By
eHow Personal Finance Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step1
Find Florida movers. Depending on where you're moving from, many cities have movers who strictly handle moves to Florida. If the movers are reputable, this might be the fastest, most efficent way to move to Florida. Be sure to get references for any potential movers and check their status with the Better Business Bureau online.
Step2
Go through your belongings and sell any snow shovels, sleds, snowsuits and other heavy winter clothing. While northern parts of Florida do get cold weather, you'll rarely see snow. If you're moving to South Florida, you can get away with a handful of sweaters and a fleece jacket or two.
Step3
Learn Spanish--at least a few conversational terms. Hispanics and Latinos are the largest minority population in most of Florida and knowing how to get by in Spanish will be a big help if you get lost in your new hometown and need directions--or just want to be friendly to your new neighbors.
Step4
Investigate the local school district before purchasing a home in Florida. Many public schools in the state are in poor standing and you'll need to know if you need to put money aside for private school if you have school-age children. The public school rank is also important for resale value whether you have kids or not.
Step5
Learn about Florida's unique tax system for homebuyers before purchasing a home. Your tax rate can vary substantially--determining the price of the home you can afford to buy.
Step6
Purchase a house with a spare room if you can afford it. Not only will you need the storage space since most Florida homes don't have basements, but you'll also need a place for guests to stay. Once you live in the Sunshine State, everyone wants to visit you.
