How important are the Brits to the Florida Economy?

[chris]

I just read a news article in my local rag The Reporter which gave some brief details of a survey recently undertaken by Webber University on behalf of the Polk County CVB/CFPMA. The reports paints a glowing picture of how important the induustry is to Polk's Sales Tax revenue (51%) and also goes on to tell about how the number of homes have skyrocketed in the Four Corners Area and how the majority are British (or certainly foreigner owned). It also goes on to explain how the bulk of these 2nd homes are managed by Property Management companies and gives details of the job numbers that have resulted from this business activity. CFPMA are now keen to have the Osceola County CVB stump up some money to paint a similar picture on their county. Whilst this report is good for CFPMA, the data if used correctly and focussed is also good news for the Brits on Visa's, whether they are L or E visas, as many of the prop mgmet co's are Brits on either L or E visas. This survey details the impact of just one 'Brit type' industry in Florida, its importance to the area, the investment it pulls in and the jobs it creates for Floridians. I hope that Sue as a BoD member in CFPMA latches onto this little 'pot of gold' and makes as much use of it as she possibly can. We are always commenting on what a silent voice we have, and here we have a lot of ammunition to put the importance of our case for subtle changes in immigration legislation to create more LPR openings for us.

[DavidL]

Chris,

While I applaud your enthusiasm towards this, I very much doubt that this will have any impact on the legislators. One of there arguments could be.....if the Brits weren't managing these homes, then American Citizens could be. I very much doubt that they will bat an eyelid at these stats. Just my opinion.

For what it's worth, the only way I see an individuals circumstances changing i.e getting off an E or L visa, is if that individual takes charge of the situation himself and makes plans to get around the situation. For many, the opportunites will be limited, for others possibly non-exisitent, but the only person that can effect change is you, yourself and not pin your hopes on someone, somebody or some tosser of a senator.

[Susie]

Hi Chris and David

The legislators will be very interested in this news.

Just so you are aware Mike (who offered to help and join our committee, thank you) and myself are currently writing a white paper jointly with the CFMPA to forward to Tom of the Visitors and Convention department, who in turn will take up directly with the local Senators and congressmen

Without travel and tourism Florida would have nothing so we will get a voice through them

I met with Tom some while ago who advised me he has and is being sent to the UK to encourage investors to come to the USA. He was horrified to learn of the problems E visa holders have and also offered assistance

[Grumpy]

Hi
Chris

Could you post a link to the article

Just imagine if due to the high air fares, maybe the WVP getting cancelled, cost of attraction tickets rising etc., then the bottom would fall out of the STR market or holidays to Florida ceased to be #The vacation capitol of the world #


Just imagine how many jobs would be lost?

Maybe we should contact the Florida Revenue sales tax people for their comments then we could pass on to the media

Would be very interesting if there is a way we could find out exactly how much revenue is collected in sales and tourist taxes each year for the Disney area. Does anyone know if this is public records?

[floridapete]

Here is a link to the article. http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060831/REPORTER/608310332/1177

However, it is slightly misleading on the numbers. It is always interesting to see how each individual reporter interprets these things ! Maybe they just don't listen, huh ?

Mike Freeman writes:

"The study concluded that the number of vacation homes has grown a whopping 378 percent in Four Corners, from 1,876 homes in 2001 to 7,088 in 2005. Last year, the vacation home industry contributed $3,538,607 in tourism-development taxes to Polk, which represents 51 percent of the TDT taxes the county brings in. The region's vacation home industry has also brought 13,000 jobs to the area, the study noted."

In fact the true numbers, as produced by the Webber survey of which I have been sent an advanced copy, show that the 378% increase in vacation homes is NOT in the Four Corners area as a whole, but purely in the Polk County section of the Four Corners area. That is VERY different !

If we were to take in the growth in vacation homes in Lake County since 2001, then that would show an even grater increase in % terms. Add Osceolas growth and whatever Orange has permitted in that corner of their county, the total numbers in the Four Corners area as an unincorporated part of Central Florida would be quite outstanding.

However, the number of vacation homes said to have been established in Polk has grown from 1,876 in 2001 to 7,088 in 2005. Last year the vacation homes industry contributed over $3.5M in tourism development taxes (resort/bed taxes) which was 51% of all TDT collected by the County. The overall economic impact (I would prefer the word 'benefit') of the vacation homes industry to the county is currently assessed at $968,550,000. Vacation Homes in Polk County contributed $17,502,508 in county property and school taxes in 2005.

This study only addresses the Polk County part of Four Corners because they assisted the funding of it with CFPMA. A similar study of the Osceola County impact will be done whenever additional financing is agreed with Kissimmee/ Orlando CVB. Hopefully that will be done in Fall of this year.

