@kaykay
My parents moved from a cooler climate to Florida and the first thing they learned is everything grows. It grows bigger/taller/fuller than they were expecting and there is no "down time" in the winter months. Try to find a way to prevent weeds before they start (I use organic Preen and double-layer landscape fabric) and mulch, mulch, mulch.
No need to spend money on plants unless you're looking for something specific in a hurry. Just give a shout out here on ATP and folks will probably be willing to send you plants for the cost of postage.
Take lots of photos - before/during/after - as you work on your new yard and write an article. You can earn about 50 acorns for a good article with photos. Easy-peasy.
If you need any big holes dug ask
@gingin if the dogs can come over and help; she's got some will workers.
