How to Buy a House in Florida
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$405,280
Closing Costs
$19,842
4.9% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.74%
$2,338/yr median
Days on Market
45
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Attorney Required
Yes
Foreclosure Type
Judicial
Transfer Tax
0.7%
$0.70 per $100
Key Facts About Buying in Florida
- ✓No state income tax
- ✓One of the strongest homestead exemptions in the US (unlimited value)
- ✓Judicial foreclosure state
- ✓Active hurricane zone - flood insurance often required
The Home Buying Process in Florida
Buying a home in Florida follows a 10-step process. As an attorney state, you'll need legal representation at closing.
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Find a Real Estate Agent
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
Get a Home Inspection
Secure Your Financing
First-Time Buyer Programs in Florida
Florida Assist Second Mortgage
Deferred second mortgage for down payment
Florida Hometown Heroes
For community workers (teachers, nurses, first responders)
Cost of Buying a Home in Florida
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $14,185 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $81,056 |
| Average Closing Costs | $19,842 |
| Transfer Tax | $2,837 |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $2,999/yr |
Legal & Regulatory Details in Florida
Homestead Exemption
Available
Unlimited value, up to 1/2 acre in city
Licensing Authority
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Florida Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | Warranty deed |
| Security Instrument | Mortgage |
| Foreclosure Process | Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | Yes |
| Deficiency Judgment | Yes |
| Redemption After Sale | Yes |
| Reinstatement Available | No |
| Seller Disclosures | Sellers must disclose non-obvious issues that materially affect value-radon hazards, coastal erosion rules, homeowners'-association matters, property-tax changes, environmental hazards, boundary disputes, pest infestations, sinkholes and structural problems. |
