When most people think about buying a second home, Florida comes to mind. And for a good reason, with its miles of sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other side, lush tropical vegetation, and a warm temperate climate. Florida has a lot to offer, especially for Northerners looking to escape the winter cold.
No other state beats the “Sunshine State” as the most ideal place to buy a second home in the United States.
Here are some quick tips on buying a second home in Florida:
1. Consider your budget
The dream of owning a home away from home in Florida doesn’t come cheap. One key consideration to make before plunging into the homes for sale market in Florida is your budget. Remember, though Florida isn't an expensive state to live in, second homes come with a whole set of long-term financial responsibilities. Being realistic about your budget is critical before making such a big money jump.
There are plenty of great home options available for those willing to think outside the box. So you don't have to go all-in and end up burdening yourself with some whooping monthly expenses. Don't be afraid to get creative when it's time to get your dream second home in Florida.
2. Research the different areas in Florida
Different areas in Florida offer something unique to second-home buyers. It is important to do some due diligence before purchasing a property to find the location that best suits your needs. Some people prefer a quiet and secluded lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life, while others like to be in the middle of all the action. By doing your research ahead of time, you can save yourself time, money, and frustration down the road.
Each location has its own unique set of pros and cons that you might want to consider. Remember, a second home in Florida or anywhere else is still a home, and making the right decision on the onset means your home can retain its appeal to you for years to come!
3. Work with a real estate agent
Like with every real estate purchase, it's crucial to ensure you have a good understanding of your prospective location and the prevailing market conditions. This is where a competent real estate agent comes in.
If you're an out-of-state buyer, you most definitely need to work with one. You need a competent local realtor that’s knowledgeable about the communities and neighborhoods you’re interested in.
4. Get pre-approved for a mortgage
When buying a vacation home in sunny Florida, it's essential to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This ensures you're a purchase-ready home buyer when a hot home listing hits the market. It also spares you the potential headaches associated with dealing with lenders last minute. There are certain things to consider when securing a mortgage for a second vacation home, such as your credit score and debt-to-income ratio. Here's the thing, when shopping for a vacation home in Florida, being pre-approved for a mortgage means you can bid for properties you like from a position of strength, and that's a massive plus in this competitive housing market.
5. Keep in mind closing costs
Closing costs and other associated expenses for buying a second home in Florida can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. This depends on the property's purchase price and the buyer's loan terms. Generally, buyers will be responsible for paying closing costs, title insurance, and other required fees. In addition, buyers should factor in recurring expenses such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance costs. Having a clear picture of all of the upfront costs and contingent expenses of buying a second home in Florida, buyers can be well-prepared for some of these often unforeseen overheads.
6. Have realistic expectations
Most people have flying-high expectations when purchasing second homes, especially in Florida. It's important to remember that there is no such thing as a "cheap" beachfront home. You need to be realistic about what you can afford and what you're willing to compromise. Remember, Florida offers plenty of excellent second home options, so don't limit yourself too much. With vacation homes, a long drive to a beautiful cozy home might feel burdensome at first, but you quickly forget the hassle when you get there.
If you're ready to buy a second home in Captiva or Sanibel, or if you just have some questions about it, you can get started by contacting one of our experienced real estate experts at Kingfisher Real Estate.