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Buying Process
Your Path to Ownership

The Buying Process

From defining your must-haves to receiving your keys, we guide you through every step of the Florida real estate market.

1

Define Your “Must-Haves”

Before we search, we strategize. We narrow down your criteria to ensure every showing counts.

  • Location, school zones, & commute
  • Type (SFH, Townhouse, or Condo)
  • Budget comfort (Monthly + HOA + Insurance)
Planning
Financials
2

Talk to a Lender

Get a Pre-Approval letter (which is stronger than pre-qualification) or confirm your cash proof.

Ask for estimated payments including:

Property Taxes HOA/Condo Dues Flood Insurance Home Insurance
3

Choose Your Team

Real estate is a team sport. Assemble your professionals early to ensure a smooth transaction.

  • Shannel Escoffery: Your Florida Realtor
  • Title Company: Often handles closing
  • Support: Attorney, lender, insurance agent
Shannel Escoffery
Touring Homes
4

Tour & Evaluate (Florida Specifics)

When touring homes, we look beyond the aesthetics. We evaluate key items that affect insurance and longevity.

Look for (and ask about):

  • • Roof age & remaining life
  • • HVAC age
  • • Windows/Doors (Impact vs. Shutters)
  • • Drainage & Grading
  • • Flood zones & Wind mitigation
5

Make An Offer

Florida contracts usually move fast. We craft a compelling offer including price, financing type, and earnest money.

Key Terms:

  • • Inspection Period (commonly 7-15 days)
  • • Closing Date
  • • Seller Credits (if any)
  • • Appraisal Terms
Writing Offer
Escrow Deposit
6

Open Escrow & Deposit

The deposit is usually held by the escrow agent (often the title company). It must be sent strictly on time.

Wire Fraud Warning

Wire fraud is rampant. Always reconfirm wiring instructions verbally directly with the title company before sending funds.

7

Inspections

During your inspection period, we coordinate specific Florida inspections to protect your investment.

General Home Termite/WDO 4-Point Wind Mitigation Sewer/Pool
Inspection
Negotiation
8

Negotiate Repairs

After inspections, you can accept as-is, request repairs, ask for a credit, or cancel within your window if no agreement is reached.

Insurance & Underwriting

Step 9: Bind your homeowner's policy early—Florida insurance takes time.

Simultaneously, the lender orders the appraisal and reviews your file for final approval.

10

HOA/Condo Approval

If applicable, this involves applications, fees, and interviews. We also confirm rental restrictions if this is an investment.

Clear To Close

Step 11: The best three words in real estate! Title work is complete, lien payoffs are set, and you receive your Closing Disclosure.

Condo and Approval
Keys and Closing
12

Final Walkthrough

24-72 hours before closing. We confirm repairs are done, appliances are present, and no new damage has occurred.

13

Closing Day

Sign documents (bring ID!), transfer funds, and receive your keys once the transaction funds and records.

14

After Closing Checklist

  • Change locks / codes
  • Transfer utilities
  • File for Homestead Exemption
  • Save closing docs

Ready to find your dream home?

Let Shannel Escoffery guide you through every step of this journey with expertise and care.

Start Your Search Today