My Florida/Hernando County Experience (Tampa, St. Petersburg: transplants, for sale, real estate market)

[Liz0872]

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We moved to Spring Hill Florida 4 years ago. My parents moved here 8 years ago. We, as everyone else, left Long Island New York to escape the high taxes and over crowding. We are now moving back. The reasons are so varied..from a financial standpoint: BUYER BEWARE!!!! THE TAXES ARE NOT CHEAP IN FLORIDA anymore and good luck getting homeowners insurance. I left a waterfront property in Freeport NY paying 5300 in taxes. I now pay in Florida over 4000. My homeowners in NY was 1100. Here, I cannot get traditional homeowners, as they will not cover my area because of the "possibility" of future hurricanes and sinkholes. I do not live anywhere near the water. I am stuck paying the state insurance, otherwise known as Citizens, 3000 a year.
Where is the savings? We did our homework. It was not like this when we moved down. Yes, the northern transplants who moved down here and built big houses raised the home values which, in turn, based on the ridiculous way they assess properties down here, raised taxes. But seriously, Florida, if you are going to charge "NY" prices for living here, you must start paying a "NY" wage. If, that is, you can get a job and manage to keep it.
My husband and I both have over 15 years experience in our respective fields. Jobs in our field were plentiful. It took my husband 5 months to get a job here and for me, it was over 1 year. Then, I was terminated after I gave birth to my daughter. I did sue, but lost due to the fact that in Florida and most of the south, they can and will fire you for any reason they want, without notice. Yes, NY is an At Will employment state, but I have to say, what hapened to me would never have happened in NY. I was told by various lawyers that they would not handle my case because I have too much going against me. 1) I am a woman, and the courts in my county are run by "The Good Ol Boys of Brooksville". 2) I am a Yankee and they hate Yankees. Brooksville Florida actually has a Hanging Tree that they celebrate. I understand all the heritage, but, seriously, a HANGING TREE?!! The KKK is alive and well here. That is an insult to humankind. I find that the Floridians I have had dealings with do not appreciate someone with a work ethic. Everything must remain status quo. Even if it will improve working/living conditions or make the company you work for a profit. If you suggest new ideas, or work in an efficient manner instead of a snails pace, you are seen as overbearing, threatening and intimidating. I also find that the majority of people that come here from other states -and there are LOTS-either have shady backgrounds or are just not sociable. We are used to having neighbors say hello, or at least wave. Here, my neighbors literally look the other way. My husband and I have not made one friend since we have been here--and it is not from lack of trying.
The builder we used to build our new home here went bankrupt shortly after our house was completed. He left over 100 homes incomplete, took their money and they are out hundreds of thousands of dollars. He ruined peoples lives. He is under investigation, but is still allowed to have an active general contractors license in this state!
Doctors are not required to carry malpractice insurance. I pay more for insurance here than I ever have and have been refused by my pediatrician for a sick visit for my child. I was told to go to the emergency room instead.
Crime is rampant, drug use is out of control and our county commissioners are made up of, in part, a former airline stewardess and former customer service representative. I don't know how they even had the chance to run for office with their lack of experience. They simply cannot balance a budget. Instead of taking all the monies they got ( huge impact fees from building, higher tax rolls, etc.) from all the northerners moving down in recent years and budgeting it out over a period of time to absorb future tax increases, they pocketed the money themselves (county commissioners are part time employees with a salary of $65000. a year!!) and raised taxes, in some cases 300%!!!!!! Now, the state is left in complete chaos and the taxpayers are on the hook for these increases! It is a MESS!!!! We are lucky--we can afford to move back and work. What about the 2/3 of the residents of Florida that are senior citiens or on a fixed income??!! Think twice before you retire here!
If anyone reading this is from Florida, or Hernando County where I live, they understand what I am saying. Bottom Line: Taxes and Insurance are not cheaper. Cost of Living is not cheaper. Hernando County is corrupt. The schools are bad and getting worse. There are 6600 houses for sale on the MLS in this county alone. I think that speaks for itself. Before moving south, check out how taxes are assessed in your area. Do not assume it is the same all over. It is not on square footage in Florida. It is on Market or assessed value. Make sure you can get homeowners insurance.
We knew it would be a significant trade off leaving NY. We will now gladly sacrifice living in a new home with all tile, a "lanai' and the sunshine for an older one with rugs, a deck and snow. I will happily pay "high" NY taxes for better schools where teachers actually earn a livable wage and care about the children they teach. I will be very happy to be able to go out on to a main road without seeing a Super Wal-Mart every 10 miles (Wal-Marts keep the average salary of an area low, which makes retailers and commercial investors reluctant to move to the neighborhood--there are 3 in Hernando county now, with another one in the works). I will be happy to see clean, clothed children and adults under 400 pounds with all their teeth. Sorry, southerners, from my observations, and I am speaking only to the ones I have seen with my own eyes in Florida--NOT ALL SOUTHERNERS-- you just do not care about personal hygeine or your overall appearence in general. Goodbye to the 50 motorized shopping carts per store that people who are not handicapped use to clog up the isles and stare at the salad dressing in the above said Wal-Marts. Shame on you all.
We never thought it would turn into the hell that it has. We cannot wait to get back to what we know to be civilization, where people actually care about other people, where people from all races, religions, sexual orientations and creeds are tolerated and welcomed, and progressing toward a better way of life and a strong work ethic and conducting oneself with integrity are of utmost importance.

