11 Things To Do When Moving to a New State

Relocating to Florida opens up a world of sunny days, beautiful beaches, and an unbeatable equestrian scene. But alongside the excitement of living in the Sunshine State, there are practical steps you’ll need to take to settle in smoothly. Here's a detailed guide you can use if you’re moving to Florida so your transition is as easy as a day on the beach.

First things first: change your address. This step is crucial for receiving important mail, from tax information to bank statements, at your new Florida home.

Start with updating your address through the USPS to forward mail from your previous residence. Then, make sure to notify banks, insurance providers, credit card companies, and any other service providers.

Florida law requires new residents to obtain a Florida driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency, and vehicle registration should be completed within that same window.

Visit a local Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office to take care of these tasks. Bring the required documents, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency.

Getting your new Florida home up and running means arranging services like electricity, water, gas, and internet. You can start researching available providers in your specific city to find the best options before you even arrive.

Many Florida utility companies allow you to schedule service start dates ahead of your move, ensuring everything is ready when you arrive. Remember to disconnect services at your previous home to avoid overlap in billing.

If you’re moving to Florida with kids, registering them at a new school is an important step. Start by identifying the school zone for your new home—Florida's public schools are often assigned based on your home’s location. Have key documents ready, including proof of Florida residency, birth certificates, and immunization records.

Florida requires a specific immunization form (Form 680) for school registration, which you can obtain from a Florida doctor or the health department. Scheduling a school visit with your child can help them adjust more easily and become familiar with their new environment.

Florida has an abundance of healthcare providers and specialists, but finding the right ones for you and your family is essential. Ask for referrals from your current doctors or search online to read reviews of providers in your new area. Confirm that your insurance is accepted at your chosen practices before scheduling appointments.

For those with pets, a good veterinarian is just as important. Many areas of Florida have vet clinics that cater to the unique needs of pets living in a warm climate, including guidance on heat safety for dogs and cats.

Florida is known for its festivals, cultural events, and outdoor activities. Following the official social media pages of your new town or city can keep you in the loop. From art festivals in Miami to local farmers' markets in Wellington, these pages often share updates on community events and activities.

Florida’s warm weather means year-round opportunities to stay active. Consider joining a community center or gym offering fitness classes, yoga on the beach, or art workshops. For families, Florida has plenty of options for kids, like soccer leagues, swimming classes, and dance studios.

Adults can also join clubs or recreational sports leagues, like softball or tennis, to make new friends while staying active. It's an easy way to blend physical activity with socializing, helping you to feel at home in no time.

Florida is known for having no state income tax, but it does have property taxes that vary depending on your county. Each county uses a different millage rate, which is applied to your property's assessed value to calculate your tax bill. For new homeowners, understanding how property assessments are made and what exemptions are available can help save money.

Florida offers a homestead exemption that reduces the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000, potentially lowering your property tax bill. Be sure to apply for this exemption through your county’s property appraiser's office soon after closing on your home.

One of Florida’s biggest draws is the absence of a state income tax, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore the tax implications of your move. While you won’t be paying state income taxes, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Florida's sales tax, which varies by county but generally falls around 6-7%.

If you're moving from a state with income tax, this can be a pleasant adjustment, but knowing how sales taxes apply can help you budget better.

Florida offers a variety of social groups and clubs, making it easy to find like-minded people in your new city. Whether you’re into boating, gardening, or art, there’s likely a club that fits your interests. For those living near the coast, joining a fishing or boating club can be a great way to experience Florida’s beautiful waters and meet others with similar hobbies.

Many Florida neighborhoods host regular events like barbecues, block parties, or holiday celebrations. These are great opportunities to introduce yourself, learn about the area, and get recommendations for local restaurants, parks, and hidden gems. Wellington, for example, is known for its equestrian events and nearby farmers’ markets, while Miami offers cultural gatherings and food festivals year-round.

Getting involved in neighborhood activities can help you feel connected and settled in your new Florida home.

Relocating to Florida is an adventure, but it’s always helpful to have a guide. For those looking to make Wellington, Florida, feel like home, reach out to The Drahan-Keiser Team. Their deep knowledge of Florida's real estate market means you’ll have a trusted partner by your side, guiding you through every step of the moving process.

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a home, The Drahan-Keiser Team is ready to help. Connect with them today.