The Benefits of Active Adult Communities in Florida

Most of us fear aging. This is because of the picture we’ve got drawn in regards to the limitations of what older people are capable of doing. We see a dull and worn out existence at old age homes. The retired people also see less of their pals and family members.

If this describes what you see as part of your foreseeable future, you will certainly dread growing older. However, this shouldn’t be so. Old age ought to be a culmination of your life. It is the time when your anxieties are gone and do what you really want to accomplish.

Investing in a dynamic adult community is one of the very best methods for getting a content old age. Unlike the standard old age homes, residing in this neighborhood is filled with joy and exhilaration. You’ll certainly find something exciting to do. This may make you more looking forward to retiring. However, what is an active adult neighborhood? It is a community wherein inhabitants have age constraints. A new member of the residence ought to be no less than fifty five years old to be accommodated in the community. In some other places, the lowest age is 62.

There are lots of advantages of residing here. Some of them are outlined below:

It is not dreary. Boredom is a major reason why senior citizens get sad easily. Residing in this type of community eradicates this. Unless, of course if the resident prefers to stay at home and get pleasure from some peace and quiet. However, if you visit this type of neighborhood, you’ll most likely see retirees walking around the neighborhood, hanging around their favorite spot in the neighborhood and just having a fine afternoon with their pals outside their residences.

There is interaction between neighbors. This is why inhabitants don’t feel alone. They can make brand new buddies. They can be certain that they will not have to contend with rowdy youngsters or loud young children playing or running around the neighborhood. Since they are living with people in the same age group, they have similar needs and they can get along pretty well.

Amenities are available for them as well. These types of communities have almost all the things that retired people get pleasure from. There are hiking and bicycling trails created for them. There’s also a golf course they can take pleasure in and a fitness center built specifically for them.

The structure of the houses is for their benefits as well. The residences are single storey houses so that they do not have to go up and down the stairs, which can easily tire them. Cleaning is easy as well. The maintenance needed by their yards is also minimal.

Retiring is not such a bad thing especially if you invest in active adult communities Florida. You can unwind and take pleasure in at the same time by benefiting from the amenities and facilities provided to you.

Investment Property in Florida – Whats Hot?

The American Sunshine State of Florida has always been one of the favourite destinations for travellers around the world. The alluring tropical weather, pristine beaches, and inviting landmarks in the State are too good to resist for the locals and the visitors alike. The relaxing lifestyle of Florida’s coastal culture adds to the charm of a retired life the Brits yearn for during their entire youthful life. Due to diverse hotspots, Florida is not just popular with the retired brigade, but also with the kids and youth alike.

What Makes Florida a Hot Investment Destination? Florida could be termed as the southernmost State of the United States of America. Surrounded by Sea and Ocean, Florida is every bit a coastal State that has natural richness of beauty and some scenic glory. Florida beckons with hundreds of pristine sandy beaches lined with towering palm trees and affording the best environs to relax your woes away. With year-round tropical sun warming the Floridan air, the weather in Florida presents the best of America to the world, and is a major reason for property investment in Florida.

It’s not only the weather that gravitates people from all over the world towards Florida, but the overall living standards enhanced by the recreational facilities in the State and its vicinity that are the USP of Florida. The State is home to the world famous Disneyland or Walt Disney Resort in Orlando – a favourite among children and adults alike. Besides, you get to enjoy a plethora of activities in Florida, like golfing, fishing, dining and theatre etc.

Florida is the fourth most populous State of the USA and home to nearly 16 million residents. The ever-increasing popularity of Florida as a dream destination for first and second homes is further contributing to the riches of this giant peninsular State.

Florida is not a single-community State. Thanks to its all-round beauty and better standards of living, the State attracts people from all around the world and this makes Florida a truly multicultural paradise on Earth. Further, Florida boasts of different kinds of lifestyles in different regions. For instance, the coastal lifestyle may not be the same as that of Central Florida. The Gulf Coast towns and cities are known for being more relaxed, while the East Coast of Florida is a little more fast-paced.

Florida is flocked by tourists all the year round, which makes the demand for property – both rental and disposable – in constant demand. You can easily earn regular rental income or just stay during holidays or permanently make Florida your next permanent destination.

Florida is very well connected both within and outside the country with regular flights to and from the State. With an elaborate road and rail network to support the airways, you can look forward to easy accessibility to the Florida state.

