Planning an Interstate Move to Texas or Florida? What You Need to Know About Weather, HOA Rules, and Toll Roads

We consider real-time route planning to avoid floods and storms. By using waterproof wraps (heavy plastic film, shrink wrap, etc.), we protect your belongings from rain and humidity.

Pro Tip: Before you rent or purchase a property in Texas, consider HVAC age, post-hail roof condition, and drainage system.

HOA Rules

Complying with the Texas Property Code, homeowner association (HOA) rules protect property values along with offering structure to manage common areas. There is a high prevalence of master-planned communities in Houston, DFW, and Austin suburban corridors. The main rules you need to know are:

Architectural Rules: Many homeowners associations regulate fence style, roof replacements and exterior paint color to ensure a consistent community outlook. You might have to seek approval for major modifications. 

Landscaping Standards: Often, HOAs impose rules for lawn maintenance, tree trimming, and dead plants removal. You might be fined for not obeying the rules. Get clarity on these areas before you move.

Parking Rules: A respective HOA has the responsibility to set rules related to limiting parking for residents and visitors. Like, you cannot park your vehicle for a long-time on the street or in driveways. 

Amenity Usage: Some HOAs set rules for playgrounds, clubhouses, and pools regarding usage, safety requirements, and guest access. Get a good understanding of it before you relocate.

Pro Tip: Before closing, review HOA covenants, conditions, and limitations (CC&Rs).

Toll Roads

Texas has one of the largest toll road networks in the USA and then noted ones are NTTA (Dallas), CTRMA (Austin) and HCTRA (Houston). The toll network includes variable-rate managed ‘TEXpress’ lanes that are designed to bypass heavy traffic. The cost of driving on Texas toll roads depends on date, time of day, and vehicle type, and it can be as low as $0.25 or as much as $1 per toll. 

Like other states, E-Z Pass is not accepted in Texas. The main transponder tags are TxTag (ideal for statewide and Houston-area commuting) and TollTag (suitable for North Texas). Remember, all Texas toll tags are interoperable statewide. 

What will happen if you drive without a tag? This will result in Pay-by-Mail / ZipCash invoices thereby costing up to 50% to 100% more per trip plus administrative fees. At Value Added Moving, we ensure our customers obtain a tag before a move. 

Pro Tip: Interstate relocation with old license plates results in lost toll bills and that escalate into heavy fines or delay in vehicle registration.

What to Know about the Weather Condition, HOA Rules, and Toll Roads while Moving to Florida?

Here is what you need to know.

Weather Condition

Relocation during May to September is challenging because of the temperature of 95°F (35°C) along with 90% humidity. Loading a truck in this condition leads to severe heat stress that blocks sweat evaporation. This indicates the need for extra hydration and climate-controlled transport for heat-sensitive items. We use moisture absorbers while packing.

The hurricane season in Florida is from June to November. To combat this, items must be packed in plastic bins and furniture needs to be wrapped in waterproof plastic. If possible, schedule the move as early as possible so that loading or unloading finishes before the heavy afternoon rain begins. 

Pro Tip: It’s better to relocate between October and April when the weather remains mild and moving demand remains low.

HOA Rules

Around 45% of homes in Florida belong to a Homeowner Association. From property appearance to amenity use, HOA rules cover everything. The major rules you need to know include:

Appearance: Several associations provide approval for repainting home’s exterior, adding sheds, or changing roofing materials. Before you decide to make any change to the appearance, contact your HOA. 

Landscaping: In Florida, there are specific HOA rules to dictate the types of plants or trees that are allowed. Also, there are guidelines for seasonal decorations. Get a clarity on the rules before you move.

Parking Restrictions: HOAs set rules that govern street parking, overnight vehicle storage, guest vehicles permit. Boats and RVs are directed to designated areas. You need to understand these before relocating to the state.

Pet Policies: HOAs adopt pet policies that address the number of pets a family can keep, how pets are leashed in common areas, and whether larger dog breeds are permitted. Before you plan to move with your pet, know the pet policies of the respective HOA.

Pro Tip: Obtain a written confirmation of moving-day policies from the HOA manager at least 10 to 14 days before you move.

Toll Roads

The all-electronic highway network of Florida has numerous toll roads, like Turnpike (Florida), Expressway Authority (Orlando), Miami-Dade Express Lane (Miami), etc. Here is what you want to know about transponders, payment system, and violations. 

SunPass/E-PASS: With the existence of electronic tolling, obtaining a SunPass sticker can save you up to 25% on toll prices. You can rely on SunPass as it works across major highways like Turnpike, Alligator Alley, etc. 

Interoperability: Along with Florida, SunPass works in certain neighboring states like Georgia, North Carolina, etc. Compatible tags like E-PASS or Uni allow you to drive across several states on a single account.

Toll-by-Plate: What will happen if you are devoid of a transponder? In that case, overhead cameras will capture your license plate and you will get a bill mailed at a higher rate than electronic transponder pricing.

Moving Violation: What if someone drives on a toll road and fails to pay the needed fee? Well, this is considered a traffic moving violation. This accounts for adding points on your license and added penalty fees.

Pro Tip: Express lanes like Interstate 4 considers dynamic pricing where toll costs can increase during the heavy peak hours and decrease during off-peak hours.

What are the Post-Move Administrative Aspects to Consider in Texas or Florida?

Let’s find out. 

Texas

The post-move administrative checklist for Texas includes:

• Ensure vehicle registration and get a Texas driver’s license within 30 days of relocation 
• Submit Form 50-114, provide a driver’s license copy, and file for a Texas General Residence Homestead Exemption by April 30
• Choose a retail electric provider (REP) in deregulated zones before you relocate
• Register at your County Tax Office while bringing a proof of Texas insurance, Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR), and out-of-state title and completing Form 130-U

Florida

The post-move administrative checklist for Florida includes:

• Update vehicle insurance, register your vehicle, and get a Florida driver’s license within 30 days
• Update your voter registration online at RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov
• File for Florida Homestead Exemption by March 1 while bringing driver’s license, Florida vehicle registration, and property ownership proof (Deed or Tax Bill)
• File a legal Declaration of Domicile with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in your county.

What Contributes to the Cost of an Out-of-State Move? 

At Value Added Moving, we determine cost based on factors like overall distance to be traveled, weight of the belongings, storage needs, packing materials, and time of the year. Typically, an interstate moves within the USA costs anything between $2,200 and $10,000 or more. 

Read our detailed blog on price here.

What Utilities you Need to Set After Relocating?

Whether you relocate to Texas or Florida, here are the utilities that you need to set. 

• Electricity
• Water
• Internet
• Gas
• Sewage 

Wrapping Up

Moving to Texas or Florida requires dealing with high temperature and acknowledging HOA rules related to architecture, parking restrictions, and landscaping. With a reputable mover, homeowners can expect a stress-free move. 

Ready to Relocate to Texas or Florida?

We are a renowned moving company (DOT #3488475, MC #1147286) in the USA with a vast experience of interstate relocation. Contact us at the earliest and get clarity on price, insurance, and moving considerations. Get mentally prepared for the move and we will take care of the rest.