Fl residence for renters
 

Two scenarios...
1. We rent for 3 months while searching for a house to purchase.
2. We rent for 12 months.

In either case, can we become Fl residents? Our house in MA is sold, we would be taking whatever we want to keep with us, so no ties to MA. In both cases, we plan on staying in Fl till the end.

Yes, you can under either scenario. If you are bringing furniture I would go with #2 and rent an unfurnished house. If just personal "Stuff", number 1 and get settled in ASAP. It's a personal decision.

You also have to have a state issued drivers license and vote in FL to be considered a resident.

A couple of links that you may find helpful.

How to Become a Florida Resident: 12 Steps (with Pictures)

Moving to Florida

Drivers license and car registration (including new FL title that will be needed) can be easily and quickly completed here. Not particularly cheap though. They are even friendly and helpful. Nothing like the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles.
Randy Mask - Sumter County Tax Collector
(The building with the gold dome next to Pinellas Plaza) There are also other places to accomplish this nearby.