Please help, thinking about relocating to Clearwater/Dunedin area (Tampa: foreclosed, insurance)

[pnutbutercup]

I am thinking about relocating to the Tampa area, specifically Clearwater/Dunedin area for a few reasons, but the main reason is that my parents are moving down there and I'd like to stay close with them since they are getting old. However, I have read through many of these threads, and am getting a little nervous regarding the job market. Is it a VERY risky move if I just head down there without a job lined up? I'm moving from MI, so I feel as if 'it can't be any worst then MI.', but maybe I'm just being naive about it. I'm currently working as an account executive in an advertising agency....any advice would be great.

[On-da-Beach]

Definitely secure employment before moving. Pay scale is lower and you already know the market stinks. It would be a drag to move first and then only be able to find a minimum wage job.

[Lior Arel]

We're certainly not in the Great Depression or anything, but I would line up a job first OR be sure you had 3-5 months of living expenses saved up to live on.

By the way: Dunedin is GORGEOUS. If I drove and had a job that way I would SO live there

[silversurfer]

You are smart to put the horse before the cart. The job outlook is dismal and only getting worse. Several people I used to work with were laid off and then brought back as temp workers. No bennies, no retirement, sick time, vacation. Great huh? And these are librarians!! Things are only getting worse too since the tax base is depressed due to unsold/foreclosed houses, proposition whatever to keep taxes low and just the general expense of living in "paradise" Property and HO insurance (if you can get it) are sky high. Give it a lot of thought and if possible get the job first.

[ron_33771]

Agree with the other previous posts. But, I moved here from Fairfax, VA 3 years ago and love it. Don't pay attention to the heat and humidy thing. Many days it is hotter and more humid up your way. Besides, you don't have to shovel it!!

[smoothwaitress]

The employment situation in this area is very tight. I am in the hospitality field so I am not familar with the advertising game. What I do know is that business at the restaurant I work at is way down from three years ago when iI moved here. I am transferring up north for a better postion.

[alicat611]

We live in IL but I grew up in MI (west side of state). As iffy as things are in FL, MI is certainly no better. However, I definitely think you want to do lots of legwork and try to secure a position before moving. We are also planning on moving, probably to Dunedin. Hubby grew up in that area and we lived in Tampa for two years before heading back north. He is in healthcare and trying to line up a position. Best of luck to you! Just think...no more brutal winters.

[imguytpa]

Come on down with an updated resume and 12-18 mos living expenses in the bank. If I was you, start your job hunt now. You don't say what your field is, make sure you research the potential employers, salaries, job prospects for this area. Lastly, think positively, good luck!