People & Places
Working and living in Florida
Its home to the kingdom where dreams come true, but where in Florida can your emigration dreams come true?
Lana Clements takes a tour of the different places that attract Brits to the Sunshine State. For the people of Britain, sunshine, sand and relaxed living is usually experienced but once a year when they pop overseas for the annual two week break. But what happens when that fortnight just isn't enough? Meet the Brits that have been drawn back to their favourite corner of Florida, not just to visit, but to make it their home.
Brit Favourites
Tourism is the number one industry in Florida and much of this is thanks to Disney and fellow theme park and Seaworld attractions that dominate Orlando and the surrounding area. Around a staggering 50 million people visit Orlando each year including hundreds of thousands of Brits, and for some this is the start of the dream of living full-time in the Sunshine State. In fact, some base the financial reality of their dream on Florida's enduring attraction to visitors.
Rick and Kim Williams moved to Clermont from Rugby, Warwickshire, in 2004, to run a property management company. Kim says, "As holders of an L-1 visa we had to start a business from scratch. We are proud to say that our business has been built on hard work and our good reputation. We currently look after a total of 58 homes, including both villas with private pools and condos." The couple moved to take advantage of the business opportunities in this part of Florida. National and international visitors, and the money they spend, stimulates many jobs in the area. Orlando is a great place to set up a business that feeds off the colossal tourism industry. - "Sometimes the tourists get in the way, but without them we wouldn't be here!"
Central Florida has been booming for well over a decade now, and with cheap air travel making the area more accessible, the area continues to be very prosperous. "Everywhere you will see 'Hiring' signs. There is no shortage of jobs," says Kim. "Working is tough, especially starting out, as the rules are different, but as long as you are prepared to work hard the rewards are certainly there." High demand means that housing around Orlando has proven to be a good investment, with rental income all-but guaranteed. "We bought our first home in 2004, and the value has increased by about 30 per cent. We recently bought a second house, which we now live in and share as our working office," says Kim, "The first house is now on a short-term rental programme," she adds.
The inflated prices means that it is not the cheapest area in Florida to live but compared to Britain, you will still find it low-cost. Kim comments "The cost of living is very manageable, although we feel the pinch when gas (petrol) prices rise. Even though the price is much lower than the UK, we have integrated with the local economy and it has a knock-on effect." Living in a major tourist destination certainly has its perks: there is never a shortage of activities to amuse you. "You really do have all you need and it's not far to the coast if you want a change. We like to eat out and there's no shortage of places to go and we also like to go to concerts and Orlando has venues such as the new Amway Center and the Bob Carr, which get some good acts." For the golf enthusiasts there are also plenty of places where you can practice your swing!
Integrating into a new country and culture can be daunting but Florida, especially the Orlando area where many British are based, is well known for its strong expat community. There are a number of groups and communities where Britons can meet and share their experiences. Kim says, "We mix mainly with Brits, but I think that's because the work circles overlap the social ones." As a result, the Orlando area is a place where British people move and feel very welcomed and at home. "Our neighbours are all Americans, I think they like to tell their friends that they live next door to British people." says Kim. The adorable British accent, of course, goes a long way.
Up and coming
Orlando is often the first point of contact with Florida for many British, but it seems that the West Coast is becoming nearly as popular amongst expats. Immigration and property adviser Andrew Barlett says, "For many years the most popular areas used to be in Central Florida, particularly Orlando and Kissimmee, but recently the benefits of other areas seem to have become more evident the Gulf Coast in particular has attracted many Brits. Sarasota is increasingly popular with families possibly due to its range of activities some of the best schools in the USA are in West Florida."
Suzanne Morrill from World of Florida agrees: "We also have seen a significant increase in purchasers buying on the west coast in the Venice/Englewood area. It tends to be people who wish to be nearer the beach/sea." Take a visit to Western Florida and you will find that there is much more to the state than fast rides, aquariums and men dressed as furry, bizarrely menacing, life-size Disney characters. Due to its close proximity to South America, Florida is, in fact, a melting pot of many nationalities and ethnicites. Mary Finnegan and her family moved from Ombersley, Worcester, to Largo, Pinellas County in 1999. Mary and her three children accompanied her husband who received a H-1B visa after finding a job in the area.
