Moving to Florida? Your Ultimate Relocation Guide.

Packing up and moving to Florida is an exciting adventure full of important decisions. Whether you're moving across town or to a new city in the Sunshine State, this guide will provide you with the essential steps and insights to make your relocation as smooth as possible. Here’s everything you need to tackle (or may have missed!) so your big move doesn’t mean a big headache, only a big adventure!

Selling Your Current Home

If possible, selling your current home should be a high priority. Depending on your timeline, you can work with a real estate agent to get your home on the market as soon as possible. Here are some steps to get your home sale on the fast track:

• Get an Appraisal or Expert Assessment: Identify areas that could be quickly improved to increase the value of your home.
• Perform Minor Repairs: Ensure that any minor repairs are completed and learn if any major repair needs will surface during inspections.
• Stage Your Home: Invest in basic cosmetic improvements, such as paint or landscaping, to make your home more appealing.
• Professional Photos and Videos: High-quality visuals can help your home show virtually and attract more buyers.
• Decide on the Sale Price: Determine the sale price you need to happily move forward into your new community.

Buying a New Home in Florida

Moving to Florida comes with unique challenges and opportunities. From the outset, you’ll want to learn about comparable home prices and the cost of living in your new area. Here are some criteria and questions to consider when buying a new home:

• Neighborhood: Ensure it’s a safe neighborhood with a good reputation and acceptable commute distance.
• Price Range: Make sure the home is within your budget.
• Access to Amenities: Look for nearby amenities that are important to you.
• Property Taxes: Understand the property tax rates in your new area.
• School System: If you have children, research the local school system.
• Utilities and HOAs: Check on utilities and any Homeowners Association fees.
• Waste Management: Find out about local waste management services.
• Community Expectations: Learn about community expectations and upkeep.
• Home Management Resources: Identify resources like lawn care and housekeeping services.

Final Logistics

As you wrap up life in your old city and move to a new one, there are some essential final logistics to manage. Here’s what to keep on your list:

• Final Closing/House Sale: Ensure all paperwork and financial transactions are completed.
• Hand Over Keys and Clean Home: Provide keys and any necessary information about appliances, and clean the home for the new owners.
• Change Utilities: If required, arrange for utility services to be transferred or canceled.
• Set Up Mail Forwarding: Ensure your mail is forwarded to your new address.
• Arrange Movers and Storage: Book movers and, if necessary, a storage unit.
• Temporary Housing: If there’s a gap between your current home and next home, set up temporary housing or rent.
• Pack for a Short Trip: Prepare for the immediate needs during the transition.
• Set Up New Utilities and Internet: Arrange for utilities and internet services at your new home.
• Change Locks: Reprogram or change the locks for security.
• Get New Driver’s License and Plates: Obtain a new driver’s license and license plates if moving to a new state.

Ready to Make the Move?

I’ll be happy to join you as you prepare for this adventure. I have the inside scoop to get you where you're going. Contact me today to get started!

For more tips on buying a home, check out our previous blog post, 6 Essential Things to Check Before Buying a Home.

Elizabeth Steele PA
Professional Real Estate Consultant
MVP Realty
Email: esteelerealestate@gmail.com
Phone: 239-370-5988