What are the steps to buying a home in Florida?

The Florida home buying process follows the same broad arc as the rest of the country, with a few Florida-specific wrinkles around insurance, disclosures, and (as of 2024-26) buyer-agent agreements. Here’s the full path.

1. Set your real budget

Look beyond the mortgage payment. In Florida, your true monthly cost includes property taxes (reassessed after you buy), homeowners insurance, possible flood insurance, HOA/CDD fees, and maintenance. See our guide on the true cost of owning.

2. Get pre-approved

Not pre-qualified — pre-approved. A pre-approval letter is what sellers take seriously, and in competitive Florida submarkets it’s the price of entry.

3. Sign a buyer-agent agreement and pick your agent

As of 2026, you’ll sign a written buyer-representation agreement before touring homes, spelling out how your agent is paid. (See the 2026 buyer-broker change.) Choose an agent who knows your specific market.

4. House hunt

Tour homes, and in Florida pay special attention to roof age, flood zone, insurance cost, and HOA/CDD fees — not just the kitchen.

5. Make an offer

Most Florida resale offers use the “as-is” contract (see what “as-is” means). Your offer specifies price, contingencies, deposit, and closing timeline.

6. Get an insurance quote — early

Because of Florida’s insurance market, quote insurance the moment you’re under contract. A bad quote can change the math or delay closing.

7. Inspections and appraisal

A general home inspection (plus wind mitigation, WDO/termite, and possibly a 4-point on older homes). Your lender orders the appraisal.

8. Finalize financing

Your lender completes underwriting. Avoid big financial changes (new debt, job changes) until after closing.

9. Close

You’ll review the Closing Disclosure, do a final walkthrough, bring your cash-to-close, and sign. The deed records with the county and the keys are yours.

Have more questions? Browse our full FAQ library or get your free Florida Home Buying Guide.