The availability of different kinds of properties to suit every kind of taste and preference is another important factor that works in favour of Florida real estate investment.

Though the legal process governing the real estate transactions in Florida is a little tedious and cumbersome, every effort is worth the time and energies spent, as you’d hardly find a place under the Sun that is so perfect in terms of living standards. Moreover, if you are prepared to hire an attorney for all the documentary spadework and other tax hassles related to owning a property in Florida, chances are that you won’t be troubled by all the legal formalities.

Hottest Investment Destinations in Florida You can easily find different properties for sale all around Florida. However, there are certain regions and cities that are more preferred by investors for obvious reasons.

For those seeking out a flurry of tourism-related activities around, the town of Kissimmee offers the best bet. Situated in Osceola County, Kissimmee’s close proximity to the Disney World makes it a real estate magnet in the region. Property in Kissimmee has a rich heritage and an enviable landscape with close proximity to some of the world’s premier holiday attractions. The town is within eighteen miles of Orlando and is ideally located to go further west and explore the golden beaches of Clearwater or the Space Coast to the east.

Miami is every bit a modern city with a vibrant lifestyle, world-class hotels and restaurants, some fabulous beaches and a buzzing nightlife. If you want the real thrill of Miami, don’t forget to invest in the beachfront property here, which range from villas to apartments to nice residential homes.

Tampa and Orlando are other big cities in Florida that are always in the pink for the real estate investors. The cities offer choicest options for some great rental income from apartments, villas, luxury, and holiday homes. Orlando’s world famous theme parks have a unique charm of their own that is so very irresistible for the adventurous Brits.

In all, Florida is a combination of everything you want irrespective of the kind of lifestyle you are looking for. From relaxed to adventurous to youthful to exuberant to childish, you can enjoy almost every activity under the Sun.

Independent Versus Assisted Retirement Living in Florida

As peopleage,manychooseto moveto Florida retirementcommunitiesto takeadvantage of the year-roundwarmthand sunshine. Depending on theirneeds;, retireesmay chooseto moveintoeither an independentlivingfacilityor an assistant livingcommunity.Many seniorcommunitiesofferboth options — independentlivingfor thosewho can takecareof themselves;, and assistedlivingfor seniors;who may needa littlehelpwitheverydaytasks.

Independent Living

Many retirementcommunitiesin Florida basethemselves;aroundthe conceptof independentliving. Thesefacilitiesare justwhat they soundlike– independentlivingcenterswhere peopleare generallyableto takecareof themselves;. Residents are physically active and ableto walkaroundthe community.They are ableto bathe and dress themselves;, can manage theirmedicationsproperly, and are freefromseverely debilitatingphysical ailmentsand memoryloss.

Florida independentlivingcentersare about staying;healthy;, active, and enjoying all that lifehas to offer.Most retirementcommunitiesoffernumerousactivitieslikewalking;groups, water aerobics,tai chi, and otherfitnessclasses. In addition to fitnessoptions, manyluxury seniorlivingcommunitiesalsohave bingo, movies, bridge, arts and crafts,socials;, musicalentertainment, and regularoutings.Seniors who can live an independentlifestyle;, but wantto be nearfriends as wellas a qualified, professionalmedicalstaff availableat any time of day,shouldconsider livingin an independentretirementlivingcenter.

Assisted Living

Many retireeswho can live independently;and thosewho needthe helpof a medicalstaff on a dailybasischooseto relocateto warmerareaslikeCalifornia or Florida. Assisted livingcommunitiesare for peoplewho may needhelpwithactivitiesof dailyliving, such as walking;, bathing, and dressing. They may alsoneedhelpwithmedication management and requiredailynursingassistance as well.Oftentimes,residentsof assistedlivingfacilitiessufferfrommemorylossor impairment,and needsomeoneto helpthemto and fromtheirroomaroundthe clock.

However, thosein assistedlivingretirementcommunitiescan stillstayactive. With the helpof a dedicated medicalstaff,residentscan participatein physical activitieslikewalks;, water aerobics,and beach ball volleyball. As in independentlivingcenters, thosein assistedlivingcan alsotakepart in recreational and socialactivitieslikebridge games, musicalentertainment, and bingo.

