Starting a new role near Medical City and need to land in Lake Nona within 90 days? You are not alone. Many medical and corporate transferees face the same tight timeline, remote decision-making, and logistics. This guide gives you a simple, step-by-step plan to find a home, close from afar, set up utilities, and move in with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Why Lake Nona works for relocations
Lake Nona is a master-planned community in southeast Orlando centered on the medical and research hub known as Medical City, plus the Town Center. It is home to major anchors like the UCF College of Medicine and surrounding health sciences facilities. Explore the area through the official Lake Nona community and Medical City overview and the UCF Lake Nona Health Sciences Campus.
You will find a mix of new-construction neighborhoods, townhomes, and some condos. Many communities are HOA-governed, so you will want to review covenants and fee schedules early. Pricing is often above the Orlando average for newer homes and properties close to Medical City. For current trends, check the Orlando Regional Realtor Association market reports.
Lake Nona sits near Orlando International Airport, so airport trips commonly take 10 to 20 minutes depending on your exact location and traffic. Trails and mixed-use areas make day-to-day living convenient, but always confirm parking rules, guest policies, and any HOA transit guidelines.
Your 90-day plan
Days 90–61: Plan and search remotely
- Get a lender pre-approval. Gather pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, and bank statements so you can act quickly.
- Confirm relocation benefits with your employer, including short-term housing or preferred vendors.
- Partner with a Lake Nona-focused agent who runs virtual showings and remote closings. Ask about timelines and how documents are handled.
- Narrow target neighborhoods, such as Laureate Park, Northlake Park, Lake Nona Village, or homes near Medical City.
- Schedule virtual tours. Request 3D scans, floor plans, and drive-through neighborhood videos. Ask for seller disclosures, HOA documents, utility bills, surveys, and permit history.
- If possible, plan a brief house-hunting visit to confirm your short list in person.
Days 60–31: Offer, inspection, logistics
- Submit your offer with contingency timelines that fit remote travel. Your agent can coordinate access and vendors.
- Once under contract, book a full home inspection, a termite and wood-destroying organism inspection, and any specialty checks for HVAC, roof, pool, or sewer.
- Your lender orders the appraisal. Ask about expected scheduling and turn times.
- Request the full HOA resale packet early. Review fees, move rules, rental policies, and parking restrictions.
- Reserve short-term housing for your arrival window. Confirm flexible cancellation policies.
- Start utility planning now so service changes align with your closing date.
Days 30–0: Closing and move-in
- Coordinate with your title company on signing options. Remote online notarization or mail-away may be available. Confirm requirements.
- Schedule a live video final walk-through to verify repairs and property condition before you sign.
- Book movers 4 to 6 weeks in advance during peak seasons. Confirm insurance and elevator or loading dock access.
- Complete signing and fund your purchase. Always verify wire instructions by phone using a known number.
- Move in, set up mail forwarding, and complete DMV tasks for your Florida driver license and registration.
- Register with local providers like doctors or childcare. If schools apply, enroll with proof of residency once you have it.
How virtual showings work with your agent
A strong virtual process keeps you informed and confident:
- Live video tours via FaceTime or Zoom for real-time Q&A.
- High-resolution photos, floor plans, and 3D tours to confirm layout and measurements.
- Recorded walk-throughs that show systems like HVAC, water heater, pool equipment, and storage.
- Neighborhood videos that follow common routes to Medical City and Town Center.
- Digital document handling with tools like DocuSign e-signatures for a fast, secure process.
Your agent should also provide a pre-showing packet with disclosures, HOA docs, utility history, and recent repair invoices. During live walk-throughs, expect a careful look at roof age, AC condition, moisture signs, exterior grading, and any areas often missed in listing photos.
Inspections and appraisals from afar
Florida inspections commonly include general home and termite/WDO checks. Your agent can attend in person and set a video debrief with the inspector. If issues arise, you will decide whether to request repairs, credits, or price adjustments. Your lender will schedule the appraisal, and your agent can help track timing and any required access.
Utilities and services setup
Provider coverage varies by exact address in Lake Nona, so verify service options early. Many properties use the Orlando Utilities Commission for electric or water in City of Orlando areas, while unincorporated areas may rely on Orange County Utilities for water and sewer. Internet service often includes major ISPs. Check availability with Comcast Xfinity by address.
Plan for utility start dates on or just before move-in day. Some providers need several business days to set up service or coordinate final readings. Trash and recycling may be handled by the county or your HOA, so check the HOA packet for schedules and fees.
Short-term housing and move prep
For a flexible landing pad, consider corporate housing, extended-stay hotels, or a furnished rental. Many medical professionals use travel-focused platforms when they need furnished options. Prioritize locations near Medical City or with easy airport access during your first weeks.
Ask your HOA about move rules, elevator reservations, fees, parking limitations, and insurance requirements. Reserve your mover and confirm dock access and truck parking. If your community uses permits or visitor passes, arrange those in advance.
Closing logistics and wire safety
Florida purchase agreements include key milestones like earnest money, inspection windows, HOA document review, and financing and appraisal timelines. Your title company will run the title search and coordinate signing. Remote signing and notarization options are common. Always confirm availability with the closing agent.
Wire fraud is a serious risk. Follow the NAR wire fraud prevention guidance. Only use wiring instructions you verify by calling the title company at a known number. Do not rely on email alone.
Quick checklists
Documents to prepare early
- Government ID and Social Security number
- Lender pre-approval letter
- Proof of funds for the down payment
- Employment verification or relocation letter
- Questions for the seller and HOA
Moving and arrival
- Short-term housing booked with flexible dates
- Movers scheduled and insured
- Utilities scheduled to start on move-in day
- USPS mail forwarding
- DMV tasks planned for license and registration
Inspection and negotiation
- Focus on safety and big-ticket items first
- Gather contractor estimates for repair negotiations
- Confirm receipts and warranties for agreed repairs before closing
Local tips for Medical City professionals
- Plan commute routes to Medical City and the Town Center. Ask for neighborhood driving videos if you cannot visit.
- Many Lake Nona neighborhoods offer trail networks. Confirm HOA rules on parking, guests, and amenities.
- For internet-dependent work, schedule installation early to secure your preferred slot and speed tier.
Ready to relocate with confidence?
A disciplined plan makes your move simple, even from a distance. As a local Orlando native with a high-touch, digital-first approach, James Tima coordinates virtual showings, inspections, and closing details, then helps you settle in. Reach out to map your dates, preview homes, and lock in your 90-day plan.
FAQs
What is Lake Nona Medical City and why live nearby?
- Medical City is a hub of health, education, and research institutions within Lake Nona. Learn more from the Lake Nona community and Medical City overview and the UCF Lake Nona Health Sciences Campus.
How do remote closings work for Florida homes?
- Many title companies offer remote signing or mail-away options; e-signatures are common, and notarization can often be arranged remotely depending on provider policies.
Which utilities serve Lake Nona and when should I set them up?
- Service varies by address; common providers include the Orlando Utilities Commission and Orange County Utilities. Start setup a few business days before move-in.
What inspections should I expect and can I attend remotely?
- Standard Florida inspections include general home and termite/WDO; your agent can attend in person and set a live video debrief to review findings and next steps.
How early should I book internet installation in Lake Nona?
- Check availability with your provider and request an install window several weeks ahead; many residents use Comcast Xfinity, with scheduling based on address and demand.
How do I protect my funds during closing?
- Verify wiring instructions by calling the title company at a known number and follow the NAR wire fraud prevention guidance.
