If you’re looking to buy a home in Florida, you’re in for a new experience. You will no doubt notice that there are things that are very different here in the Sunshine State if you’re moving here from out of state. Let’s look at some of these things.
Hurricane Shutters
In Florida, hurricanes are a fact of life. And so are hurricane shutters. But hurricane shutters come in various incarnations with a wide array of benefits and downfalls…and prices. Preparing for a hurricane can be labor intensive and the kind of hurricane protection you have will either make your life easier or much more difficult.
The best options to look for are hurricane resistant windows but these are typically newer or renovated homes. The next best option is accordion style shutters, especially if you have a two-story home. You may fall in love with a home without them and think that you’ll have them installed later. Consider that accordion shutter installation is very expensive and can add thousands of dollars to the cost of the home. Panel shutters are large, heavy and unwieldy. Putting up these large panels in Florida heat is not a pleasant experience.
Storage Space
Here in South Florida, most homes do not have basements, and some have carports instead of garages. This will limit your available storage space. Before going under contract for one of these homes, make sure to consider whether the home you want has enough storage space and, if not, where you will shelter your personal belongings as well as your car.
Homeowner Associations
Many suburban neighborhoods here in Florida are located within communities that are subject to association rules and fees. Some of these rules restrict the type of vehicle you can have or the pet you can keep. Make sure to research the community as well as the home and make sure that you have considered the HOA fees in your monthly financial calculations. The mortgage company will!
Pool
Many homes in Florida have personal pools for good reason. Summers in Florida can be scorchers and having a pool can be a welcome respite. But make sure to consider the costs of maintaining that pool. Also, make sure to have a pool inspection done as part of the home inspection. You want to make sure that the pool is in good working order, has no leaks and is fenced in compliance with legal issues.
Too Late
Perhaps you have already purchased your perfect home in Florida and have discovered some of these for yourself. If you are looking for additional money for things like a pool or pool enclosure, accordion hurricane shutters or an addition to your home for added storage space, you may want to consider a home equity mortgage.
Call an Expert
Whether you are looking to purchase a new home or upgrade your existing one in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in Florida, having the assistance of a mortgage professional is key. At Florida State Mortgage Group, Inc., we work with a network of trusted lenders throughout the state and can help you get the financing you need. Call one of our licensed Florida mortgage brokers at (954) 359-3000 for a free consultation.