Choosing The RightType Of Living

It can sometimes be hardto know if you or yourlovedone shouldbe in an independentlivingcommunity or assistedlivingcommunity.The main thingto consider is if the personcan manage theiractivitiesin dailylifewithout;any assistance.If they can generallytakecareof themselves;, are physically able, can remember to taketheirmedicines,and are freefrommemorylossor major physical ailments, an independentlivingcommunity will usuallysuffice.

Otherwise, the personprobablyneeds;an assistedlivingcenter. Those debatingbetween the two types of seniorlivingshoulddiscussthe options withtheirhealthcareprovider, and tourdifferentretirementcommunitiesin the area. With time,you\’ll find the right fit for yourneeds;and lifestyle;.

Retire to Paradise: Niceville, Florida

If you are looking to relocate “somewhere nice” during your retirement you need look no further than Niceville, Florida.  A charming little town tucked away discreetly in the panhandle of the sunshine state, Niceville lives up to its name in more ways than one.  Beachfront views, golfing, boating and small town charm are all reasons that people have decided to make Niceville their home.  However, despite its natural beauty and easy pace, it remains one of the best kept secrets on the U.S. east coast and has a population well under 15,000.

For retirees moving to Niceville, Florida; furnished apartments rentals are the ideal solution.  No need to pack and move a huge van across the country in order to find a huge house and get stuck maintaining it.  You’ve spent your entire life with responsibilities like raising a family and caring for your home on your shoulders.  Now, you can enjoy your golden years by checking out Niceville, Florida’s furnished apartments rentals; and you can spend your time golfing instead of mowing the lawn.

Some of the most beautiful apartments you’ll ever see are the Bluewater Bay rentals in Niceville, FL.  All the fun and none of the commitment; you’ll be able to sign a long term lease and move in with no muss or fuss.  Just imagine a vacation that lasts all year.  With comfortable accommodations, tasteful décor and all the amenities of home you won’t miss spending all your time taking care of a house when you could be spending your time really living.

The furnished apartments at Bluewater Bay in Niceville, Florida have a pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse for mixing with other couples.  But perhaps the most alluring thing about this resort is that it is adjacent the Bluewater Bay Marina.  Sailing is a hobby and a passion for many, and being within walking distance of your dream boat is the ideal way to live. 

You’ll love the small town atmosphere where everyone knows you name at the local market and you don’t have to worry about crime, violence, pollution and an insane pace that many modern cities live by.  Take the plunge and find out about the furnished apartments at Bluewater Bay in Niceville, Florida.  Plan a short trip to visit this warm, balmy community; and don’t put it off any longer.  You’ve worked hard your entire life and now is the time to really enjoy everything that life has to offer.

Baby Boomers Still Fueling Florida Real Estate Options

Whether it is buying a second home or acting on the long-planned dream of retiring to a sun destination, Baby Boomers are moving to Florida to take advantage of a well-deserved rest from the corporate world, or other nine-to-five path they had been on. The current excess of properties at reduced prices in Florida provides a perfect opportunity for new retirees to purchase a home and join the fun in an active community.

Of course, the old adage “location, location, location” still applies when purchasing a retirement property in Florida. Baby Boomers are at an age where they can take advantage of activities such as golf, water sports, biking and other outdoor adventures. The life span for healthy Baby Boomers will allow them to still be celebrating birthdays long into their 80s or 90s. However, aging also means needing easy access to medical facilities, which is part of their decision making when purchasing homes in Florida.

As one of the largest demographics in the country at roughly 28%, or 74 million adults born between 1946 and 1964, Baby Boomers were part of the “me generation” and had access to a plentiful job market and a good economy in the 1980s. This allowed people to get into their first home and they took advantage of the rise in real estate. Many people succeeded in putting away funds for retirement and are now reaping the benefits of good planning. Being able to sell their home at a significant profit has further allowed Baby Boomers to purchase their retirement residence in the destination of their choice.

You know a topic is current when there is a conference promoting the subject, like the 2010 Florida Boomer Lifestyle Conference. This event highlights the state’s lifestyle offerings and shines a light on how vibrant this generation is today, and how it will be in the years to come. As the saying goes, “60 is the new 40.” Baby Boomers are taking advantage of all that life has to offer, from education to travel to starting their own businesses. Buying a home in a sun destination is just one piece of their retirement plan.

Many promotional pieces show images of couples enjoying retirement activities, but there are also many single men and women who, after years of marriage, are living the single life and enjoying every minute. These people are Baby Boomers who are also looking into purchasing homes in retirement communities, where they can join in on activities with other adults, either singles or couples.

