‘Winter Weather Advisory’, ‘Snow Expected’, ‘Winter Storm Watch’, ‘Snow Emergency” – if you’re from Minnesota, you’ve seen these types of notifications on your mobile device as you prepare for the workday. We live in an area on the globe that isn’t great for people who’ve gotten tired of the snow and below-freezing temperatures. A great retirement option is to become a snowbird.
However, many don’t think they can become a snowbird before retirement. In reality, it is possible. There are a number of things to consider when deciding to become a snowbird; relocating is just the tip of the iceberg. The main concerns with becoming a snowbird are usually associated with finances and housing.
Arrange Your Finances
If you’re looking to become a snowbird before the age of retirement, finances and the workforce are going to be concerns of yours. The financial apprehensions surrounding heading south for the winter can be concerning for people considering this lifestyle. Obviously, changing locations halfway through the year is going to affect your income but, there are ways to prepare for that challenge. If your career choice allows you the ability to work from home, this is an ideal option for snowbirds looking to fly south. The freedom of working from home allows you to take your work with you when you go. This means there’s no interruption to your cash flow. Telecommuting or working remotely at your current job might be an option as well. It can’t hurt to check with your boss!
If working from home isn’t an option, having two seasonal jobs could work for you. Often, working in a retail setting allows you the freedom to work seasonally. Those types of jobs are always hiring and the winter months mean peak holiday shopping, even in warmer climates!
Another option is checking into working at a resort in one of the Sunbelt states you’re considering migrating, too! Many times, people working at the resort will get discounted rates. This could solve the housing issues of becoming a snowbird too!
In addition, you don’t have to start out as a full-time snowbird. Just dip your toe in and get away for a month during the winter as a starting point. This will allow you to try the lifestyle out before you decide whether or not to make the change permanent.
Decide on Housing
Another issue associated with living in two locations is the actual living situation. There are a few options that could work if you’re not at that retirement age. One option is renting in both locations. Many apartment complexes have leasing options that include shorter-term living.
If you already own a home, renting it out while you’re gone could be a good option. Airbnb is another great choice if your home can be marketed as a vacation destination. Believe it or not, some people want to travel to the cold and your empty home could be a nice spot. This is especially good if you have family in the area that can look after and clean up the house between guests. This will provide additional income while you’re away and will supplement income if you end up renting a spot in the warmer location–not to mention the business tax deductions you could take.
However you decide to do it, if you take care of financing and housing, becoming a snowbird before the age of retirement doesn’t seem like such a daunting feat. It can be a great option for people suffering from seasonal depression or those who just hate the cold. If you plan correctly, it is absolutely possible to become a snowbird before the age of 65 in preparation for your final retirement.