10 feet of me in my home office. But...I've never learned how to play. As I approached my 68th rotation around the sun, I figured, "It's now or never!" I choose NOW. Since then I've had numerous conversations, some of them with you guys, who are approaching retirement and dreaming (or planning) to resurrect old hobbies, or embrace new ones. Like I am with the guitar. Hot Springs Village is a great place to do both. The pace of life, the natural beauty, and most of all, the low cost of living provide many of us with the opportunity to pursue things we love. Time and money, thanks to Hot Springs Village, can be on our side to learn new things, fall back in love with old things, and spend our days doing what we most love.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Rick Marshall, #1 waterfront specialist realtor inside Hot Springs Village with McGraw Realtors (sponsor of our show), joins us to give us the real estate update for May 2025. Then we ask and attempt to help you answer the question... How do you define "retirement?" Hot Springs Village may be a significant part of your definition, like it is for so many of us. Enjoy!   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Hot Springs Village is ideal for many of us, but it may not be ideal for everybody. Chasing the perfect retirement can be daunting. Perhaps elusive. However, getting our retirement right more often than not is entirely doable. That's what I want for you - to get it right. Let's walk the DeSoto Spillway Trail and talk about five regrets you may have retiring to Hot Springs Village. My goal is to help you avoid these regrets.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  All Trails has 14 reviews that give the Magellan Beaver Dam Trail inside Hot Springs Village a rating of 4.8. The site lists the trail as PRIVATE PROPERTY, which doesn't mean what you think. It belongs to Hot Springs Village, so you must be a member or a guest to gain access. That's true of all the trails inside the Village. While we take this short hike, let's answer an email from an audience member: "How can we slow down the drain on our retirement savings?"   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Planning your first trip to Hot Springs Village as a potential retiree is an exciting opportunity to experience the community's amenities, lifestyle, and natural beauty firsthand. Here are some recommendations to help you get the most out of your visit and make an informed decision about retirement in Hot Springs Village. Set An Expectation For The Trip Some people have a casual interest in HSV. Others are more serious, looking to decide on the near term. Figure out where you are in the journey and plan accordingly. What's the goal of this first trip? Sit down, talk about it, agree on it, and write it down. Permit yourself to change your mind once you experience the Village, but it's wise to have a plan going in. Pursue your ideal outcome - figure out the best scenario possible and what that might look and feel like. Chase that. Again, new information (and new feelings) can always change it, so permit yourself to change your mind. But, make up your mind in advance what you most want to accomplish with this first trip. Whatever you decide will be fine. Here are just a few questions that may help: What are the top 3 things we want to find out during our trip? What are the top 3 things we most want to experience before we go home? Who can help us make the most of our time? Lastly, on this point, make notes during your stay of the questions you have that you didn't bring with you. Figure Out Where You'll Stay Don't stay in Hot Springs. There's nothing wrong with Hot Springs, but if you're making this trip to investigate HSV as your retirement destination, then stay inside Hot Springs Village. Is it just you and a spouse? Are you alone? Then head over to Airbnb and search “Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.” Pay close attention to each listing to be sure it's inside the Village. If you're unsure, check before you book it. Look for a location that has all the amenities you want, but then focus on the detailed description of the area. Do you want to stay on a golf course? Ensure the listing is located on the golf course and not adjacent to it. Do you want to stay in a lakefront listing? Make sure. And if you're going to stay on one of the four largest lakes, then make sure the listing is on one of them and not one of the much smaller lakes. The four largest are, in descending order of size: Lake Balboa (944 acres), Lake Coronado (380), Lake Cortez (245), and Lake DeSoto (200). Depending on how you answered step 1 - setting your expectation, then get as specific as necessary. If your goal is to investigate living on a particular golf course, then try to find a listing on that golf course. If your goal is to examine residing on a specific lake, find a listing on that lake. But it may be you want to figure those things out. That's okay, pick a place that suits your ideal outcome as your home base while you're here. That'll help you learn more about that place or another place similar - a golf course or a lake. You may want to split your time between a couple of places to gain multiple experiences. Keep in mind that most listings are going to require a stay of 2 or more nights, so if your trip is severely restricted, this might be impractical. Hopefully, you can give yourself 3 nights or longer. Longer is better because I guarantee you'll develop new questions once you drive inside the gates. Lean into your curiosity. Develop A Plan To Achieve Your Ideal Outcome For This Visit I can't stress it enough - ask for help. It's free and without obligation. I'll repeat what I often say: call Ike Eisenhauer, Ken and Laurie Henderson, and Rick Marshall. Ike owns Ike Eisenhauer State Farm, and Ken, Laurie, and Rick all work at McGraw Realtors of HSV. Yes, they're sponsors of this show, but that's got nothing to do with calling them. Call them because they'll happily help you by offering their perspective and help. They all live here and work here. They won't try to sell you anything…except maybe Hot Springs Village.

