buying a home in the florida keys

Ready for your Dream Property?

Congratulations on considering the purchase of property in the beautiful Florida Keys!

Buying a home stirs up a mix of emotions. There’s excitement about the new beginning, happiness in finding the right place, and sometimes a touch of anxiety about the financial commitment.

It’s a blend of hope, joy, and a little nervousness all rolled into one.

Let’s Get Started!

Search HOMES for SALE

Click Here

Key Considerations for Home Buyers

As local real estate agents in the area, I can tell you that buying a home in the Florida Keys is a unique and exciting experience. However, it does come with a learning curve, but it’s all part of the adventure.

Naturally, you’ll be on the lookout for typical things such as:

Location
Property types
Neighborhoods
Community vibe, and proximity to amenities.
Schools

Florida Keys Local Items to Consider

However, there are some distinctive items to consider that only occur when buying a home in the Florida Keys. To ensure a smooth and informed buying process, we have compiled essential information about regulations and programs related to real estate ownership in Monroe County.

Some of these include knowing about:

Downstairs Enclosures

Flood Maps

Elevation

Insurance – Flood, Wind Homeowners

The 50 percent Rule

SFA List

Rogo / Rogo Exempt

These unique considerations make buying a home in the Florida Keys an adventure all its own. We also put together various blog post that you should read as a buyer looking to purchase a home in the Florida Keys! Buying a home if the Florida Keys can be a lot, so feel to reach out anytime.

Don’t forget to check out our Market Page, where we give you all the details about the current market conditions!

Hot Topics Every Buyer Needs to Know

Real Estate – Buyer Broker Agreements

Important Changes in Buyer Broker Agreements If you’ve been following the news, you’ve likely heard about the new rules for real estate agents regarding commissions and buyer agreements. As of August 17th, 2024, a significant change will occur in how Realtors have...

Are home prices dropping in the Florida Keys?

Florida Keys Real Estate Home Prices We're in Spring 2024, and you're curious if home prices in the Florida Keys are dropping. Well, I'm here to tell you that they are not. Each month, we analyze the numbers across the entire Florida Keys. You can check out our...

The Future of Rogo in the Florida Keys

Rogo The anticipation is high regarding the future of ROGO in the Florida Key. Islamorada has officially exhausted its building allocations. The City of Marathon is set to deplete its allocations by 2025, and the county has slowed its pace, anticipating the end of...

What Comes Next for ROGO in the Florida Keys?

Rogo In the Florida Keys The anticipation is high regarding the future of ROGO in the Florida Keys, and we're curious too! Islamorada has officially exhausted its building allocations, and they're now considering what to do with a few "administrative permits." The...

Breaking the Script: Choosing an Authentic Realtor in Marathon, Florida

Realtor in Marathon, Florida Did you know the so-called "best" realtor in Marathon, Florida relies solely on a memorized script? No thought, no connection, just a repetitive spiel. Even with almost two decades in the business, they stick to a script instead of...

How Much Does a Beachfront Condo in Marathon, FL Cost?

Wondering about the cost of beachfront condos in Marathon, FL? Embarking on the journey to find your piece of paradise in Marathon, FL is like a thrilling adventure, just like watching a stunning sunset over the Florida Keys. But the big question remains: how much...

What’s the Average Price for Waterfront Homes in Marathon, FL?

Discovering Paradise: Waterfront Homes in Marathon, FL Thinking about purchasing a waterfront home in Marathon, Florida? Wondering what waterfront homes in Marathon, FL list and sell for? Well, you're in the right place! We've got you covered. In this guide, we'll...

Understanding Downstairs Enclosures in the Florida Keys

Downstairs Enclosures: What You Need to Know Background Living in the Florida Keys comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to understanding the rules regarding downstairs spaces in homes. Rules for Downstairs Enclosures Here in the Florida Keys, the...

Florida Keys Investment Property

Florida Keys Investment Property Explore a world of possibilities in the vibrant Florida Keys real estate market, brimming with investment properties waiting to be discovered. Whether you are on the lookout for lucrative short-term rentals, multi-family homes for...

Marathon Florida Pet-Friendly Condos

Marathon Florida Pet-Friendly Condos: Bringing Your Fur Baby to Paradise! Explore Marathon's top pet-friendly condos for pets of all sizes. So, you're eager to buy a condo in the Florida Keys, but you also want to bring your beloved fur baby with you. After all, your...

5 Expert Tips to getting your offer accepted in the Florida Keys

5 Expert Tips to getting your offer accepted in the Florida Keys Imagine you've found your dream home in the Florida Keys, and now you're eager to make an offer that gets accepted. Here are five valuable tips to getting your offer accepted. 1. Offer Wisely: Avoid...

Marathon, Florida – Top 5 Condo Complexes with Premier Dockage

Top 5 Condo Complexes with Premier Dockage in Marathon, Florida Welcome to our exciting blog post where we dive into the sun-soaked world of Marathon, Florida, and explore the top condominium complexes that offer not just luxurious living but also the ultimate boating...

What do you mean I can’t build on my own land

What do you mean I can’t build on my land? Why can't I just build on my own land? If you're thinking about snagging a piece of empty land down in the Florida Keys with big dreams of putting up your own house one day, hold your horses and do some digging first. It's...

Monroe County Home and Adjoining Vacant Lot- Less than Fee Program

LESS THAN FEE PROGRAM - Do you happen to own both a lovely house and the vacant lot right next door in Monroe County? We've got some great news that might pique your interest – say hello to the County Commission's "Less than Fee" Program! So what is the “Less than Fee...

