Relocation Checklist

6+ Months Out

Research & Financial Prep

• Research Gulf Coast communities (Sarasota, Venice, Osprey, Nokomis, Bradenton)
• Visit the area during both peak and off-peak seasons
• Compare cost of living between your current city and Gulf Coast communities
• Get pre-approved for a mortgage
• Consult a tax professional about Florida residency requirements
• Research homeowners insurance and flood insurance options
• Start decluttering and downsizing your belongings
• Create a moving budget and timeline

3 Months Out

Housing & Logistics

• Decide between buying and renting (many relocators rent first)
• Hire a local real estate agent (Michael Hart with Homes with Hart / eXp Realty)
• Schedule a house-hunting trip to narrow down communities
• Research moving companies and get quotes
• Notify current employer and discuss remote work options if applicable
• Open a Florida bank account
• Research school options if you have children
• Begin collecting documents: birth certificates, marriage license, vehicle titles

1 Month Out

Final Arrangements

• Secure your new home (close on purchase or sign lease)
• Schedule moving company and confirm dates
• Notify current utility companies of disconnection date
• Set up Florida utility accounts (FPL, Duke Energy, water, waste)
• Arrange internet and cable installation (Xfinity, Frontier, Spectrum)
• Notify USPS of address change (forwarding mail)
• Update address with banks, credit cards, subscriptions, and the IRS
• Update your voter registration
• Transfer medical records and find new healthcare providers
• Schedule final walkthrough of current home
• Pack an essentials suitcase (first week necessities)

Moving Day

Moving Day Checklist

• Confirm moving crew arrival time
• Do a final walkthrough of your old home
• Keep important documents with you (passports, IDs, closing papers)
• Pack a moving day kit: phone chargers, toiletries, snacks, medications
• Take photos of your empty old home for security deposit
• Supervise loading and verify inventory
• Confirm delivery address and timing with movers
• Leave keys, garage openers, and manuals for new owners/landlord

First Week

Settle In

• Unpack essentials and set up bedrooms and kitchen first
• Inspect your new home for any issues (document with photos)
• Change locks and set up security system
• Visit the Sarasota DMV to get your Florida driver license
• Register your vehicle in Florida (within 30 days)
• Register to vote at the Supervisor of Elections office
• Introduce yourself to neighbors
• Locate nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and hospital
• File for Homestead Exemption at the Property Appraiser office
• Set up waste collection service if not included in HOA

First Month

Establish Residency

• Complete Homestead Exemption application (save on property taxes)
• Update your will and estate plan for Florida law
• Register with a Florida primary care physician
• Find specialists if needed (Sarasota has excellent healthcare)
• Explore your new community: parks, beaches, restaurants, shops
• Join local groups, clubs, or neighborhood associations
• Create a hurricane preparedness plan and emergency kit
• Learn about your evacuation zone (Sarasota County Emergency Management)
• Schedule a home inspection for insurance purposes
• Enjoy your first sunset on the Gulf Coast