  Three years ago in July, Chief Bennett reported for duty in Hot Springs Village after a long career in Texarkana. It was a bit of a homecoming for Kristi. At her exit from Texarkana, she said, "I've been given the opportunity to go home where my family lives, and I'm very excited for the opportunity to spend more time with my family and my parents and my grandparents." We're happy she came home. Happy Early 3rd Anniversary, Chief!   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  According to AllTrails.com, the DeSoto Multi-Purpose Trail is a 4.6 (out of 5). Let's walk it and discuss the value of a simpler life inside Hot Springs Village.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  On June 1, 1970, John Cooper, Sr., and his company, Cooper Communities, opened Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. According to the company's website, "His vision was simple but unswerving: Build places so appealing that families are attracted to them for generations to come." Here we are 55 years later, and families, including retirees, are drawn to Hot Springs Village for the beauty, tranquility, nature, and community. Happy 55th Birthday to my favorite place - Hot Springs Village, Arkansas!   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Hot Springs Village Police Chief Kristi Bennett joins us to discuss safety inside the Village.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Brandon Tedder with Renaissance Homes joins us to tour a new house that is about 98% complete. Located on the Isabella Golf Course, this beautiful home (a modified Willow plan by Renaissance Homes) boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a massive covered back porch overlooking the golf course.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Many people consider Hot Springs Village an ideal retirement destination. However, some things could derail their retirement. Here are a few things we'll talk about today: Unexpected cost increases Too many amenities Limited work opportunities Transportation costs Loneliness / feeling isolated Slower pace Limited entertainment You need a car Disagreements with rules/regulations Loss of identity tethered to your career We invite you to visit Hot Springs Village. You'll be happy you did. It's a glorious place.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Rick Marshall and I cruise around Lake DeSoto to discuss lake living inside Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Rick Marshall, waterfront specialist with McGraw Realtors, takes us out on his boat to tour Lake DeSoto. We end our ride with the April 2025 real estate update for Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Email. Direct Messages (DM's). Comments. Voicemails. Text Messages. Phone Calls. Do it any way you'd like. Ask your questions. Make your suggestions. Today, let's tackle just three that hit my inbox recently. Veronica in Kansas: Have you considered doing some vlogging to show us more about what life is like in Hot Springs Village? Len in Michigan: Can you give us more details about the amenities and their costs? NOTE: Here's a PDF for GOLF and Other Amenities that will demonstrate why it's so difficult to do an episode detailing the amenities of Hot Springs Village. Check with the HSV POA for the most updated and accurate list. Vivian in Nebraska: How varied are home prices and what impact does a home price have on the cost of living?   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  One of the top 5 requests I get is, "Share your journey to Hot Springs Village." Today, let's do it. Keep telling me what you most want to hear or see. Use the contact form or email me at Hello@HSVInsideOut.com.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  You ask. I answer. HSV Inside Out focuses on responding to what you want to see and hear. In the past weeks, I've heard from some of you requesting that I share a "day in the life of". What does daily life look like inside Hot Springs Village? Let's discuss the three basic categories of people based solely on HOW they choose to financially live after reaching the retirement age of 65. P.S. Hip, hip, hooray! The Dallas Stars won round 1 against Colorado. Now it's on to defeat the Winnipeg Jets! #GoStars   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Brandon Tedder is the owner of Renaissance Homes in Hot Springs Village. He joins us today to discuss his newest project, home building in the Village, lot selection for your new home site, basements, and more. Contact Brandon at (501) 753-5006. A few years ago, Brandon pushed all his chips into the middle of the table to make Hot Springs Village THE home of Renaissance Homes. His customers and prospective customers are glad he did. Pay attention if you're considering retiring to Hot Springs Village. Brandon has wise insights and advice.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  That's right. It's another bonus episode for this final week of April.  A text arrived yesterday afternoon telling us that our youngest grandson's appendix ruptured. My son and daughter-in-law rushed him to Cook Children's Medical Center in downtown Fort Worth—the absolute best place to take a child in the DFW area. Sensing I might be needed, I asked my son, "Do you want me to head that way?" He replied, "Yes." Within an hour or so, I was off, leaving HSV to make the 5-hour drive back home to Texas, so I could take care of the other two grandkids while Mom and Dad stayed in the hospital with their little brother. As I drove, I reflected on our decision to purchase a house in Hot Springs Village. And all the things we considered. Today, I want to encourage you to continue thinking about the things that matter most to you. As much as I'd love for you to make Hot Springs Village your retirement destination, I mostly want you to get it right for YOU.