Information options for Boomers wanting to retire in Florida include a number of books and websites devoted to the topic. In the spring of 2004, a Baby Boomer survey was conducted and it noted that 55 percent of boomers would move when they retire. They plan to purchase a home in an Active Adult Community, and Florida is an ideal choice with its sunny climate and plethora of activities for men and women. Recently, a retirement-based website stated that six Florida cities made the list for 20 Most Affordable and Best Places to Retire.

Staying In Shape: How 55+ Communities In Florida Help

Living in one of many 55+ communities in Florida offers retirees the opportunity to keep up their active and healthy life styles. Retiring generally allows seniors the time and energy to enjoy their lives, their families, and their homes, but there is no reason not to stay healthy as well.

On-site Fitness Centers

It’s quite simple to stay fit by taking advantage of the benefits of living in 55+ communities in Florida. Numerous homes offer fitness centers on site with staff on call to assist with machines and other exercise equipment. The staff can also craft plans based on physical limitations such as cardiovascular conditions, arthritis, or other illnesses that may require modifications for exercise.

Golf, Tennis And Other Outdoor Sports

Fitness centers aren’t the only way to stay in shape at 55+ adult communities in Florida. There are numerous sports to play as well. Golf, for instance, is fun, relaxing and challenging and walking 18 holes is great for staying in shape. Another popular game is tennis. Lighted tennis courts provide gaming time from early morning to late at night, offering time to play without being under the hot Florida sun. Improving on skills for these two games is quite easy because coaches are there to teach techniques for better serves, and swings.

Other gaming options include basketball courts, pickleball, and softball. With so many people living in the same area there are always people willing to play and many communities put together leagues for fun competition. Equipment is pretty easy to get a hold of too, if it isn’t available on-site, stores are within a 5-minute drive to get whatever is needed, possibly by golf cart.

Classes And Other Amenities That Help Active Adults Stay In Shape

While fitness centers and sports are great ways to stay active, there are other choices too. Fitness classes offered are usually fun and challenging as well. Instructors are especially trained in coaching seniors through classes like yoga, Zumba, spinning, and more. They are aware of the modifications that might be needed in the cases of certain limitations, while still allowing everyone to participate.

Most active adult communities have a community pool with lifeguards on staff who teach classes. Aqua dynamics, aerobics, and lap swim, allow seniors who love the water to stay fit. The water is a great place to get exercise for low impact activity. The water has enough give to it, that no one gets hurt, but provides a low amount of resistance to achieve the benefit of improving strength.

With so many options available to continue staying active in 55+ adult communities in Florida, there’s no reason any active adult wouldn’t love one of the luxurious homes available there. Having the great weather means being able to enjoy every hobby possible year-round.

Hawaii or Florida: Where Should You Retire?

If you’re getting ready for retirement, one of the most important decisions you need to make is where you’re going to live. Will you continue to stay in your current home, or is it your dream to retire somewhere warm?

Retirees have historically been drawn to tropical environments because milder temperatures tend to be easier on the body and the spirit. If you relocate to a warmer climate, there’ll be no more shoveling snow or nervously walking along icy sidewalks. There’ll be no more winter blues, and no more isolation due to winter weather conditions. You’ll be able to walk around outside any day of the year, and be more independent because of it.

In addition to seeking gentler weather, people also yearn to fulfill a lifelong dream. We associate the word ‘paradise’ with warm breezes, white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and a laidback lifestyle. This utopian vision of life is what many of us have been working for all these years. In fact, many people find that retirement is the first opportunity to truly go after one’s dreams, so now’s the time to go after your idea of paradise.

Two of the most popular retirement destinations in the United States include Southwest Florida and Hawaii. Both offer mild climates, amazing views, and gorgeous beachfront. Their waters are warm and brightly colored, their sands are white and powdery, and they offer summer-like temperatures nearly all year long.

SW Florida and Hawaii are similar upon first glance, but how does a retiree choose which one to go with? It all truly depends on what you’re looking for in terms of living costs and real estate values, geography and climate, business and medical services, amenities, and lifestyle.

Real Estate Values & Cost of Living

The cost of living in Southwest Florida is definitely cheaper than in Hawaii. Staples such as food and gas are priced higher on the islands because most things need to be shipped there. By its very nature as an island state, Hawaii is cut off from the rest of the country, so many items cost more.

