Went through the same drill about five years ago. Finally decided just to move next to a country club here in North Alabama. Haven’t regretted that but sometimes still wonder.
Couple of suggestions.
-Before you move there, take some time, not just a week or two, but a couple of months and lease a house there so you can really experience the situation. I hear leases are usually available.
-Consider this, many people move there and then move back because they miss their old homes and families.
-Don’t lock in on Central Florida. I know the 55+ communities are nice but there are other options. For example, visit the DelWebb website. You’ll find they have properties all over the South East. In fact, they will be opening a new one just south of Nashville in 2017.
What wonderful advice, thank you! How did you ultimately settle on Alabama?
That’s where my hubby and I plan on moving. We are child free, but have lots of nieces and nephews who live in a small town near Huntsville. Close enough to good health care! We’ve got about four more years before we get out of the hellhole of DC. I think freepertoo should broaden his horizons.