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Let's discuss learning new things during retirement. Along the way, let me show you one of my favorite drives - Maderas Drive. I'm a sucker for piney woods and this drive is incredible. It's also the drive to the clubhouse of Diamante Country Club. I encourage you to visit Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, to determine whether it's your ideal retirement destination—where you can learn new things. Hot Springs Village may be the best place to spend your days and nights doing what you most want. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  A SPECIAL BONUS EPISODE Full Disclosure: McGraw Realtors is a sponsor of Hot Springs Village Inside Out. 13 Loyola Drive is located in the Diamante area of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Listed for $849,000, this luxury home boasts an open and spacious custom floor plan with numerous extras throughout. The main level of the home features three oversized bedrooms in a split floor plan. The master bedroom features a spacious bath with an oversized walk-in shower and a generous walk-in closet. You'll also enjoy the remote-controlled roller shades. On the other side of the house, you'll find two spacious guest bedrooms that share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. There is also a separate office on the main level, along with a chef's kitchen featuring pullouts and soft-close cabinetry, a double oven, and a gas cooktop. Upstairs is a spacious bonus room with a full bathroom, as well as a smaller bonus room that is perfect for a home office, storage, or any other use you might imagine. Let's go outdoors, and you're where most of your time would be spent overlooking the 12th hole of the Diamante golf course, a saltwater pool, and a saltwater hot tub - all enclosed in a black wrought-iron fence. The outdoor space features an outdoor kitchen and an oversized, custom tile patio, all of which are fully covered for year-round enjoyment. The mature landscaping consists of a combination of rock, stone pavers, lush shrubs and trees, Zoysia grass, and a Rainbird sprinkler system. Diamante is the only private golf course in Hot Springs Village, offering a clubhouse featuring a top-of-the-line restaurant, as well as pickleball and tennis courts, and a swimming pool. Call Laurie Henderson at (501) 276-3018 for the opportunity to learn more about this home and the Diamante Country Club.   • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Hot Springs Village is the largest gated community in south central Arkansas, spanning 26,000 acres in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. "The Village" features 11 lakes and 9 golf courses, 30 miles of walking trails, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and more clubs/organizations than I can count. Want community? We've got that in abundance. From boating, fishing, and hiking to all kinds of social activities, you can involve yourself as little or as much as you want. Natural beauty, serenity, and tranquility are staples of Hot Springs Village. The Village is not urban by any definition, but it's not country. Rural? Sure. Living in Hot Springs Village is like living in a very large park. Bentonville is situated in the Ozark Mountains in northwest Arkansas and offers many benefits such as hiking and fishing - not unlike Hot Springs Village. If you're a foodie and love local shopping, Bentonville may get your vote. If employment opportunities matter to you, Bentonville is the place to be. Let's hike around the DeSoto Trail and discuss why Hot Springs Village is better for retirement. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Yes, you know the opening line of Glen Campbell's Rhinestone Cowboy. Well, it's not the streets of Broadway, and I've not been walking them so long. This is Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, and I've been walking some streets here since I first visited in September 2018. Join me.   With over 30 miles of hiking trails, Hot Springs Village offers many more unofficial trails, thanks to many streets barely occupied by homes. When you visit, venture around the neighborhood where you're staying, but be even more adventurous by searching for some remote areas where you can walk as much (or as little) as you want without seeing anybody. Here's the episode about creating your own trail inside Hot Springs Village. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Nobody gets a vote in what you decide to do in retirement, unless you give it to them. I'm not saying to ignore your family or friends who have your best interests in mind. But for all of us, at or nearing retirement age, we have to figure it out for ourselves. That means we have to figure out what matters to us, and how much it matters. What may work ideally for me and Rhonda may not be what works best for you. Hence, the phrase, "You do YOU." Let's discuss some recent studies that examine how seniors spend their money. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Full Disclosure: McGraw Realtors is a sponsor of our program. Rick Marshall is the #1 waterfront specialist in Hot Springs Village real estate. He joins us today to deliver our monthly real estate update for Hot Springs Village for March 2025. Contact him for a FREE, no-obligation relocation packet at WelcomeToHotSprings.com. Here's Rick's March update for the Lake Coronado area, too. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Join us as we stroll through parts of the Cedar Creek Trail inside Hot Springs Village and discuss what we've learned since buying a house here. There are many surprises, including community, cost of living, safety, climate, and taxes. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Ike Eisenhauer joins me today to answer a few questions you've asked. Full disclosure: Ike Eisenhauer State Farm sponsors our show. Thanks to him, we can share insights about Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Call Ike for your insurance needs. He's got an award-winning team ready to help serve you. If you're interested in a short stay at his incredible rental suites, click here: Maison226.com Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Hot Springs Village was given days' advance notice that we'd be getting 6-10 plus inches of rain beginning mid-afternoon on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. As forecasted, around 4 pm, it hit: thunder, heavy rain, and some lightning. By nightfall, a supercell system was extending from Texas to Pennsylvania. I was watching Ryan Hall Ya'll live stream weather updates. I'm preempting the episode I had scheduled for today because this weather event is now labeled "once-in-a-generation." We've not seen anything quite like this since 2011. I'll keep you updated on how things develop today and tonight. We may not be in the clear until sometime Sunday. Stay tuned. Be safe. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Happy April Fool's Day! But rather than play a trick on you, I thought I'd show off how wonderful Spring is here inside Hot Springs Village. Thanks to Grok.com, an artificial intelligence search engine, we receive the following answer to the question, "What is a typical spring like in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas?" Spring in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, is generally a pleasant and mild season, characterized by warming temperatures, blooming flora, and a transition from the cooler winter months. Based on the climate of the region, here's what you can expect: From March to May, temperatures gradually rise. In March, average highs range from the mid-50s to low 60s°F (13-17°C), with lows in the 30s to 40s°F (2-7°C). By April, highs climb into the upper 60s to low 70s°F (19-23°C), and May sees highs in the upper 70s to low 80s°F (25-28°C), with lows warming into the 50s and 60s°F (10-18°C). Rainfall is fairly common, as spring is one of the wetter seasons in Arkansas, with April and May often seeing 4-6 inches of rain spread across several days. Thunderstorms can occur, occasionally bringing heavy downpours or even a rare tornado, though severe weather is less frequent than in flatter parts of the state. The natural surroundings of Hot Springs Village—nestled in the Ouachita Mountains and surrounded by forests, lakes, and rolling hills—come alive in spring. March might still feel a bit dormant, but by April, wildflowers like dogwoods, redbuds, and azaleas start to bloom, painting the landscape with color. The area's 11 lakes and numerous hiking trails become more inviting as the weather warms, and wildlife, including deer, birds, and squirrels, becomes more active. Humidity begins to creep up in May, hinting at the muggy summer ahead, but it's usually not oppressive yet. For residents and visitors, spring is a popular time for outdoor activities like golfing (the village boasts multiple courses), fishing, and boating. The mild weather also makes it ideal for exploring nearby Hot Springs National Park, just a short drive away, where the thermal springs and historic bathhouses are a year-round draw. Locals might describe it as a season of renewal—green returning to the trees, patios opening up, and a laid-back vibe as the community shakes off winter. Next, I asked Grok.com: "Does Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, experience many tornadoes?" Answer: Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, does not experience a high frequency of tornadoes compared to more tornado-prone areas like the central plains of the U.S., but it is not entirely immune to them either. Located in the Ouachita Mountains in west-central Arkansas, the village benefits from some natural protection due to its hilly terrain, which can disrupt the formation or intensity of tornadoes compared to flatter regions. However, Arkansas as a whole lies on the eastern edge of "Tornado Alley," and tornadoes can and do occur in the state, including in the vicinity of Hot Springs Village. Historically, Garland and Saline Counties, which encompass Hot Springs Village, see occasional tornado activity, particularly during the spring months (March through May) when warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico clashes with cooler air masses. Most tornadoes in this region are weaker—typically EF0 or EF1 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale—with winds under 110 mph, causing minor damage like downed trees or power lines. Stronger tornadoes (EF2 or higher) are less common but not unheard of. For example, the broader Hot Springs area has experienced notable tornadoes in the past, such as an EF2 that hit parts of Garland County in 1999, though it didn't directly strike the village. Data from the National Weather Service suggests Arkansas averages about 30-40 tornadoes statewide per year, with the majority occurring in spring and some in late fall. Hot Springs Village itself, being a large, spread-out community of about 26,000 acres, might only see a direct hit once every few decades,