Hawaii is renowned for having some of the most expensive real estate in the country, though there are more affordable properties like condominiums and older homes available as well. If you’re planning to buy a home right on the beach, be prepared to pay a mint for it.

Florida has its share of multi-million dollar houses as well, and like Hawaii, waterfront property in Florida is quite expensive. There are however, properties available at more price points in the Sunshine State. Groceries, gas, and other basic costs of living are more on par with the rest of the nation as well.

In terms of real estate values, the Florida housing market is one of the worst affected in terms of foreclosures. There are deals to be had if you’re a buyer, but sellers are having a tough time offloading their homes. Hawaiian property values haven’t been affected nearly as much by foreclosures, and properties there continue to sell.

Geography & Climate

Southwest Florida is a sunbather’s dream. Temperatures stay quite mild throughout the winter, but can be unbearably hot and humid in the summer.

In Hawaii however, temperatures remain fairly consistent all year long—usually in the mid-70s. There’s also a wonderful breeze that keeps residents feeling comfortable even in the warmest months.

In terms of geography, Florida is quite flat and somewhat uninteresting as soon as you move away from the water. Hawaii, on the other hand, features wonderful mountains and gorgeous scenery throughout. Florida is also more vulnerable to strong hurricanes that develop along the Gulf. Hawaii is not immune to storms, but their impact is usually less dramatic than along the Florida coast.

Services & Amenities

Hawaii has less stores and services than on the mainland, but all your needs can be taken care of on the island of Oahu. SW Florida will be more convenient simply in terms of the sheer variety of shopping, entertainment, and transportation options. Honolulu will also have pretty much everything you’d need, like you’d find in any large city.

Lifestyle

Florida’s cities are quite fast paced. The traffic is heavier, and people are bustling about. The lifestyle in Hawaii though, is pretty laidback. Business suits can be put away, and you can leave many of your stresses behind. The pace on Oahu is slower, and communities are more close-knit. One caveat however, is that some people get “island fever,” and need to visit the mainland once in a while. The area can become a bit claustrophobic for some, so it’s important to leave once or twice a year to gain clarity and renew your love for island life.

Conclusion

Florida is a wonderful retirement destination for many retirees. It’s convenient and easy for family members to get to, with beautiful Gulf views, and a lower cost of living when compared to the islands. Hawaii is for those who can afford to pay a little bit more for their version of paradise. The people are friendly, the scenery incomparable, and the weather is among the most enviable in the world. It all depends on what’s important to you. If you like city life, then Florida is perhaps the better bet. If you’re looking to get away from it all, while still being within arm’s reach of the services you need, the Hawaii is your golden ticket for retirement.

Retire in Style: Move to Cape Coral Florida

Finding those stairs a little more tiresome?

Does the grass seem to need cutting more often these days?

Getting older often signals a move and whether you are a baby boomer ready to pack up and follow the sun, or a senior about to pursue your dream, the Cape Coral area is a retirement paradise. The City of Cape Coral itself is not very senior – being only half a century old, so all its buildings are still new and sparkling. The yacht club, medical clinic, golf course and shopping centers are all efficiently up to date.

Although there is a large retirement population, Cape Coral boasts a diverse age range, with the over sixties forming less than half the overall population. There is a big plus to this: when your family comes to visit you in this holiday haven, they can choose from many amusements, including Sun Splash Water Park, Mike Greenwell’s Family Fun Park and the most recent addition, the 27,000 square foot Eagle Skate Park.

There is also the Independence Day firework display, known amusingly as Red, White and BOOM!!, which is held every July 4th. It is the largest firework display in the whole of the South West Florida area.

Yes, you can forget strenuous plane rides or road trips to visit the grandchildren. Just relax and let them come to you for the vacation of as lifetime. Meanwhile your lifetime will be one long vacation.

To ensure a hassle-free move, there are now newly-trained Senior Real Estate Specialists who will help where they can with some of the more challenging aspects of moving. Referral to an elder law attorney, estate sales or even lawn care are just a few of the problems that this realty service could take care of for you.

Therefore, the daily problem could be as pleasurable as -what shall we do today? There is so much to choose from: dancing fountain shows, ornamental gardens, rose gardens, taking a trip across one of the bridges into bustling Fort Myers or, of course the favorite, playing around on the water. Cape Coral offers enviable beaches, the broadest spectrum of boating choices and world-class fishing with many different species!

