Buying in South Florida
From your first search to the moment you get the keys, here's what to expect when buying a home in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and the surrounding Palm Beach County market.
The Buying Process
Florida closings typically move faster than buyers expect, especially for cash purchases. Here's how a typical transaction unfolds from start to finish.
Get pre-approved
Lenders generally require pre-approval before showing luxury listings, and cash buyers should have a proof of funds letter ready. This step also clarifies your real budget before you start touring.
Sign a buyer-broker agreement
Since 2024, buyers sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes together, spelling out the agent's fee and who's expected to pay it.
Make an offer & submit earnest money
Once an offer is accepted, the earnest deposit (typically 1% to 3% of the purchase price) is wired into the title company's escrow account within three business days.
Inspection period
Florida's standard contract gives buyers 7 to 15 days to complete a home inspection, roof inspection, AC service check, and a wood-destroying organism (termite) inspection.
Appraisal & underwriting
For financed purchases, the lender orders an appraisal and the underwriter reviews the full loan file, which typically takes 5 to 10 business days for a conventional loan.
Clear to close & closing day
A final walkthrough happens 24 to 48 hours before closing. Financed deals typically close in 30 to 45 days total; cash purchases can close in as few as 10.
What makes South Florida buying different
60–70%
Cash is common
Cash buyers make up an estimated 60% to 70% of ultra-luxury deals in South Florida, and nearly 29% of all Florida transactions statewide closed in cash in early 2026. That changes negotiating dynamics, especially against competing offers.
HOA
Community & club review
Many gated and country club communities require board approval and separate club membership fees on top of the purchase price. Understanding a community's HOA and club structure early avoids surprises later in the process.
Flood
Zones & insurance
Coastal Florida properties often carry flood zone designations that affect both insurance costs and lending requirements. Reviewing flood zone status early is one of the most important steps for South Florida buyers, especially those relocating from out of state.
What can you afford?
Adjust the sliders to estimate your monthly payment, including Florida-specific property tax and insurance costs.
Based on a standard 28% housing-to-income guideline, this payment suggests an annual household income of roughly $0.
This calculator provides a rough estimate only. Actual rates, taxes, insurance premiums, and HOA fees vary by property and lender — contact the C&C Luxury Living Team or your mortgage professional for a precise figure.
Signature Listings
A curated selection of current inventory from the C&C Luxury Living Team and William Raveis Real Estate. Filter by city, type, or price to find your next chapter.
Listings reflect a curated selection of current inventory and are subject to change, including price adjustments and sale status. Contact the C&C Luxury Living Team for full, up-to-date availability and private showings.