Many areas of the southern United States are becoming popular places for families, or for couples to retire. Here are four useful tips to help you find a home in the South.
You can find tons of real estate, vintage houses, and plenty of adorable homes just waiting for a breath of new life in the South. There are also tons of new homes being built every day, with plenty of space for families of all sizes.
So what do you need to know about living in the South? Here are just a few tips and pointers to get you started on your new life in one of the many popular Southern spots!
For Building: Read Up on Local Requirements for Construction/Remodel
Are you remodeling an old home? Are you hoping to start from scratch on a new plot of land? If you’re planning any kind of major remodeling or construction job, you want to make sure you understand the laws and rules regarding construction in the state you are moving to.
For instance, you need a general contractor license in Georgia for projects that cost more than $2500. There are also different categories for many contractor’s licenses, including Georgia’s. Florida, the Carolinas, Louisiana, Alabama – every state has its own laws and requirements regarding home remodeling or building. Be sure to do some research before you dive in!
RELATED: Home Improvements That Require Permits
For Old Homes: Respect the Architecture
Many homes in the South have existed for decades, and some especially upscale ones date back to the Civil War or longer. Most have very specific styles that can be identified by home building experts – or you, with the right amount of research.
Old homes have character and significance, and though of course, the house is yours, it’s still important to take care of the property and honor the original architecture. Be sure you know how to take care of older homes, or look into local companies that may specialize in these properties.
RELATED: How to Look Up the History of Your Home
For New Homes: Windows and A/C
It gets hot in the South, no matter what state you live in. Sure, some coastal areas like the beaches of Florida or the coastal Carolinas will have a lovely sea breeze coming through, but most people forget the humidity.
Most new homes in the southern states come with the best air conditioning to fit the budget, plenty of windows, and many also feature a built-in dehumidifier. If you will be living near the water, the dehumidifier could be a big lifesaver for you and your family.
Still, your main focus should be a stable air conditioning unit, and perhaps some large windows that close firmly, but also can be left open for a cool breeze when the weather is pleasant.
RELATED: 2019 Central Air Conditioner Costs
For Everyone: Know Your Budget
Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina are among the top 20 most affordable states for homebuyers in the United States. It’s easy to find a home you adore in these states. Although if you desire to live in a state like Florida, with so many popular tourist and beach destinations, your mortgage or rent will be more expensive.
Keep in mind that even though many of these states are affordable, there are still high and low property values in each county, just like anywhere else.
If you’re moving to anywhere in the South, you still have to know your budget:
- What homes can you afford?
- Where can you get a job?
- Is the area a place you will enjoy and have entertainment?
Once you start researching homes south of the Mason-Dixon line, you’ll realize there are a lot of areas that are affordable, friendly, and great to live in. You just might have to compromise the beachfront view. It’s more likely you’ll nestle into a neighborhood you feel comfortable in, with amenities and tourist attractions not too far from your street.
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