[info please]

Wow Liz. sorry you had such a bad time down here in fl. Maybe it's the area your in. I'm from the North and I moved down here over 12 years ago I 'm in Windermere and life was pretty good to us down here were from Center cCty Philadelphia. YES SOME PEOPLE DON'T WAVE. BUT I won't make there problem mine. I really enjoyed my time here .But we are moving out of state ourself's Were heading to N.Georgia LOOKING FOR THE SEASONS AGAIN BUT NOT SNOW. Well I wish you luck and hope you are truly happy back home good luck .

[House4Sale]

For much has changed in your old 'hood during those four years. Be sure it's similar to the place you loved and left. Our old neighborhood changed for the worse in just a year.

As for Spring Hill, if it's predom. English speaking white folk you prefer to live near, then Spring Hill/Brooksville is the place. There is a small bit of diversity but not alot. Yet. And there are new strip malls w/book store, Star$ etc. going in and you do not live on top of the guy next door.

Now there is fine dining at the golf and country clubs (which are open to paying public) and Tampa and some other places of interest but by and large, it is main stream America.

I guess it's all what one is use to and after.

Best wishes on moving back home, Liz.

[Liz0872]

House4Sale:

We are not looking to go back to our old 'hood; ie Freeport exactly.
We have almost all our friends and family in Long Island/Queens/Brooklyn and have been back multiple times. All report, and we have seen, no major changes..more of the same. High taxes are the main complaint and traffic congestion goes without saying, but I am left with nothing to say but you get what you pay for. And, I am willing to pay as much as it takes at this point!!
Thanks for the good wishes!!

[Jammie]

Liz, sorry about your experiences in Fla. There are just a couple of things I was wondering if you'd clarify. ~Do the commissioners actually make 65,000 per year? That is six and a half times what they make where I live. Also, what is the reason that Drs. don't have to carry malpractice insurance there? I've never heard of that.

I was also surprised to read that many of the people in your area have no work ethic. But I guess Fla. is part of the South and they do take life slower then Yankees do.

Just wanted to add that there are a few people who live in places they absolutely detest. One gal used to live in an area in Fla. that she loved, moved, but not a far distance. She hates where she lives now and it's probably only 100-200 miles from where she lived before. Have you ever considered just moving to another are of Fla? The Panhandle seems to be quite a popular spot lately.

[Toninole]

WOW, as a Native Floridian who has traveled the country/world I just have to respond to this Liz... Let me take this point by point:

1) why would you move somewhere without a job?
2) we don't appreciate work ethic? How in the world do all these businesses manage to stay afloat? HMMMMM, seems impossible by your standards.
3) I wonder what nasty generalizations I could come up with for Northeners (especially people from the NY area) and apply them to you. Does that seem fair?
4) I guess THOSE OTHER people who come to FL from up north (not you and your family of course) are the shady ones, right?
5) You know what they say about having the same experience with lots of different people? It usually isn't THEM - it is you. You are the common denominator - ever think, with this display of vitriol, that YOU might be the unfriendly one? Let us return to the common stereotypes of northeners I mentioned before - hmmmmm.
6) I don't know about your county commissioners and I happen to agree people who run for such jobs should have some government background, but remember - Harry S. Truman owned a habidashery before becoming President and didn't go to college so...
7) I have to agree with you about the sprawl and Wal-Mart - hate it.
8) Fat/Lazy/Toothless - Again with the stereotypes. I lived in Connecticut for almost 10 years and on my numerous trips to NY I have to say I saw an equal amount of extremely overweight, sloppy, poorly/oddly dressed, people who didn't smell so good, but I never thought of that as the norm, but rather something to just feel sad for. I guess if you want all fit/skinny pretty people around you all the time then I just don't know where you should live, but I wouldn't think it is NY.