  Google says the United States has over 19,600 "retirement" communities. Some of these are restricted to people 55 and older. Some are populated mostly by older folks. Hot Springs Village falls into that category. We're a "retirement community" based on the demographics, not based on any restrictions - that's one great reason to consider Hot Springs Village as your retirement destination. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Hot Springs Village is a year-round golf community. The Diamante Country Club is the only private golf club inside the Village. Today, Rick Maxey, golf All American and member, and David Howard, Golf Pro at Diamante, join us. This marks Diamante's 30th anniversary. Known as "The Gem of the Ouachitas," Diamante Country Club is a premier private club featuring a world-class golf course (currently ranked number 5 in Arkansas by Golf Digest), clay tennis courts, state-of-the-art pickleball courts, a resort-style swimming pool, and fine dining in the club restaurant. The course features seven (7) sets of tees to accommodate all levels of play. Distances range from 7,560 to 4,562 yards, providing a great golf experience for both low and high handicappers. The Diamante Country Club also features an outstanding full practice facility with elevated tees overlooking the Ouachita Mountains. Enjoy this introduction to the Diamante golf experience, and when you visit Hot Springs Village, consider their discovery package. It's a great value. Contact Information: David Howard, Head Golf Professional (501) 922-4191 dhoward@diamantecc.com https://diamantecc.com/diamante-golf  For the discovery package, contact Terri Socha, Membership Director (501) 922-1114 tsocha@diamantecc.com  Diamante Country Club 2000 Country Club Drive Hot Springs Village, Arkansas 71909 diamantecc.com Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Retirement planning always involves questions of cost. How much will it cost to live there? What are those costs? Today, let's break down some of these to make it easier to figure out if the cost of living inside Hot Springs Village is attractive enough for you to consider making your future home here. Let's begin with the monthly POA (Property Owners Association) assessments. These expenses are current as of 2025. $50.42 a month for a single lot (commonly called "unimproved assessment," which just means there are no utilities on the property $113.19 a month for a single lot with utilities (a lot with a house on it fits the bill; this is commonly called an "improved assessment") Next would be the cost of electricity. No gas is inside the Village, although some people have propane tanks servicing their house. Part of the Village is in Garland County, served by Entergy. We live in Saline County, the other county represented in the Village. Our electric provider is First Electric Coop. Our house is about 2,200 square feet, built in 2022, and has 10-foot ceilings. In the winter months, during the day, we keep our thermostat set to 69 and turn it down to 67 at night. In the summer months, we keep it around 74. Ceiling fans run year-round (yes, we change the direction of the fans to blow the warm air down in the winter and to circulate the air in the summer). Our typical monthly bill is about $150. Low months might run under $100, and high months (2 or 3 winter months) will be around $250 (or slightly higher). Then there's the water bill (pictured below is our most recent actual bill). Our water bill is issued every other month and covers a 2-month billing cycle. This expense is relatively stable, varying only by a few dollars each time UNLESS you're a heavy water user. My wife and I are empty nesters, so water usage doesn't vary much. Yes, we bathe daily (she takes baths, and I take only showers) and do laundry once a week. We usually run our dishwasher once a week, too. We have no irrigation for our yard (no need to water rocks). Everybody is charged a minimum of 5,000 gallons every two months. This bill—pictured above—is for January and February. Our usage was 4,204. If we had gone over the 5,000-gallon minimum, you'd see an extra line item for the overage. Since we were well under the minimum, we avoided that. The regular water bill includes the other expenses - likely similar to the ones where you may live right now: Sewer Charge $95 Each home has a grinder pump located just outside one side of the house. These are higher-tech devices that contribute to sewage treatment. The POA performs the sewer treatment here inside the Village. Ambulance Fee $16.67 Street Lights $6.67 FSDWA Fee $1.00* *Thanks to A.I. I found out what this stands for - Federal Safe Drinking Water Act Fee Arkansas State Tax $6.75 Saline County Tax $.39 Conclusion: Our Totals* So, not including property tax or home owner's insurance, our monthly expenses are: $113.19 monthly POA assessment $150.00 monthly average electricity bill $103.00 average monthly water bill (but it's only paid every other month) $366.19 monthly total Our property taxes are $2070.10 a year or $172.51 a month. Like everybody else's around here, our insurance increased due to tornadoes last year to $997.89 a year or $83.16 a month. That brings our total monthly overhead - not including mortgage because thankfully, we're mortgage free - to: $621.86 total monthly expenses Compared to Texas, where we split our time but don't own a house—our old house, where we lived for over 25 years—our Texas property taxes were just under $10,000 a year, or about $800 monthly. The monthly cost savings between Hot Springs Village and DFW are well over $2,000 a month. Living costs are a major advantage of coming to Hot Springs Village. You can maintain whatever lifestyle you're accustomed to here.

