From Minnesota to Sarasota - With Someone Who’s Done Both
If you're thinking about making the move south, you don't have to figure it out alone. I've spent 15+ years helping Minnesota clients buy and sell with confidence — and then I made the move to Florida myself.
I Know Exactly Where You're Starting From
Most of my Florida buyers come from Minnesota — many from the communities south of the river that I called home for over 15 years: Eagan, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Burnsville, Eden Prairie, Inver Grove Heights, and South Minneapolis. They've built a life in the Midwest — they understand the market, they know what they want in a home, and they've worked hard for what they have.
What they don't know yet is Florida. The neighborhoods. The insurance landscape. The difference between a home that looks great and a home that actually holds its value. The timing questions. The "do I sell first or buy first" decisions.
That's where I come in.
For 15+ years I worked as a listing agent across those same communities — helping families prepare, price, and sell their homes with strategy and care. I know what a Minnesota buyer expects — the responsiveness, the honesty, the feeling that your agent is genuinely looking out for you.
Then I relocated to Florida myself. I went through exactly what you're going through — researching areas, weighing tradeoffs, navigating a market I didn't fully know yet. I didn't just study this transition, I lived it.
Today I help Minnesota families relocate to Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Venice and Florida's Gulf Coast with the same care I gave every Minnesota client — and the local Florida knowledge they need to make a smart move.
You’ll Feel the Difference
Minnesota clients tell me they notice it immediately — I listen, I follow through, and I treat your move like it matters. Because it does.
Your Bridge Between Minnesota and Florida
Most relocating families try to manage two separate agents in two states and hope they communicate. With me, you have one trusted advisor managing the whole move. I'll handle your Florida home search personally, and I'll connect you with a trusted Minnesota agent from my referral network — agents I know personally and have worked alongside for years. I stay involved on both sides so the timing stays aligned, the handoffs stay smooth, and you only have one person to call.
I've Stood Where You’re Standing
I relocated from Minnesota to Sarasota myself. The questions you have? I've asked them. The concerns you have? I've worked through them.
Common Questions from Minnesota Buyers
Q: Do I need to sell my Minnesota home before buying in Florida? A: Not necessarily — it depends on your financial situation and timeline. Some clients sell first for a clean transition. Others use bridge financing or time the two closings together. Either way, I'll connect you with a trusted Minnesota agent from my referral network to handle your Minnesota sale, and I'll coordinate the timing with your Florida purchase so both sides stay aligned. We'll look at your specific situation and build a plan that works for you — without pressure.
Q: How is the Florida market different from Minnesota? A: Florida moves faster in many price ranges, and certain factors matter more than they do up north — insurance costs, flood zone classifications, roof age, and HOA rules can all significantly affect value and livability. Knowing what to look for early saves a lot of stress later.
Q: Can you help me even if I'm not ready to move for another year or two? A: Absolutely. In fact, starting the conversation early is one of the best things you can do. It gives us time to get clear on areas, timing, and what your Minnesota home might net — so when you're ready, you're already ahead.
Q: Do you work with buyers who can't visit in person before buying? A: Yes. Many of my Minnesota clients do one focused trip to tour homes rather than flying back and forth. I'll help you use that time efficiently — and I can do video walkthroughs beforehand so you're not walking in blind.
Q: What areas near Sarasota do most Minnesota buyers end up in? A: It really comes down to lifestyle. Lakewood Ranch attracts buyers who love a planned community with lots of amenities and activity. Sarasota itself appeals to those who want established neighborhoods close to downtown and the water. Bradenton offers more space and value with easy access to Anna Maria Island. I'll help you figure out which one actually fits how you want to live day to day.
Q: How do Minnesota property taxes and Florida property taxes compare?
A: They're structured very differently. Minnesota has higher state income tax (Florida has none) and Minnesota property taxes vary widely by county. Florida property taxes are generally moderate, especially with the homestead exemption and Save Our Homes cap once you establish residency. Many of my Minnesota clients see meaningful annual tax savings after the move — though the picture varies depending on home price and location. I'll walk you through what your specific tax situation might look like before you make any decisions.
What Minnesota Clients Say
"Rebecca helped us sell our first home in a day, then went above and beyond to find our next home. She didn't just search online listings — she reached out to colleagues and found us a home that wasn't even listed yet. We recommend her to everyone." — Chris & Tracey
“Her services are unparalleled in the industry—she goes the extra mile from day one until closing, doing everything imaginable to market your home, drive traffic for showings, negotiate the best deal possible, and ultimately close the deal. Rebecca is up for even the most challenging of listings - she gets the job done, and she gets it done well.” - Greg & Katie
Ready to Talk Through Your Move?
Whether you're still in the "just thinking about it" stage or actively planning a timeline, I'm happy to have a real conversation — no pressure, no sales pitch.
Most people find that one conversation gives them more clarity than weeks of online research.