How To Design Your Snowbird Lifestyle

How To Design Your Snowbird Lifestyle

Are you considering the snowbird lifestyle? It makes sense! Many adults are desiring more months of mild weather to enjoy golfing, hiking, fishing, pickleball and other outdoor activities. Amenity-rich communities like Lakeshore offer lock-and-leave homeownership opportunities that make jumping into the snowbird lifestyle a breeze. It’s an attractive choice! To make the transition easier, we’ve compiled some key considerations to help you design the snowbird lifestyle of your dreams.

Are You In For A Warm Summer Climate Or A Mild Winter Climate Snowbird Lifestyle?

Not all snowbirds are lovers of super-hot weather! In fact, some seasonal residents prefer to spend winter in areas that still get some snow. Western North Carolina is a great example of this type of climate. Explore a few places to see what type of snowbird weather suits you. The Hamlet, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers an oasis to escape to where you can enjoy the outdoors in a more balanced temperature.

If you are someone looking for the Florida sun in those unbearable months of the year, Lakeshore might be for you! This community sits on the most gorgeous grounds, filled with natural elements like the old oak trees and Lake Andrew. We have an extensive list of amenities to use each day. You will definitely find yourself thrilled to be relaxing by the pool on a sunny day in February, instead of shoveling snow.

Which Home Will Be Your Primary Residence? 

Eventually, you may spend the majority of your time at your “snowbird” home and you may wish to make it your primary residence. According to IRS policy, you can have only one primary residence at a time. If you own or live in more than one home, you have to apply a “facts and circumstances” test to determine which property is your main home. The most important factor is where you spend the most time, but there are other factors — including your U.S. Postal Service address and the address on your voter registration card, your federal and state tax returns, and your driver’s license or car registration.

Medical Care Needs In Your Snowbird Lifestyle

To find a physician in your new location, you can ask for recommendations from your community or check with your insurance company for the names of physicians in the area. Most insurance companies are familiar with popular snowbird destinations and will have some great resources to share. For those 65 and older, original Medicare covers you in any state. If you’re not yet 65 years old and you have commercial health insurance, check your health insurance policy to determine the terms of your coverage area. Commercial policies will typically cover you while you are living in your snowbird home, but your out-of-pocket costs may be higher.

Consider To Move Full-Time Into Your Snowbird Cottage.

Typically, a seasonal snowbird home is smaller than a primary home. It makes it perfect for downsizing possessions and lightening your material load. Many snowbirds put in place long-term plans to transition fully into their second home over several months or years. Owning a smaller home and slowly sorting your possessions to fit into it can relieve the overwhelm of downsizing.