  During a recent visit to Diamante Country Club, I met with Johnny Hibbs, a board member and chairman of the courts committee, and Geoff Hodsdon, a tennis pro and the man in charge of the courts. Diamante features four (4) Rubico clay lighted tennis courts and four (4) championship-level pickleball courts. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  It's time for our monthly update with Rick Marshall, a waterfront specialist with McGraw Realtors inside Hot Springs Village (formerly Trademark HSV Real Estate). First, Rick shares sound advice on preparing your house inside Hot Springs Village for a faster sale. If you're considering selling your house inside the Village, contact Rick at (501) 601-7425. January and February have been slower months than expected, but the good news is that the Village is currently a buyer's market. There may be no better time to begin your search for your new future retirement home inside Hot Springs Village. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Today, Terri Socha, Membership Director, and Paul Murrison, Diamonte Country Club General Manager, will introduce us to the country club inside Hot Springs Village—Diamante Country Club. This marks Diamante's 30th anniversary. On Tuesday, February 25th, I spent the day with the fine folks at Diamante Country Club, assisted by Carol Ansley Bodge. Just a week earlier, Hot Springs Village had experienced freezing rain and sleet, but the sun was shining on this day. It was approaching 70 degrees, and the golfers were out in droves. It was a beautiful day, made more so by the company I got to keep. Today begins a short series to give you a taste of Hot Springs Village's only private golf club. We'll showcase the courts (tennis and pickleball) and the golf course inside Diamante Country Club. Expect deeper dives this Spring and Summer, including a complete tour of the clubhouse facilities. The Diamante Country Club is a premier private club featuring a world-class golf course (currently ranked number 5 in Arkansas by Golf Digest), clay tennis courts, state-of-the-art pickleball courts, a resort-style swimming pool, and fine dining in the club restaurant. Enjoy this introduction to Diamante, and when you visit Hot Springs Village, consider their discovery package. It's a great value. To sign up for a discovery package or to learn more about the various membership levels, contact: Terri Socha, Membership Director (501) 922-1114 tsocha@diamantecc.com  Diamante Country Club 2000 Country Club Drive Hot Springs Village, Arkansas 71909 diamantecc.com Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Rick Marshall, waterfront specialist with Trademark HSV Real Estate, now McGraw Realtors (effective March 1, 2025), joins us to discuss the top three dangers inside Hot Springs Village. Many of you are researching Hot Springs Village to decide whether or not it's your ideal retirement destination. Rick's list may help you figure it out. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Retirement requires careful planning. Most residents of Hot Springs Village are mature (ahem, older) people of retirement age. Planning involves more than finances and where we'll live. It also includes how we'll live and what we'll do with our time. Smaller communities like Hot Springs Village can provide wonderful opportunities to pursue activities we may not have pursued before...now that we have time. Who you surround yourself with matters! Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  I received a message from a couple in New England interested in considering Hot Springs Village as their retirement destination. They hope this winter will be their last in New England. But the weather wasn't their question. Instead, they wanted to know about house sizes in the Village and how they could prepare to downsize—not just their house but their stuff. You don't have to downsize in retirement, but most of us want to. You can get as big a house as you desire here inside Hot Springs Village. You can also go quite small if that's your preference. I get many messages asking similar questions from couples planning to retire. It's funny. I used to never get asked such things. Goes to show you (and me) that I'm now officially old. Today, let's talk about downsizing as we prepare for retirement, even if you won't fully retire (like us). Rhonda and I both still work. I'm as busy as ever, but I'm thankful. It's what I want to do. Let me walk you through our process and some things we've learned as we migrated to Hot Springs Village, where we spend much of our time. P.S. Here's a picture of the storage solution we had built for our garage. It's awesome! Well worth the investment of a few hundred bucks. The bins were less than $10 each at Sam's Club. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Effective March 1, 2025, Trademark HSV Real Estate merges with McGraw Realtors. This means improved resources for Laurie and Ken Henderson, the brokers/owners. With a focus on luxury homes inside Hot Springs Village and a special focus on Diamante—the country club inside the Village—Laurie and Ken (and their entire team) will be able to take full advantage of the operational efficiencies of one of the top real estate companies in America. McGraw Realtors has been earning the trust of their clients since 1938. Ken and Laurie are rooted in Arkansas. They have a long-standing vested interest in Hot Springs Village. We're excited for them, their team, and mostly all the clients they'll be able to serve to make Hot Springs Village home. For all your real estate needs, contact Laurie, Ken, or any new McGraw Realtors team member located at 1060 DeSoto Blvd, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909. Call them at (501) 276-3018. From affordable townhouses to lakefront or golf course homes, they're anxious to help you find your ideal new home inside Hot Springs Village. