Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch are among the most popular relocation destinations in the country, and for good reason — but moving from out of state comes with a learning curve. A little preparation makes the whole thing smoother.
Start with the financial upside, because it's real. Florida has no state income tax, a meaningful annual difference for many families. And once your Florida home is your primary residence, the homestead exemption knocks up to about $50,000 off your taxable value, while the “Save Our Homes” benefit caps how much your assessed value can rise each year — a maximum of 3% (it works out to 2.7% for 2026). To claim it, the home must be your permanent residence as of January 1, and you file with the county property appraiser by March 1.
Next, choose your community before you fall in love with a single house. Lakewood Ranch alone spans dozens of distinct villages — golf, gated, 55+, waterfront, all-ages — each with its own feel and price point. Relocating buyers who nail the neighborhood first tend to be far happier than those who chase a floor plan into the wrong village. Our community spotlights are a good place to start narrowing it down.
Plan for the practical pieces, too: homeowners' insurance, HOA and CDD fees, and how you'll tour homes from a distance. Many relocation buyers do an efficient in-person “discovery trip” bookended by video tours, so they can move quickly and confidently when the right home appears.
The single biggest advantage a relocation buyer can have is a local team that becomes your eyes and ears on the ground. Sarah and Jackie Lowry have guided many out-of-state families through exactly this — narrowing communities, previewing homes and making sure nothing gets lost in translation. When you're ready to start, reach them at (941) 400-9026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really pay no state income tax in Florida?
Correct — Florida has no personal state income tax, one of the reasons so many people relocate here. For how that fits your full picture consult a tax professional, and for the home side, Sarah and Jackie can help you plan the move. Call (941) 400-9026.
Can I buy a home in Sarasota without visiting in person?
Many relocation buyers do, using video tours plus a local agent as their eyes on the ground — though most still make one discovery trip. Sarah and Jackie regularly preview homes for out-of-state buyers. Reach them at (941) 400-9026.
