Moving to South Florida? Here's what you need to do.

Are you planning on making the transition to living in the most exciting part of the Sunshine State? If so, let us be among the first to welcome you to South Florida!

We’d like to starting by letting you in on a not-so-well-kept secret: most of the good things you’ve heard about living here are absolutely true.

It’s warm year-round, there’s always something to do, and the nightlife never ends. It’s a tropical paradise that’s truly unique and unlike any other place in the U.S.

To help ease your transition, we’ve complied a list of tips to take care of before you can enjoy the sandy beaches of South Florida living. Once you’re ready to make the move, contact your agent Hector to help you find your new home.

1. Update Your Residency

One of the first things you’ll want to do is change your residency if you’re moving from another state or country. You’ll need proof of citizenship or legal residency, proof of your social, etc.

You can follow the steps on the official Florida HSMV website to create a checklist of everything you need to bring to the DMV office, which will also require that you submit proof that you live here with a lease agreement, utility bill, or mortgage documents.

You can secure your mortgage documents by working with a Realtor® who can help you close on an excellent South Florida home. Once residency is established life in South Florida gets a whole lot easier since you’ll be free to join exclusive clubs, obtain passes, get discounts for being a resident, etc.

2. Update Your Wardrobe

Now that your residency is in order, next up is your wardrobe. You’ll have very little use for heavy jackets, trench coats, or snow boots where you’re going. On most days, shorts, jeans, sandals, or t-shirts will do. However, every so often in the winter months, you might have to pull out a comfy sweater.

Be prepared to dress like winter isn’t ever really going to arrive. Primarily because… Well, it rarely ever does.

3. Learn How to Handle Hurricanes

Moving on from winter wear and on to spring and summer weather, you can expect to run into some heavy storms in South Florida. Tropical downpours, tropical storms, and of course, the infamous hurricanes are all part of the climate here in SoFlo.

Most natives are very experienced with hurricanes and tropical storms, so much so, that these natural disasters serve as a punchline to a good South Floridian joke. As a newcomer, you’ll want to learn how to prepare just as well by stocking up on water, non-perishables, and a decent generator during hurricane season.

Our best tip: don’t wait until the season starts to be ready. Stock your pantry and gas tanks early to avoid the large crowds.

Last but not least: learn how to make friends

Another positive of South Florida living is how easy it is to meet new people. You can make friends easily simply by doing any number of the things you already love.

Join an interest group around boats, cars, fashion, or anything else you might enjoy. You can also make great connections by joining a professional group related to your industry.

Become a member at a local country club or simply frequent one of our many bars or lounges. With just a little bit of exploration, you can find the right fit for you.

If you’re ready to make the move to sunny and sandy South Florida, ask your agent Hector about what kind of home and location would work the best for you and your needs.

Article By: Jessica Gervais

Writer for LuxSouthFloridaHomes.com