So you're finally doing it. You're looking at homes in Florida and planning your move to the sunshine. Whether you're a snowbird escaping winter or moving your whole life here for a fresh start, welcome to the neighborhood.
I don't just work here as a mortgage broker. I live and play here in Southwest Florida. I know the feeling of a sunset boat ride through the Cape Coral canals and exactly which table to grab at the local spots.
Relocating is one of the most exciting things you'll ever do. I also know it can feel like a mountain of paperwork and what-ifs. Let me make it smooth, and make sure you don't leave money on the table.
Get pre-approved before you fall in love
The first move isn't picking a house. It's knowing your real budget. A full pre-approval tells you exactly what you can spend and makes your offer stronger when you find the one. It also saves you the heartbreak of loving a home you can't move on fast enough.
Shop your rate, even from out of state
A lot of relocating buyers just use their current bank back home out of habit. Don't. That bank doesn't know SWFL insurance, flood zones, or condo rules, and their pricing is usually not competitive. I shop 100+ lenders and know this market cold. Get a second opinion before you sign anything.
Budget for the SWFL cost of ownership
Your payment here is more than principal and interest. Plan for:
- Homeowner's and flood insurance, which runs higher here than most states
- Property taxes that reset to current value when you buy (don't budget off the seller's bill)
- HOA or community fees, common in many SWFL neighborhoods
I'll run the full monthly number for any home you're considering so there are zero surprises.
Cape Coral has more than 400 miles of canals, the most of any city in the world. Waterfront and canal homes have their own financing quirks around appraisals and insurance. I've handled plenty of them, so if you're chasing that Gulf-access dream, I know how to get the loan done right.