Buyers

Buying a home or land out here

Whether it's your first home, a piece of land, or a move from out of town, here's what to expect, and what to check before you buy.

What to expect

How buying works with me

I explain each step before it happens, so you're never guessing what comes next.

Ofelia with buyers at a property
  1. We talk

    What you're looking for, where, your budget, and your timing.

  2. Get pre-approved

    A lender tells you what you can borrow. Land, manufactured homes, and new builds can have different loan rules, so it helps to know early.

  3. Look at property together

    We tour homes, land, and new builds. I point out things that matter out here, like access, drainage, well, and septic.

  4. Make an offer

    I help you decide on price and terms, and I negotiate for you.

  5. Inspections, survey, and appraisal

    This is when we check the property carefully. I help you line up local inspectors and surveyors.

  6. Closing

    You sign, you get the keys. I'm still here if questions come up later.

Local tips

Things to check before you buy out here

Rural property comes with questions that city listings don't. Here's what I help buyers look into.

Wells

  • Many rural homes use a private well, not city water.
  • Ask for a water test before closing.
  • Ask how old the well and pump are.

Septic

  • Many properties out here use septic instead of city sewer.
  • A septic inspection tells you the system's condition.
  • For land, ask whether a septic system can be permitted on the lot.

Surveys

  • A survey shows your property lines.
  • It can also show easements and anything built over the line.
  • For land, it's one of the most important things you can get.

Flood zones

  • Check the property's flood zone early.
  • If it's in a high-risk zone and you have a loan, your lender may require flood insurance.
  • Get insurance quotes before your inspection period ends.

Road access and culverts

  • Is the road public and maintained, or private?
  • A new driveway may need a culvert and a permit.
  • Drive the road after a heavy rain if you can.

Buying vacant land

  • Check zoning and what you're allowed to build.
  • Ask how far power is from the lot.
  • Plan for clearing, fill, well, and septic costs.
  • Land loans often need a bigger down payment.

Manufactured homes

  • Financing can depend on the home's age and how it's set up.
  • Ask whether the home is tied to the land as real property.
  • Talk to a lender who works with manufactured homes.

Insurance

  • Insurance costs in Florida can vary a lot.
  • Get quotes early, so there are no surprises at closing.
  • Roof age often affects the price.

First-time buyers

Buying your first home?

Good. Ask me anything. There are no silly questions.

  • I explain every step in plain English
  • Ask your lender about down payment help programs. Florida has some for qualifying buyers.
  • I'll help you plan for closing costs, insurance, and moving costs

Moving here?

Coming from out of town?

I'll help you get to know the towns and pick the right area for you.

  • Honest answers about each town and neighborhood
  • Help finding local lenders, inspectors, and surveyors
  • Hablo español

Ready to start looking?

Call or text me. I'll help you figure out the first step.

Let's talk