Relocation Checklist
Selling in NJ + Buying in FL
Your complete relocation checklist — every task from six months out through settling into your new Florida home, organized by timeline.
6 Months Before
Assess your NJ home's current market value with a comparative market analysis
Start financial planning — understand your equity, buying power, and transition budget
Consult with a tax advisor about NJ exit tax, FL Homestead Exemption, and income tax differences
4–5 Months Before
Engage your agent for a full listing consultation and pricing strategy
Begin home preparation — staging, repairs, decluttering, and pre-listing improvements
Begin documenting your ideal Florida property criteria: size, community amenities, price range
Get pre-approved for your Florida purchase financing
3 Months Before
List your NJ home with a comprehensive marketing strategy
Continue and intensify your FL home search
Get pre-approved for FL purchase if not already done
Schedule in-person FL property tours when possible
Research moving companies and get estimates for the interstate move
Review your NJ closing timeline and how it aligns with your FL purchase
2 Months Before
Negotiate and accept offers on your NJ property
Coordinate inspections on your NJ sale
Narrow your FL property choices and prepare to make an offer
Confirm your FL financing is on track for closing
Begin updating your address with banks, insurance, and important accounts
Research temporary housing options in Florida in case of timing gaps
1 Month Before
Finalize and close on your NJ sale
Close on your FL purchase
Confirm moving company, dates, and logistics
Transfer or set up utilities at your new FL home
Notify your employer, schools, and key contacts of your move
Arrange travel to Florida and plan your first week
Moving Week
Final walk-through of your NJ property before closing
Final walk-through of your FL property before closing
Coordinate key exchanges and handoffs
Confirm moving logistics — truck loading, travel plans, pet/child arrangements
Pack essentials bag: medications, documents, chargers, valuables, change of clothes
Do a final check of both properties before departure
After the Move
File for your Florida Homestead Exemption before the March 1 deadline
Obtain your Florida driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency
Register to vote in Florida
Update your address with USPS, banks, credit cards, insurance, and subscriptions
Transfer or establish medical care — primary care, specialists, pharmacy, dentist
Set up home internet, cable/streaming, and home services
Register your vehicle in Florida if applicable
Explore your new community — local dining, recreation, and social connections
Update your estate documents if applicable (wills, power of attorney, beneficiaries)
Customize Your Checklist
Every relocation is different. Print this checklist and book a free consultation to customize it for your specific timeline, financial situation, and priorities.
More Resources
Take the Readiness Quiz and explore Community Guides to support your NJ-to-FL transition.
Scott Selleck | The Selleck Group
Keller Williams City Views Realty