3 Tips for Surviving Season in Southwest Florida

They say that in southwest Florida, the leaves don’t change color in the fall—the license plates do. That’s when our seasonal residents arrive to trade the freezing temperatures and snow up north for sunny skies and sandy beaches. We don’t attract the same crowds that show up in other parts of the state, but life does change during the winter.

If you’re new to the area, you may have heard people talking about season or noticed the increased traffic, packed parking lots and extended wait times at restaurants. Rest assured, it’s a normal part of life here according to property managers in Naples. With a little planning and a lot of patience, you can survive—and maybe enjoy—season in southwest Florida.

Give Yourself Time

During season, there are more people on the road. You may have to wait longer at the traffic light. You may see more fender benders on the side the road. You may decide to take back roads and avoid the more popular routes. All of this can increase your commute time, so plan accordingly. Anticipate delays and give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to go. You can sleep in during the summer.

Plan Your Errands and Trips Around Town

It may take longer to get to your destination, but you still have 24 hours each day to get everything done. Running errands during this time of year requires some extra planning. You may need to go to the grocery store first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds or schedule your dentist appointment for the afternoon. Try to group errands together so you’re not driving around as much.

Meet Your Seasonal Neighbors

Some people find it easy to complain about our seasonal residents, but it may be just as easy to make friends with them. They’re here. They’re living next to you. They’re boosting our economy. Strike up a conversation with them. Share a meal with them. Learn about their lives and where they’re from. You’ll have a greater appreciation for them and may find yourself feeling less agitated the next time you have to wait behind them in line.

Our property managers in Naples know firsthand why so many people love to live in southwest Florida. After all, making people feel at home is our livelihood. Whether you’re a homeowner ready to rent out your property or a tenant looking for a place to live, call Woodruff Property Management today to learn more about our services.