Moving from New York or New Jersey to Florida? Costs to Check Before Buying

New York & New Jersey to Florida | Before You Buy — Part 1

Before You Pack for Florida, Look Beyond the Purchase Price

A sunny balcony, an extra bedroom and a tempting asking price can make a Florida home feel like the perfect next chapter. But before you schedule your move from New York or New Jersey, take a closer look at the expenses that will follow you through the front door.

Start with our short video, then use the questions below to guide your research on each property you consider.

                                   

Watch this Short directly on YouTube

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Florida Home

1. What Will Insurance Cost for This Specific Address?

Request a homeowners insurance quote for the property you are considering. Ask what the proposed policy covers, what it excludes and which deductibles apply. Get the details in writing so you can include the quoted expense in your budget.

2. Have You Investigated Flood Coverage?

Ask an insurance professional to explain flood coverage options for the address. Review available flood information and request a separate quote where appropriate. A home's appearance during a sunny showing does not answer your questions about water risk.

3. What Would the Hurricane Deductible Mean in Dollars?

Ask the insurer to explain any hurricane deductible in the proposed policy. Have them show you a dollar example so you understand the potential expense before choosing coverage.

4. What Property Taxes Should You Budget After Purchasing?

Ask the county property appraiser's office how a purchase could affect the property's assessed value and which exemptions you may qualify for. Request an estimate relevant to your situation rather than building your budget solely around the seller's current tax bill.

5. What Else Comes With a Condo or Association Property?

Request the applicable association documents and financial information. Ask about current dues, what those dues include, reserves, planned projects, pending or approved special assessments, and any restrictions that affect your intended use of the home.

6. What Maintenance Will the Home Need?

Use your inspection findings to ask about the roof, air conditioning, plumbing, windows and other major components. Identify immediate work and likely future expenses before deciding how much room the property leaves in your budget.

Build a Budget Around the Home You Are Actually Buying

Bring your estimates together: financing, insurance, flood coverage, property taxes, association dues, utilities and maintenance. Then account for moving, packing and home setup expenses.

Whether you are considering Fort Lauderdale or another Florida community, gathering property-specific information can help you make a more informed decision about your next home.

This checklist provides general educational questions. Confirm property, insurance, tax and association details with the appropriate qualified professionals.

Next in the Series: A Closer Look at the Open House

Part 2 is planned to explore: “At the Open House: Bring Someone Who Sees What You Miss.” Follow along for another perspective on evaluating a home before moving day.

Plan Your Move With Dizcount Movers

Preparing to relocate from New York or New Jersey to Florida? Contact Dizcount Movers to discuss moving, packing, furniture placement and home setup services for your route and dates.

Call or text 844-992-1999.

Anywhere • Anytime • Anything.
Full-Service Moving & Home Setup Experts.

Follow & save us for more moving and home setup tips. What is the biggest question on your Florida homebuying checklist? Share it in the comments.