"With an endless sky above em / And a restless sea below / And every blessin' flowing from the Gulf of Mexico" - From "Gulf of Mexico" by Steve Earle
Resting at the base of Blackwater Bay, just a short jaunt from the Gulf of Mexico, Milton was originally nicknamed "Scottman's Anchorage" for all the barges that rolled down the river. Its later nickname was "Scratch Ankle," for the itchiness one would get from walking through all the briers and brambles that grew here. Images of timber, ships and railroads detail the storied history of the town. While the residents who live here have one foot in the past, they also have one foot stepping forward, ready to carve out their dreams in the Florida panhandle.
When you're looking for a home in Milton, you should be aware that the majority of pads you'll see are houses and condos
"With an endless sky above em / And a restless sea below / And every blessin' flowing from the Gulf of Mexico" - From "Gulf of Mexico" by Steve Earle
Resting at the base of Blackwater Bay, just a short jaunt from the Gulf of Mexico, Milton was originally nicknamed "Scottman's Anchorage" for all the barges that rolled down the river. Its later nickname was "Scratch Ankle," for the itchiness one would get from walking through all the briers and brambles that grew here. Images of timber, ships and railroads detail the storied history of the town. While the residents who live here have one foot in the past, they also have one foot stepping forward, ready to carve out their dreams in the Florida panhandle.
Moving to Milton
When you're looking for a home in Milton, you should be aware that the majority of pads you'll see are houses and condos. While this kind of housing is king, know it won't be impossible to find any sort of home for rent. Before you start shopping, though, learn a few things about locating a living space here. It's like golf; take a lesson from local PGA great Bubba Watson and know what you're swinging for before you swing.
Finding a Place
No. That's the short answer. It's not going to be like trying to get a hole-in-one. An 11 percent vacancy rate proves that you will not have to look too hard for something that whets your appetite, regardless of whether you are shooting for a condo for rent or rental housing in Milton. The best time to look is in December as leases generally expire by January, but any time works. If you give yourself a few weeks, you may be lucky enough to strike gold -- a place near Quinn Bayou! If you don't like water, then it won't be like striking gold, it will be like striking, well, you finish the sentence.
Things to Know
Many folks like all-bills-paid apartments, and while they do exist in Milton, mostly you'll find apartments and condos in managed communities are tagged as some bills paid. Just as you should ask what's ahead before you take a blind shot in golf, so too should you ask the meaning of "some bills." Additionally, a lot of housing here was constructed before 1980 (over 51 percent), especially houses. Make sure all appliances and the house's structure are up to par before signing a lease.
Prepare Financially
There's nothing exceptional requested of you here. You won't have to butter up your old landlord over a round of golf to get a good recommendation. Generally speaking, paying the first month's rent, security deposit and application fee is enough for a managed apartment community. What's needed for houses and duplexes for rent usually varies according to the owners. You don't have to butter them up over a round of golf just ask what you need to get the lease signed and your belongings moved in.
Milton Neighborhoods
With only 4.6 square miles, choosing a place to live might seem easier than choosing which golf club to use on a given shot. Yet, it's not that simple. It could mean the difference between whether or not you get to see duck do foul things every day.
Alabama Street/ Munson Highway: Right in the center of town, the neighborhood around this intersection offers convenience. The Milton Public Library, Manning Farm and Garden Store, and Carpenter Park highlight the area.
West Magnolia Street/ Stewart Street: Lots of stores, different types of housing, and the Milton Community Center make this a happening part of Milton.
Locklin Lake: The neighborhood surrounding this lake is mostly residential. If you seek 1 or 2 bedroom apartments to rent, this is a good area.
Quinn Bayou: Homes surrounding Blackwater River offer picturesque beauty and lots to do. The Museum of Local History, Riverwalk Farmer's Market and abundant housing options are within this neighborhood.
Living in Milton
The fact that everybody drives to get around this coastal city means that you should probably also have a car. This is a city rich in history, but that doesn't mean people are stuck in the past. Residents here are intent on living for today. They enjoy hitting the links at Tanglewood Golf and Country Club, jogging at Blackwater Heritage Trail State Park and fishing in the various inlets and bays. Farmer's markets, museums, shops, and eateries tend to be busy on weekends. While the nightlife scene could use a little work, you will find plenty to keep you happy here.
