1. Understand Florida Home Costs (Beyond the Price)

Florida buyers need to budget for more than just the mortgage:

  • Homeowners insurance (higher in FL, varies by roof age & location)
  • Flood insurance (may be required depending on zone)
  • HOA/CDD fees (very common in Florida communities)
  • Property taxes (can change after purchase)

💡 Your monthly payment may differ from online estimates. Contacting our Preferred lender can help you better understand your first mortgage.

2. Get Pre-Approved With a Florida-Savvy Lender

Florida lenders understand:

  • Wind mitigation & 4-point inspections
  • Condo approval rules
  • Insurance requirements before closing

Pre-approval also helps you move fast in competitive areas. Our Preferred Lender offers same-day pre-approval letters 7 days a week!

3. Look Into Florida First-Time Buyer Programs

Many Florida buyers qualify for:

  • Down payment assistance
  • First-time buyer grants
  • Lower interest rate programs
  • Special programs for teachers, healthcare workers & first responders (ask me about my HOMES for HEROES program)

📌 Some programs are income-based or location-specific. Our Preferred Lender will find you the best assistance program to fit your needs.

4. Choose the Right Location (Not Just the House)

In Florida, location impacts:

  • Insurance rates
  • Flood zones
  • Commute times
  • HOA rules (rentals, pets, short-term rentals)

A great home in the wrong area can become expensive in the long term. My team and I will always put your needs first and find the right location for you. We listen to all your needs and wants to compile the best list of homes to meet them.

5. Know Florida-Specific Inspections

Most Florida purchases include:

  • General home inspection
  • 4-Point inspection (roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC)
  • Wind mitigation inspection (can lower insurance costs)

Skipping inspections in Florida is risky. My team and I will never suggest that you not do an inspection. Though the 3 listed inspections are the most common and needed, in Florida, you should always have a termite inspection completed, as these little critters do a lot of damage.

6. Be Smart About the Roof

  • Roof age matters a lot in Florida:
  • Many insurers won’t insure roofs over a certain age
  • Roof type affects insurance cost
  • A newer roof can save thousands annually

This is one of the first things your agent should check. My team and I ensure you have the information on all the heavy-ticket items before you make a decision on which home you like.

7. Make a Competitive (But Safe) Offer

  • Florida markets can move quickly:
  • Strong pre-approval helps
  • Seller concessions may still be available
  • Your agent should balance competitiveness with protection

Never waive inspections without fully understanding the risk. My team and I schedule all your inspections so you don't have to worry about them. If there is a specific company you want as your inspector, we will schedule that for you as well. Just let us know the company, and we will be on it for you.

8. Prepare for Closing

  • Before closing:
  • Secure insurance early
  • Review HOA rules & fees
  • Avoid opening new credit
  • Complete final walkthrough

Florida closings can move fast once insurance is approved. My team, I, and our Preferred Lender have a list of insurance companies to work with if you do not have a preferred insurance company. Just let us know, and we can get a call scheduled for you to talk to a local insurance agent.

9. File for Florida Homestead Exemption

After closing:

  • Apply for Homestead Exemption by March 1
  • Lowers property taxes
  • Caps future tax increases
    Not an option on a 2nd home or rental property

This is one of the most important post-closing steps. Many agents, lenders, and title companies miss this step and forget to tell you about this step. My team and I make it a habit to inform and remind our clients of this process.

10. Get the Keys & Enjoy Florida Living 🌞

Once you close:

  • Utilities transferred
  • Insurance active
  • Keys in hand
  • Welcome home!

 

⭐ Florida Buyer Pro Tip

Many Florida first-time buyers assume they need more money than they actually do. With the right guidance, programs, and strategy, buying can be much more attainable than expected.

Looking for a Lender? Contact our Preferred Lender, Jackie and/or Lianne Noel. Visit their webpage here 1noelteam

As our Preferred Lender, Lianne and Jackie offer the following for you when you let them know we referred you: 

Up to $600 for appraisal and credit report reimbursement

Free education on existing mortgage programs