Protecting Your Nest While Away
All around the Tampa area and up the Gulf coast, many property owners are setting their plans to escape Florida’s dreaded summer months. Whether you are leaving your Florida home for an extended vacation, or you are one of many snowbirds flocking north for the summer, you’ll want to ensure your nest is protected while you’re gone.
Preparations and Planning
Oftentimes, snowbirds and other property owners will plan to rent their Florida homes in the summer months. Renting your property could provide extra income, and it may also provide peace of mind that someone is caring for the home. If you don’t plan to rent your property, it would be smart to leave a key with a house sitter, neighbor, or friend to periodically check on your home. They could alert you to any unforeseen issues with plumbing, appliances, air conditioners, crime, or storm damage.
Much like a full-scale move, you’ll also want to have a solid moving plan in place. Begin by making a list of important to-do items. In addition to packing lists, your to-do items should include calling, alerting, and possibly resetting certain utilities, mailing services, subscriptions, pet services, security systems, garbage services, pest control, or lawn care services.
Packing and Supplies
If you have a large amount of furniture or stuff going with you for the summer, be sure to schedule moving trucks and services far in advance of your moving date. Remember, in addition to snowbirds moving this busy time of year, there are also many college kids and families booking moving services during the springtime.
Find and obtain plenty of moving supplies and boxes of all sizes in preparation of your move. To stay organized, use markers, sturdy packing tape, and color-coded systems for pre-labeling any and all items. Certain items like important paperwork, medication, glasses, keys, clothes, pet supplies, and essentials should be flagged to take with you in your vehicle upon leaving. Other items might be clearly marked for the moving truck. And, of course, certain items may need marked to remain in your Florida home. Notably, this is an excellent time to spring clean, declutter, donate, and get rid of any unnecessary items.
Securing and Stowing
Prior to departure, be sure to clean out all items from your refrigerator and freezer. Likewise, remove all opened food and perishable items from your cupboards to prevent any pest issues. Many experts also suggest shutting off your water and draining your water heater prior to leaving to avoid risks of potential leaks.
Importantly, be sure to stow any lawn furniture or outdoor decor in your garage or in a storage unit prior to leaving. Outdoor lawn furniture and accessories are subject to Florida’s fierce summer storms. High winds may turn a set of wind chimes into a dangerous flying object during a hurricane. Also, if you do not have a house sitter or scheduled lawn services, find a caretaker for any precious potted-plants. Finally, upon leaving, be sure to secure all windows, close all blinds, turn off or unplug lights and appliances, and lock doors.
Our Tampa-based team specializes in helping Florida seniors prepare for downsizing, moving between homes, and enjoying the snowbird lifestyle. We also help connect customers of all ages with an array of experts in home matters. Call Dick and Karla Nielsen at 813-294-5786 for expert advice on buying or selling your home.
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