The multicultural appeal of the area is not lost on Mary: "People here are from all over the world, they are interesting and have much to offer." Chris Harvey lives in St Pete's Beach. He agrees with Mary and adds, "Floridians are very welcoming. They like British people and are very keen to help people who have just moved. Most people you will meet in Florida have moved there from somewhere else so you don't get the small town issues you see elsewhere. They all understand your situation and do not see you as an outsider". Mary says Largo "is very safe. I walk the dog at 11 o'clock at night and feel comfortable. The people are friendly, it is clean and there is a low crime rate. There are plenty of casual places to eat from mom and pop diners to high quality restaurants. Plus it's close to beaches and good schools; you name it, it's accessible from here."
Mary says that Pinellas County "is pretty well a conurbation of many towns, that all run into one another," which is why so many facilities are accessible from Largo. Liberal Brits may find that the area is not as progressive and modern as, for example, Southern Florida. "There is a 'southern' feel to the place, I find my views are not always shared but then I don't have to vote yet," says Mary. Mary works in real estate and says, "There is little room to build here now, so land and property values will continue to rise. If someone wants to buy a home here now there has not been a better time for foreign investors the pound and euro is so strong against the dollar."
Between Florida and the UK the life led by children growing up is markedly different. The outdoors active culture in Florida means that there is not such a problem with delinquent teenagers hanging around parks and the like, drinking and causing mischief. Eric Bach is from Sarasota and he says, "Growing up in Sarasota was an incredible experience for me. While Sarasota is definitely a wealthy city, there are many things for young people to do. Perhaps, the best thing about Florida is that most cities are on the coast, which means beaches!
"Sarasota is no different, and in my opinion, has some of the best beaches in the United States. The weather is almost always warm and sunny. The sand is very fine, white and resembles flour. The water is blue, sparkly and beautiful. "Everyone in Sarasota seems to be in a good mood. Maybe it's the weather, or maybe it's just the fact that the city is very clean. It's not too big or too small and there are many things to do in Sarasota other than the beach. The shopping is great, there are many outdoor activities and many fine restaurants and bars. The art scene has also been nationally raved about. Sarasota is really an all-inclusive place."
Andrew Bartlett agrees that West Florida is a magical place, "An early morning walk on Lido or Venice Beach with breakfast at one of the Amish restaurants in Sarasota always makes for a great start. A day on Gasparilla Island on the Gulf Coast is something special and dinner on Saint Armunds circle, as the sun is setting where on side you can hear Caribbean music and the other side a pianist plays more romantic music, takes some beating. It's certainly much more fun rowing a canoe through a state park each day for exercise than going to the gym and there is always something happening or to do usually under cloudless skies."
Another part of Florida becoming increasingly popular is Port St Lucie. Vivienne Nicholas describes why she and her family chose to move to the area as follows: "On a visit to Florida in 2002 we noticed that there was a lot of talk and advertising about the development of one of the fastest growing cities in the USA. The land seemed cheap and the housing was good value for money and best of all it was in its infancy." Vivienne's husband came over on an E-2 visa and she as his independent; together they own and run an art gallery and custom picture framing business. After living in Port St Lucie for a couple of years, Vivienne finds that "it is new and exciting and is still far from the madding crowd and congestion of Palm Beach and Miami." She adds: "But this will change as more people who live in these areas are moving up to Port St Lucie, to get away from the overcrowding." Living in Port St Lucie has many perks, says Vivienne. "The area has one of the lowest crime rates in the US. We live in a gated community, which is renowned for its golfing amenities. The number of restaurants has tripled over the past six months and most are within seven minutes from where we live. "There is currently a big shopping area being built within easy reach and many more shops on the high road, most will be completed within the next few months. TGIF and IHOP [chain eateries in America] just opened in January 2007. A new bowling alley and entertainment centre was opened six months ago and the list goes on."
Areas growing in popularity are great for employment and business opportunities, especially those that provide services for the growing of people, both British and American. Vivienne says, "The retail, service industry and construction sectors are where most people are employed. New investment is definitely needed; there aren't many established businesses in the area that would attract people from the UK but there is ample opportunity for new businesses to be set up." Steve McLean, originally from Teddington, lives in Redington Beach in Tampa/Clearwater area, and has the following to say about it: "Tampa and St Petersburg are the two major business districts and, although they are not London or New York, they are both growing very quickly, with new companies setting up every day and some large corporations relocating to the area. The most prominent include major US corporations, such as Raymond James Financial, Verizon, Jabil, Teco Energy, Outback and Bank of America."
