If you're thinking about buying a primary residence or vacation home in Florida, there are a lot of things to consider. Although choosing the perfect Florida location for you and your family is a personal decision, it's also helpful to do some objective research.
But wait! If the thought of Internet research makes you roll your eyes, cringe, and sigh deeply, we have good news for you! U.S. News & World Report has already done most of the "grunt work"! In its latest ranking of the Best Places to Live, Florida earned 11 spots on the 2018 list.
Based on a public survey and statistics from various government agencies, the Florida cities that compare very favorably to other areas of the country are Melbourne (#29), Sarasota (#34), Fort Myers (#41), Jacksonville (#44), Pensacola (#53), Lakeland (#71), Tampa (#75), Orlando (#78), Port St. Luce (#79), Daytona Beach (#94), and Miami (#110).
The factors U.S. News considered when tabulating its rankings include the local job market, median household incomes, the cost of living, and a formula for determining "quality of life." Its Quality of Life Index reflects statistics and surveys related to crime rates, availability of quality health care, high school rankings, and residents' satisfaction with their financial and physical health, their communities, level of social involvement, and sense of purpose.
Another element of the annual report is a "desirability index," which gauges people's preferences of where they'd like to live. To determine whether a metro area is attracting or losing residents, the rankings also take into consideration what's called a "net migration factor."
While there are dozens of other highly desirable places to live in Florida that did not make the list, the factors used to compile this year's rankings are well worth keeping in mind.
Once you've narrowed down which Florida city, community, or residential development appeals to you the most, the next step is to choose an experienced real estate agent who knows "the lay of the land." Based on your budget, your desired lifestyle, and the type of neighborhood that would best serve your needs, your agent can work with you to pinpoint desirable properties.
Other factors to consider might include your preferred climate, proximity to the beach, access to amenities, and sufficient space to accommodate overnight guests. Whether you're looking for a Florida retirement home, a vacation property, or a primary residence, family and friends from throughout the country will probably enjoy visiting you several times a year -- especially during school vacations and frigid winter months!
For avid golfers, nature lovers, beach combers, and theme park fans, a home in Florida can not only satisfy many of your lifestyle goals, but can often be attained without having to spend beyond your means!
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.