Welcome to Watercooler Wednesday, where we dive into the real conversations people have when theyâre considering a move to the Walt Disney World area.
Today, weâre answering the five most common questions I get from out-of-state buyersâquestions rooted in curiosity, caution, and the desire to create a life that truly fits.
If you’re dreaming about living near Disney but feeling unsure, you’re not alone.
1ď¸âŁ âIs it really possible to live near Disney full-time?â
Short answer: Yes. And people are doing it every single day.
What used to be a vacation-only dream has become a full-time reality for thousands of families, remote workers, retirees, and Disney fans who wanted more joy in their day-to-day.
The key? Choosing the right communityâone that matches your pace, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
2ď¸âŁ âWhatâs the weather actually like?â
Itâs Floridaâso yes, itâs warm and humid. But hereâs what surprises people:
- Summer is hot but manageable if you plan your days right.
- Fall and winter are gloriousâthink sunshine, breezes, and 70-degree park days.
- Afternoon rain showers in summer cool everything down.
- Hurricanes are monitored well in Central Florida, and youâre inlandânot coastal.
If youâre coming from the Northeast or Midwest, youâll quickly realize:
âď¸ Youâve traded snow shovels for sunshine. And most people never look back.
3ď¸âŁ âWill I feel like I live in a tourist area?â
Not if you donât want to.
One of the best-kept secrets of Central Florida is that you can live minutes from Disney and never feel like you’re in a theme park zone.
Master-planned communities like:
- Horizon West
- Windermere
- Dr. Phillips
- Clermont
- Lake Nona
âŚwere designed for locals, not tourists. These areas have:
- Top-rated schools
- Community parks
- Farmerâs markets
- Private backyards
- Locally owned coffee shops
You’re near the magic, but living in realityâyour way.
4ď¸âŁ âHow much home can I afford here compared to where I live now?â
This is a huge win for many buyers.
In most cases, my clients from California, the Northeast, or parts of the Midwest are shocked by:
- Lower property taxes
- No state income tax
- The size and features of homes for the price
- Newer construction with energy efficiency and smart home tech
Many of my clients are able to sell their home up north, buy here, and still come out ahead.
And yesâif youâre financing, I can connect you with lenders who specialize in relocations and understand the nuances of Florida real estate.
5ď¸âŁ âHow will we find a sense of community?â
This is my favorite questionâand the easiest to answer:
Because itâs already here.
The neighborhoods near Disney attract people who are:
- Open-hearted
- Joy-seeking
- Family-focused
- Community-minded
- Looking for more peace and purpose in their everyday lives
Whether it’s:
- Food truck nights in Waterleigh
- Fireworks-viewing parties in Storey Grove
- Farmerâs markets in Hamlin
- Dog meetups in Horizon West
- Fitness clubs in Lake Nona
âŚthere are built-in ways to connect. And everyoneâs the ânew neighborâ at some point.
đŹ Final Thought
Relocating isnât just about changing your address.
Itâs about choosing alignment.
If youâre asking these questions, it means you care about how you liveânot just where. And thatâs the kind of clarity that leads to great decisions.
You donât need all the answers today.
You just need to know youâre not alone in asking the questions.
And when youâre ready, Iâm here to help you find a place that fits the future youâre building.
I’m Timothy Carter, your dedicated Disney World Orlando area relocation expert with The Funk Collection brokered by eXp Realty.
I specialize in helping Disney lovers & theme park enthusiasts find their perfect home or vacation investment property. I’m here to help turn your dreams into reality!
You’ll find everything you need to know about living in the greater Orlando area â from neighborhood guides, real estate tips & the lifestyle of living near the theme parks, to insider advice on relocating to this magical place.
My family moved to Orlando to LIVE the ultimate Disney lifestyle!
You can too! I can help! Click here —-> Meet With Timothy Carter