| rlm32 |
| I am most likely relocating within the next few weeks. Could you guys give me some info on life out there? Housing costs, entertainment, kids stuff, traffic, etc. Are people friendly and laid back? |
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| sixthacura |
| Greater Ft. Lauderdale is a fine expanded city with great restaurants, a fine Broward Center for the Performing Arts, museums, including a great one for kids with hands on projects, IMAX screen, etc. The Las Olas area is European-like and the Riverwalk is a fine place for dining, and good entertainment. I live in Plantation, just west of Ft. lauderdale, and it has everything good that you may want in a neighborhood. Best shopping is west of Ft. Lauderdale. We have a great Acura dealer (Rick Case) with a fine service dept. There is also a good alternative (check out Hondatech in Ft. Lauderdale/Plantation. They specialize in Honda and Acuras and are trustworthy (we have used them since 1980 - we have had 6 Acuras to date (see signature line below). You can call me at 800-992-7248 at Smith Barney in Plantation and I can be of more help via telephone. Wishing the best, Fred. |
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| vcolangelo |
We moved from suburban NY 7 years ago. Like anywhere else in the US, the answer depends on where in the area you decide to live.
We're way out west (near the everglades) where most of the new (post Hurricane Andrew) developing is taking place. Near the ocean tends to be where the older, less hurricane resistant homes are and where you find more part-time residents and the older schools.
The schools can be terrible, but our boys (12 & 15) are in a new school with fairly high standardized testing results and they're doing great. South Florida is quickly loosing its reputation as the retirement capital of the country. Lots of entertainment, young families, diverse cultures and great (but hot in the Summer) weather.
We have rush hour traffic headed in and out of Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach, but we're not talking the Long Island Expressway. The roads are great, but the drivers and their inattention to the rules will drive you crazy. Little things like not signaling, slow drivers in the fast lanes, fast driving in residential neighborhoods, ignoring stop signs, etc.
However, we love it here. I just quit a job that wanted me to spend more time back in NYC. Regarding housing, the 4/6 BR homes in better areas aren't cheap by Florida standards ($350k to $500k), but they're worth the price. Also lots of good 2/4 BR homes/areas in the $200k to $300k range. I'd rent for a while to get a feel for the area before you buy.
Hope this helps, if you need any additional info, e-mail me.
vcolangelo |
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