Moving to Cloisters on the Bay? 7 Things You Need To Do Immediately!

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The Cloisters Checklist: Setting the Stage for Your New Home

Are you excited to turn the key on your new chapter at Cloisters on the Bay? 

Before settling into the charm of this exclusive community, you should take care of a few foundational steps to get your home up and running. 

First, set up electricity for your new residence by visiting the Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) website, where you can create a new account or log into your existing one to request a service connection or transfer. 

If setting up a new account, submit essential details such as your Social Security, Driver's License, Social Insurance, or Tax ID number, alongside the complete service address and your desired connection date. 

Existing customers have it a bit easier — they only need to notify FPL of their disconnection date at their previous address and the reconnection date at their Cloisters home, including the complete new address. 

Please bear in mind that a deposit of at least $25 and initial setup fees may be required before the service begins.

If your household will use natural gas, check out providers like TECO Peoples Gas or Florida City Gas (FCG) to determine if service is available in your area.

New customers must confirm availability and submit the required identification documents along with their connection date through an online account, while those who already have accounts with TECO or FCG must advise their provider about the disconnection date at the old address and the reconnection date at the new address.

A deposit fee, typically twice the average monthly bill for a home of your size, and a connection fee will be charged.

Finally, don't forget about water and sewer services through the Miami-Dade Water & Sewer website. 

New customers must create an online account and pay deposits of $50 each for water and sewer and a non-refundable $45 connection fee. 

On the other hand, existing customers must settle any outstanding balance before the transfer date to avoid service delays.

Once these essential utilities are in place, you can embrace the luxury, comfort, and convenience that come with life at Cloisters on the Bay.

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The "Golden" Keys to the Sunshine State: Unlocking Your Florida Driver's License Before Your Cloisters on the Bay Move

Securing a home in Cloisters on the Bay is a privilege in itself, but before you can TRULY claim your spot as a bona fide Floridian, you should check one important task off your list: applying for your Florida driver's license (if you haven't yet, that is)

For those with theirs, notify the DMV of your new address to update your license, and you're good to go. 

However, if you're moving to Cloisters on the Bay from out of state, you must apply for a Florida driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency, as it is not only the law but also a rite of passage for navigating Florida's sun-soaked streets.

Once you've gathered the necessary documents, your next stop is the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) or any local office offering driver's license services.

Click on the applicable residency status to know which documents to have on hand when you apply:

• U.S Citizen 
• Immigrant 
• Non-Immigrant
• Canadian

The initial Florida Class E license, including a learner's permit, is $48.00, a commercial driver's license (Class A) is $75.00, and an ID Card fee is $25.00.

For a complete list of driver's license fees, click here. 

If you already have a license from another state, country, or jurisdiction, you might get to skip the Drug and Alcohol courses, Class E Knowledge exam, and Florida Driving test. 

However, a Vision and Hearing test is mandatory for all applicants.

While you're at it, don't forget your vehicle's title, registration, and insurance, as Florida requires you to handle this within ten days of establishing residency.

Once your license is in hand, you'll officially be part of the Sunshine State and ready to cruise your way into your new Cloisters on the Bay lifestyle!

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Ballots and Bayside Living: Voting in Cloisters on the Bay 

Ready to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant lifestyle of Cloisters on the Bay? 

One of the most meaningful ways to connect with your new community is by exercising your right to vote. 

Voting empowers not just the future of your local neighborhood but also Miami as a whole — and the entire nation!

So, if you're over the age of 18 and a United States citizen meeting all eligibility requirements, take the first step toward having your voice heard within the Cloisters on the Bay and Coconut Grove community by registering to vote online, by mail, or in person through the Florida Department of State or the Miami-Dade County Elections Department.

If visiting in person, stop by the Elections Department or any Elections Branch office to complete the process.

To support your application, bring a valid Florida Driver's License, U.S. passport, or another current photo ID with a signature.

For other acceptable forms of identification or supplementary requirements, click here.

By registering to vote, you're making an invaluable contribution to shaping the future of your community and embracing the spirit of Cloisters on the Bay in a truly impactful way.

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Groovin' in the Grove: Discovering the Best of Cloisters on the Bay

After the whirlwind of moving, unpacking, and endless to-do lists, it's time to press 'pause' and soak in the vibrant lifestyle of your new home. 

Nestled in the heart of Coconut Grove, Cloisters on the Bay offers the perfect gateway to exploring one of South Florida's most historic and eclectic neighborhoods.

Revel in the Bohemian magic with every step as you stroll along the Grove's canopied streets lined with boutique shops, eclectic art galleries, and open-air cafes that exude charm and creativity.

Ready to indulge your taste buds? Cloisters on the Bay is perfectly positioned amidst a treasure trove of culinary gems, from the cozy charm of local bistros to the bold flavors of internationally inspired cuisines, each meal a journey waiting to be savored.

Meanwhile, if your idea of leisure includes some retail therapy, the Shops at Merrick Park and CocoWalk are just a short drive, inviting you to a perfect mix of luxury brands and local finds.

But the day is only starting, as nature beckons just a quick jump, hop, and skip at Peacock Park, a beloved local retreat perfect for picnics, outdoor yoga, or catching views of Biscayne Bay.

Nearby, David T. Kennedy Park offers sprawling green spaces, walking paths shaded by tropical trees, and even a dog-friendly zone for your furry companions.

Those who want to immerse themselves in Coconut Grove's history and culture can visit The Barnacle Historic State Park, where Miami's oldest home still stands, boasting a serene glimpse into the past amidst its tranquil waterfront setting.

And if adventure is what you seek, let Biscayne Bay become your personal playground as you revel in exciting activities like paddleboarding and sailing, soaking in the waterfront views as the adrenaline kicks in.

To uncover what makes Cloisters on the Bay an address like no other, check out Cloisters on the Bay, Miami, Florida - EVERYTHING You Want to Know for a complete guide to must-see spots and hidden gems. 

Your new home is an unparalleled experience waiting to unfold — start living it!