Moving from Chicago to Tampa! (Orlando, Wesley Chapel: transplants, for rent, movers)

[Chi City]

Hi,

We are empty nesters (mid 40s) and are planning to move from Chicago to Tampa. We went to Tampa a few weeks ago and met with a realtor. The plan: sell our home and rent a house in Tampa! So, we're fixing and purging stuff in our home now to prepare to put it on the market next month. We're looking for the best (and most ecomonical) movers as well as best places to live in Tampa. I'm in IT and I travel every other week so I can work from anywhere. My husband is in security and sells used cars on the side. So far, we've looked in Wesley Chapel and New Tampa. The catch....my mom is moving, too. However, we found a 55+ building downtown Tampa (The Ella) which looks nice from the pics.

So, my questions are:

1. Does anyone know about The Ella? If so, is it in a good neighborhood?
2. Are there other neighborhoods besides Wesley Chapel and New Tampa where we can get a 3/2/2 home for under $2000/month?
3. Will it be difficult to meet new ppl as transplants (it's difficult in Chicago if you're not from Chicago)?

Thanks in advance for any advice you give! Can't wait to move!!!!

[tonyff67]

I believe Ella is going to be mixed income. In other words, half the units will be sold or rented, at the market value, but your neighbor, due to lower income will get it for less.
The land those units sit on used to be one of the worst, if not THE worst projects in the city.
The area a few blocks north of that building, is still really bad.
I know they have some big plans for that property and the location is great, as far as proximity to downtown, Channelside, And Ybor

[ngrome]

Funny, my wife and I are new empty nesters as well and we moved from Florida back to Chicago, LOL. See you back here in a few years when you start missing the food and the friendly people, as well as the four seasons...ok, just kidding, at least you're going to Tampa and not Orlando, that may extend your stay a little longer down there. Good luck

[Areed]

Originally Posted by ngrome

Funny, my wife and I are new empty nesters as well and we moved from Florida back to Chicago, LOL. See you back here in a few years when you start missing the food and the friendly people, as well as the four seasons...ok, just kidding, at least you're going to Tampa and not Orlando, that may extend your stay a little longer down there. Good luck

What do you have against orlando?

[HPtampa]

I know a place for rent in a nice and safe community...let me know if you're still looking.