Buying a home in Florida works differently than in Poland or New York: different documents, different deadlines and costs that are easy to overlook. Margaret & Kris Wojtowicz, Polish-speaking real estate agents from Wellington, guide Polish families through the whole process – from the first conversation about the budget to getting the keys – in Palm Beach County in southeast Florida.
Where to start: budget and financing
If you are buying with a mortgage, get a pre-approval from your lender first – sellers take an offer backed by one more seriously. On top of the price, budget for closing costs, homeowners insurance and, in many communities, homeowners association (HOA) fees. Cash buyers have a stronger negotiating position, but the source of funds still has to be documented.
House or condo?
A single-family house gives you the most freedom, but all repairs and the insurance of the building are on the owner. A condo is easier to maintain, but it is governed by the association – before buying, read the rules, check the association’s finances and ask about planned repairs and special assessments. HOA communities have rules too, covering rentals, pets, parking and the look of the house, and some associations must approve a new owner.
The transaction step by step
- Choosing and viewing homes – in person or by video call when the buyer lives in another state or in Poland.
- Offer and contract – a written offer with the price, timeline and terms; once accepted, the buyer places a deposit in escrow.
- Home inspection – a licensed inspector checks the roof, systems, air conditioning and moisture; this is the time to renegotiate if something comes up.
- Appraisal and loan – the lender orders an appraisal, and the title company checks that the property is free of liens.
- Closing – documents are signed at the title company, funds are settled and you get the keys.
Florida specifics: insurance and the homestead exemption
Insurance costs depend on the age and condition of the roof, hurricane-rated windows and doors, and whether the home is in a flood zone – so check these before making an offer. If the home will be your permanent residence, you can apply for the homestead exemption on property taxes; what counts is your status on January 1, and the application goes to the county property appraiser by March 1.
Planning to sell your current property? See: selling a home or condo in Palm Beach County. Thinking of buying a rental? Read: rental investment property in Florida.
Contact: Margaret & Kris Wojtowicz, The Keyes Company
Margaret & Kris Wojtowicz work at The Keyes Company office in Wellington – the largest independent real estate company in Florida, in business since 1926 – and serve all of Palm Beach County. They work with clients in Polish and English, and the consultation before you start your search is free.
Address: 13920 Wellington Trace #200, Wellington, FL 33414 · phone 561-523-0360 · e-mail: [email protected]. More in the Margaret & Kris Wojtowicz listing in the PolishPages directory and at domyfl.com.
This article is for information only and is not legal, tax or mortgage advice.
