Three Tips For Moving To Florida

Florida is a grand destination/dream home state for many – and it’s easy to see why! Most of Florida has very mild winters, and their summer season is about nine months long. It’s full of beautiful beaches, which is perfect for all types of hobbyists and athletes – offering an array of fishing, snorkeling, surfing, or just sitting back and capturing the waves! With trees that don’t go into dormant stage, the state offers lush gardening and flower growth all year round. If you love sunshine, Florida is for you! There are some things to keep in mind about living in Florida that many do not realize. It’s best to be prepared before you arrive at your new home about some of the environmental things you will be experiencing.

Three Tips For Moving To Florida

  •  Be Weather Prepared
  •  Understanding Wildlife
  •  Cost Of Living

Although Florida is well known for sun and beaches, the state actually gets a ton of rain – around 60 inches per year. Fortunately, this does not usually come in the form of all-day downpours, but rather brief outburst of showers that may last from 10 – 45 minutes. In some places in Florida, this is a daily occurrence.  Thunder and lightning are frequent too. Also, keep in mind that not ALL of Florida is warm all year round – some areas definitely require a light jacket in winter (but it’s a safe bet that you can leave your snow boots up north). Occasionally, some parts of Florida will drop below freezing briefly. It’s uncommon, but it happens. Also, you need to know that Hurricane season and Hurricane preparation is just a way of life for Floridians – many have to evacuate their homes several times during the course of a lifetime, and some actually lose everything that have to a Hurricane. Great home insurance is a must!

Yes, you will see squirrels, rabbits and deer in Florida – but you also may see a good many alligators and various types of snakes. These animals are generally live and let live – however, never ever attempt to relocate an alligator that has wondered into your yard on your won (not even a baby). Their bite is vicious and quick. You’ll also see many dolphins in the waters of Florida, and there are areas you have to great care in to avoid jellyfish, sharks, stingrays and the like. While northern beaches also have these creatures, southern beaches tend to see more activity due to warmer water.

In some parts of Florida, cost of living can be considerably higher than other areas. (That’s true of any state). What you may not be prepared for however are the steep energy bills since most of Florida needs some type of air conditioning year-round. There are things you can do to cut down on your carbon footprint and energy use, but you’ll need to be cognizant of it in Florida. If you’re moving to a big city, also consider the cost of transportation. Rush hour is no joke and you will consume a lot of gasoline, so maybe a smart car is in your future? However, one perk that offsets these expenses is that you can grow lemons, coconuts and oranges right in your back yard – fruits that are pretty expensive to buy in the store in some areas of the United States.

In the meantime, check out these 1 click searches:

Move in ready townhome, great location in back of community very quiet.  Unique townhome with screen porch and private fenced yard.  New LVT flooring throughout.  Close to airport, shopping, dining, entertainment, vets xpwy and more.  Two assigned carport spaces, community pool $239,900 Active

7107 Hernando Court Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,296 SqFt 0.02 Acres

Under contract-accepting backup offers. Mid-Century Charm Meets Modern Comfort offering Timeless Appeal. Welcome to your own private paradise in the heart of Lake Magdalene—as you step into this inviting home with its blend of nostalgic character and thoughtful updates. Fun retro details give a nod to the home’s roots while modern updates provide functionality and style. Situated on a large corner lot with mature landscaping-over one-third-acre homesite. This beautiful three-bedroom, two-bath home offers the perfect blend of tranquility, space, and style in one of Tampa’s most coveted neighborhoods. Step inside to discover luxury vinyl flooring flowing seamlessly throughout the home, complemented by fresh, neutral paint that sets the stage for any décor. The spacious, light-filled living and dining area creates an inviting atmosphere for entertaining, while the separate family room offers a cozy retreat for everyday relaxation. The kitchen is thoughtfully designed with a charming eat-in area—perfect for morning coffee or casual meals. Retreat to the generous master suite, featuring its own private bath complete with a newly-tiled walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms are ideally situated sharing a well-appointed hall bath. Major updates provide peace of mind, including a new roof in 2024 and updated windows (2016 & 2017), ensuring years of worry-free living. Outside, the expansive yard is a verdant oasis, ideal for gardening, play, or future outdoor enhancements.
Tucked away in a serene yet centrally located neighborhood, members of the neighborhood civic association enjoy lake access to the picturesque Lake Magdalene, along with nearby park, fishing, and basketball courts. It’s a lifestyle of leisure and convenience—just minutes from shopping, dining, and major thoroughfares.

