Heading South

Essential Tips for a Smooth Transition Back to Warmer Climates

By Lindsay Heysler / Published October 2024

As summer fades and cooler northern temperatures beckon, many residents are preparing to return to their warmer southern homes. As you embark on this seasonal transition, there are several key steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get settled back into your southern residence.

Prepare Your Home

     Home Readiness—Before you return, it’s crucial to prepare your southern home for your arrival. If your house has been vacant, schedule a professional cleaning to address any dust or dirt that may have accumulated. This step will help create a fresh and welcoming environment. Additionally, check that all major appliances and systems such as your air conditioning unit are functioning properly. Given the warmer southern climate, ensuring your cooling system is in top shape will be essential for your comfort.

     Pest Control—South Florida is more prone to pests like ants, mosquitoes, and termites. Consider arranging a pest control service to inspect and treat your home for any potential infestations before they become a significant issue. This proactive measure will help protect your home and keep it comfortable.

     Landscaping and Maintenance—Inspect your landscaping, including grass, plants, and irrigation system, for any damage caused by insects, heat, or drought. Replace or repair any damaged elements to restore your yard’s health and appearance. This not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also ensures your outdoor spaces are ready for enjoyment.

     Hurricane Preparedness—Remember that hurricane season continues until November 30th. Make sure that you have all necessary supplies on hand and your generator is in good working condition. Being prepared for a potential storm will help you stay safe and minimize disruptions.

Check In with Your Management Company

     Update Contact Information—Once you’ve settled in, check in with your management company to confirm that your address is up to date. Ensure that you’ve opted in to receive important association information electronically. This will help you stay informed and avoid delays in receiving crucial updates.

     Get Involved—Many community associations are always looking for volunteers to join committees and assist with various tasks. Volunteering can significantly benefit the board of directors and contribute to the smooth operation of the association. As the saying goes, “Many hands make light work!” Getting involved is a great way to stay engaged and contribute to your community.

     Review Rules and Regulations—Take the time to update yourself on any changes to the rules and regulations that may have been implemented while you were away. Request a copy of the latest regulations from your management company to ensure you are fully informed and compliant with any new guidelines.

Educate Yourself on Legislative Changes

     Understand New Requirements—Recent legislative updates have introduced significant changes affecting condominium associations with three or more stories. Starting December 31, 2024, all condominium associations will be required to fully fund their reserve accounts. This new regulation means that associations may need to increase monthly or quarterly maintenance fees to meet the new funding requirements.

     Communicate and Plan—For board members, it’s important to clearly communicate these changes to residents. Providing transparent information about how the new regulations will impact maintenance costs will help residents plan accordingly and understand the reasons behind any increases. Open communication will facilitate a smoother transition and foster a positive community atmosphere.

     By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth transition back to your southern home and make the most of the upcoming season. With a little preparation and proactive planning, you’ll be able to settle in comfortably and enjoy all the benefits that your warmer climate has to offer. Welcome back, snowbirds!

Lindsay Heysler

Senior Business Development and Marketing Manager, Seacrest Services, Inc.

     Lindsay Heysler is a seasoned business development and marketing manager with a focus on collaborating with community associations to offer tailored management solutions. With over a decade of experience in sales and marketing, Lindsay excels in driving conversions and achieving impactful results.
     Her extensive industry knowledge, combined with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, enables Lindsay to forge strong business relationships with community associations. She is adept at crafting and executing innovative marketing strategies and campaigns that enhance growth and elevate Seacrest’s brand presence in the South Florida market. For more information call 561-697-4990 or visit www.SeacrestServices.com.