Florida Buyer Tip: How to Estimate Your Property Taxes Before You Buy In Florida, property taxes can jump significantly after you buy a home—even if the seller paid much less. Here’s how to estimate what you will owe, based on your purchase price. Why You Can’t Use the Seller’s Tax Bill Florida counties reassess the…
How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home in Florida? One of the first questions sellers ask is: “How fast will my home sell?” The answer depends on several key factors—from market conditions to your home’s price, condition, and location. In Florida’s coastal markets like Sarasota and Bradenton, selling timelines can be competitive—but success…
Negotiating Seller Concessions in Florida Real Estate When selling a home in Florida, you’re likely to face a common question from buyers: “Will the seller cover some of the closing costs?” These types of financial requests, called seller concessions, can play a big role in getting your home sold—but they can also cut into your…
Florida Real Estate Taxes vs. Homestead Exemption: What Buyers Should Know Buying a Florida home? The Homestead Exemption could save you thousands. Here’s how it works—and how it compares to standard real estate taxes. What Is the Homestead Exemption? A tax benefit for Florida residents who own and occupy their home as a primary residence….
What to Know About Florida Real Estate Taxes When Buying Buying a home in Florida? You’ll want to understand how real estate taxes work. Here’s what buyers need to know to avoid surprises. How Are Property Taxes Calculated in Florida? Taxes are based on: Assessed value: Set by the county property appraiser Millage rate: Varies…
Florida Home Appraisals: What Buyers Need to Know When you buy a home with a mortgage in Florida, your lender will require an appraisal. Here’s what to expect and how it affects your deal. What Is a Home Appraisal? An independent, third-party valuation of the property you’re buying. The goal: ensure the lender isn’t loaning…
Florida Buyer FAQ: What Happens If the Appraisal Comes In Low? You’re under contract on a Florida home. Everything’s moving smoothly. Then your lender sends the appraisal—and it’s lower than the purchase price. Now what? Here’s what you need to know. Why It Matters Lenders base your mortgage amount on the appraised value, not the…
Florida Real Estate Terms Buyers Should Know Before Making an Offer Florida real estate has its own lingo. If you’re a buyer, these are the terms you need to know before making an offer. 1. Escrow Money held by a neutral third party (like a title company) until closing. Includes: Your earnest money deposit Sometimes…
What’s Included (and Not) in a Florida Real Estate Closing Disclosure The Closing Disclosure (CD) is one of the final documents you receive before signing the dotted line on your Florida home. Here’s a quick guide to understanding what it includes—and what it doesn’t. What Is the Closing Disclosure? A federally required, five-page form that…
What Florida Buyers Need to Know About Mortgage Pre-Approval If you’re planning to buy a home in Florida, don’t start shopping until you’re pre-approved. Here’s what that means, how it works, and why it gives you the edge. What Is Pre-Approval? Pre-approval is a formal letter from a lender stating how much home you can…