It is easy to show you how to purchase a house. You’re familiar with the process. You know the drill. Get financing, make a deal, get home insurance, and have your home inspected. However, buying a Florida house is a completely different experience. We offer the best and most trusted advice for buying a house or condo in Florida. Follow these steps.
Florida house buying is very different from other states. A Florida Realtor(r), who can help you navigate Florida house-buying hurdles such as Florida homestead exemptions.
These steps will help you find the right Florida real estate agent. You’ll feel confident closing on your house with this knowledge.
How do you buy a house in Florida?
You have much to learn if this is your first house purchase in Florida. This guide will help you become a Florida house-buying guru.
Are You Looking for a Pool?
We can answer that question for you. You should consider purchasing a pool-equipped home to cool off during the summer heat. Florida’s rule of thumb is that you should find someone who has a pool and a boat to enjoy Florida.
Patios are Now Lanais
If you are looking for a Florida home and live in the north, here’s a tip. A lanai is a Florida term for the concrete slab or screen-enclosed space you call a porch in North Florida. We all know this. It’s just another name for the same thing. It’s okay to just do it. Your Realtor(r) won’t be surprised that you know the difference. Lanais are highly sought-after in Florida and offer the opportunity to enjoy Florida’s beauty all year.
Windows and shutters are important
Florida can get very hot, particularly from May to September. Window tint and UV-ray protection are a great Florida home feature. Shutters and blinds of high quality can also block the sun, keeping your Florida home cool to reduce your energy bills.
Are you a Florida resident full-time?
Your real estate agent will be able to inform you about the benefits of a homestead exemption if you’re moving permanently to Florida. Florida law allows property owners to claim a maximum $50,000 exemption for their primary residence. This exemption applies to all taxing authorities. The exemption is available for properties worth more than $50,000 and can be exempted from School Board taxes by adding $25,000
Is your home in a flood zone?
Agents can assist you in navigating flood zones. These areas require additional insurance policies for homes located in areas more susceptible to flooding. The rule of thumb is that the closer you live to the water the more you should budget annually for flood insurance.
Don’t Forget Hurricane Insurance
This policy is also known as wind mitigation insurance. It protects your home against severe wind damage and flooding caused by a hurricane wind event. To budget properly, consult your agent and Realtor(r). A windstorm inspection will help you determine what insurance credits your home is eligible for.
This post was written by Josh Dotoli! Josh is the owner of Josh Dotoli Group which is a laser-focused real estate team at Compass comprised of industry experts selling Fort Lauderdale’s best neighborhoods. This dynamic group is one of the top-selling real estate teams in South Florida with over $94 million in sales in the past 12 months alone. Looking for coral ridge homes for sale in Fort Lauderdale, we are the real estate team for you!
