Buying on the Gulf Coast

How it goes, step by step

1. A first conversation. Where, how much, and when. We also talk through how you'll use the place, because a full-time home, a winter home, and a rental are three different searches.
2. A written buyer agreement. Before we tour homes together we sign a written agreement that says what we will do for you and how we are paid. Our compensation is negotiable and is not set by law, and you'll see the number before you sign anything.
3. Financing and the real monthly cost. Get pre-approved with a lender you choose. We ask for insurance and flood quotes early, because on the Gulf Coast they can change what a house really costs each month more than the interest rate does.
4. The search. We set up an MLS search that emails you matching homes as they are listed, then tour the ones worth seeing, in person or on a live video call if you're out of town.
5. Offer and contract. We pull recent comparable sales, write the offer on the standard Florida contract, and negotiate price, repairs, and dates on your behalf.
6. Inspections through closing. A home inspection, plus the four-point and wind mitigation reports Florida insurers ask for. We keep the lender, title company, and insurer moving until you have the keys. Closing can be done remotely.

Worth reading first

• Flood zones: what to check before you make an offer
• Why your property tax bill won't match the seller's
• Area guides, St. Petersburg to Fort Myers