The CFPMA should again be congratulated in taking the initiative to have this survey carried out. If they didn't - who would ? Nobody, I suspect ! How would we otherwise know what (beneficial) effects our industry is having on that part of Central Florida ?

If you are in property management or any of the ancillary services (pools, lawns, pest etc.) you owe it to your business and your clients to belong to this great organisation. Well, why wouldn't you want to ?

[Ron]

Hello Peter

Thanks for posting

I agree the CFMPA do a sterling job and if work together with expats voice can only be to everyones advantage in the long run

[JulieC]

The tourist industry undoubedly does profit the Disney area quite considerably, and the tourist industry does seem to be run predominantly by the Brits with some exceptions. The question is if the Brits were not here would Americans and other nationalities step into the breach and run the industry? I think they would. Fact is the price of businesses here designed to sell to Brits and fulfill the substantial investment criteria for E2 visa has priced most Americans out of the market. Now that the E2 business sales market is at stalemate and people are willing to sell to Americans at lower prices rather than have to wait, I know of a couple of businesses which have done so recently. Could be the shape of things to come.

[chris]

I am disappointed by David and Julies response to this one piece of statistical data that at least goes some way to highlighting the impact and contribution made by Brits in just industry that we participate in. There are others as well. To take the view of 'well the Yanks could do this job if we weren't here and therefore thay are not going to be interested' is negative to say the least. We can use that argument about every single business that we come to the US and set up. To further add that it is down to us to 'get off our a...s' and do somethig and not rely on others to do it for us. Well I'm speechless with that rich a comment. The fact that this data provides such an opportunity is very much down to us to emphsise it to those who matter. Unless you know someone David besides the Senators and Congressman who make the legislation in this country, then they are the only ones who can make change. We can help create the where with all, but it's down to them.
I take it you are happy with your lot in the USA David and are happy with the mushroom management principal?

[Kriz1]

The tourist industry undoubedly does profit the Disney area quite considerably, and the tourist industry does seem to be run predominantly by the Brits with some exceptions. The question is if the Brits were not here would Americans and other nationalities step into the breach and run the industry? I think they would. Fact is the price of businesses here designed to sell to Brits and fulfill the substantial investment criteria for E2 visa has priced most Americans out of the market. Now that the E2 business sales market is at stalemate and people are willing to sell to Americans at lower prices rather than have to wait, I know of a couple of businesses which have done so recently. Could be the shape of things to come.

I think Americans will start MC companies...once they know the need is there....Americans will also rent villas more if they are not booked up so far ahead by the Brits...

[DavidL]

I am disappointed by David and Julies response to this one piece of statistical data that at least goes some way to highlighting the impact and contribution made by Brits in just industry that we participate in. There are others as well. To take the view of 'well the Yanks could do this job if we weren't here and therefore thay are not going to be interested' is negative to say the least. We can use that argument about every single business that we come to the US and set up. To further add that it is down to us to 'get off our a...s' and do somethig and not rely on others to do it for us. Well I'm speechless with that rich a comment. The fact that this data provides such an opportunity is very much down to us to emphsise it to those who matter. Unless you know someone David besides the Senators and Congressman who make the legislation in this country, then they are the only ones who can make change. We can help create the where with all, but it's down to them.
I take it you are happy with your lot in the USA David and are happy with the mushroom management principal?

Chris,

Sorry you don't like or agree with my comments, but I still stand by what I said. The 'Brits' make up a small % of visitors to Florida and I don't believe that the majority of British owned propety managers 'create' substantial wealth for the Us economy. The tax dollars would be there regardless if the businesses were being owned by Brits or Americans. Yes, if you want to bring about change, you need to do this yourself and not rely on someone else, I have always operated this way in life and it works for me, maybe not for others. I enjoy/like living here and for me and my family, it is the place where we choose to live at the moment. I'm know longer going to give myself an ulcer if I don't get a green card. The most important thing to me is my family and not where we live.

[chris]

David,
I note that your final comment is the most important thing to you is 'me' and 'my'. That just about sums it all up.
Perhaps when people like Sue have done all the legwork and created change, then the 'me's' and 'my's' will all benefit. But then it not just the US where this attitude exists. In the UK it 'I'm alright Jack'
I've said all I'm going to say on this thread and won't waste another ounce of my breath on attitudes such as yours.

[mandybenn]

Hi

I am new to this site and are currently looking to relocate. I have asked for your opinion on this expat website and did find it a tad negative although that may just be honest. Can I give a little feedback all the same! the discussion is healthy, however I do cringe a little as some people are a bit hostile!! Is this what happens when you relocate?

