New Jersey to Florida: What They Don’t Tell You About Taxes

New Jersey to Florida: What They Don’t Tell You About Taxes

                                               

 

New Jersey to Florida: What They Don’t Tell You About Taxes

A Practical Guide for NJ Homeowners Planning a Florida Move

Are you thinking about selling your Northern New Jersey home and relocating to Florida? It’s an exciting decision—but there’s more to the transition than just sunshine and no state income tax. In my latest YouTube video, I break down the lesser-known tax considerations that every NJ seller should understand before making the move. YouTube

👉 Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI_UMGRIrcs


The NJ to FL Transition Road Map

Moving from New Jersey to Florida isn’t just about picking a destination. There’s a roadmap involved that includes taxes, residency requirements, and strategic timing to protect your equity and long-term financial goals. In the video, I introduce a structured approach to navigating that roadmap—something many people don’t think about until after they’ve already started the process. YouTube


What Most People Don’t Realize About Florida Taxes

It’s true that Florida doesn’t have a state income tax—one of the biggest reasons people consider relocating there. But there are additional tax and financial layers to the transition:

1. Capital Gains and NJ Taxes on Sale
Before you move your tax home to Florida, you’ll still be responsible for New Jersey capital gains treatment on the sale of your property. Selling before you establish Florida residency can mean paying NJ taxes first.

2. Residency Timing Matters
Becoming a Florida resident for tax purposes isn’t just about buying property there. You need to demonstrate domicile through things like:

  • Changing your driver’s license

  • Registering to vote in Florida

  • Spending enough days in the state
    These steps matter for actual residency status—not just where your mail is delivered.

3. Estate and Inheritance Considerations
Florida has no state estate tax, but New Jersey’s legacy tax rules can still apply for people with ties there unless residency and domicile are clearly established.

The video walks through how moving expenses, tax planning, and timing all intersect—and why getting this right early is a smart financial move.


Why Strategic Planning Pays Off

Homeowners who sell a high-equity Northern NJ property before relocating can benefit from thoughtful tax planning rather than reactionary decisions. The right strategy can help you:

  • Reduce your tax liability

  • Optimize the timing of your sale and purchase

  • Take advantage of Florida’s financial benefits in a way that aligns with your life goals


Key Takeaways

  • Florida’s lack of state income tax is a real advantage—but not automatic.
    Your residency must be properly established.

  • Capital gains and NJ tax rules don’t disappear the moment you decide to move.

  • Timing and planning are critical if you want to protect your equity and set yourself up for success.

If you’re thinking about selling your NJ home and making the move, this video is a valuable place to start.

👉 Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI_UMGRIrcs

Work With Scott

Scott has been an icon in the northern New Jersey real estate marketplace for the past 29 years with multiple Circle of Excellence Awards. Put his local neighborhood knowledge and real estate expertise to work for you today. Over 500 plus successful closed transactions.