Buying a home is a big investment—especially in Florida, where climate, age of homes, and local regulations can add unique challenges. Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, here are key things to look out for during your walk-throughs, inspections, and final decision-making process.
1. Always Get a Full Home Inspection
Never skip the inspection—even with new construction. Florida homes face heat, humidity, and storms, which can cause hidden issues like roof damage, HVAC problems, mold, or foundation cracks. A licensed home inspector will check the structure, plumbing, electrical systems, appliances, and more. Ask for a detailed report and don’t be afraid to request repairs or credits before closing.
2. Look for Signs of Water Damage or Mold
With Florida’s climate, water intrusion is common. During walk-throughs, check for musty smells, ceiling stains, bubbling paint, or signs of past leaks. These can point to hidden mold or roofing issues. A mold inspection or moisture reading is often worth the extra peace of mind.
3. Make Sure the Home is Hurricane-Ready
In hurricane-prone areas like the Treasure Coast, it’s smart to look for homes with hurricane-resistant features. Ask if the windows and doors are impact-rated (also known as hurricane glass), if there are storm shutters, and whether the roof is newer or built to current wind mitigation standards. Homes with wind mitigation features may qualify for significant insurance discounts. Also, check if the home is in a flood zone and whether it requires flood insurance—this can affect your monthly cost.
4. Don’t Rush the Final Walk-Through
Your final walk-through should happen within 24–48 hours of closing. Use this time to verify that all agreed repairs are completed, no new issues have popped up, and the home is in the condition promised. Check the appliances, plumbing, HVAC, lights, and windows—especially if weatherproofing was a concern during inspection.
📋 Bonus Tip: Ask the seller for a copy of past insurance claims, if available. It could reveal roof leaks, flooding, or past hurricane damage you didn’t catch during inspection.
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