I don't mean to be abrupt but I am direct and as a new member to the site it does scare me a little when I log on and see what is written.

Sorry to be so direct!

Mandy:confused:

[Sharon]

Hi

I think we are very important

As a rule of thumb the adverage American refinances to the hilt so would not be able afford to buy our business's or want to even if they could

[DavidL]

Chris,

Sorry to hear that you are not going to waste another ounce of your breath on attitudes like mine. Is what I said really that offensive to you or did you just not like my honest opinion? Like I'm bothered.

Mandy,

Welcome to the discussion. I'm glad we relocated nearly 4 years ago. I have no regrets about our move. What works for some, doesn't work for others. At the end of the day, all you can do is make an informed choice based on your research, nothing more and nothing less. If things work out great then applaud yourself but if things start to detiorate, then try not to blame others. Life is too short to become bitter at one another.

[Kriz1]

Mandy sorry you found things a bit hostile...sometimes it is people just being very honest...
I hope you can find the answers to your questions here...and welcome.......

[mark]

Hi Mandy and welcome

Sorry, we don't mean posts to come across that way, we just try to tell the truth and like it is. Sometimes the written word can be read either way

It is a long haul to move to the US. So many hrudles to jump through and just trying to make people aware

The aim of this site is to pull together to raise awareness ant to hopefully bring changes for a fairer immigration system. We need to pull together and not apart. If there has been a post that has been hostile or upset you, please do report the post to admin so they can check the posting out and take any action that is needed

Keep posting and your chin up! It will be worth it in the long run

Regards Mark

[chris]

Mandy,
Debate is a healthy thing and as Bush tells us, at least we can debate in the open.
My original thread was about a survey which gave some data on Property Management companies and their impact in Polk County. The data I felt could have another use in that it serve to help the cause of trying to get the interest of lawmakers in the impact the Brits have on the economy of Florida, viz investment and permanant jobs. I said that it was just ONE survey in ONE county and another was likely to follow in Osceola County. I also said that this survey represented JUST ONE industry that Brits are involved in - it was a stepping stone. If more data on other industries could be produced, it would all be grist to the mill in helping put our case forward for possible changes in the immigration legislation. I don't believe for one minute that the Brits are vitally important to the economy of Florida, nor do I believe we should have special treatment. I do believe that we make a positive contribution to the success and well being of Florida and that should be recognized. Every journey begins with one small step. As you read these and other threads you will see that there is a great deal of unfairness in the immigration legislation. People like Sue who have experienced personal tragedies are spurred on to do more to affect change not just for themselves but for others too. I applaud their actions and efforts.
However, there are some out there who are quite happy with the status quo, and are negative and quick to knock those who want to try and achieve change. They are also more than happy for others to do the legwork and then they enjoy the benefits.
We can all take the attitude of 'so what' to our situation and we can all say we don't matter or don't count. We do a disservice to ourselves and our kids with that attitude. An earlier thread said we should pull together not apart and I agree with that sentiment. But I can do without the tommyknockers who's 'so what' at every turn is negative and dispiriting to those who want change and who are willing to work toward it.
I believe that you are considering the E2 visa? This is a temporary non-immigrant visa which in its current form will NEVER convert to a GC. For those E2'rs with kids, it has a poor outcome for their sons and daughters when they reach 21 (I have 2 sons 7 and 10 and the 6 years we have been here have flown). A good number of people would like to see changes in that visa to allow some form of permanancy (LPR- Legal Permanat Resident) and improved outcomes for kids when they get to 21. Those changes will only come about from our actions. Yet there are some Brits out there who simply say you knew what you were getting into, so stop complaining. I find that distateful and usually come from those with no kids or those who have been fortunate to come on L visa which do allow conversion or have been sponsored.
If someone brands me 'hostile' because I happen to think about others besides myself, then I am guilty as charged.

[Kriz1]

We don't know what people are doing or how they are helping in the background...people would not be here if they were no interested in the subject...we will have to learn to live with other peoples views if we are going to go forward as a group...even if we don't agree with them..
I think all the points made are good ones...and worth reading...I for one would hate for people to feel they could not say what they wanted...I've seen many a forum go under because of that...

[Jax]

Hi
I am also new to this forum and i find it a bit sad that people take the time to read the threads and then say i'm alright jack.We have no children but i have friends who do and i see what problems they are having as the children near 21.We also are on E2 visa's and we would love to retire at some point we are nearing 50, i think we all would like to beleive visa problems will change and lets hope they do with our forum
Thanks Jackie

[DavidL]

I don't think anyone has a perfect situation on here Jax. But if people are really that unhappy (and you can detect that in their postings), then why stay here and prolong the unhappiness. If I were really that unhappy about the immigration system here and I didn't think that I could change this, then I would leave the Us. That's my simple way of looking at it.

