Florida Mortgage Guides
State-specific mortgage resources for Florida home buyers and homeowners. FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loan requirements as they apply in Florida — plus first-time buyer programs, documentary stamp tax guidance, and insurance cost context.
Key Florida Mortgage Numbers (2026)
Florida Mortgage Resources
Florida Mortgage Guide
Complete overview of buying or refinancing in Florida. Loan limits, documentary stamp tax, homestead exemption, insurance costs, and what to expect from Florida lenders.
Read the guide →Florida First Time Home Buyer Guide
Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FL HFA) programs, down payment assistance, income limits, and step-by-step guidance for first-time buyers across Florida.
Read the guide →Florida FHA Loan Requirements
FHA loan limits by county in Florida, including Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Hillsborough, Orange, and Duval counties.
Read the guide →Florida VA Loan Requirements
VA loan eligibility and details for Florida veterans, active duty military at Florida’s military installations, and surviving spouses.
Read the guide →Florida USDA Loans
USDA eligible areas in Florida, income limits by county, and how to use zero-down USDA financing in qualifying Florida communities.
Read the guide →Florida Closing Costs Guide
What buyers and sellers pay at closing in Florida, including documentary stamp tax, intangible tax, title insurance, and escrow fees.
Read the guide →Buying a Home in Florida: What You Need to Know
Florida is one of the most active real estate markets in the country. Strong in-migration from northeastern and midwestern states, a zero state income tax environment, and a growing job market have all contributed to sustained demand across the state’s major metros. Florida buyers face unique considerations that don’t apply in most other states.
Florida-Specific Factors That Affect Your Mortgage
- Homeowner’s insurance costs: Florida has some of the highest property insurance costs in the country, especially in coastal counties. In South Florida, Naples, and Fort Myers, annual premiums can be $3,000–$8,000+ for a $400,000 home — significantly higher than inland or northern markets. These costs directly affect your PITI payment and qualifying DTI.
- Documentary stamp tax: Florida charges a documentary stamp tax on both the deed (paid by seller) and the mortgage (paid by buyer). The mortgage doc stamp is $0.35 per $100 of loan amount — a meaningful additional closing cost.
- Homestead Exemption: Florida offers a $50,000 homestead exemption on primary residences that reduces the taxable value of your home. File by March 1 with your county property appraiser. This can save $500–$1,000/year in property taxes.
- Flood insurance: Many Florida properties — particularly in coastal, waterfront, and low-elevation areas — require flood insurance, which is separate from homeowner’s insurance. Flood insurance can add $1,000–$4,000+/year to carrying costs.
Florida Market Snapshot by Area
| Area | Median Home Price (Est.) | FHA Eligible | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami-Dade / Broward / Palm Beach | $550,000–$750,000+ | High-cost limits apply | High insurance costs; strong demand |
| Tampa / St. Petersburg | $380,000–$480,000 | Yes (standard) | Strong growth market |
| Orlando / Central FL | $350,000–$450,000 | Yes (standard) | Large VA and FHA buyer population |
| Jacksonville | $300,000–$400,000 | Yes (standard) | Military-heavy; large VA loan market |
| Naples / Fort Myers | $450,000–$650,000+ | Yes / high-cost | Highest insurance costs in state |
| Gainesville / Tallahassee | $280,000–$360,000 | Yes (standard) | More affordable; good USDA access |
Questions About Buying in Florida?
A licensed Florida mortgage advisor can review your situation, account for Florida’s unique insurance and closing cost environment, and compare programs for your specific market.
Speak with a Florida Mortgage Advisor