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4. Property Buyer’s Checklist – Florida

Property Buyer’s Checklist – Florida

1. Define Your Purpose

• Holiday home, relocation, retirement, or investment

• Short‑term rental (Airbnb), long‑term rental, or personal use

• Preferred regions (Orlando, Miami, Tampa, Gulf Coast, Keys)

2. Set Your Budget

Include:

• Purchase price

• Closing costs (typically 2–5%)

• Property taxes (varies by county)

• Homeowners insurance

• HOA/Condo fees

• Maintenance and utilities

• Property management (if renting)

3. Choose the Right Location

Evaluate:

• Proximity to beaches, theme parks, airports

• Rental demand (tourism vs long‑term)

• Flood zones and hurricane risk

• School districts (if relevant)

• Local amenities and neighbourhood safety

• Short‑term rental zoning rules

4. Appoint a Licensed Florida Real Estate Agent

Your agent should:

• Be experienced with international buyers

• Understand local zoning and rental rules

• Provide comparable sales data

• Assist with negotiations and inspections

5. Hire a Real Estate Attorney (Optional but Recommended)

They can:

• Review contracts

• Check title and liens

• Explain legal obligations

• Coordinate closing documents

6. Obtain a U.S. Bank Account (Optional but Helpful)

Useful for:

• Mortgage payments

• Utility bills

• Rental income deposits

• HOA fees

International buyers can still purchase without one, but it simplifies ownership.

7. Understand Financing Options

For non‑U.S. residents:

• 30–40% down payment is typical

• Higher interest rates than U.S. residents

• Proof of income and assets required

• Some lenders specialise in foreign buyers

Cash purchases are common for speed and simplicity.

8. Conduct Full Due Diligence

Your team should verify:

• Title status (no liens or encumbrances)

• HOA/Condo rules and fees

• Flood zone classification

• Insurance requirements

• Rental restrictions

• Property condition and age

• Past repairs or permits

9. Arrange Inspections

Essential inspections include:

• General home inspection

• Roof inspection

• Termite/pest inspection

• HVAC and plumbing checks

• Pool inspection (if applicable)

Florida’s climate makes inspections especially important.

10. Understand All Taxes & Fees

Include:

• Property tax (varies by county)

• State documentary stamp tax

• Title insurance

• HOA/Condo fees

• Tourist development tax (for short‑term rentals)

• Income tax on rental earnings (federal level)

Florida has no state income tax, which benefits investors.

11. Review Rental Regulations

If planning to rent:

• Confirm short‑term rental zoning

• Check HOA/Condo rules

• Understand local licensing requirements

• Register for tourist tax collection

• Consider property management services

Rules vary widely between cities and counties.

12. Understand the Closing Process

Typical steps:

• Offer accepted

• Contract signed

• Inspections completed

• Title search

• Appraisal (if financing)

• Final closing and deed transfer

Closings can be completed remotely for international buyers.

13. Plan for Ongoing Ownership Costs

Include:

• Property taxes

• Insurance (home + hurricane + flood if required)

• HOA/Condo fees

• Utilities

• Landscaping and pool care

• Repairs and maintenance

• Property management (if renting)