For those of you who may be interested in a waterfront property, you can view the prospective properties from both land and water using my floating office. If you are planning a move to the water for the first time, or you need a refresher, there is a plethora of boating instruction, swimming and lifesaving here. You will soon be ready to enter the sailing regattas or power boat races or whatever style of boating is your druthers.

And the tuition doesn’t stop with boats; the community education is much diversified. It spans from computers to cookery, from photography to fishing, from tennis to dance, from languages to landscaping, should I mention the varied exercise classes? …you get the idea. There are many arts and crafts classes and you don’t have to buy your decorative shells or driftwood in a store! There are also several non-profit organizations and volunteer groups who would love to meet you!

Right now is also your best time to meet Cape Coral because it is the ideal time to house hunt as we are in our cooler months, a pleasant seventy degrees and minimal rainfall. The perfect weather for you to be introduced to your new home!

12 Top Reasons To Retire In Citrus County, Florida

1.    Pleasant Year Round Weather
With comfortable winters and breezy summers the Terra Vista area offers ad ideal setting for enjoying all your favorite outdoor sports and activities.  Here, you’ll find a range of temperatures that allows you to comfortably enjoy the Florida experience season after season.  In addition to its balanced temperatures, Citrus County offers historically low hurricane risks compared to other coastal locations statewide.
2.    Attractive Cost of Living
When compared to many Florida destinations, particularly in the southern parts of the state, Citrus County offers an escape from excessive costs.  As highlighted in comparative price index reports, Citrus County ranks among the most affordable places in Florida to live.  Here, you’ll enjoy a high-quality lifestyle where lower costs are prevalent, not only in everyday purchases such as dining out and entertainment, but also for major expenses including housing.  Plus, there’s the added savings of no state income tax and benefits of today’s Homestead Exemption laws and the long-term real estate tax stability they provide.
3.    Balanced Location
From its vantage point north of Tampa Bay in the heart of the Nature Coast, Citrus County offers uncluttered beauty accentuated by towering oaks, pristine spring-fed rivers and the rolling hills that founded the area’s unique “Alps of Florida” reputation.  This is uniquely balanced by the wealth of cultural, fine dining, shopping, and urban pursuits found just a short drive away in metropolitan Tampa Bay, Orlando, Ocala, and Gainesville.
4.    Outstanding Outdoor Recreation
Aptly referred to as Mother Nature’s Theme Park, Citrus County has 22 miles of lakes, 7 rivers and a Gulf of Mexico coastline.  Enhanced by our beautiful weather, residents enjoy world-class golfing and fishing; diving and snorkeling; boating and kayaking; and the many hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities provided in the area’s many parks and preserves, including the sprawling Withlacoochee State Forest.
5.    Not Crowded
Citrus County offers an escape from the crowds increasingly found in many parts of Florida, especially the Southeast and Southwest regions.  Here, you’ll enjoy a more balanced pace of life without the stress caused by heavy traffic, long lines, and overcrowding.
6.    Preserved & Ecologically Balanced
While south Florida grows more and more cluttered, Citrus County offers a pristine and picturesque lifestyle.  Its home to the many state forests and preserves, some of the most productive saltwater estuaries in Florida, as well as seven of the state’s outstanding crystal-clear waterways.  And this natural, untouched beauty will remain unspoiled because the County has protected about 50 percent of its land from future development.  While much of Florida suffers from near critical water shortages, we’re in the enviable position of having an ongoing supply of high-quality water from the largest collection of major magnitude springs of any county in the state.
7.    Amenity-Rich Suburb
Citrus County offers the full range of amenities your active lifestyle demands.  From nearby shopping and diverse restaurant choices to local theatre productions and area festivals, you’ll find Terra Vista is an exciting, convenient place to enjoy great suburban Florida living.
8.    Excellent Health Care
Offering a wide range of outstanding health care options right near home brings peace of mind.  Living in Citrus Hills, you’ll have convenient access to two hospitals, hundreds of highly regarded family and specialty physicians and dozens of outpatient surgery and diagnostic centers.  And just a short drive away awaits the world-class health care services at Shands Health Care in Gainesville.
9.    Low Crime
Of the 67 counties in Florida, Citrus County boasts one of the lowest crime rates.  In keeping with our great suburban setting, residents enjoy a lifestyle free from the threats and worries often experienced in more populated parts of the state.  Plus, our Sheriff’s Department has earned national accolades and accreditation for its unwavering pursuit of safety and diligent crime-prevention efforts.
10.    Educational Opportunities
With a long-standing tradition for excellence, Citrus County offers a comprehensive array of educational opportunities to meet the needs of our diverse population, ranging from educational enrichment courses for retirees to outstanding pre-schools.  Our public schools boast one of the lowest student-teacher ratios in the state, and there are several private school options.  Our community college and technical school offer local higher educational opportunities at very affordable rates.
11.    Poised for Florida’s Future
Citrus County lies in a unique position along the coastal edge of Florida’s Central Belt, a region where the real focus of future growth lies.  In terms of bustling hubs of commerce, Citrus County is advantageously located just a short distance from the flourishing metro centers of Orlando, Gainesville and Tampa Bay.  Located even closer, is the blossoming city of Ocala.
12.    Amazing Quality of Life
Set amidst gently rolling hills in the heart of Florida’s Nature Coast, this northern suburb of Tampa Bay offers all the amenities you desire to live life to its fullest.  Balanced year-round weather, idyllic natural beauty, great schools, advanced medical care and superb golf, tennis, boating, and fishing all combine with a rare spirit of community to create an enchanting place few places can rival.