Nick Fraser lives in St Petersburg and says, "Jobs appear to be plentiful, and many large corporations are either based here, or are moving to Florida. Living costs are manageable as Florida has no Income tax." Vivienne likes to visit this part of Florida when she gets the chance: "St Pete's Beach in St Petersburg is our regular spot for rejuvenating our souls. The Don Cesar is a must for Sunday brunches and it is affordable too. St Petersburg is a beautiful place and has a good selection of museums, including the infamous Salvador Dali museum, shopping malls and a great bus service to take visitors downtown that only costs a couple of dollars."
Nick says St Petersburg is great because it has a "strong real estate market, all the major sports teams (football, baseball, basketball), and is also home of the St Pete Grand Prix (Indy car). It has fantastic public events such as Ribfest, and well known live bands. Plus, it has great beaches and waterways it is great for boating, obviously the climate is perfect for outdoor living and activities." In western Florida you will find that the pace of life is slightly more relaxed than the Orlando area. Steve says of Redington: "It's a beach city right on the Gulf of Mexico and full of intracoastal waterways, so you experience 'living on the water'. The amenities are mainly geared towards outdoor living and water related amenities you can shop by boat and go to restaurants and pubs by boat.
"It's a great city to live in and very family orientated very safe and very friendly and 'homely'. The bars tend to be more relaxed 'beach' bars rather than cosmopolitan wine bars etcetera, so its shorts, t-shirts and flip flops rather than suits." "If you're looking for the busy, bustling, high vibe type of environment, it's not the place. Redington is definitely a 'kick back' and relaxing place." Like other parts of up and coming Florida, Steve says the area is great for investment: "In the last five years our home has almost tripled in value." Steve sums up his experience of the sunshine state by saying, "Once you come to Florida it really grabs a hold of you it's hard to explain and put into words. The only real way is to experience it. I love the lifestyle, and waking up every morning to sunshine doesn't hurt."
Nick recommends getting involved with organisations in your area, "Join a club of some kind where you will meet people immediately soccer, rugby, cricket, sailing, etcetera. You will find that you have an instant circle of friends. I met most of my closest friends either directly or indirectly through a rugby club." Steve adds, "There are lots of expats, so finding British communities, shops and pubs is very easy. A lot of my friends here are British - we tend to 'find each other' and just enjoy the lifestyle and the opportunities that America provides." If you are looking for business opportunities and a slightly less hectic pace of life you're bound to find that up and coming parts of Florida have a lot to offer the British expat. You'll also have the comfort of knowing that there many Brits living nearby.
Off the beaten track
Moving to areas with an established British community can be great for support networks, but there are still many American spots in Florida where we are yet to make a mark. Tony Allen and his family moved from Hereford to Coral Springs, Broward county, on an L-1 visa. Tony's company arranges loans for commercial and domestic property. Tony wanted to live in South Florida because it's a strong centre of commerce for South/Central America and the Caribbean. There are not many British people living in Coral Springs. Tony says, "By definition, I am a minority, but I can't say I've ever felt like a minority in a negative sense." "As 'Brits' we still enjoy the reputation of being trustworthy and dependable and are typically regarded as have something unique that others find interesting it often acts as the ice-breaker both in personal and professional relationships."
One of the most appealing aspects of living in any part of Florida is the sense that you are encompassed by a protective bubble. People are laid-back, neighbours are friendly and everyone seems to genuinely look out for each other. Even if in some cases this is a false pretence, British people still cite the safety of life in Florida as a major positive point of living there.
Tony says, "Coral Springs has been rated as one of the safest in the USA unfortunately we are all at risk day to day, on a worldwide basis but I do consider the city to be safer than most." As a British parent in Florida he has found that it is a good place to bring up a family. "The facilities are excellent specifically recreational sport leagues in all the major sports. They are very well organised for kids of all ages." "Our own experience has been very positive relating to the facilities and teachers we've never had a problem with our son 'refusing' to go to school."
Paola Zambony lives close by in Delray Beach, where she moved in 2000 from Mill Hill on an E-2 visa, agrees: "I am a single Mum, my son is 13 and he has blossomed here. He has friends over almost every day they can play outside, it's a great life for children." She continues, "Every major city has its good and its bad points but Delray Beachs' good points outweigh the bad. It's a lovely area to bring up children and it's close to shopping and entertainment." The South Florida economy is stable and strong according to Tony: "Proximity to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and their associated busy airports provide access to a wide range of employers, commerce and economical diversity. South Florida continues to be a major gateway for business with South America and that will continue to be a strong factor." "South Florida is predominantly a service-based employment economy, tourism is a large part as is the medical sector almost everyone in the medical profession is in strong demand," Tony adds. Paola says, "the local economy is growing though slowly. Delray Beach is a seasonal city, there are still opportunities for people who wish to enhance their lives, and it's still a good place to invest. Because it is a transient state you must be patient and accepting and be willing to go with the flow."
