Northeast Florida buyer guide
Buying involves more than the purchase price. This guide shows when common expenses appear so you can prepare with fewer surprises.
Plan for the full journey
Not every buyer will have every expense below. Ask your lender, insurance professional, inspector, and closing provider for written estimates specific to your purchase.
Interactive planning tool
Adjust the figures below to create a starting estimate for the money you may need before and at closing.
Your planning estimate
The earnest money deposit is included in the amount paid before closing and credited in the estimated amount due at closing, so it is not counted twice.
This calculator is for general planning only. It is not a loan estimate, quote, or guarantee. Actual costs, credits, deposit requirements, and cash to close depend on your lender, contract, property, insurance, taxes, and closing provider.
Your down payment depends on your loan program, finances, and goals. Some qualified buyers may have options beginning around 3%, while other programs require more. Your lender can compare the choices available to you.
This deposit shows the seller that you are serious about buying. It is held in escrow and is typically credited toward your down payment or closing costs. The contract controls when it may be refundable.
A professional inspection helps you understand the home’s condition before the inspection period ends. Specialized inspections, such as sewer scope, pool, septic, well, or mold inspections, may carry separate fees.
Most mortgage lenders require an appraisal to estimate the property’s market value. Buyers commonly pay this fee before closing, although timing varies by lender.
A useful planning estimate is about 2% to 5% of the purchase price, separate from the down payment. The total may include lender charges, title and settlement services, recording fees, taxes, and other third-party costs.
You may pay the first homeowners-insurance premium, prepaid interest, and initial escrow deposits for insurance and property taxes. Flood insurance may also be required depending on the property and loan.
Your budget may include principal, interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and HOA or condo dues. Taxes and insurance can change over time.
Remember moving services, utility deposits, locks, furnishings, repairs, and maintenance. Keeping an emergency cushion can make the first months of ownership more comfortable.
The number that matters at closing
Your cash to close generally brings together your down payment, closing costs, and prepaid expenses, then accounts for deposits and credits already applied.
Review your Loan Estimate early and your Closing Disclosure before closing. If a number does not make sense, ask questions before you sign.
Ready to make a plan?
Coral can help you understand the process, connect with trusted local professionals, and search with a budget that feels comfortable.