Florida seems like an excellent place to live in. This is all thanks to the warmer climate, laid-back aura, and the promise of fun-filled days. But there’s a difference between spending spring break and living there. You may run into a few pleasant and unpleasant surprises if you walk in without a plan.
Whether you’re retiring, moving for a change of scenery, or a career change, there are certain things you need to take into consideration. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to check out a few things you should know before you take the leap and decide to set up a new home in Florida.
1. Be aware of hurricane season.
Anyone moving to Florida should know upfront that it is a high-velocity hurricane zone. This is especially true if you’re planning to move to South Florida. You need to think about hurricane protection if you’re considering becoming a homeowner. Besides keeping an eye out for any negative weather reports, buying hurricane impact windows and impact doors should be on your to-do list.
Thankfully, Florida hurricane window installation companies aren’t scarce. Whether you’re in the market for energy-efficient impact windows or more traditional impact-resistant windows, they’re all available. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to do your research, so you get good value for your money.
2. Housing choices.
If you’re planning a permanent move, you need to contact a real estate agent. House hunting may not be easy if you don’t have the support you need. Regardless of whether you’re planning to rent or buy, it’s equally a good idea to find out the prices so you can get the best deal. Of course, if you’re looking at something near the beach, it’ll definitely be more pricey.
For potential buyers, it’s important to note that the median price range is about $161/square foot. With that in mind, the next step should be to get mortgage pre-approval from a reputable lender. Altogether, it’s a great idea to get ahead in terms of the home search.
3. There’s more to Florida than the beach.
The endless supply of beaches may seem like the only thing in the state, but what about the other side of Florida? Once the allure wears off, you’ll be glad to know that there are other places to visit, especially in the great outdoors. There are so many places and opportunities to get in touch with nature. For instance, you could try your hand at kayaking, zip-lining, or even boating in the everglades. If you’re unsure what fun activity to pick, the best option is to do some research. A simple Google inquiry should set you up for a great time.
4. There will be lots of tourists.
If you’re not keen on having tourists flocking the streets all year round, then Florida may not be your scene. From Disneyland to Spring break, the state offers many attractions and has a reputation for pulling in strangers from all corners of the country.
Lots of people are attracted to the sunshine and beaches, so you’ll probably meet plenty of Northeasterners taking a much-deserved break once the icy winters set in. There’s so much to the state than the never-ending party scene and the old-timer’s community. So, it makes sense that people would want to experience it.
5. Sinkholes are a factor.
Florida is just the gift that keeps giving when it comes to specific hazards. Not only are hurricanes, alligators, and pythons a part of the disadvantages of living there, but sinkholes are also factors. That car loan may not seem like a good idea once a sinkhole swallows your car up a couple of times.
Unfortunately, the topography and soil composition make the ground more liable to collapse from time to time. Even worse is the fact that no one can predict when or where they’ll occur.
