7 Questions Every Retiree Should Ask Before Moving

7 Questions Every Retiree Should Ask Before Moving

Your Retirement and Transition Blueprint for Northeast Florida

1. Does this home or community fit my lifestyle now and later?

Consider how Northeast Florida communities align with both your current and future needs.

Jacksonville Beach offers walkability and vibrant culture, while Del Webb Ponte Vedra and

Nocatee provide golf, fitness, and social activities. St. Augustine combines historic charm with

excellent healthcare access, and Clay County offers a quieter pace and larger lots for multigenerational living.

2. Will this move simplify my life?

Look for single-story homes that eliminate future mobility concerns. HOA communities across

St. Johns and Nocatee often handle exterior maintenance and landscaping. Condos in

Avondale or Riverside provide a lock-and-leave lifestyle, while downsizing to smaller square

footage means less upkeep and more time to enjoy Florida living.

3. Am I protecting my equity and financial future?

Duval taxes are lower than many states, but insurance can vary—flood zones matter

St. Johns County homes hold value thanks to A+ schools (even if you’re retired, resale counts)

Jacksonville waterfront carries premiums—great equity play if maintained

Downsizing early means more cash in pocket + less exposure to market swings

4. How close will I be to family, friends, and essential care?

Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville = nationally ranked care minutes away

Baptist & UF Health provide strong local networks across the First Coast

Easy access to JAX airport = effortless family visits

Choosing near grandkids’ schools (St. Johns, Clay) keeps family connection strong

5. Does this community give me the connections I want?

Active-adult hubs like Del Webb = clubs, social hours, fitness groups

Nocatee = #1 for community events, farmer’s markets, and activities

St. Augustine = cultural + arts lifestyle with history and charm

Clay & Nassau Counties = smaller, tight-knit communities, lower density, friendly neighbors

6. What happens if my needs change in 5–10 years?

Single-level homes in Julington Creek & Mandarin = age-in-place ready

55+ communities with continuum of care options (like Del Webb)

Homes near Riverside Post-Acute, Baptist South, or Ascension St. Vincent’s = safety net for changing needs

Properties with flex rooms = can convert to caregiver or guest space if needed

7. Who’s guiding me through this move?

An agent who knows NE Florida’s retirement communities inside and out

Transition Specialist = I help with downsizing, estate sales, movers, contractors

Military Relocation Professional = veteran-friendly benefits + VA loan guidance

Personal connection: my wife Rebecca is a concierge at Riverside Post-Acute, so I see these transitions daily.

I’d love to walk through these 7 questions with you and help you explore the best communities, protect your equity, and move with confidence here in Northeast Florida.

📞 Call or text me directly:

Matthew Braddy - Real Estate Advisor, MRP

352.363.0237