By Rod Strickland, DDS | Legacy Practice Transitions

In 2007, after 13 years of practicing dentistry in Indiana, I made a decision that changed my life—I moved to Savannah, Georgia, to continue my career in a warmer, more desirable location. At the time, I knew a few other dentists who had done something similar, but it wasn’t exactly common. Now, nearly two decades later, I see it happening more than ever. Dentists from northern states are choosing to relocate mid-career, and for good reason.

Having gone through it myself, I understand both the appeal and the challenges of making such a move. The reasons behind this shift vary, but I’ve noticed a few consistent themes among the dentists I’ve worked with at Legacy Practice Transitions.

Why Are So Many Dentists Moving South?

One of the biggest factors driving this trend is quality of life. Dentists are hardworking professionals who spend decades building their practices, but at some point, many start to wonder: Is there a better way to live and work? The allure of a warmer climate, lower taxes, and a slower pace of life starts to outweigh the comfort of staying put.

I hear the same story time and time again:

• “Winters feel longer every year.” Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures take a toll, making the idea of a mild climate all the more appealing.
• “I want a fresh start without starting over.” Many dentists want the excitement of a new location but don’t want to deal with the financial burden of building a practice from scratch.
• “I can sell high and buy smart.” In many northern states, dental practices are still highly valuable, dentists can cash out and use that equity to purchase the exact type of practice they want.  Relocating allows them to be strategic and selective in choosing a practice that aligns with their career goals and lifestyle.
• “I want to enjoy my career, not just endure it.” A better work-life balance, proximity to the beach, mountains, or outdoor activities, and a potentially lower cost of living can make daily life significantly more enjoyable.

The Common Roadblocks

Despite the appeal, many dentists hesitate because of the challenges of relocating. Selling a practice in one state while securing a new one in another isn’t a simple transaction. Too often, I see dentists attempt to do this on their own—listing their practice for sale, waiting for the right buyer, and hoping they find the perfect opportunity at just the right time. Unfortunately, this approach rarely works smoothly.

I’ve worked with dentists who have spent years waiting for the right buyer while the opportunity they wanted down south slipped away. Others have tried to find a new practice first but struggled with financing because their current practice hadn’t sold yet. It’s a delicate balance, and without the right plan in place, many find themselves stuck in limbo.

How to Make the Move Without the Headache

Having relocated my own practice, I understand the process firsthand. At Legacy Practice Transitions, we specialize in making this transition seamless. Our team doesn’t just operate from one office—we have dozens of experienced consultants located throughout the United States, each with deep knowledge of their specific regions. This nationwide network allows us to accurately value and market your practice in the North while simultaneously identifying the perfect opportunity in the South, ensuring a smooth, financially sound transition.

The key to success is a strategic, coordinated approach—one that ensures a smooth transition from one practice to the next, with no loss of income and minimal disruption. We help with:

• Accurate practice valuation and marketing to attract serious buyers quickly.
• Merging into an existing practice for an easier and more profitable sale.
• Finding the right practice in the new location with terms that make financial sense.
• Structuring deals that eliminate unnecessary stress and protect both parties.

With Legacy Practice Transitions’ extensive network of consultants, we make sure your transition is handled by experts who understand both where you’re coming from and where you want to go.

Is It Time to Make Your Move?

I can confidently say that moving to Savannah in 2007 was the best decision of my career. I’ve never looked back, and I now see more and more dentists following the same path—leaving cold winters and high-tax states behind in favor of a new chapter in the Southeast.

If you’ve ever thought about making a move but weren’t sure how to do it without disrupting your career or finances, let’s talk. At Legacy Practice Transitions, we’ve helped many dentists relocate successfully, ensuring they maximize the sale of their current practice while securing the right opportunity in their new location.

A better life and a better practice could be waiting for you—you just need the right plan to make it happen.

With over 200 years in the fields of dentistry, practice transitions, consulting, and financial planning, Legacy Practice Transitions is devoted to helping you achieve the best possible dental practice transitions as a buyer or seller. Our Practice Transition Consultants will assist you in determining your personal and professional needs, make sound recommendations on appropriate transition programs, and provide comprehensive support at every step.

For a personalized consultation and to explore your options with seasoned professionals, reach out to Dr. Rod Strickland at (843-290-8584) or via email at Rod@LegacyPracticeTransitions.com