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a magical technology that has advanced dramatically in recent years. I used a few online platforms to determine how AI would answer the question, "Why should people retire to Hot Springs Village?" Here are the top seven answers most of the AI engines returned. 1. Awesome Natural Environment Hot Springs Village is in the Ouachita Mountain foothills, offering stunning mountain views, lush forests, and pristine lakes. This natural beauty provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for retirement living, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate outdoor scenery and tranquility. 2. Active Lifestyle Amenities The community caters to active adults with a wide range of recreational amenities. Residents can enjoy nine championship golf courses with 171 holes, 11 recreational lakes for fishing and water sports, 30 miles of walking trails, and numerous courts for tennis and pickleball. Such facilities encourage a healthy and active lifestyle, essential for many retirees looking to stay engaged. 3. Community  Hot Springs Village offers over 200 clubs and organizations, allowing residents to connect with others with similar interests. This fosters a sense of community and belonging, crucial for emotional well-being during retirement. The availability of various activities ensures that there are always opportunities to socialize and make new friends. 4. Safety and Security The community features 24-hour monitored gates along with its own police and fire departments, providing residents with peace of mind regarding their safety. A secure environment is often a top priority for retirees when choosing where to live. 5. Affordable Cost Of Living Arkansas ranks as one of the most affordable U.S. states, particularly regarding real estate property taxes. The median home cost in Hot Springs Village is about $150K, making it accessible for many retirees looking to downsize or relocate. Additionally, Arkansas does not tax Social Security benefits, which can significantly enhance financial security during retirement. 6. Urban Amenities Aren't Far Away While Hot Springs Village offers a peaceful retreat, it is also conveniently located just 20 minutes from historic Hot Springs and 45 minutes from Little Rock, the state capital. This proximity allows residents to enjoy urban amenities such as shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and healthcare services without sacrificing the tranquility of rural living. 7. Varied Housing Options The community provides a range of housing options, from affordable townhouses to luxurious homes with scenic views of golf courses or lakes. This variety allows retirees to choose accommodations that fit their lifestyle preferences and budget. In summary, Hot Springs Village combines beautiful natural surroundings with ample recreational opportunities, strong community engagement options, safety measures, affordable living costs, convenient access to urban amenities, and diverse housing choices—all factors making it an ideal retirement place. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  The second winter storm of 2025 arrived inside Hot Springs Village late Tuesday, February 18. Overnight, the temperature dropped into the mid-teens, but only after we got some freezing rain and sleet. Other than real estate and the cost of living, the weather may be our audience's next most requested topic. Winter weather isn't bad, and I'm a Southern boy, so I'm qualified to comment. But today, the roads are reportedly slicker than cow snot on a Linoleum floor. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  The Magellan Beaver Dam Trail inside Hot Springs Village was created in 1999. It's about a mile long - 1/2 a mile to the end, then back. But we prefer to make a loop along Cedar Creek because I'm a sucker for flowing water. That route makes it slightly longer. The trail is easy and relatively flat, except when you trek down closer to the water (like we did). Depending on how fast you walk, it will take you about 20 minutes. We took our time to bring you a video of the trail's appearance in late January 2025. On the way back, you can see the Magellan Golf Course. It was about 53 degrees and sunny today, so the golfers were out in full force, proving that golf is just about a year-round activity inside Hot Springs Village. Some links: Hot Springs Village Audubon Society Hot Springs Village Photography Facebook Group Hot Springs Village Animal Welfare League   Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Around here, it's mostly known as the Balboa Beach area, but it's much more. Located on Ponce De Leon Drive, a lot is going on around the beach. There's a playground, volleyball court,  grilling facilities, cornhole "courts," picnic tables, covered areas, a pavilion, the Balboa Marina, a gas station, a spillway, and a trail. Nearby is the Sunset Grill, which has the best dining views of Lake Balboa. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that LIKE button, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Ike Eisenhauer State Farm is a proud sponsor of our show, HSV Inside Out. Ike and I recently visited his office to discuss insurance and retirement investments. This video gives you a sense of what a visit might be like if you choose to discuss your retirement needs with Ike or any member of his team. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Lake Lago is one of the 12 lakes inside Hot Springs Village. The other lakes are recreational, but Lake Lago is the village's water source. That means no houses are allowed on the waterfront, and no recreational activity is allowed on the lake. The Lake Lago Lookout is located just off Jarandilla Drive inside Hot Springs Village. When you visit, be sure to check it out. It's one of the many must-see places! Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  The January 2025 rainfall inside Hot Springs Village was 6.58 inches, compared to our 30-year average of 3.64 inches. This year, the rainfall increased by 81%. Much of it arrived late in the month, around the 29th and 30th. I ventured out on Friday morning, January 31st, to give you a sense of Hot Springs Village after a deluge. It's crisp, clear, and reasonably quiet. We'll begin with a video of the Lake Pineda Spillway raging during Thursday's rain. Then, we'll show you what it looked like the day after. We'll also take a short walk through parts of Cedar Creek Trail. Enjoy! Source: https://precip.ai/rainfall-totals/place/hot-springs-village-ar Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Welcome to lakefront living in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Today, we begin an ongoing, monthly series on lakefront and lake community living in the Village. Our first guest is Steven Scott FitzGerald. Steven, his wife, Deborah, and a couple of hounds (Greyhounds) and cats live on Lake Balboa's shores, the village's largest lake (around 940 acres). We intentionally recorded this show in Steven's backyard the day before the January 2025 winter storm hit. It was the nicest day Steven and I knew we'd see in a while. As Steven's "winter storm" photos show, we made a wise decision. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To The Podcast Anyway You Want • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Tell Your Friends About Our Show • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Be sure to watch Friday's episode with Steven Scott FitzGerald (about living on Lake Balboa). Steven suggested folks visit Hot Springs Village in January to see if they like how things look during the most drab months of the year. His logic was sound. If you like it during a proverbial ugly month, you'll love it when all the trees bloom, and the weather is warmer. Steven's comment prompted me to take you on a drive to show you what the Village looks like in January. Enjoy! Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To The Podcast Anyway You Want • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Tell Your Friends About Our Show • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Today, we begin our monthly real estate updates with Rick Marshall, a Waterfront Specialist with Trademark HSV Real Estate, a sponsor of our show. We recorded today's show at 29 Costa Del Lago Lane in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. This magnificent view of Lake Cortez features 1.8 acres of 399 feet of waterfront. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To The Podcast Anyway You Want • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Tell Your Friends About Our Show • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Many in our audience have never been to Hot Springs Village. Regularly, they ask if living in the Village is like living in "the country." They often confess they picture life here as rural living. That inaccurate depiction sometimes causes people to think of service providers like insurance and real estate as one-man bands holed up in some dingy strip center. I've repeatedly described Ike's agency in emails and texts to our audience members but have long promised them a video tour. Today, I deliver on that promise. As you'll see and hear, Ike Eisenhauer State Farm is an agency that would be at home in any major metro area or Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Ike and his team of professionals consistently deliver award-winning service. We're proud to have them sponsor our show, too. Watch, and you'll understand why. There's a reason why Ike Eisenhauer State Farm has hundreds of 5-star Google and Facebook reviews. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To The Podcast Anyway You Want • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Tell Your Friends About Our Show • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  This episode was recorded in December 2024 in response to several emails from people planning their retirement and considering Hot Springs Village as their destination. They repeatedly asked, "How did you guys prepare for life inside the Village?" Here is my answer. Entering 2024, I started a Google spreadsheet to begin what I dubbed "Encore Chapter v2.0—The Ideal Outcome." An encore performance is the final group of songs after the main concert performance is over—the final act. All humans can have an encore performance if we plan it out. For my wife Rhonda and me, it involved three different considerations: Money (income/expenses/savings and investing) Mattering Mind/Body/Spirit (InThyPaths.com) My back porch is a great place to ponder these ideas while helping you determine your ideal outcome for writing your own encore chapter here inside Hot Springs Village. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To The Podcast Anyway You Want • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Tell Your Friends About Our Show • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________

  Many villagers report various snow depths during the first winter storm of 2025 (they say we may have another one around January 20th). A few friends told me they got considerably more snow than I did. We got about 6-7 inches at my house, but these friends live on top of hills and mountains, while I don't. Those who have never visited Hot Springs Village may not realize the diversity of topography here. There are mountaintop houses, hilltop houses, lower-land houses, golf course houses, lakefront houses, golf course community houses, and wooded area houses. Some houses have a crawl space. Some have small basements. Others have fully finished basements. While some of us have houses built on a slab without a crawlspace or a basement. For many people, it's all about the view—what we see when we look out our windows or sit on our front or back porches. Thanks to our exclusive media partner, KVRE • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe To The Podcast Anyway You Want • Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Tell Your Friends About Our Show • Support Our Sponsors (click on the images below to visit their websites) __________________________________________ __________________________________________