When I decided to relocate to Florida, I was willing to live in any part of the state, i took a trip south and explored real estate listings within my price range.
I concentrated my search in Central Florida in close proximity to Tampa and Orlando, however eventually, I arrived in Lakeland; Located in Polk County, this small city is a 45 minute commute east of Tampa and an hour drive southwest of Orlando.
It’s a truly welcoming community with lots of good hiking, outdoor activities, parks, preserves and botanical gardens. Lakeland includes 38 lakes, including Lake Morton that provides a apartment to swans that draw in tourists. I am thrilled by the world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College, but there are some easily delicious diners, world-class hockey courses and plenty of shopping opportunities. I was happy to find a small cabin-style apartment with lake access. The home was reasonably priced because it was in need of some sprucing up. I was relieved that the main systems, such as air conditioner, plumbing, electrical and roofing, were in fantastic condition. I was more than thrilled to tackle painting, cleaning and yard work. I invested in HVAC duct cleaning, a current temperature control, current water furnace and faucets for the sinks. I thoroughly prefer sitting on my back deck with a glass of iced pop and taking in a view of the lake. I have bought a kayak and paddleboard and have plans to build a dock! Moving to Lakeland, Florida, was a truly nice decision.