So, you found a house in Citrus County that you LOVE. 🏡
Before you start picturing where the sofa is going and how you're going to decorate the lanai, there are a few Florida-specific things you really need to check.
I'm Kim Sibley, a Citrus County Realtor, and these are some of the things I recommend buyers look at before getting too attached to a property.
1. Flood Zone
Don't assume a property is or isn't in a flood zone just because the house looks fine.
Check the property's current flood zone and, if applicable, talk with your insurance agent about what that could mean for insurance costs.
2. Homeowners Insurance
Insurance can be a BIG part of the cost of owning a Florida home.
Before you get too far into the process, get an insurance quote. An affordable house isn't necessarily an affordable house once insurance is added to the monthly budget.
3. Roof Age
Florida buyers should pay close attention to the roof.
Ask about the roof's age, permits, repairs and condition. Your insurance company may also have specific requirements.
4. A/C
Welcome to Florida! ☀️
You're probably going to want that air conditioner to work.
Find out the age and condition of the HVAC system and have it inspected during your inspection period.
5. Well or City Water?
Not every Citrus County property has the same utilities.
A property may have city water, a private well, septic, or a combination of systems.
Know what you're buying—and what maintaining those systems could involve.
6. Septic System
If the home has a septic system, find out as much as you can about it.
Ask about its age, maintenance history and location, and have the appropriate inspections completed.
7. Property Taxes
Don't automatically assume the seller's current property-tax bill will be your future tax bill.
A change in ownership can affect the property's assessed value and exemptions.
Your Realtor and the Citrus County Property Appraiser's Office can help you understand the current information for the property.
8. What's Actually Allowed on the Property?
Want a pool? RV? Boat? Horses? Workshop?
Before buying, check the property's zoning, deed restrictions, HOA rules and applicable county requirements.
That half-acre property may look perfect for your toys—but make sure your plans are actually allowed.
9. Check the Land
If you're buying acreage or vacant land, don't assume every parcel is ready to build.
You'll want to investigate things such as access, zoning, utilities, septic suitability, flood conditions and other property-specific requirements.
10. Think About the Lifestyle
This is Citrus County, after all. 🌴
Maybe you're looking for a quiet piece of land, a home close to the river, somewhere to keep your boat, or a place where you can spend your weekends fishing, kayaking and enjoying the Nature Coast.
The right house isn't just about the four walls.
It's about whether the property fits the way you actually want to live