One more expense Barry, and it can be a big one for folks on the Coast: insurance. Whatever house you're looking at be sure to get an insurance estimate before you do anything. Being that you are so close to the water down there you need special insurance against hurricanes, wind storms, etc. Hope this helps!

I am not an expert, but I am a US citizen. I believe the green cards are more for if you want to work in the US. You can apply for a long term visa and become a naturalized citizen from what I gather. Your additional costs would include electric and/or gas, plus water deposits. There are also closing costs involved, a real estate agent can give you a better idea of what that would run. For more info about retiring here I would check with your US consulate, or thru the internet you can probably google "how to become a naturalized US citizen" or something to that effect. Or maybe "immigrating to the United States". Good luck!!!!