Guide for Buying a Home in Florida

Would you like the quick scoop on how to find a home in the Sunshine State?

Florida is a booming housing market for a bunch of reasons. The Fadden-McKelvie Group invites you to discover why it’s a perfect time to buy a home in our neck of the woods in and around the tranquil Panhandle region.

What’s Special About Moving to Florida?

If you’d like to live somewhere just as gorgeous as Hawaii or California, with way more economic opportunity, and a lower cost of living, then Florida is the place to be. Many of our clients move here as an escape or refuge from the urban northeast.

Provided you can handle the heavy humidity and occasional hurricanes, this is an ideal place to retire, raise children, or start a small business. Many of our communities, like Panama City Beach, are first-class in terms of schools, safety, HOA management, social opportunities, and other living quality metrics.

Homeowner Advantages Specific to Florida

What are the primary reasons people flock to Florida?

1. There is no state income tax!
2. It’s warm just about all year. Even in January, the average low is 41 degrees, and most months it never gets below 45.
3. Homes in Florida hold their price value far better than most places in America.
4. The entire state is full of amusement parks, beaches, spectator sports, and other recreational venues.

What Do I Need to Qualify for Homeownership in Florida?

There are, of course, a few things to think about before moving to Florida.

• Do I have adequate insurance (including hurricane coverage)?
• Am I buying in a flood zone?
• What is the water pressure like, and how will all my utilities hook up to local sources? If you’re from the northern U.S., it’s a little different in a place that’s at or below sea level.

Then, we recommend making sure you have all the buying essentials you would expect pretty much anywhere.

• A favorable credit score, (at least 620 bits of help), and enough money for a 20% down payment.
• Obtain a mortgage pre-approval.
• Find a competent realtor and have them write a valid buyer’s contract.

The Fadden-McKelvie Group – Serving New Buyers Around Panama City Beach

That last part is where we come into the picture. Most of the headaches that first-time buyers experience are avoidable when you partner with an experienced realtor. The same holds true if you’re seeking a fourth or fifth property for investment income.

If you’re finally ready to move to the Sunshine State, then we can’t wait to be your new neighbors. The Fadden-McKelvie Group, an affiliate of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, serves buyers, sellers, and investors in Florida. Contact us anytime to get started or learn more about us by calling 321-890-5364.