Space Coast Real Estate FAQ

In most cases, standard homeowners insurance in Florida already covers wind damage from hurricanes. It's not a separate policy. However, you'll likely have a separate hurricane deductible (usually 2 to 5% of your home's insured value).

If your home is in a designated flood zone, you'll also need a separate flood insurance policy, since homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding. Most lenders require both if you're financing.

Every property in Brevard County has a FEMA flood zone designation. Zones starting with "A" or "V" are considered high-risk and typically require flood insurance if you have a mortgage. Zones labeled "X" are low to moderate risk.

You can look up any address on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center, or we can pull flood info for any home you're considering.

It varies. Newer construction often includes impact-rated windows, while older homes may have accordion shutters, panel shutters, or none at all. When touring homes, it's worth asking, because homes with full impact protection can qualify for insurance discounts that add up over time.

Good news. The Space Coast isn't in Florida's main sinkhole belt (which runs through the Tampa Bay and central Florida region). Sinkholes are rare in Brevard County, though Florida law still requires sellers to disclose any known sinkhole activity.

This trips up a lot of out-of-state buyers. An HOA (Homeowners Association) is a private organization that manages community rules and amenities, and you pay monthly or quarterly dues.

A CDD (Community Development District) is a special taxing district used to fund infrastructure like roads, utilities, and amenities in newer communities. CDD fees show up on your property tax bill and are often in addition to HOA dues. Viera is a well-known Space Coast example where both exist.

If the home you buy becomes your primary residence, you can apply for Florida's homestead exemption, which reduces your property's taxable value by up to $50,000. It also caps annual assessment increases at 3% through the "Save Our Homes" provision.

You'll apply through the Brevard County Property Appraiser's office by March 1 of the year following your purchase.

Brevard County's property taxes are relatively moderate compared to other parts of Florida and much of the country. The millage rate varies by city, but expect roughly 1% to 1.3% of assessed value annually.

Keep in mind that the previous owner's tax bill won't match yours. Your taxes will be reassessed based on your purchase price.

Plenty of neighborhoods in Satellite Beach, Indian Harbour Beach, Indialantic, and Cocoa Beach put you within a 5 to 10 minute drive of the ocean without the beachfront premium. Mainland areas like Suntree, Viera, and parts of Melbourne also give you easy beach access while offering more home for your money.

Absolutely. With reliable fiber internet in most areas, no state income tax, and a lower cost of living than South Florida, it has become popular with remote professionals. Plus you're within driving distance of Orlando, so you get tech-industry access without the traffic.

If you're military or work in the space industry, neighborhoods near Patrick SFB (Satellite Beach, Indialantic, South Patrick Shores) and Titusville/Merritt Island near KSC are popular. VA loans are widely accepted, and many sellers here are familiar with military timelines and PCS moves.

Most Space Coast transactions close in 30 to 45 days for financed purchases and as quickly as 10 to 14 days for cash. Florida uses title companies rather than attorneys for closings, which tends to streamline the process.

No. Florida is a "title state," meaning title companies handle closings. You're welcome to hire an attorney for extra review, but it's not required. A good Realtor and a reputable title company handle most transactions smoothly.

Expect roughly 2 to 5% of the purchase price. This typically includes lender fees, title insurance, recording fees, prepaid taxes and insurance, and inspection costs.

On a $400,000 home, budget around $8,000 to $15,000 depending on your loan type.

This is one of the biggest mistakes we see buyers make. Walking into a model home, sitting down with the on-site sales rep, and signing paperwork without their own representation. Here's the truth: the agent in the model home works for the builder, not for you. Their job is to protect the builder's bottom line.

Having your own Realtor when buying new construction typically doesn't add to your costs. Most builders on the Space Coast pay the buyer's agent commission as part of their standard sales process, and in our experience the home price doesn't increase simply because you brought your own representation. Every builder and community is different, so commission and compensation should always be confirmed in writing before you sign anything. What you gain by having your own Realtor is huge:

• Someone negotiating for you on upgrades, closing cost credits, and incentives
• A guide through the builder's contract (which is written heavily in their favor)
• Advice on lot selection, floor plan value, and resale potential
• Accountability during the build, including walkthroughs, punch lists, and holding the builder accountable
• An independent inspector recommendation (yes, even brand new homes need inspections)

The catch: most builders require that your Realtor is with you and registered on your very first visit to the community. If you walk in alone first and try to bring us in later, many builders will refuse representation. So before you even tour a model, reach out first. It could save you thousands.

Honestly, the best time depends on your situation, not the market. Interest rates, inventory, and home prices shift constantly. What we can tell you is that Space Coast inventory and prices vary a lot by neighborhood. Some are buyer's markets, others still favor sellers.

We'd rather have a real conversation about your goals than give you a generic answer.