Moving to
Southwest Florida
Julie Papagni is a Broker Associate with eXp Realty and a relocation specialist serving Sarasota, Nokomis, Venice, Bradenton, Palmer Ranch, Siesta Key, Lakewood Ranch, and Southwest Florida — with 24 years of real estate experience and a personal passion for helping out-of-state buyers make a seamless move to the Gulf Coast. Relocating to Southwest Florida is more than a change of address. It's a change of pace, lifestyle, and daily rhythm. Julie has been living and working in the Sarasota area for five years and has been licensed as a Broker Associate here for two and a half years — and she knows firsthand what it means to relocate from out of state, having moved here from Michigan herself. She also coordinates the logistics of your move — from packing and transporting vehicles to arranging temporary housing — so the transition feels seamless from start to finish. In the current late September 2026 market, the luxury segment remains strong: the median luxury sale price in Sarasota County landed near $2 million, luxury inventory has tightened by about 26% compared with a year ago, and roughly 106 luxury homes closed in the most recent reporting month. For buyers in the $750K to $1.5M range, this is a market that rewards preparation and decisive action, and Julie can help you navigate it with confidence.
What Do People Love Most About Southwest Florida?
No State Income Tax
Florida has no state income tax. Your retirement savings, investment income, and Social Security benefits go further here. For many relocating from high-tax states, this alone makes the move financially worthwhile.
Year-Round Sunshine
With approximately 250 days of sunshine annually, Southwest Florida offers a climate that supports an active, outdoor lifestyle throughout the year. Mild winters and warm breezes make every season enjoyable.
World-Class Beaches
Siesta Key Beach consistently ranks among the best in the world. Quartz-crystal sand, warm Gulf waters, and miles of coastline provide a daily connection to nature that few places can match.
Excellent Healthcare
Sarasota Memorial Hospital and a network of specialized medical facilities ensure top-tier healthcare is always nearby. Quality medical care without the wait times of larger metro areas.
Cultural Depth
The Ringling Museum, Sarasota Opera, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and a thriving gallery scene make Sarasota one of Florida's most culturally rich cities.
Natural Beauty
Mangrove preserves, state parks, bird sanctuaries, and waterfront living create a daily backdrop of natural beauty. Kayaking through mangroves or watching dolphins from your backyard is real life here.
Cost of Living Considerations
Housing Costs
The median single-family home price in Sarasota County has risen to $492,450 (up 8.2% year over year as of August 2026). Luxury waterfront properties on barrier islands range from $750K to well over $10 million. The median sold price for properties above $1 million currently sits around $1.625 million, and the luxury condo market averaged $1.94 million in Q1 2026. New construction in communities like Wellen Park starts above $1.3M for luxury models. The luxury $800K-$899K segment has more than doubled in sales volume year over year.
Insurance & Taxes
Florida homeowners insurance has risen substantially in recent years — budget accordingly, especially in coastal and flood-zone areas. I provide realistic total cost-of-ownership estimates so you can budget accurately before committing to a purchase. Flood insurance is required in designated zones and is worth understanding before you fall in love with a property. Property taxes in Sarasota County are reasonable compared to many northern states, and Florida's homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence.
No State Income Tax
Florida has no state income tax, no inheritance tax, and no estate tax. For retirees and high-income earners, this translates to significant annual savings that compound over time.
Healthcare Costs
Access to excellent healthcare through Sarasota Memorial Hospital — consistently ranked among Florida's top hospitals — and a growing network of specialized medical facilities. Medicare, supplemental insurance, and concierge medicine options are widely available throughout the region. The healthcare infrastructure continues to expand with the region's growth.
How Does Julie Help You Relocate?
Research & Decide
Explore neighborhoods, understand costs, and decide what type of home and community fits your lifestyle. I provide detailed area guides and virtual tours.
Plan Your Visit
Come see the area in person. I prepare a customized itinerary showing you the neighborhoods, communities, and homes that match your criteria.
Finance & Prepare
Connect with local lenders, understand your purchasing power, and prepare your finances. I provide vetted referrals to trusted professionals.
Buy & Close
I represent you through every step of the purchase, whether you're here in person or closing remotely. From contract to keys, I manage it all.
Ready to make the move?
I've helped dozens of families relocate to Southwest Florida — and as someone who made the move from Michigan to Sarasota myself, I understand the journey personally. Whether you're listing your current home or buying in Sarasota, Nokomis, Venice, Palmer Ranch, or Lakewood Ranch, I'll guide you through every step with honest, expert representation.
Start Your Relocation