Key Points
The most obvious factor that draws the British to all parts of Florida is, of course, the glorious sunshine. Each person that I speak to is quick to point out the merits of living in the Floridian climate. As Tony says, "Why choose Florida? There's nothing to dislike! It's the sunshine state wasn't our motivation to come here but certainly it's a factor for many."
Kim says, "Life takes on a whole new meaning when the sun shines." Mary seconds this saying, "The weather is what makes Florida so special." Andrew adds to this, saying, "Value for money and the cost of living are also important considerations with many items half price compared to the UK particularly with the Pound so strong against the Dollar. Young people are respectful, there is not the anger in people they are much more laid back and life seems far less stressed than in Britain." The danger is that you may expect life to seem like one big holiday in Florida, but Vivienne says, "Never underestimate how much time you need to spend in your own business to get yourself established." she also advises: "Make sure you have enough savings to rely upon in your first year of emigrating." Nick cautions, "Don't expect perfection. Florida is like everywhere else it has its pros and cons, but I think that the pros outweigh the cons. Consult a professional for your large decisions. You will find that the 'Florida way' is entirely different to the UK, so take the advice from the people who know, it's easier than learning the hard way."
Wherever you choose to settle in Florida, there are plenty of British people already living out there who can offer genuine, honest advice, so be sure to take the time to use the resources on offer. Andrew stresses, "There are two sides to every story and its important to be aware of the problems that can occur for Brits who relocate to Florida." Finally, remember the reasons that you are moving away from Britain and look for an area that fulfils your new needs. Paola says, "Life is short if you want to do something, just do it. Go for it and follow your dream."
Property review
In recent months the property market in Florida has slowed slightly, due to oversupply and a national slump. Some Floridian experts offer their opinion on the current property market and future projections:
Suzanne Morrill: "Anything you purchase you have to look on it as a long term investment, not a quick turnaround. If you are happy to wait three to five years then you will see capital appreciation of about 5 to 6 per cent per year."
Andrew Bartlett: "Currently there are record levels of properties on the market and some great bargains. However despite this all too often British buyers pay way over the odds for the wrong property. This is because they go about buying property in the same way they would in Britain without realising the system in Florida is completely different. One key mistake is missing the real bargains and finding they have bought a property which seems fine at first glance but they have overpaid for sometimes as much as 20 per cent due to hidden commission costs. "You are particularly vulnerable to overpaying if you buy directly from the agent, developer or owner selling the house, take an inspection flight or stay in accommodation organised for you, or buy yourself without obtaining independent advice before leaving the UK. Many Brits fail to understand that the advice they often get is very local and very sales orientated and they are not shown the bigger picture or given all the facts."
Mary Finnegan: "Access to a good realtor, one that knows the market and knows the differences between the UK and US market and can explain them to the buyer, is very important."
Tony Allen: "The market has been extremely strong the last five years, although has paused/adjusted this last 12 months. But, there are a net 1,000 people/day moving in to Florida and as such demand will continue. From a professional perspective, for anyone relocating from Europe/UK, timing [now] couldn't be better it's a real estate buyers market at the present time and the euro/pound exchange rate to the dollar is very favourable!"
Nick Fraser: "Currently, congress is motioning to abolish property taxes on primary residences, and increase sales tax by 2 per cent. A great move in my opinion as you can control your spending, but you cannot control the assessed value of your home in an appreciating market. The area is great for investment. Even in a slow real estate market, prices have risen."
Florida facts:
Total Area: 58,560 square miles.
Population: 18 million.
Population of: Port St Lucie: 131,700, Coral Springs: 128,800, Delray Beach: 64,800, St Petersburg: 249,000, Orlando City: 213,200
Cape Coral, Coconut Creek, Lauderhill, Port St. Lucie, and Palm Bay were all cities on the CNN 2006 money list for high home appreciation
Mid-way through 2006 Florida ranked as the fourth highest state in terms of personal income growth.
Over 425 species of birds approximately half of all bird species in the US can be seen in Florida.
663 miles of beaches
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