Do I have to sign an agreement before you show me homes?

Yes. Florida requires a written buyer agreement before we tour homes together. It spells out what we do for you and how we're paid. We'll go through it with you line by line, and we're happy to answer any questions before you sign.

How much do I need for a down payment?

It depends on the loan. Some programs allow as little as 3% down, and VA loans can allow zero down for eligible buyers. A lender can tell you exactly what you qualify for, and we can connect you with one.

What are closing costs, and how much should I plan for?

Closing costs include lender fees, title insurance, government recording fees, prepaid taxes and insurance, and more. A lender will give you a Loan Estimate with real numbers early in the process. Sometimes the seller agrees to pay part of these costs as part of the deal.

What does "as is" mean?

Most Florida resale homes are sold on an "AS IS" contract. You can still inspect everything, and during the inspection period you can cancel for any reason and get your deposit back. Once that period ends, you're accepting the home's condition.

How long does it take to close?

Usually about 30 to 45 days with a loan, and sometimes faster with cash. Your contract sets the exact date.

Should I get a home inspection on a newer home?

Yes. Even newer homes can have issues with roofs, plumbing, or installation. An inspection is one of the best investments you can make during the purchase.

Can I buy before I sell my current home?

Sometimes. It depends on your finances and the type of loan. Let's talk through your situation and we'll help you map out the order that makes sense.

Agents and buyers shaking hands over closing paperwork at a table outside a new Florida home

Buy

Buying a Home on the Treasure Coast

Buying here comes with its own set of questions: flood zones, insurance, HOAs, CDDs, and how property taxes reset when a home sells. We help you sort through all of it so you can focus on finding the right home.

How it works

1

Talk with us first.

We'll learn what you need, your budget, and your timeline. Florida requires a written buyer agreement before we show homes, and we'll walk you through it in plain English.
2

Get pre-approved.

We'll connect you with local lenders if you need one, so you know your real budget before you fall in love with a house.
3

Tour neighborhoods and homes.

Use our neighborhood guides to narrow down areas, then we'll tour homes that fit.
4

Make a strong offer.

We'll show you recent sales, explain every part of the contract, and negotiate on your behalf.
5

Inspections to closing.

We coordinate inspections, keep track of every deadline, and stay with you through the final walk-through and closing.

What's different about buying on the Treasure Coast

Florida homes come with a few costs and rules that surprise people, especially if you're moving from out of state. Here's what to look at before you fall in love with a house.

Insurance

Homeowners and wind insurance can vary a lot from one house to the next. Roof age, windows, and the year the home was built all matter. Get quotes before your inspection period ends.

Insurance guide

Flood zones

Some homes require flood insurance and some don't, even on the same street. An elevation certificate tells you where a home stands.

Flood zones guide

Property taxes reset

The seller's tax bill is not your tax bill. Taxes are reassessed after a sale, so budget based on the purchase price, not what the seller pays now.

Property taxes guide

HOA and CDD fees

Many communities have an HOA, and some also have a CDD that shows up on your tax bill. Know both before you sign.

HOA and CDD guide

Homestead exemption

If it's your primary residence, you can apply for Florida's homestead exemption, which lowers your taxable value and caps future increases.

Property taxes guide

Inspections

Most Florida resale contracts are "as is," which means your inspection period is your main chance to find problems and decide whether to move forward.

Buyer FAQ

Who handles what

What we handle

Searching and setting up showings
Pulling recent sales so you know what a home is really worth
Writing and negotiating your offer
Tracking every contract deadline
Coordinating with the lender, inspector, and title company
Walking you through the final walk-through and closing

What we'll need from you

A pre-approval letter or proof of funds
Quick responses during negotiations and the inspection period
Your insurance quotes during the inspection period
Your deposit on time
Any documents your lender asks for, as soon as they ask

Not sure where to start?

Each city has a different feel. Here's a quick look, then dive into the neighborhood guides.

Vero Beach

Quieter and lower-density, with a walkable downtown, uncrowded beaches, and a mix of established neighborhoods and newer communities on the mainland.

See Vero Beach neighborhoods

Port St. Lucie

The area's largest city, with master-planned communities, golf, newer homes, and easy access to I-95 and the Turnpike.

See Port St. Lucie neighborhoods

Fort Pierce

A historic waterfront city with a working marina, a lively downtown, beach access on Hutchinson Island, and some of the area's more attainable prices.

See Fort Pierce neighborhoods

Thinking about new construction?

If you're considering a brand-new home, contact us before you visit any model or builder website. Most builders require your agent to register you first, or you lose the right to have someone negotiating for you.

How builder registration works

New single-story home at Hampton Park under a blue Florida sky

Common questions from buyers

Kate Ward and Peter White seated at a table with a laptop and home-buying paperwork

Start with a quick call

Call Kate 772-342-4006 Call Pete 772-284-1419