Market Resource Library
Buyer's Due Diligence Checklist
The practical steps to work through between an accepted offer and closing on a Florida home.
Before You Make An Offer
- Pre-approval letter or proof of funds ready to submit with the offer
- Recent comparable sales reviewed for the property/area
- If a condo or HOA: request HOA/condo docs, financials, and any pending special assessments or litigation
During the Inspection Period
- General home inspection scheduled promptly — Florida contracts have a short, defined inspection window
- Four-point and wind-mitigation inspection ordered for homes over ~30 years old (affects insurance eligibility and cost)
- WDO/termite inspection ordered
- Seller's Property Disclosure reviewed line by line
- Survey ordered or existing survey reviewed
- Title search ordered
Insurance & Financing
- Homeowners insurance quotes requested early — Florida's market has limited carriers and can take longer than other states
- Flood zone designation confirmed and flood insurance quoted if applicable
- Loan conditions submitted to lender promptly; rate lock discussed
- Appraisal ordered
HOA / Condo Specific (If Applicable)
- Reserve study and financial statements reviewed
- Any pending or recent special assessments confirmed
- Rules on rentals/pets/renovations reviewed if relevant to your plans
Final Walkthrough
- Agreed-upon repairs completed and documented
- All included appliances/fixtures present and functioning
- Utilities on for the walkthrough
Closing
- Closing Disclosure reviewed at least 3 business days before closing (federal requirement on financed purchases)
- Wire instructions confirmed by phone directly with the title company — never rely on email alone (wire fraud prevention)
- Government-issued ID brought to closing
This checklist is a general guide, not a substitute for the specific timelines and contingencies in your contract. Jessica walks every buyer through each of these steps in real time — this is a reference, not a replacement for that.
Want the printable version?
Get the same checklist as a one-page PDF, sent straight to your inbox.