[Bobby]

I think Americans will start MC companies...once they know the need is there....Americans will also rent villas more if they are not booked up so far ahead by the Brits...

What a load of old tosh!

There aren't many Americans out there willing to work 70 hours per week for $4000 a month, and the headaches entailed in Property Management.

...........and as for your comments on Brits filling up the villas well in advance, I challenge you to show us just where these "full" villas are???

I bet the "full" occupancy rates at about 1% of the total amount of villas out there with short term rental licenses.

With so many British owners of these villas it's obvious that they have been marketed to a UK audience and (mistakenly or not), not to the huge US market.
One of the main reasons for this is that Americans tend to vacation for no more than 6 or 7 days at a time and generally only for about 4 or 5 days, which put against a 2 week booking from the UK is just not worth taking.

That's how important Brits are to the STR industry, as far as bookings go.

Bobby

[chris]

Go read Sue's original htreads about the horrid situation that she found herself in when her husband died suddenly and shen found out that her son in the UK was not going to be processed for LPR. I guess that at that point in her life, Sue was more than a little unhappy, yet she persevered and she will win through through determination and a desire to help herself and help others.
Speaking personally, David and I guess it's me you're aiming at, I am not unhappy living in Florida, just bl***y well frustrated by the inept and uncaring way the immigration system works in this country. My wife and I have grown a business from scratch and its quite successful by my definition. My wife and I have brought up 2 sons who are turning out to be very bright, articulate and positive individuals. We have many friends in our community, 99% of them Americans. Both my wife and I have embraced the American way and become active in the Community and in our Chamber, we get something out, but we give back in more than equal amounts. So on that basis I am not unhappy.
I would love a GC, I would love LPR, I would love for my sons not to age out at 21 when this country has educated them and allow them the chance to pay back that investment, I would love to get homestead exemption and I would love the chance to vote. Some of those things will never happen, some may happen, but I am not bitter, twisted or anything like that. I just have a desire to help myself and help others too.
I know from your postings that you have a family and you are absolutely correct that family comes first, mine do, but I don't exclude others.
I am not a religious person, but the parable of the Good Samaritan springs to mind. In the path of life it does happen where you can help others besides yourself - it's a good feeling too!

[Kriz1]

I disagree because I live in an area with holidays homes and ALL the MC people are American...its not just FL that has rentals...

I've found it hard to find the right homes for people we know because the ones worth having are booked up...I find Americans very lazy in looking for a villa...which is why I end up doing it...they look only a few weeks ahead because they are used to booking hotel...Brits on the other hand book next years holiday a year ahead...if not years ahead if villa rental forums are anything to go by....

No matter how much we like to think it...FL is not all about Brits....holiday homes will sell at a lower price to locals...Americans will run MC companies....or maybe even Mexicans....

[DavidL]

I am not a religious person,

At least we have the same outlook here.:D

[Kitty]

Hi Chris

Well said, I agree 100%

[Susie]

Hi Chris

Ref posting # 22

Thank you for your kind comments, thank goodness you cannot see me now as I am in floods of tears. Life is so tough at the moment, I am trying to run 2 companies in the USA (was 3 but the 3rd closed at husbands death) and a track of my company in the UK. Thank goodness they do not need my help to run the uk office

I must say my eldest son is working so hard and is determind to carry on his fathers good work, thank goodness and giving me a lot of emotional support

You are right I am determind in us all pulling together for all our sakes and for future immigrants to the USA and why this site must become an out and out sucess

Your posting sums up my feelings on the terrible way we legals are treated and need people like you on our committee or to help out in some small way

[DavidL]

Go read Sue's original htreads about the horrid situation that she found herself in when her husband died suddenly and shen found out that her son in the UK was not going to be processed for LPR. I guess that at that point in her life, Sue was more than a little unhappy, yet she persevered and she will win through through determination and a desire to help herself and help others.
Speaking personally, David and I guess it's me you're aiming at, I am not unhappy living in Florida, just bl***y well frustrated by the inept and uncaring way the immigration system works in this country. My wife and I have grown a business from scratch and its quite successful by my definition. My wife and I have brought up 2 sons who are turning out to be very bright, articulate and positive individuals. We have many friends in our community, 99% of them Americans. Both my wife and I have embraced the American way and become active in the Community and in our Chamber, we get something out, but we give back in more than equal amounts. So on that basis I am not unhappy.
I would love a GC, I would love LPR, I would love for my sons not to age out at 21 when this country has educated them and allow them the chance to pay back that investment, I would love to get homestead exemption and I would love the chance to vote. Some of those things will never happen, some may happen, but I am not bitter, twisted or anything like that. I just have a desire to help myself and help others too.
I know from your postings that you have a family and you are absolutely correct that family comes first, mine do, but I don't exclude others.
I am not a religious person, but the parable of the Good Samaritan springs to mind. In the path of life it does happen where you can help others besides yourself - it's a good feeling too!


