#1
St. Petersburg Real Estate Services
Buying or Selling Your Home Just Got Easier
CHOOSING THE RIGHT AGENT
Partnering with the right agent can determine your entire buying experience. Buying a property can be a complicated undertaking. The purchasing process requires a comprehensive understanding of complex legal issues and lots of paperwork. Your agent will be walking you through the entire process, so it’s important to choose a compatible partner.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing your real estate professional:
- Consider a Full-Time Agent: They’re usually more committed to being available and have dedicated their career to the profession.
- Interview a Few Agents: Are they familiar with the area in which you are interested? Have they been around the area for at least a few years?
- Agent Availability: Ask how much time the agent will have for you, and if they are available at night and on weekends if needed?
- Experience and Education: How many years of experience do they hold? Are they continuing to stay current on legal changes? Are they studying market conditions?
- Communication: Do they respond promptly? Are they handling too many clients at once and unable to work with your schedule? Would you trust them to negotiate on your behalf?
Select an agent who listens attentively to your needs and concerns, has the necessary experience, is familiar with the area, and is dedicated to finding you the right property. Interview a few different agents so you know your options and feel comfortable with your decision.
Find out how we can help you reach your real estate goals by completing the form .
Get In Touch
Buyer FAQs
Answers to your frequently asked questions
-
Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
Yes. Getting pre-approved helps you understand your budget, shows sellers you’re serious, and strengthens your offer in competitive situations. -
How much money do I need for a down payment?
Down payments vary depending on the loan type and buyer qualifications. Many loan programs require anywhere from 3% to 20% down. A lender can help determine what options are available to you. -
What are closing costs?
Closing costs typically range from 2%–5% of the purchase price and may include lender fees, title services, escrow fees, appraisal fees, recording fees, and prepaid taxes and insurance. -
Do I need a home inspection?
Yes. A licensed home inspection helps identify potential issues with the property, such as structural, roofing, plumbing, or electrical concerns. Inspections allow you to make an informed decision before closing. -
How long does the home buying process take?
Once an offer is accepted, closing typically takes about 30–45 days, depending on financing, inspections, and appraisal timelines.
First Time Buyer FAQ
-
How much do first-time homebuyers need to put down in Florida?
Not always. Many buyers qualify for low-down-payment options, and some may qualify for no-down-payment loans. Ask a lender to compare programs before assuming you need 20% down. -
Does Florida offer assistance for first-time homebuyers?
Yes. Assistance may be available through state, county or city programs. Funding, income limits, location and loan requirements vary, so confirm details with the program and your lender. -
Does Pinellas County offer down payment assistance?
Yes. Pinellas County lists assistance up to $75,000, subject to current funding and eligibility, for qualifying buyers in eligible areas. Buyers in St. Petersburg, Clearwater or Largo should check their city program first. -
Does St. Petersburg offer first-time homebuyer assistance?
Yes. Eligible buyers purchasing within St. Petersburg city limits may qualify for assistance up to $75,000, subject to current program requirements and funding. -
What should I do first when buying a home in Florida?
Start with your budget and mortgage pre-approval. Then research assistance programs early, since some require education, approved lenders or extra paperwork. -
Do I need flood insurance to buy a home in Florida?
Not always. Requirements depend on the property, flood zone, lender and loan type. Check FEMA flood maps and ask an insurance professional about coverage. -
What costs should I budget for besides my mortgage?
Plan for taxes, insurance, possible flood insurance, HOA or condo fees, utilities, maintenance and repairs—not just the mortgage payment.
Tips For Buying
Don’t Max Out Your Budget
Just because you’ve been approved for a max amount, doesn't mean you should spend it all on the home's sale price. You will want to set some of that aside for closing costs, taxes and potential home repairs or remodeling.
Get to Know the Area
Make sure the neighborhood works for you and your family - are you close to schools and is shopping conveniently located?
Don’t Skip the Home Inspection
Inspections are worth their weight in gold and will draw attention to problems you may not otherwise see, giving you peace of mind and letting you make more informed decisions about your purchase.
Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved by a lender lets the seller know you are serious and ready to purchase a home and that you are not just window shopping.
Make a List of Deal Breakers
Know what you can live with and what you cannot live without and also those things that can be taken care of with a simple remodel. If you need a 4 bedroom home, don't buy one with 2 that requires a massive addition which can break your budget.
Look at the Age of Appliances and Other SystemsAppliances are some of the most expensive portions of the home and you should pay particular attention to their age and whether they have required service. Other systems to have inspected are your HVAC, hot water heater, and your septic & well, if applicable. You may be able to get the seller to add a home warranty when buying.
Check For HOA RequirementsMost neighborhoods have HOAs that govern what you can and can't do - be sure you know what the rules are for your neighborhood.