Florida Vacation Homes: Buying and Owning in the Sunshine State

By now you’ve heard the news. With a surplus of homes and a temporary lack of interested buyers, real estate in Florida is on sale. For those looking for a second home, or thinking about going ahead and buying a home that they may actually retire to in a couple of years, it’s a great time to be in the market.

But, should current home prices and real estate market mania be the only factors under consideration?

Of course not, so let’s ignore prices for just a moment and explore some of the other factors that need to play into your Florida real estate purchase decisions today. I’m talking about things like:

• finding the best part of Florida for you

• how to choose the right type of community

• real estate taxes and property insurance, and

• maintaining your new home in Florida while you’re away

Consider this your road map to buying a second home or your eventual retirement home in Florida today.

Finding The Best Florida Location for You

One of the most common mistakes people make when buying in Florida is finding a home, falling in love with it instantly, buying it or having it built, and then waking up after the first night in it and realizing the surrounding area has nothing to offer you in terms of your pastimes or interests.

The home is important, of course, but you should spend just as much time investigating the surrounding area as you do looking for the perfect home. You should ask yourself if the area and surrounding community offer the types of activities you enjoy and the level of shopping, dining, and other services you’re used to or expect.

For Jeff and Laura Harris of New Hampshire, choosing the town of Port Orange on the east coast of Florida for their second home was an easy decision. Jeff says, “My brother Dan has owned a house 10 minutes away for a couple years prior to us moving down. We’d been to visit him several times and fell in love with the area. Plus with him nearby we’ve always got someone to hang out with.”

Also, think about family members you hope to come visit, your kids and grand kids. Is it more important to be 10 minutes from Disney World, or do they prefer to spend most of their time relaxing on the beach? The last thing you want to do is move to Florida leaving your kids and grand kids behind, and then nobody wants to come visit you because there’s nothing to do.

What kind of community is right for you: Choosing the right kind of community for your retirement or second home plays a close second to choosing the right place.

There are gated communities, maintenance-free communities, active-adult communities, manufactured home communities, golf communities, condominium communities, as well as combinations of each of these types. You should seriously consider what type of community and what combination of community amenities will be right for your lifestyle, because the type of community your home is in will determine a lot of things such as your enjoyment and quality of life, not to mention your home’s future value if that’s important to you.

New Hampshire’s Jeff and Laura chose a maintenance-free, gated community for their second home. “We liked the fact that everything would be taken care of for us while we are away. We didn’t lose any sleep wondering if the yard had been cut or if the shrubs had been trimmed and it was all covered in our monthly assessments. Plus the security gates gave us an added peace of mind.”

The community Jeff and Laura chose also included a clubhouse, the fees for which account for nearly one-third of their monthly assessment. Laura says, “it’s nice knowing it’s there if we want to use it, but I can’t really say we get our money’s worth out of it.”

Another important consideration when choosing a community is the restrictions that you’ll be expected to abide by. These can either work in your favor, or against you.

