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Florida is a transient state, with thousands moving to Florida every day and thousands leaving every day. Florida offers no state income tax and a state sales tax of 6%. The rural areas of Florida offer relatively low cost rentals with some as low as $300 per month. Rural homeownership varies greatly depending on the age and type of home you buy, whether a single family home, a townhouse, condo or mobile home. Rentals can be from $300 to $2,000 a month depending on location. Beachfront homes and apartments are the most expensive followed by waterfront properties and cities. There are many homes available for rent by the month, but most apartment complexes require a lease of at least six months. The state of Florida requires an additional 2% tax if your stay is less than six months. Some rentals are fully furnished, including kitchen appliances, window treatments, bedding and linens. Many who have moved to Florida suggest renting first, for at least six months, especially during the summer.
Snowbirds
Many transients are snowbirds that live in Florida for the winter months and return north for the summer. Living for six months each in two different places offers the best of both worlds. Imagine living in Florida during the winter with the average daytime temperature in the 60's and now snow to shovel! Florida's summers can be oppressive, hot and humid. Severe thunderstorms are often a daily occurrence. Imagine being able to move back to the cooler north and escape that weather! Maintaining two homes can become expensive, but this cost can be greatly lowered if the homes are rented. Renting your home for just a month can help defray costs. If you decide to become a snowbird you will need help maintaining the vacant Florida home. This maintenance will include lawn care, pest control and storm preparations. A good neighbor can be a great help to you and keep you informed. Some realtors offer home management services. Keep both homes if possible, as many people living in Florida regret selling their northern home.
Moving And Storage
The obvious choice for most of us is to hire professional movers and let them do everything. Unfortunately, not only is the cost prohibitive for some of us; there are many unscrupulous movers that have been caught adding thousands of dollars at the end of the move. Some moving companies have even refused to deliver until paid in full, even if the amount is in dispute. If you plan on hiring a moving company, please get referrals from family and friends and check the company for any complaints. You can pack your own items and save money, but ask your moving company the difference in price; it may not be as much of a saving as you think. Whether you move yourself or have hired a moving company, make sure the storage is climate controlled, especially dehumidified. A hot, humid storage facility can ruin furniture by swelling and warping. The dampness and humidity can also cause mold and mildew to your furnishings and clothing. Air conditioned storage is the best, even if short term.
Before The Move
Before the move, contact the Florida utility companies you will be using. Have your current account numbers, as well as name, address and phone number of current utility companies handy. This current information may save you hundreds of dollars in deposits but every utility has different standards. Have a set date to turn on all your utilities, at least 2 days before you plan on moving in. Having the electric on the day before the move will cool the house for you. It is suggested the house be cleaned from top to bottom while empty. If the air conditioning has been off for only two weeks, you are likely to find mold and mildew. If you plan on cleaning the house yourself, a mixture of soap with bleach will kill mold. After your home has been cleaned, it is recommended to have at least a one-time pest control treatment, especially if the home has been vacant. Make sure at least one day has elapsed from the time of the treatment until your move, this will protect you, your family and pets. If you are buying the home, you will most likely have homeowners and flood insurance, where necessary. If you are renting, please take the time to insure your personal property, as it will not be covered under the landlords' own insurance.
After The Move
Many people forget to change the locks, but it is important to remember that many others may have that key. Get your Florida drivers license soon. Register to vote. From January to March, the year following your move, sign up at the County for Homestead Exemption. Homestead Exemption, as long as Florida is your permanent address, exempts the first $25,000 of property taxes and can save a great deal of money for you. You need sign up only once for the exemption, it is automatically renewed every year and you will get a postcard notifying you that it has been renewed. Animals kept outside in Florida can suffer from fleas, ticks, mosquito bites, snake bites and yes, even alligator attacks. The heat and humidity in Florida can cause major skin irritations. Keep your animals inside if possible; fenced in with sturdy shelter if not possible. Get your dog and cat tested for heartworm and put them on a preventative quickly, heartworm is prevalent in Florida. It is much cheaper to clean your carpets than take your pets to the vet because of these preventable problems.
Enjoy
Enjoy your new home, your neighbors, the beach, the sunrise, the sunset, the shopping, the wildlife, and the nightlife! And welcome!
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