Home to nearly 20 million residents, Florida is a desirable place to live for its warm climate, excellent schools, and endless recreational options. So it is no wonder that so many people consider moving to Florida.
Moving to Florida, or considering a move to the Sunshine State, can be an easy transition if following these tips:
1. Thoroughly Research What Neighborhood
Florida is a diverse state with plenty of cities within it. Depending upon a person’s interests, different cities will be a better fit.
Some of the top cities in Florida are Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Port St. Lucie, Pembroke Pines, Jacksonville, St. Petersburg, Tallahassee and Tampa.
2. Find A Home
Moving to a new city without a home or apartment already purchased can make the move entirely too stressful. If possible, take a weekend trip to meet with a realtor and look at different properties.
Having a home settled before making the big move makes the transition much easier. It is stressful enough to move down the street let alone cities or states.
If there are any other amenities you want to add to your home, consider doing it before you move in so your home is move-in ready.
If looking for a home security system or looking to start any home renovations, your best bet is to do it before you move.
Lastly, when looking for a home, be wary of vacant homes, for if they have sat for months or years without electricity, many of these homes, due to the climate, may have developed Chinese drywall, mold or mildew.
3. Prepare For Weather
Florida is in the southern region, thus the conditions will be full of hot, humid, and muggy days. Cities along the coast have a slightly cooling ocean breeze, but anywhere in central Florida will have stagnant heat.
In Florida, heavy storms come predictably often, especially in the summer. And, for anyone from the east coast, west coast, or Midwest, these storms can easily turn into tropical hurricane.
4. Think About Hurricane Precautions
While apartments and condominiums usually take care of this, homeowners should hurricane-proof their houses by purchasing hurricane shutters, fixing any roof problems, and installing hurricane glass.
Get used to regularly stocking non-perishable food like canned goods and energy bars, water, battery radios, etc.
5. Learn To Speak Spanish
For anyone looking to move to South Florida, the population of Latino residents and the Latin American influence is constantly increasing. Bilingual residents will feel more at home if they can fluidly communicate with others.
6. Be Patient
Florida is filled with tourists and senior citizens. Be prepared that the roads will be thick with traffic while the tourist attraction areas will be heavy with camera-ridden families.
7. Become A Resident
Although a bit of a hassle, residency is a crucial step. In particular, focus on your driver’s license, insurance, address, and business.
Florida is a thriving state with an exciting scene, so enjoy all it has to offer when you’re there.