Chris,

I agree, the way that Susie has been dealt with by the immigration authorities is not just appauling but is very sad in that they could not apply common sence to her case as oppposed to 'going by the rule book.'

Susie,

Not sure how you have coped with all that you have gone through. Your level of courage and determination is a credit to you. Yours is a case where special processing should apply.

For the rest of us on E2 visas, and for those contemplating the E2 visa route, 'if you fail to plan', 'you plan to fail.'

[chris]

DavidL,
You and I are guaranteed to butt heads I'm afraid, but that is not a bad thing in debate. If we all agreed on everything, life would be boring.
I would agree on your fail to plan and plan to fail to a point.
How could anyone plan for 911 and the after effects which we still feel?
You were still in the UK when it happened, we were here trying to start up our business. When planes don't fly for nearly 2 weeks, then that hits Florida big time. We have Fire and Police as some of our customers and when they had to spend all their available budget on security issues, our products got sidelined. You cannot plan for that. When Sales Tax revenues fell in Florida because of the fall off in tourists visiting, all public spending got hit as there was less tax dollars to be shared out. You cannot plan for that. When gas hits $3.00 a gallon and private business cuts back on its spending, you cannot accurately plan for that.
Your public profile says you have a financial/broking background and are now in mortgages and realting, so I guess that in your world planning for the future is important and for those who have the spare cash they can do it. I'd also guess that in the world of realting some realtors are looking at their plan B as the bottom probably has dropped out of their worlds and they are now getting a does of reality. For many though in Florida, life is a day to day planning exercise or haven't you noticed that yet. I believe Florida has several levels of economy and population. By and large Florida is a low wage economy and most live pay check to pay check. True, there is the other level where they have their regular paychecks, usually govt employees who can afford to plan ahead as they cruise through life, but for many reality is totally different

[DavidL]

Chris,

For the record, I was in Florida during Sept 11, not living here, but planning our move. I also spent the next few days on the phone (when I could get through to the UK) to my employees & clients who were woried about the immediate & longterm fallout.
Please, lets not go down the route of a 'mine's bigger than yours.' You were not the only business in the Us to be effected.

[chris]

Nobody is going down any road and I'm certainly not saying my business was affected more than anybody else's. I was merely pointing out that there are things you can plan for and things you can't. Simple as that!
I guess if I said white was white, you would argue that it was black, so lets call it quits.

[STEVE T]

Hi

I am new to this site and are currently looking to relocate. I have asked for your opinion on this expat website and did find it a tad negative although that may just be honest. Can I give a little feedback all the same! the discussion is healthy, however I do cringe a little as some people are a bit hostile!! Is this what happens when you relocate?

I don't mean to be abrupt but I am direct and as a new member to the site it does scare me a little when I log on and see what is written.

Sorry to be so direct!

Mandy:confused:

[STEVE T]

hello mandy , i am a yorkshire lad from castleford not far from you.I will tell you straight the english who i have met would,nt help you one bit , this is a mine all mine situation and the greed for monie like nothing you would ever believe.A few of us are now helping each other and we are northerners of course , the north ,south divide of english still exists would you believe ,i dont want to be a killjoy mandy but there is a lot of sense in what some say on here , but the site has become a viewing for most of us , with the usual british afraid to admit to making mistakes mentality we adopt.I think it is still a great life out here with structure for our kids ( where we live anyway) still good , i have just been through the toughest 2 years of my business life , losing nearly everything , mainly by trusting people to do something they say , words are not worth anything and nobody does what they say and people dont want to work ,so trying to expand on an E2 is so far impossible for me, i think what im trying to say is dont be put off , but try to listen and learn from all replys we all have a differant story to tell and yes some off putting , but if you come and try then fail , at least you have tried , i think time is the one thing you need to give you and your family in any country but your own , and if you have any monie left at end you will make it! i am working harder than i was at home but i have turned the corner on what i need to do to be succesful , skills are not enough its more of an american perspective on what they accept , ive travelled the world and worked and nobody is as good as a BRIT in our approach and standard of work a lot on this site wont agree , hopefully not bored you or put you off anymore Mandy if i can help you in anyway call or email thanks stevet

[Kriz1]

I'm not a Northerner...and I've spent 6 years helping others with their visa's ......

