Frequently Asked

Questions

Got questions about buying, selling, or investing in Tampa Bay real estate? Here’s everything you need to know

Sellers generally pay 6%–8% of the sale price in total transaction costs, with the bulk being the real estate commission. Other seller costs include:

  • Owner’s title insurance (if agreed in contract)

  • Documentary stamp tax on the deed

  • HOA estoppel and payoff fees (if applicable)

  • Prorated property taxes

  • Outstanding liens or mortgage payoffs

I provide both buyers and sellers with a net sheet early in the process so they can see an accurate breakdown before we’re under contract.

Most buyers in Tampa Bay can expect closing costs of 2%–5% of the purchase price. These usually include:

  • Lender fees (origination, underwriting, credit reports)

  • Appraisal and inspection costs

  • Title search and lender’s title insurance

  • Recording fees, prepaid property taxes, and homeowners insurance

In many local transactions, the seller covers the owner’s title insurance premium (roughly 0.5%–0.7% of the purchase price), but this is negotiable.

Most closings in the Tampa Bay area take 30–45 days from contract to keys in hand. Cash deals can close in under two weeks, while VA, FHA, and conventional loans often take closer to 45 days. The biggest factors affecting your timeline are financing, inspections, repairs (if necessary) and appraisal. I help keep the process moving by coordinating directly with lenders, inspectors, and title companies.

Ideally, start planning 3–6 months in advance. This gives you time to research neighborhoods, get pre-approved for financing, schedule home tours, and arrange moving logistics. If you’re selling a home in another state, I can coordinate with your local agent to time both closings so you’re never in limbo.

I recommend looking at three things:

  1. Cash flow after all expenses (loan, taxes, insurance, maintenance).

  2. Appreciation potential based on location and development trends.

  3. Exit strategy if the market shifts.

I run comps and provide my clients with property-specific ROI analysis so they can make decisions backed by numbers, not guesswork.  

Before you jump into showings, get clear on what you actually want — and what you can realistically maintain. Think about location, size, layout, and the lifestyle you want. Do you want a yard? Are you okay with an older home that might need updates, or do you want something move-in ready?

Once we nail down your priorities, I help you focus on neighborhoods that fit your wish list and budget so you’re not wasting time looking at the wrong properties. From there, it’s about spotting value, moving quickly when the right home pops up, and negotiating terms that protect you. My job is to guide you through every step so your first purchase feels exciting instead of overwhelming.

It’s a juggling act, but it’s doable with the right plan. The key is timing your sale and purchase so you’re not stuck paying two mortgages — or left without a place to live. Sometimes we list your current home first with a flexible closing date, so you can shop with confidence once it’s under contract. Other times, we find your next home first and make the purchase contingent on selling your current one.

There are also creative options like rent-backs, short-term rentals, or even using your home’s equity to bridge the gap. I walk clients through each scenario, run the numbers, and handle the negotiations so the transition feels smooth instead of stressful.