When I decided to relocate to Florida, I was willing to live in any part of the state, but 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, then eventually, I arrived in Lakeland, located in Polk County, this small neighborhood is a 45 minute commute east of Tampa and an hour drive southwest of Orlando.
It’s a absolutely welcoming community with lots of fantastic hiking, outdoor activities, parks, preserves and botanical gardens. Lakeland includes 38 lakes, including Lake Morton that provides a home to swans that draw in tourists. I am delighted by the world’s greatest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College! There are some absolutely delicious diners, world-class hockey courses and plenty of shopping opportunities. I was thrilled to find a small chalet-style home with lake access. The cabin was reasonably priced because it was in need of some sprucing up. I was relieved that the main systems, such as a/c, 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 new temperature control, new water heating system and faucets for the sinks. I thoroughly care about kneeling on my back deck with a glass of iced root beer and taking in a view of the lake. I have purchased a kayak and paddleboard and have plans to build a dock… Moving to Lakeland, Florida, was a absolutely fantastic decision.