I read your note and immediately think you have to be one of the most bitter and intolerant, not to mention prejudiced, people I've encountered in a long while and yet towards the end it seems you might actually have a liberal/progressive bent to you. I think you may want to examine how angry and unhappy you are and figure out where that comes from because you give those truly tolerant liberal/progressives a VERY BAD name by seeming to be one of us.

As for the KKK - you bet it is represented (unfortunately and a stigma) in the South, but I was surprised by the very REAL presence it had in Connecticut while we lived there - rallies and everything. It isn't just the south where intolerance and hate (see your own rantings) exists - I kind of think you'll just be taking yours on a road trip with you back North. I feel kind of sad that you probably won't be happy wherever you are, but equally happy we'll be rid of you. Best of luck and stay there this time - puleeeez.

[gypsychic]

Originally Posted by Toninole

WOW, as a Native Floridian who has traveled the country/world I just have to respond to this Liz... Let me take this point by point:

1) why would you move somewhere without a job?
2) we don't appreciate work ethic? How in the world do all these businesses manage to stay afloat? HMMMMM, seems impossible by your standards.
3) I wonder what nasty generalizations I could come up with for Northeners (especially people from the NY area) and apply them to you. Does that seem fair?
4) I guess THOSE OTHER people who come to FL from up north (not you and your family of course) are the shady ones, right?
5) You know what they say about having the same experience with lots of different people? It usually isn't THEM - it is you. You are the common denominator - ever think, with this display of vitriol, that YOU might be the unfriendly one? Let us return to the common stereotypes of northeners I mentioned before - hmmmmm.
6) I don't know about your county commissioners and I happen to agree people who run for such jobs should have some government background, but remember - Harry S. Truman owned a habidashery before becoming President and didn't go to college so...
7) I have to agree with you about the sprawl and Wal-Mart - hate it.
8) Fat/Lazy/Toothless - Again with the stereotypes. I lived in Connecticut for almost 10 years and on my numerous trips to NY I have to say I saw an equal amount of extremely overweight, sloppy, poorly/oddly dressed, people who didn't smell so good, but I never thought of that as the norm, but rather something to just feel sad for. I guess if you want all fit/skinny pretty people around you all the time then I just don't know where you should live, but I wouldn't think it is NY.

I read your note and immediately think you have to be one of the most bitter and intolerant, not to mention prejudiced, people I've encountered in a long while and yet towards the end it seems you might actually have a liberal/progressive bent to you. I think you may want to examine how angry and unhappy you are and figure out where that comes from because you give those truly tolerant liberal/progressives a VERY BAD name by seeming to be one of us.

As for the KKK - you bet it is represented (unfortunately and a stigma) in the South, but I was surprised by the very REAL presence it had in Connecticut while we lived there - rallies and everything. It isn't just the south where intolerance and hate (see your own rantings) exists - I kind of think you'll just be taking yours on a road trip with you back North. I feel kind of sad that you probably wouldn't be happy wherever you are, but equally happy we'll be rid of you. Best of luck and stay there this time - puleeeez.

THANK YOU! You posted my thoughts so I don't have to, I was speechless when I read the original post - what gall!

[RepoMan]

They Will Soon Get Whats Coming To Em

[RepoMan]

LIZ; spoken like a true New Yorker...Not that there is anything wrong with being a New Yorker
Most of the county idiots are from ny or nj..or some place in the north. Then they come here and play good ole boy,, correct they are crooked but, not the only crooked people here.. FLORIDA IS FULL OF CROOKS They know AND HEARD OF this as far west as Texas... I am going to get out too... Just hold on to you dream let the market adjust so you can sell........

Furthermore; They feel "OO OO" LETS CHARGE EM AS MUCH AS WHERE I'M FROM,,,
HERNANDO HAS THE WORST REAL ESTATE MARKET IN THE STATE

The County commisioners need a brick through their windows...HOME AND OFFICES ....
I HEARD ONE OF THEM IS BANGING THE OTHERS WIFE ...

Just let one of them fall behind in their payments on something they own.
I'll be standing there smiling as I haul it off, JUST AFTER THEY PARK IT ON THEIR WAY INTO WORK.
you f--n rats go back to New jerZZEEey

AAAA The fredom of free speach
Disclaimer:If your affiliated with any form of law enforcement by reading this post you agree to hold harmless, Futhermore; you hereby agree to indemnify from any claims, Damages or liability relating to any injury, including your own.. posts are mearly a form of entertainment, validity ,factuality or implications of free speech.
who knows with this new tax cut, it may be you vehicle I haul off next... and QUITE possibly your wife/hubby he's/she's banging....

[Liz0872]

TONINOLE:

As a native New Yorker who has also traveled this great country and world many times over, I must say your selective response has certainly solidified and in fact validated my observations of what I have personally witnessed in Florida. The following is my 'point by point' response.

