Neighborhoods by lifestyle, taxes, insurance, schools and commutes — what to know before you relocate to Central Florida.
Relocating to Central Florida
Greater Orlando is not one market. Winter Park and College Park feel historic and walkable; Windermere and Dr. Phillips are about lakes and estates; Lake Nona is new and master-planned; Seminole County communities like Longwood, Lake Mary and Oviedo are known for value and schools.
We help out-of-state buyers narrow the map before they fly in — then plan a focused tour so you can see the right homes in one trip. Remote video tours and electronic signing keep things moving once you’re back home.
A 30-minute call to match your budget, commute and lifestyle with the right neighborhoods.
Schedule a callNeighborhoods by Lifestyle
Apopka and the Wekiva Springs area: larger lots, golf and spring-fed parks. Explore →
Florida Money Matters
General information only; confirm details with your tax adviser, county property appraiser and insurance agent.
Florida does not levy a personal state income tax.
Owners who make the home their permanent residence can apply for a homestead exemption with the county property appraiser; the filing deadline is March 1.
Once homesteaded, annual increases in assessed value are capped, which matters when comparing tax bills.
A seller’s tax bill is not yours. We estimate taxes at your purchase price.
Roof age, wind mitigation features and flood zone strongly affect premiums. Get quotes early.
June 1 to November 30. Newer homes built to modern codes can be easier to insure.
After You Arrive
New Florida residents generally need to get a Florida driver license and register their vehicles shortly after establishing residency. Check current deadlines and requirements with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
If the home is your primary residence, apply for the homestead exemption with the county property appraiser by March 1 of the year after you buy. Registering to vote and getting a Florida license help document your residency.
Review your homeowners, wind and flood coverage before hurricane season, and keep a basic storm kit. Many newer homes have impact-rated windows or shutters, which can lower premiums.
Join a neighborhood group, find a primary-care doctor early, and explore the springs, beaches and lakes on weekends. Central Florida’s mild winters make outdoor life a year-round habit.
Financing First
Relocating? A pre-approval lets you tour with confidence and move quickly when the right home comes up, even from out of state.
Questions
For walkability, Winter Park and College Park; for lakes and estates, Windermere and Dr. Phillips; for new homes, Lake Nona; for value and schools, Seminole County cities like Lake Mary and Oviedo. The best fit depends on your commute and budget.
Most of Orlando is Orange County Public Schools; Lake Mary, Longwood, Oviedo and Altamonte Springs are in Seminole County Public Schools. Always confirm the assigned schools for a specific address with the district.
I-4, SR 408, SR 417 and SR 429 are the main routes, and SunRail commuter rail runs north-south through Lake Mary, Altamonte, Maitland, Winter Park and downtown. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is southeast of downtown.
Yes. We regularly represent buyers remotely with video tours, inspections, and electronic or mail-away closings.
The Atlantic beaches, such as Cocoa Beach and New Smyrna Beach, are typically about an hour’s drive. Gulf beaches are roughly two hours away.
Summers are hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; winters are mild and dry. Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30.
We focus on Central Florida, but we can refer you to a trusted agent in your current market.
Relocating to Orlando
Moving to Orlando? Plan your neighborhood shortlist and home search with a local broker before you arrive.