Moving from the UK to Florida
If you're considering moving from the UK to Florida, I understand just how exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—the idea can be.
I know because I've done it myself, Been there, Done that and Got the T shirt!
I moved from London to Central Florida in 2006 with my two sons. I had to learn a new way of life, understand a completely different property market and discover which communities actually worked for the lifestyle we wanted. It is not just about choosing a home, there is immigration stress and research not just emotional but nerve racking!
Today, as a Central Florida Realtor®, I use both my personal experience and my knowledge of the local property market to help other people considering the same journey.
Where Should You Live in Central Florida?
If you know Orlando primarily from holidays, choosing somewhere to live can be surprisingly difficult.
Celebration, Kissimmee, Davenport, Windermere and the communities surrounding Walt Disney World may appear relatively close together on a map, but the homes, surroundings, amenities and property options can be very different. Everything is about the lifestyle you are looking for.
Some buyers want to be able to enjoy the restaurants, trails and community atmosphere of Celebration. Others prefer more space, waterfront living, a gated community, newer construction or a luxury property.
That's why I believe your property search should begin with a conversation about how you want to live, rather than simply a list of houses.
Buying a Home in Florida Is Different From Buying in the UK
One of the biggest surprises for many British buyers is how different the American property-buying process can be.
You'll encounter different terminology, contracts, inspections, deposits, homeowners' associations, property taxes, insurance requirements and closing procedures.
Even the role of a Realtor® can feel different from that of an estate agent in the UK.
I help explain what is happening throughout the transaction so that you can make informed decisions and know what to expect as your purchase progresses.
Buying a Florida Property While You're Still in the UK
You don't necessarily have to wait until you've moved to Florida to begin your search.
We can start by discussing your plans, budget and property requirements and then identify communities and properties worth considering.
Technology also makes long-distance property searches much easier. When appropriate, I can provide additional information and video views of properties so you can get a much better understanding of a home than photographs alone can provide.
When you are able to visit Florida, we can then use your time effectively by concentrating on the locations and properties that genuinely fit your requirements.
Understanding the Costs of Owning a Home in Florida
The purchase price isn't the only consideration when buying property in Florida.
Property taxes, homeowners' insurance, homeowners' or condominium association fees, maintenance and other ownership costs should all be considered when deciding which property is right for you.
Florida homes can also have features that may be unfamiliar to British buyers, including swimming pools, screened enclosures, air-conditioning systems, hurricane protection and different roofing and construction considerations.
Understanding these details before purchasing can help you make a much more informed decision.
Looking for a Home Near Disney?
Many British buyers begin their search because they already know and love the Disney and Orlando area.
But living here and holidaying here are very different experiences.
Celebration, Kissimmee and Davenport provide a wide range of residential choices within the greater Disney area, while Windermere and other Central Florida communities offer additional options for buyers seeking luxury properties, waterfront homes or different surroundings.
I can show you more than the properties. I can help you explore the different communities so that you understand what each area offers before deciding where you want to buy.
Looking for Luxury or Waterfront Property?
Central Florida has some exceptional luxury and waterfront properties.
From luxury homes in Celebration and Windermere to lakefront properties around Kissimmee and the surrounding lakes, buyers may be surprised by the variety available within reach of Orlando and Walt Disney World.
If you're searching from the UK, local knowledge becomes particularly valuable because location, community restrictions, water access, insurance considerations and property characteristics aren't always obvious from an online listing.
Already Own a Florida Property?
My work with UK clients isn't limited to people moving to Florida.
If you already own a home, second home or investment property in Central Florida and are considering selling, I can help you understand the current market, your property's positioning and the selling process. I have helped many many homeowners sell their home whilst they are in the UK. I have great resources that will help through the process.
Selling a Florida property while living overseas requires good communication and careful coordination, and I can work with you throughout the process.
From London to Florida — I Understand the Journey
Moving from London to Central Florida changed my life.
Years later, I have built my home, family life and real estate career here, but I haven't forgotten what it was like to arrive from the UK and have to learn how everything worked.
That's one reason I particularly enjoy helping British buyers and sellers.
You don't need to know exactly where you want to live before contacting me. You don't even need to be ready to purchase immediately.
If moving to Florida is something you're beginning to consider, let's start with a conversation.
Tell me what you're hoping to find, what you enjoy about Florida and what questions you have.
I'll help you begin exploring the possibilities.
Deborah Charron, Realtor®
British-born. Central Florida based. Local knowledge with personal service.
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