In 2024, Florida’s real estate market continues to heat up. The median home price has climbed to $405,600, showing steady growth. In August, 9.8% of properties sold for more than the asking price. From Jacksonville to Orlando, housing demand is pushing prices higher across the state.
If you’re looking for a profitable home sale, now’s the time to get your home on the MLS. To maximize your success, follow these steps when selling a house in Florida.
How to Sell Your House in Florida?
Here’s how you can sell your home in the Sunshine State in 6 steps:
Step 1: Price Your Home
Florida’s housing market saw a 3.5% price increase over the past year. Start by getting an accurate estimate using an online home value tool. For a deeper analysis, request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report from your real estate agent. This compares recent sales of homes similar to yours.
Step 2: Choose a Way to Sell Your Home
If you’re eager to sell your house quickly, consider these options:
- iBuyers or Cash Buyers: One popular choice is selling to cash investors. These buyers can close deals in as little as seven days, offering a quick exit from the selling process. Though you may receive less than market value, you’ll skip lengthy negotiations.
- Flat Fee MLS: Another route is using a Flat Fee MLS service. By paying a set fee, you can list your home on the MLS, exposing it to thousands of potential buyers. This method often leads to faster sales without paying a traditional agent’s commission.
Step 3: Stage Your Home
Staging can increase your home’s sale price by 10% and reduce time on the market by half. Highlight your home’s best features with simple updates like fresh paint and modern décor. For a modest investment, typically around $500, you can attract more interest and sell your property quickly.
Step 4: Complete Your Listing Paperwork
You must fill out and submit documents like the listing agreement and Florida seller’s disclosure.
Step 5: Review and Negotiate Offers
When a potential buyer makes an offer on your home, you can propose a counteroffer if desired. The negotiation process might involve multiple rounds until you reach an agreement or the offer expires. Consider price, contingencies, and the buyer’s ability to close if you receive multiple offers.
Step 6: Close the Sale
In Florida, closing a home sale involves many steps and can take several days to a week. Traditionally, a title company or real estate attorney oversees the process. The buyer performs a final walk-through and finalizes loan documents, and both parties sign their respective documents.
What Are the Costs When Selling a House in Florida?
Selling a home in Florida involves more than just finding a buyer. You’ll face several costs that can reduce your final profit. Here are some costs associated with selling a house in Florida:
- Title Insurance: In many counties, sellers cover the owner’s policy, while buyers handle the lender’s policy. Rates are determined by state law.
- Government Costs: Sellers must pay documentary stamp taxes, property taxes, and recording fees.
- Non-Governmental Costs: Include title search fees, HOA estoppel fees, and municipal lien searches.
- Attorney Fees: Required if there are title or survey issues, significant contract changes, or other complexities.
Is Now the Right Time to Sell a House in Florida?
Yes, buyer interest in Florida continues to grow, and property values have remained competitive. Additionally, homes in Florida are now selling in an average of 45 days. Moreover, you can save up on your expenses and avoid paying the 6% agent commission by choosing to sell FSBO. You can opt for a flat fee listing service like Houzeo to save thousands in commissions.
