Relocating to South Florida
Moving to South Florida? Start here.
Sunshine, no state income tax and the Atlantic a short drive away. Florida also has its own rules on insurance, flood zones and associations. I've lived here for more than 25 years and I'll help you learn them before you buy.
Cities I serve
Broward County at a glance
Each city has its own feel, housing mix and HOA landscape. Here's a starting point. We'll go deeper on a call.
Coral Springs
A planned city in northwest Broward known for its parks, sports complexes and tree-lined neighborhoods.
See homes →Tamarac
Golf course communities, a mix of 55+ and all-ages neighborhoods, and easy access to the Sawgrass Expressway.
See homes →Coconut Creek
Green, quiet neighborhoods, Butterfly World and the shops and dining of the Promenade.
See homes →Margate
Central and often more affordable, with a mix of condos, villas and single-family homes.
See homes →Pompano Beach
Atlantic beaches, the Intracoastal Waterway, a revitalized pier district and plenty of boating.
See homes →Plantation
Established neighborhoods with mature trees, close to downtown Fort Lauderdale and the airport.
See homes →Fort Lauderdale Suburbs
Oakland Park, Wilton Manors, North Lauderdale and more, minutes from the beach and downtown.
See homes →Davie
Larger lots, ranch-style homes and a proud equestrian history, with Nova Southeastern University nearby.
See homes →Pembroke Pines
One of Broward's largest cities, with many planned communities, parks and shopping close to I-75.
See homes →Miramar
A growing city in southwest Broward with newer communities and easy access to Miami-Dade.
See homes →Weston
A planned city at the edge of the Everglades, with lakes, parks and HOA communities throughout.
See homes →Florida homeownership basics
What's different about owning in Florida
No state income tax
Florida has no personal state income tax. Property taxes and insurance become the bigger line items in your budget.
Homestead exemption
Make the home your primary residence and you can apply for up to $50,000 off its assessed value. Save Our Homes then caps yearly assessment increases. The deadline to file is March 1.
Property taxes reset on sale
A home's taxes are reassessed after it sells, so the seller's current bill isn't what you'll pay. I'll help you estimate yours.
Flood zones
A home's flood zone affects insurance cost and lender requirements. We check the zone and get a flood quote early.
Hurricane-ready homes
Roof age, impact windows and shutters affect both safety and premiums. A wind mitigation inspection can lower your insurance.
HOAs and condo approvals
Many communities require association approval before you close. We plan the timeline around it.
Relocation checklist
Your move, in order
Before you visit
- Book a relocation call to narrow cities and price range
- Get pre-approved with a Florida-savvy lender
- Set up your RealScout search for new listings
- Ask for video tours of top picks
While you're buying
- Get insurance and flood quotes during inspection
- Review HOA or condo documents and approval timelines
- Schedule movers once closing is set
- Close in person or remotely
After you arrive
- Get a Florida driver license within 30 days
- Title and register your vehicle in Florida
- Register to vote at your new address
- File for homestead exemption by March 1
Buying from out of state?
Video tours, remote closings and a local guide on your side.