For example, if your neighbor wants to paint his house school bus yellow, most communities with restrictions would require an architectural board’s approval before your neighbor could go through with his painting project, and his request would hopefully be denied.

But lets suppose for a moment that part of your Florida daydream includes a 24-foot motorboat, but after towing it home you realize it won’t fit in your garage. If you think you’ll just stick it in the backyard or park it in the driveway, you might have a problem in most communities with restrictions.

But in either case, these restrictions are an important part of maintaining order in a community and protecting the aesthetics as well as home values.

Insuring your piece of paradise

Homeowners insurance rates, especially in coastal areas of Florida, tend to be higher than what you might be used to, and coverage can be hard to find depending on the location, age of the home and the type of construction. This is ultimately a result of the 2004 hurricane season when no less than four hurricanes affected the Florida peninsula.

“The insurance issue definitely played a role in our choice of neighborhood. We knew the further inland we chose, the better off we’d be as far as rates were concerned,” said Jeff.

Another reality you’ll have to contend with is that of the 200 or so private homeowners insurance companies in Florida, less than 20 percent are writing new policies. That said, insurance is available, you may just have look a little harder than you might have expected.

So, where should you start? After asking for referrals from your real estate agent or friends and family already living in Florida, you should also be sure to check the Florida Market Assistance Program at www.fmap.org. This is a referral service created by the Florida legislature to connect those who need homeowners insurance with those who are writing new policies.

If all else fails, you can always turn to Citizens Property Insurance at http://www.citizensfla.com, the state run “insurer of last resort”. Rates will be higher than in the private market, and this is by design so that the government doesn’t compete with private insurers. So, in the end you’ll pay more but it beats going uninsured.

One last insurance recommendation is flood insurance. Most people neglect to get it, as its not required in all areas, and if you own your home free and clear, it’s not required at all. But, no matter if it’s required in the area your Florida home is in or not, you should definitely consider it. You’ll find that the rates are fairly reasonable, especially in areas where coverage is not required.

Property Taxes

In most parts of the state you should expect to pay between 1.5 and two percent of your home’s assessed value when you get your tax bill. The best way to get an idea of what your tax bite may be once you own a home in Florida is to contact the local property appraiser’s office.

Their job, besides placing a value on all property in their area, is to provide residents and prospective homeowners with the most current property tax information. You can find links to most county property appraiser’s websites at the Florida Department of Revenue website at http://dor.myflorida.com/dor/property/appraisers.html

Homeowners who qualify for the homestead exemption by making Florida their primary residence enjoy a $25,000 reduction in the assessed value of their home, which affords the average homeowner about a $500 savings each year on their tax bill. A new proposal to increase the amount of homestead exemption to $50,000 will come up for a vote in January 2008.

Another part of the proposal up for vote in January is a cap of 10 percent on increases in assessments for homes owned by people who are not full-time residents. Many politicians and real estate agents lobbied for a five percent cap on non-homesteaded property (homesteaders currently enjoy a three percent cap) but they were ultimately unsuccessful.

But unless Florida home prices spike again in the near future, this shouldn’t be a major issue for those of you who are not planning on making your Florida home a permanent residence.

Home (left) Alone

Another thing to consider when purchasing a second home in Florida, is what will become of it when you’re hundreds or thousands of miles away in another state. How can you be sure that everything is taken care of while you’re away?

Assuming you don’t have the convenience of having a friend or relative in the area like the Harrises did, you could opt for a maintenance-free community, or even a townhouse or condominium. In these types of communities you’d know that the exterior of your home was being maintained, and you won’t have any angry looks from the neighbors when you come to visit because your grass is three feet high.

Another option is to hire out the work of maintaining the exterior of your home. The only problem with this is that things happen, people get sick or don’t show up or just go out of business. How would you know if this were to happen to the person in charge of maintaining your home?

The business of “Second Home Concierges” is thriving because so many people are opting for the second home lifestyle. A concierge of this type would typically be given a key to your home, and would perform routine checks of the homes exterior and interior, making sure necessary maintenance is taken care of for you. Fees and the level of services performed vary by area, and you can start your search for businesses offering this service in the pages of this magazine, as well as online.

I hope I’ve given you some important things to think about when considering Florida for a second home or your eventual retirement home. It’s a great place to live, and it’s much more enjoyable when you have the knowledge to make the most of the experience. Follow the information I’ve outlined here and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the Florida lifestyle you’ve dreamed of.

Next Page »