Unable To Join Exisiting Homegroup

[MaxArk]

I have two Windows 7 based PCs in our household connected through a common homegroup.

I have a laptop running Windows 8.1 that I would like to join to the same homegroup, but it doesn't allow me that option. The only option it is allowing me is to create a new homegroup.

I've tried Googling solutions, and I can find none that actually resolve the issue. None of the troubleshooting suggestions are netting any solutions.

Anyone able to provide me some direction on overcoming this?

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/join-windows-7-homegroup-from-windows-8/
Join Windows 7 HomeGroup from Windows 8

 

[MaxArk]

http://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-8/join-windows-7-homegroup-from-windows-8/
Join Windows 7 HomeGroup from Windows 8

Thanks SR-7 for the link. Sadly, it didn't work. As mentioned in my OP, their is no option to join any existing homegroup as this article assumes.

 

[MaxArk]

It turns out that the Homegroup Listener service doesn't run unless I make the effort to manually start it. Even once its running though, running the homegroup troubleshooted still fails to locate the local homegroup.

All computers appear to have the same date and times (to the minute anyway).

Unsure how to ensure this service starts on its own like the other services needed which are running without any user prompting.