[lorraine]

Hi David I think this site is really helpful for people who are going through problems either with visa issues or just all the ups and downs of relocating to another country..Sometimes people just need to talk and let out their frustrations and then some kind sole comes to there aid and helps..I myself have been down recently due to death in Uk, no renewal through, sickness with myself and my son, my husband in 2 car accidents(not his fault) and starting a new business.. Wouldnt it be wonderful if it was that simple to say ok just go home to the Uk. We are 40 and 44 and have a child and have invested every penny that we have over here to get our business up and running, we cant just walk away and go back to the UK, everything we have is in our business here we have to make it work.. Sometimes though you vent your frustrations and that is why this forum is wonderful as it allows you to speak with others who have been there or are in the same position as yourself. Thankyou to all of you who offer your support and time .Kindest regards Lorraine

[Ron]

I'm not a Northerner...and I've spent 6 years helping others with their visa's ......


Hi

I agree

This is just imho

I am not a northerner and I like to help anyone I am able.

There are givers and there are takers.

Good and bad people the world over.

It is just part of life,

I alwats treat people as I would wish to be treated and hope people treat me the same. Most time is works but there is always the oadd bad apple in the crop

[mandybenn]

Hi Steve

Nice to hear from another Yorkshire person and yes we can been seen as 'direct' sometimes. I am a very positive person and feel this breeds and that's why I am concerned sometimes when I enter the site and read what I do. I know it is important to be honest and I am not put off by what I read (I have done 2 years research) but I do worry for some people who are having a difficult time. It would be nice to hear hints and tips of what makes life in the USA 'good'. I would like to hear about how people turned a problem around and what made it easier to settle i.e. location, clubs, schools.

I do agree with the Visa situation, I would not enter on an E2. The only way we would relocate is on an L1 due to Green card possibility, or on a H-1B which can be done but a little difficult. We were going to move lock stock and barrel, however on the L1 it means I can keep my Salon in the UK, we will rent our home and hope we can be successful on the L1. If we aren't then we haven't lost everything. I do feel for the people who are having renewals turned down it is ridiculous. The friends I have who have made the move, do feel it is the strength of the Immigration Attorney that makes the difference.

Back to how important the Brits are to Florida! I think everyone is important and on my regular visits I can see that the American people want us, it is just the nervousness of the Immigration Department.

Mandy

[chris]

Mandy,
You are very wise to research and research, listen to everybody, but in the end it has to be your decision. Above all trust no-one but yourself. Don't believe either just because they are a VC or VA they know what they are doing, many folks have been shortchanged by these people. We were shortchanged by our VC to the tune of $3500.
I know you've said about going down L1, but take advice on that too. I input on another website - the florida forum and there are some woeful tales there about L1. I read one only yesterday where a couple have a UK and a US business and returned to the UK for their Embassy renewal interview only to be denied. They have now been in the UK 7 months and can't get back to the US. Their Bank Manager in the US has been granted power of attorney to install a Manager in the US business in order to keep it functioning. Isn't that the stuff of nightmares? I don't think the Embassy people realise just how they play with peoples lives.
One thing that appears to be having a hard time on visa applications are Pool and Lawn care businesses, I believe because they are so linked in with the short term rental property management businesses and there have been several 'iffy' applications. There is a celebrated one involving 12 applicants that all got turned down and all were via one particular company. So beware.
I know you've mentioned that your hubby is a plumber and you are a hairdresser by profession. In the US, you would not be able to work at those trades without going back to school here and getting the certification needed for the occupational licenses to practise those professions. Those titbits all help in the decision making process.
I think you have to try and take a balanced approach when reading the forums. It's the glass half full/half empty factor. For everyone one who has had a bad experience, you will hear one has had a good experience. Trouble is the embassy seems to tipping the balance in favor of the bad experiences.
We've been here 6 years on E2, started a biz from scratch, endured 911, the Iraq invasion, downturn of US economy and the hurricanes coupled with a $3000 hospital bill when we got the keys to our shop in 2000, after I did my back in assembling furniture. All these factors impacted on our ability to run the business how we wanted to. We ran our own recruitment business in the UK for 10 years and started that from scratch too, but doing business in the US is different. It's a lot harder, time off is a lot less. If you have kids, educational standards can be very up and down. The US national pastime of suing poeple also impacts on mosts aspects of life in what people will do or will not do for you. That can be very frustrating as it goes against the UK commonsense thing of just get on with it. We vacationed in Florida for 10 years and had a 2nd home for 3 years before making the big move and we thought we'd done our research pretty thoroughly, but we still learn even now. Back in 2000, we did not have the benefit of web forums or the internet with so much information at the click of a key.
Don't be disheartened by all you see and read, but take heed of it. Good Luck in your endeavours

