Recent Articles
What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a Home in South Florida (2025 Guide)
Quick answer: Many South Florida buyers can qualify for a mortgage with a credit score as low as 580 for FHA and VA loans, and 620 for most conventional loans. Your score is important, but it's not everything. Strong income, stable employment, and smart credit habits can help you qualify sooner than you think.
10 Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make in South Florida (And How to Avoid Them)
Quick answer: The biggest mistakes first-time buyers make in South Florida include underestimating insurance costs, skipping flood zone research, ignoring HOA special assessments, waiving inspections, and not budgeting for hurricane prep. Working with an experienced local team helps you avoid these costly missteps and buy with confidence.
The True Cost of Homeownership in South Florida (2025 Edition)
In South Florida, the mortgage is only part of the story. Once you add insurance, HOA fees, utilities, property taxes, and maintenance, many buyers see $800–$1,500+ per month on top of principal and interest depending on the home and community.
Miami-Dade vs. Broward: Where Should First-Time Buyers Look in 2025?
Quick answer: Miami-Dade offers more big-city energy, transit options, and nightlife, while Broward generally gives first-time buyers more space, quieter neighborhoods, and better affordability—typically 10–15% lower on comparable homes. The "best" choice really comes down to your lifestyle, commute, and budget as a Florida first-time homebuyer.
Stronger Data Last Week Caused a Slight Rate Bump
Stronger jobless-claims and durable-goods data from last week pushed the average 30-year fixed slightly higher, but mortgage rates are still near recent lows. Here’s what that means for buyers and homeowners
Why Florida Home Insurance Is So High and How Buyers Can Navigate It
Florida home insurance is high due to hurricane exposure, rising construction costs, and a history of litigation that increases claim expenses. Fewer private insurers and stricter underwriting also force many buyers into higher premiums or Citizens coverage.
Top 7 Affordable Neighborhoods in Broward County for First-Time Buyers (2025 Guide)
Many first-time homebuyers in Broward County are finding the best mix of price, safety, schools, and amenities in neighborhoods across Miramar, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Lauderhill, Cooper City, Plantation, and Davie. Entry-level homes typically range from the mid-$300s in Lauderhill to the low-$500s in Cooper City, with townhomes and condos offering the most budget-friendly entry points for Florida first-time homebuyers.
Property Taxes in South Florida: What Buyers Need to Know Before Closing
Learn how South Florida property taxes work and how they impact your mortgage payment. Discover Homestead Exemption benefits and county-by-county insights before closing.
How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy a Home in Florida?
Buying a home in Florida? Learn how much cash you really need for down payment, closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses in South Florida and beyond.