Last Updated on July 31, 2019 by Gardens Home Management Services
Do you have a vision for your retirement? Many people dream about the snowbird lifestyle, where they move to warmer parts of the country such as Florida for a few months of the year. There are a number of considerations to keep in mind if you want to set up a snowbird lifestyle, including the following:
Health Care
Not only do you need access to doctors and hospitals while you are snowbirding, but you need to make sure that your health care scheme will cover you if you are moving between states. Traditional Medicaid should be fine, but if you have supplement gap coverage, make sure that you are not limited to treatment in your current state.
Taxes
The amount of time you plan on spending in Florida varies between people. If you plan to spend half the year at your second home, you should consider establishing permanent residency in the state that offers the best tax environment. You can compare taxes between states here.
Renting vs. Ownership
Deciding whether to rent or buy a second home is a big decision. If you are nearing retirement, then you need to make sure you can cover the cost of owning two homes. While renting may seem cheaper in the short term, you could be spending a fortune on hotel accommodation if you are planning on migrating to Florida every year for a few months.
One of the biggest questions you need to ask yourself is whether you are comfortable going to the same location each year. Many people want their second home to be set up specifically for them, with their own furniture and items. If this sounds like you, then investing in a property is probably your best bet.
Home Management and Home Watch Services
You will need someone to keep an eye on your property and do potential repairs and maintenance while you are away. This way, you can fully enjoy your Florida home when you are here. Gardens Home Management Services can take care of your home with weekly inspections as well as a number of services such as mattress cleaning, handyman services, landscaping, pest control, and much more. Contact us today to find out more about our home management services in Florida.