1) We were fortunate enough to be able to afford to make the move without obtaining employment prior to relocating. In our field, jobs were plentiful in Hernando, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. We did not anticipate, nor was there anything to suggest, a problem finding jobs once settled. However,once we applied for positions, we were both told on separate occasions we were 'too experienced' for the job. These jobs, mind you, were compatible in both title and responsibility to what we were doing in NY. We were senior financial managers.

2) Sorry, I have not been fortunate enough to bear witness to anything remotely resembling a work ethic. I have, as my husband has, seen plenty of staff members calling in sick on a continual basis, clock watching, just doing enough to ensure they keep their jobs, refusing to go the extra mile...the list can go on and on. The turnover in our respecitve companies as a whole ( so you don't think it is another issue with 'us') is disgraceful.
As far as businesses staying afloat---for every one that opens, another one closes. At least in Hernando. A good restaurtant? Closed in 6 months. Same for bakeries, deli's and the like. The cost of insurance for businesses is too high, and people do not want to pay the inevitable 'trickled down' cost.
I see you failed to mention the corrupt builders that went bankrupt and took hundreds of people with them. Coral Bay Builders in particular. Living in Florida as you do, I am sure you have heard of the debacle that has been created by this greedy 'native'.

3) Nasty generalizations? Apply away. That is your right. However, if you read my post carefully, I was not broadstroking. It was based on my observations of the people I had direct contact with in my immediate area.

4) Shady. Let me clarify a bit here. By shady I mean my neighbor across the street that, at times, paces on his cell phone at all hours of the night in front of his house until a car pulls up, makes the trade and leaves. I mean the neighbor next to him that sparks up in his car nightly. The woman I worked with that said she did not ever have people over her house. When asked why, the reply was "I just don't". There are too many instances to list here, but, I will say this, and maybe this all comes down to the area I am in..the people are not friendly, do not want to be bothered, and keep to themselves. Some folks may welcome this. We just don't. We like a feeling of community.

5) Simply stated, it's not us. We have always enjoyed an active social life, both privately and publicly and are sorely missed by our 'northern' family, friends and colleagues who, upon visiting us in Hernando County and hearing about the cost of living in an area like this and everything else that goes on, are surprised that we chose to make the move here. Again, we made the decision to come here--it HAS changed a great deal since my parents came down 8 years ago, and even more rapidly in the last 3.

6) A few words about Harry S. Truman. I believe he did complete two years of law school, served with the National Guard, was a judge of the county court in Missouri, was a Senator and, of course, the Vice President to Roosevelt. I would say he was a tad more experienced in government than our county commissioners are. Oh, and yes, he did own The haberdashery of Truman & Jacobson. Thanks for the bit of trivia.

7) Glad you agree.

8) What can I tell you? These are my observations. Again, no broadstroking here. My observations are not to southerners, or even Floridians per se. They are personal observations of my immediate surroundings...mostly Hernando County. For the record, I have been to and spent time in Clearwater, Naples and Boca and the atmosphere is much nicer. Where in my post did I say or imply that NY'ers are slim, beautiful gods and godesses that have all their teeth? Hey, my Mom is from the Bronx and she does not have all her teeth. The difference is, she actually puts her plate in when she goes out in public. Maybe you call it shallow, but I call it having pride in one's appearence.

What is disturbingly absent from your reply to my post is what the gist of my post was about. This stuff affects YOU and YOUR family, too. The taxes..the insurance..the incompetent self serving government. The corrupt builders and the illogical laws and torts. So many people come here to retire and build the home of their dreams..only to find that they cannot afford it any longer. It is all over the Tampa Tribune and St. Petersburg Times. I am concerned for the well being of the citizens of this state and this state's financial future. That was also the motivating factor behind my lawsuit. I tried to stand up for all women, or people for that matter, who have children and must work out of necessity, not greed. I tried to be a voice for parents who work and choose to have children so they would not be forced to make a choice between having a child or a career. My voice, because I am considered a minority and a Yankee in these parts was silenced. I was, instead portrayed to be and dismissed as "just another loud, abrasive, obnoxious, opinionated New Yorker who got off on stirring the pot." It just is not right. So, maybe I was naive. Life goes on with absolutely no regrets of moving back to a place where I can stand up for my rights, be around individuals receptive to and embracing of change, and be heard, respected and treated as a human being. So, in my own defense, and there are lots of 'yankees' who feel the same way about things here..please don't call me racist, or intolerant or prejudiced. I tried to make a difference..and if Florida does not wake up and embrace change, us 'northerners' whom you seem to have so much disdain for will move out as quick as we came in and take our money and your newfound 'quality of life' with us. Good luck, y'all.