How Mitigations and Inspections Can Help You Save Money on Insurance

Save Money on Insurance -Mitigations and Inspections When it comes to homeowners' insurance, finding ways to save money without compromising on coverage is a top priority for many homeowners. One often overlooked method to reduce insurance premiums is through...

Navigating the Monroe County Local Rider: Essential Aspects for Florida Keys Real Estate Deals

Monroe County Local Rider In the Florida Keys, we understand the unique and specific issues that can arise in this beautiful region. To address these local concerns effectively, we have incorporated the Monroe County Local Rider into our sales contracts when buying or...

Who is Responsible the Buyer or the Seller? Permits and Code Violations

Permits and Code Violations In the context of Florida Keys Real Estate, the standard contract used is the FAR/BAR "AS IS" contract, which outlines the responsibilities of both the Seller and the Buyer. This contract covers various aspects, including permits and code...

Florida Keys Flood Plan

Florida Keys Flood Plan Management Florida Keys Flood Plan is under review. Recently we shared with you the new ordinance that was adopted that effected downstairs enclosures here in the Florida Keys. The new ordinance caused a lot of commotion in the community and...

Buying a Home in the Florida Keys

Buying a Home in the Florida Keys As a real estate agent, I can tell you that buying a home in the Florida Keys is a unique and exciting experience. The Florida Keys is a chain of islands that stretches over 120 miles. The Florida Keys is known for its laid-back...

Buying a home in the Florida Keys – Downstairs Enclosures

Buying a home in the Florida Keys with a Downstairs Enclosure? If you answered yes, then you are going to want to know about this crucial information if the home you are buying has a downstairs enclosure. Ordinance No. 026-2022. - Enclosures Monroe County passed...

New Regulations Impacting – Florida Keys Condos

Breaking Down the Newest Regulations Impacting Condos In the Florida Keys Florida Keys Condos are in an abundance throughout the islands. If you are considering purchasing a condo for sale in the Florida Keys, it is essential to be aware of the new laws that have been...

Secure Your Homestead Exemption Today!

The Florida Homestead Exemption is a property tax break that’s offered based on your home’s value. Exemptions reduce the assessed value of your property, thereby reducing the amount of property tax you pay. To qualify for the homestead exemption you must be the owner...

Where does sewage go in the Florida Keys?

Where does sewage go in the Florida Keys? Curious about where the sewage goes in the Florida Keys? Today we will focus on the lower keys central sewage system. This includes areas like: Big Pine Key, Little Torch, Summerland, Ramrod. LOWER KEYS CENTRAL SEWAGE SYSTEM...

Open and Expired Permits and Code Violations – Who is Responsible the Buyer or the Seller?

"As is" Contract In the context of Florida Keys Real Estate, the standard contract used is the FAR/BAR "AS IS" contract, which outlines the responsibilities of both the Seller and the Buyer. This contract covers various aspects, including permits and code violations....

Florida Keys Vacation Rental License

Vacation Rental License Ready to get a Florida Keys Vacation rental license? Here is everything you need to know! The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR), Division of Hotels and Restaurants governs Public Lodging and defines Short-term...

Florida Keys Building – Downstairs Enclosures

. Downstairs Enclosures. The following provides information concerning the Monroe County Floodplain Management Ordinance and the possible consequences of owning a property with an enclosure below the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) - Also know as a downstairs enclosure....

Need to Know ABC’s Of The Florida Keys -Acronyms

Development & Regulatory ABC’s in the Florida Keys. The following is a list of the most common acronyms associated with Development, Permitting and Government Regulation in the Keys with a brief description and explanation of how it impacts or integrates into the...

8 Things you Need to Know BEFORE you Buy a Home in the Florida Keys

1. Each island in the Florida Keys has it’s own unique personality. There are 44 islands that are connected by 42 bridges in the Florida Keys. However, not all of these islands are actually habitable. Today we will just talk about some of the larger islands and what...

The 4 Types of Florida Keys Homes You Need to Know

Florida Keys Homes Buying a home in the Florida Keys can be a bit confusing at times. While searching for a Florida Keys home, you’ll come across words like, Mobile, Modular, Frame and Concrete Block and Stucco (CBS). So what do all these types of homes mean exactly,...

The Best Roof For Your Home

Metal Roofs - The Golden Standard in the Florida Keys. Have you ever looked at the roofs of the homes in the Florida Keys? If so, you will notice most of the homes have opted for a metal roof. A metal roof is the gold standard when it comes to protection in a...

What you need to know about Flood Insurance in the Florida Keys

When you are purchasing a home in the Florida Keys, one of the lender requirements is to obtain Flood Insurance. The big question is how much does Flood Insurance Cost? Well, there is no straight forward answer to this question as each house is unique. I will go...

Are there Homeowners Associations in the Florida Keys? -Learn More

Homeowners Association for single family homes are few and in between in the Florida Keys. Typically, if a neighborhood has a Homeowners Association, it is voluntary. The average cost of an HOA in the Florida Keys is around $200.00 - $300.00 yearly. Although there are...

Need to Know – Property Taxes in Monroe County, FL

Monroe County has the lowest property taxes in Florida! As a buyer, you can expect to pay about 1 percent of the purchase price. For example, if you purchase a home for $400,000, property taxes will be about 4,000 dollars a year. The actual amount will be a little...

Breaking Down Flood Maps in the Florida Keys

Flood Maps in the Florida Keys, can be a bit confusing. So I am going to break it down for you to make it as simple as possible. So lets get one thing straight, basically everywhere in the Florida Keys is in a Flood Zone. I know some of you are going to come at me...