The Florida home buying process typically involves these key steps: Pre-approval for a mortgage, working with a real estate agent, searching for properties, making an offer, conducting inspections, securing financing, and closing. Florida’s median home price in October 2024 was $415,000 (Florida Realtors). Inventory levels remain low, with months’ supply around 3.0, indicating a seller’s market in many areas. Property taxes are a significant cost consideration, averaging around 0.97% of assessed value statewide. Homeowners insurance is crucial due to hurricane risk, with average annual premiums exceeding $6,000 in some coastal counties. The closing process can take 30-45 days, and buyers typically pay 2-5% of the purchase price in closing costs. Understanding homestead exemptions is essential for primary residences to reduce property tax liabilities.
