State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Florida housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
FSBO sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously. LendingTree lets you compare rates from 200+ lenders in minutes — for free.
Affiliate link — we earn a commission at no cost to you. Disclosure
The Florida Housing Finance Corporation is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Florida. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
Deferred 0% second mortgage for down payment assistance.
Below-market rate second mortgage for down payment assistance.
Personalized mortgage rates in 3 minutes
See real rates from multiple lenders with one soft credit pull. Credible pays up to $240 per funded loan — which means they have every reason to find you the best rate.
Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $420,000 home: approximately $9,660
Florida charges a documentary stamp tax of $0.70 per $100 of the sale price (0.7%), paid by the buyer on the deed.
Florida is a title-company state. An attorney is not legally required, but many buyers choose to hire one for document review, especially in FSBO transactions.
Find licensed home inspectors near you
HomeAdvisor instantly matches you with licensed, background-checked home inspectors in your area. Read real reviews, compare quotes, and book online.
Find an Inspector →While Florida doesn't require an attorney at closing, FSBO buyers should strongly consider having one review the purchase agreement and title work.
Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.
Browse Legal Guides →Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.
Get Legal Help →Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.
Browse Real Estate Forms →Florida first-time buyers can access programs through the Florida Housing Finance Corporation (https://floridahousing.org/), including the Florida Assist (FL Assist) (Up to $10,000 — due on sale, refinance, or transfer) and the Florida Homeownership Loan Program (FL HLP) (Up to $10,000 at 3% over 15 years). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Florida typically run 2.3% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: 0.7% (documentary stamp tax). Florida charges a documentary stamp tax of $0.70 per $100 of the sale price (0.7%), paid by the buyer on the deed.
Florida is a title-company state. An attorney is not legally required, but many buyers choose to hire one for document review, especially in FSBO transactions.
The median home price in Florida is approximately $420,000. Property taxes average 0.83% of assessed value annually.
Ready to start the process?