[DavidL]

Hi Steve

Nice to hear from another Yorkshire person and yes we can been seen as 'direct' sometimes. I am a very positive person and feel this breeds and that's why I am concerned sometimes when I enter the site and read what I do. I know it is important to be honest and I am not put off by what I read (I have done 2 years research) but I do worry for some people who are having a difficult time. It would be nice to hear hints and tips of what makes life in the USA 'good'. I would like to hear about how people turned a problem around and what made it easier to settle i.e. location, clubs, schools.

I do agree with the Visa situation, I would not enter on an E2. The only way we would relocate is on an L1 due to Green card possibility, or on a H-1B which can be done but a little difficult. We were going to move lock stock and barrel, however on the L1 it means I can keep my Salon in the UK, we will rent our home and hope we can be successful on the L1. If we aren't then we haven't lost everything. I do feel for the people who are having renewals turned down it is ridiculous. The friends I have who have made the move, do feel it is the strength of the Immigration Attorney that makes the difference.

Back to how important the Brits are to Florida! I think everyone is important and on my regular visits I can see that the American people want us, it is just the nervousness of the Immigration Department.

Mandy

Mandy,

If you are looking at the L1, then look at the Multi National Manager visa. It may take you/your visa consultant time to make this a viable option, but this would lead you direct to a immigrant visa (no Labor Certification involved) without applying for a L1 and then going to a green card or even a H1B and then having to go through Labor Certification and green card. The H1B has caps. Even if if takes you a further 12 months to achieve your goal, I would still do it. Heck, even if if takes you 18 months still do it!

Even though I am a southerner, feel free to email me if you need any further information without anything in return;) . For what it's worth, I spoke with half a dozen immigration attorneys (a couple are mentioned on this forum) and for fear of being hit with a slander law suit I wouldn't wish to make any comments about them.;)

As others have said, you can't plan for 100%, but I believe that strong preparation now will stop much hassle in the future and make living in the sunshine state a much brighter place for you. In hindsight, I wish we had prepared for the multi national manager visa route and delayed our venture but at the time the timimg was perfect for us.

[mandybenn]

Hi

Thanks to all of you for your advice! We are visiting a Business manager next week in Kissimmee and will take all your points with us to discuss our best option. I agree with the fact that we need to spend time finding the best way forward. I'll report back with my progress when I return to the UK.

Once again thank you

Mandy

[Sharon]

Hi Mandy

Is a business manager a bank manager, accountant or immigration attorney or someone who is a business broker or someone different?

Please up date us as to whether you get good advise, might help the rest of us

Thanks

[mandybenn]

Hi Sharon

We have already realised that a 1 stop shop is not a good idea as each area is specialised. We have been seeing Donna Scarlatelli PA in Sarasota who is very direct and has successfully helped 2 of our friends gain visa's in the last 2 years and very very smoothly. The Business guy we are meeting up with is someone who can help with a business plan and purchase of an L1 acceptable business. Funnily enough he helped us with the financial side of purchasing our Villa 3 yrs ago and now lives in the US most of the time.

Donna did advise us to seek separate advice for the business and then bring the plan and all other things (on her list) to her and she will put forward our visa. She has said she will only do so if and when we have all the evidence required to make the application successful. At least I know where I stand.

I'll let you know whether the business is viable and hey Chris!! guess what we have been looking at 'Pool & Lawn Co's maybe we need to look at something else. My husband liked the idea of linking his 25yrs of plumbing skills to Pools or irrigation for expansion, again this is where a 'Brit' could bring some support to the ever increasing Florida population.

Tune in for the next episode of 'The struggle to make USA want us!!':(

Mandy

[Jax]

Hi Mandy
I hope all goes well with the Business Manager.We have been here for 2 years also started our business from scratch 1 week after Hurricane Charley blew through then of course more hurricanes followed.It was a difficult start but worth it we love our life here.We had no choice but the E2 route we did not have a business in the Uk and did not want to go along the lines of setting up dummy corps as some of our friends did only to have problems at much later dates when renewals come up.We sold every thing in the Uk and for us it was the best move, We have friends who have kept a house in the Uk and when things get tough with the business over here its a easy route of saying i can always go back to the Uk as i at least have somewhere to live.Whatever route you take make sure you investigate all avenues and remember some things can't be planned for but sometimes these things make you stronger and make your business stronger. There are many things wrong with the immigration laws here but life can be good here if here is where you want to be :) :) :)
Jackie

[Susie]

Hi Mandy

Well done, you are very wise to seek independant advise from CPA, Bank manager, Business advisor, immigration attorney. This is sensible business planning and what I would advise everyone to do.