Homes of this caliber in Lake Magdalene rarely come to market—don’t miss your opportunity to make this one your own! $477,000 Pending

2308 Cape Bend Avenue Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,653 SqFt 0.36 Acres

Stunning Florida Home in Gated West Hampton in an A Rated School District & Highly Desirable Area -NO CDD fees 

Welcome to your dream home in sought-after West Hampton. This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom + large bonus room home boasts 3,086 sq. ft. of heated living area and a spacious 3-car garage, offering both elegance and functionality. With its thoughtfully designed 3-way split floor plan, this home offers ultimate privacy and room for everyone.

Upon entering, you'll be captivated by the rich wood look plank and tile flooring throughout, seamlessly blending with the home’s tasteful finishes. The expansive kitchen opens to the family room & features stainless steel appliances, wood cabinets, breakfast-bar, pantry closet, a built-in desk, and plenty of space for family meals or entertaining. The heart of the home flows effortlessly into the open living and dining areas, making it perfect for gatherings of all sizes. Escape to the alluring primary bedroom & ensuite featuring dual walk-in closets & vanities, separate water closet, large shower and a relaxing soaking tub. 

Upstairs, you’ll find a huge bonus room — an ideal space for a media room, playroom, or home office. The possibilities are endless!
The private fenced yard offers a tranquil retreat, with a covered lanai and lush tropical landscaping surrounding the space. Whether you're enjoying the Florida sunshine, hosting a barbecue, love to garden, have kids (to include fur babies), this backyard is perfect for outdoor and low maintenance living. 

Recent upgrades including a 2023 Roof, 2024 AC system & Paint ensure peace of mind for years to come. Additional features include a decorative glass front door, gas tankless water heater, crown molding, volume ceilings, recessed lights, ceiling fans, inside laundry room with utility sink, built-in desk.

In addition to the home's impeccable features, this West Hampton community offers a range of amenities perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Take a stroll along the sidewalks, explore the scenic walking trails, or relax by the tree-lined tranquil pond with a fountain and park bench. Kids will love the nearby playground, and nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife sightings — deer, turkeys, hawks, and even eagles are frequent visitors to this beautiful setting.

Convenience is key with Top-Rated schools, Shopping, World Renowned Beaches, Tampa Bay Downs, Local Breweries, Theme Parks, Elev8, Culinary Diverse Cuisines & Breweries for the Foodies, Ice Hockey & Skating rink, TIA, Fishing, Skiing, Boating, Kayaking/Canoeing nearby and the 36-hole Eagles Golf & Country Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf and more wildlife encounters. 

This home offers an unparalleled combination of comfort, luxury, location, and peace of mind. A smart choice with NO CDD fees & NOT in a flood or evac zone. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make this West Hampton beauty yours & schedule your tour today! **Seller contribution toward Buyer closing costs with Approved contract agreement** $749,800 Active

12801 Stanwyck Circle Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 3 Baths 3,086 SqFt 0.23 Acres

Outstanding home in the Carrollwood area with over half an acre!  This 5BR & 3BA pool home includes an enormous flex room for a multitude of living options!  Entertain & host away - with a huge center kitchen island, a gas range, large cabinets, exhaust, & an open floorplan design.  Your family room overlooks impressive pavers, a covered lanai area, & a private pool.  The deep lot offers privacy & a paver fire pit & sitting area too.  This split plan design is perfect for families & also an in-law design (if needed).  No carpet here.... the main living areas & bedrooms have gorgeous (wood style) tiled floors.  Seldom do you have the opportunity to have all this space & be in the heart of Carrollwood!  Close to everything convenient to the Carrollwood area & minutes from shopping centers, dining, parks, & easy access routes for commuting!  Come see how private & spacious this lot & home feel & why you'll value the incredible location!  This home has a whole house water filtration system, a newer roof ('23), water softener system, & propane for selected home functions.  A portion of the garage was enclosed for additional living area.  Currently a functional oversized 1-car garage with ample storage.  A home and location like this does not come on market often!  Schedule to view and see what makes this home so special! $1,000,000 Active

3906 Floyd Road Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 3 Baths 3,787 SqFt 0.57 Acres