Happy Independence Day America! You’re looking great for 247 and here’s to the next 247!
In talking to a friend from the Northeast today, I was reminded of how many schools in their area have only been out for 1-2 weeks now. Whereas here in Florida, many schools have been out for 4-5 weeks. Why does this matter? On the 4th of July? On a real estate blog? Great question and the answer comes down to timing.
Thinking about Moving to Florida?
If you’re thinking about moving to Florida and have children in school – you may not be aware of how much earlier schools start back down here. For the 2023-2024 school year, St. Johns County schools will start back on August 10th. That is approximately 5 weeks away. In addition to finding and securing a home, enrolling in the school district, from out of state, has its own requirements.
The Schools Need Time Too
This area has been subject to a large amount of population growth over the past few years. In turn – the schools are constantly dealing with enrollment challenges, balancing staffing and ensuring student needs are met. Anything parents can do to help alert the schools to incoming students is much appreciated.
What Does Any of this Have to Do with Real Estate?
If you are thinking about moving to the area and have not yet started house hunting – the time is now. I often advise clients that it takes 30-60 days to close on a new home. The good news is there is still time to orchestrate a move and meet the first day of school deadline. Scheduling home tours, making an offer (or multiple offers), inspections and mortgage obligations will keep you busy in the weeks ahead.
Are there Other Options?
If you are keen to get into the area but perhaps not ready to make the leap into home ownership – renting is certainly an option. One of the biggest challenges I see in this regard is trying to align rental location with preferred school(s). Also, finding continuity in schools between a rental and where your future home may be located can add an overarching challenge. If simply being in the area is of importance to you (and there are no concerns about changing schools in a year) then that concern gets wiped out.
Happy Independence Day!
If a move is in your future – my advice is to take the time and enjoy today. You’ll need to make decisions sooner rather than later and there are ways to facilitate your home search from afar.