Do your homework, and revise before you put to the test.

My husband came on an L 1 inter co transfer. The UK company had been trading eight years when he applied.

We did not purchase a business in the USA just had an excellent accountant with a brillient business plan so you do not have to purchase a business if you do not want to

We set up a company name and important to make sure the US company and UK have the same share ratio

The US company does not have to be the same type/field of your exisiting company you can start up any type of business

Please keep us updated it will help others in the future.

[Bobby]

We set up a company name and important to make sure the US company and UK have the same share ratio.


I read a lot about this and don't understand the importance of it. Maybe I'm missing somethng and I'd be grateful if someone could explain it?

I believe that the L-1 visa is an intra company transfer for an individual to come from an existing company in another country that is still operating. A "parent" company if you like. The qualification being that the person has been in a management position for x amount of years in the last x amount of years. I'm not aware of anything that says that the beneficiary of the petition has to own the company or part of it. Am I totally wrong here? ....because if I am, then I have no claim to the L-1 visa in my passport, and I'll have to review my status right away.

Thanks,

Bobby

[floridapete]

Hi

Thanks to all of you for your advice! We are visiting a Business manager next week in Kissimmee and will take all your points with us to discuss our best option. I agree with the fact that we need to spend time finding the best way forward. I'll report back with my progress when I return to the UK.

Once again thank you

Mandy

If you really mean a "Business Broker" in Kissimmee - well, Mandy, you might like to call me first to check the name of the 'broker' you are due to meet with !

Tel: 01904 471800. Forewarned may be forearmed !!!

[mandybenn]

Hi Pete

We are seeing a few people actually! but the Business guy is linked through 'Pilgrim' which is part of a 1 stop shop, we have used them before and they are based in the UK. One guy will find us a business and another sort out our business plan.

By the way Susie would you let me have the name of your excellent Accountant who helped with your business plan. The business plan will be something we will need to live and breathe to be successful at Visa renewal time and I would appreciate all the help I can get.

My personal email is mbenn@btinternet.com if you prefer.

Thanks everyone! I'm going to be armed and dangerous!!!

Mandy

[lorraine]

Hi Bobby I just e mailed you the link on the Embassy of the US in London. It explains who can have an L1 visa.. No you dont need to own the business you need to have worked for it for at least one year and then you can come over and manage the new business here. (Executive or Manager) the only thing it does not say on the site is the share holding. Now my attorney has told me we need the same shares for the UK company as the American company ie same owner.. This is what we have done and kept it exactly the same. Kind regards Lorraine:rolleyes:

[chris]

Mandy
http://foia.state.gov/REGS/Search.asp
The above weblink is the elctronic reading room of US government information and in particular the FAM Rules. These are the Foreign Affairs Manual 'rules' that set out the rules for Visas including L's and E's. This is the game rule book by which the Visa Officer works when adjudicating your application. So you are now have access to the same game rules as them. Good gaming!
Only in this game there is $200 for passing go and if you come illegally you don't get a get out of jail card either. Hope this lot helps

[Susie]

I read a lot about this and don't understand the importance of it. Maybe I'm missing somethng and I'd be grateful if someone could explain it?

I believe that the L-1 visa is an intra company transfer for an individual to come from an existing company in another country that is still operating. A "parent" company if you like. The qualification being that the person has been in a management position for x amount of years in the last x amount of years. I'm not aware of anything that says that the beneficiary of the petition has to own the company or part of it. Am I totally wrong here? ....because if I am, then I have no claim to the L-1 visa in my passport, and I'll have to review my status right away.

Thanks,

Bobby

Hi Bobby

You are correct in your quote but also The parent company (UK Side) and sister company (USA side) should have same share ratio

Otherwise Company A will be owned by say Mr Smith and company B will be owned by say Mr Brown

I will try to explain

To get an L1 which is an intercompany transfer. The main company is the holding company and share are held in a certain way.

100% of the company say split 50-50 with a partner

The new company set up in the USA , to be able to tranfer a worker from holding company must have same directors and share split the same way eg 50-50

Hope this makes sence, not good at explaining, maybe Julie C can expalin better?

[mandybenn]

Ooops!!

Sorry musn't say 'armed and dangerous' in the current climate. This was meant in terms of 'meaning business' I don't want anyone waiting at the airport and not letting me in.

Bye for now

Mandy