Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in Florida

Posted by Moran Insurance on November 30th, 2020

Tip #1: Find the Area That Feels Like Home

Look for a place that gives you a sense of belonging. The neighborhood should provide a sense of community and lifestyle that you will be comfortable with even in the future

Tip #2: Do More Than Attend an Open House

After the open house, try and visit the neighborhood and see if it gives you that homely feel, see how the traffic is at peak hours, talk to the neighbors and ask them about how it is living in the area.

Tip #3: Monitor Your Credit Score

Improve your credit score by paying debts, removing any error in your credit scores and  pausing any new new activity. A good credit score will play a big part in hastening your mortgage approval.

Tip #4: Determine Your Price Range and Consider Your Down Payment

You need to consider more than just your mortgage payment. Other monthly payments include potential homeowners association fee, homeowners insurance, and property taxes

Tip #6: Hire a Trusted Real Estate Agent

An experienced real estate agent is an asset to you during your search for a new home. Their expertise in managing real estate transaction,access to resource negotiation skills, can save you a lot of time and frustration and money.

Tip #7: Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

If your real estate agent believes the seller can accept a slightly lower amount than the originally stated one, do not hesitate to negotiate.

Tip #8: Make Sure the Home Is Legally Sound

Doing due diligence for a property will save you a lot of time and money.Installations and renovations could have violated regulations and these could cause a lot of legal issues

Tip #9: Take Your Inspection Seriously

Get an inspector to evaluate and assess all areas of the property. If they note problems and issues with the property eg pests, molds trouble with plumbing work and electrical work. If the results raise concerns, speak with your agent about it.

Tip #19: Discover How the Weather Impacts Your Property

Though there is no adverse weather in Florida, the average sun, rain, heat, and wind can cause considerable  damage in property. You should be aware of the damages caused by the heavy rain and wind and how this creates potential risks to your property.

After following these tips, you are now comfortable a home owner.