Nine Things Snowbirds Should do Before Heading Home for the Holidays

For those who own a Florida vacation home, moving south for the winter is almost a given. However, family gatherings around the holidays may mean that a shift back north – even just temporarily – is expected. Before you pack up the car or arrange for a ride to the airport, here are a few things to think about.

1. Leaving your house unoccupied in the middle of “high season” may not be necessary. You can consider renting it out and make some revenue off of your Florida home. Just make sure you have someone local who is willing to keep an eye on things, and don’t forget to set up renter’s insurance.
2. If you opt to leave your home empty, don’t forget to pause mail and newspaper delivery. Nothing says “empty house” like a full mailbox and papers piling up on the porch.
3. Arrange for lawn care. Keeping your lawn looking great may require a mowing or two while you’re away. If you have a sprinkler system, put it on a timer and make sure a neighbor knows where the water cutoff is in case a head were to break.
4. Remember to call your financial institutions to let them know you are about to be on the move. Having your credit card frozen over the holidays because you stopped for gas mid-trip can cause a lot of unneeded stress.
5. Unplug, unplug, unplug. Anything that doesn’t need to be plugged in can be disconnected from an outlet, especially chargeable devices. This can help decrease the chances of fire while you are away.
6. Double check your medical prescriptions before you leave. Being in one state when your thyroid medication is in another can play havoc with your holiday plans.
7. Secure your Florida residence. An alarm system can provide you with some peace of mind when you’re away. Would-be burglars often take note of signage and steer clear.
8. Properly store any flammable materials. Gas cans should be stored safely, and any vehicles (including lawn equipment and golf carts) covered and locked away.
9. Review or renew your homeowners insurance policy, if needed. If you’ve made any home improvements or large purchases, you may want to talk to your agent about revising your policy.

By following these steps before leaving Florida to enjoy the holidays with friends and family at home, you can help protect your investment and make the transition from one state to another as smooth as possible.

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