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🎙️ Real Estate UnRaked Episode #42
Moving to Florida? Here's What Nobody Tells You Before You Make the Move
Thinking about relocating to Florida? Before you pack the moving truck and trade snow boots for flip-flops, there's a lot more you need to know than what you see on social media.
In Episode 42 of Real Estate UnRaked, host Eric Rakers is joined by Dane Coussens, Bridget Hodges, and Jaycee Crawford for an honest, entertaining, and eye-opening conversation about what it's really like to move to the Sunshine State in 2026.
From skyrocketing insurance premiums and property taxes to HOA rules, hurricane preparedness, flood zones, traffic, schools, and hidden homeownership costs, the team dives into the realities that many out-of-state buyers discover only after they've already moved.
If you're considering relocating to Fleming Island, Jacksonville, Orange Park, Green Cove Springs, St. Johns County, or anywhere in Northeast Florida, this episode could save you thousands of dollars—and a lot of headaches.
In This Episode:
✅ The biggest misconceptions people have about moving to Florida
✅ The true cost of homeownership beyond your mortgage payment
✅ Florida insurance challenges and what buyers need to know
✅ Flood zones explained in simple terms
✅ HOA and CDD fees—worth it or waste of money?
✅ Why Northeast Florida continues to attract families and retirees
✅ Hidden expenses most relocation buyers never plan for
✅ Schools, commuting, lifestyle, and quality-of-life considerations
✅ What Californians, New Yorkers, and other transplants say after moving here
✅ Expert tips for making a smooth relocation without costly mistakes
Whether you're relocating for work, retirement, military transfer, better weather, lower taxes, or simply a fresh start, this episode delivers real-world insight from local real estate professionals who help buyers make the move every single day.
Why Northeast Florida Continues to Grow
Despite higher insurance costs and changing market conditions, Northeast Florida remains one of the most desirable regions in the country thanks to its strong economy, beautiful communities, top-rated schools, proximity to beaches, outdoor lifestyle, and diverse housing options.
If you're wondering whether Florida is still worth the move in 2026, this episode gives you the answers no relocation guide will.
🎧 Subscribe to Real Estate UnRaked for weekly insights on Florida real estate, housing market trends, buying and selling strategies, mortgage updates, new construction communities, relocation advice, and everything happening across Northeast Florida.
📲 Thinking about moving to Northeast Florida? Reach out to The Rakers Home Group for local expertise and guidance before you make your move.
Support the show
That’s it for this episode of Real Estate UnRaked, where we take the mystery—and sometimes the madness—out of today’s housing market.
If you enjoyed the show, follow and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts—Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to leave us a review. Your feedback helps more people across Northeast Florida discover the truth behind real-estate headlines.
For more tips, insights, and community spotlights, connect with The Rakers Home Group on:
📱 Facebook & Instagram: @RakersHomeGroup
🌐 Website: www.rakershomegroup.com
Call us at:
Eric Rakers (904) 386-5589
Dane Coussens (904) 838-8275
Bridget Hodges (847) 848-8622
Jaycee Crawford (904) 250-8795
Got a question, story, or topic you’d like us to cover next? Drop us a message—we’d love to feature your ideas in a future episode.
And remember… whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring, get the Home Team Advantage with The Rakers Home Group.
*The soundbites & Music used in this podcast, we do not own the rights to them*
