# Most frequently asked questions by out of state homebuyers moving to Florida

By Shaina Newkirk (@shainanewkirk) · Published 2026-10-15

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**Moving to Florida? 6 Questions I’m Frequently Asked by Out-of-State Homebuyers** 🌴☀️👙

**Thinking about trading cold winters for sunshine, palm trees, and the Florida lifestyle?**

**As a Southwest Florida real estate agent, I work with buyers relocating from all over the country. And while everyone’s situation is different, there are a handful of questions that come up again and again.**

**If you’re considering a move to Southwest Florida, here are six of the questions I hear most often, along with my answers!**

**1\. What’s the difference between an HOA and a CDD fee?**

**This is a big one, especially for buyers looking at newer communities!**

**An HOA (Homeowners Association) typically covers neighborhood maintenance, shared amenities, and community rules.**

**A CDD (Community Development District) helps finance and maintain infrastructure like roads, drainage systems, and community amenities. Unlike HOA dues, CDD assessments are typically included in your annual property tax bill.**

**And yes, some neighborhoods have both!**

**2\. How expensive is homeowners insurance in Florida?**

**Probably one of the most common questions I get, and the answer really depends on the property.**

**Insurance premiums can vary significantly based on location, age, roof condition, construction, and hurricane protection features.**

**Another common misconception? Homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover flooding. That’s a separate policy, and whether it’s required often depends on the property’s flood zone and your lender.**

**I always recommend getting insurance quotes early in the buying process so there aren’t any surprises.**

**3\. Can I buy a Florida home without being there in person?**

**Absolutely! I work with relocation buyers who are hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles away.**

**Between live video walkthroughs, virtual tours, digital paperwork, and coordinating inspections locally, much of the process can be handled remotely.**

**Depending on your lender and closing company, even closing can sometimes be completed without traveling to Florida.**

**4\. Will my property taxes be the same as what the current owner pays?**

**Not necessarily, and this is something I explain to relocation buyers all the time!**

**Florida’s Save Our Homes benefit limits annual increases in assessed value for qualifying homesteaded properties.**

**When a property changes ownership, its assessed value is generally reset based on its just value the following January 1.**

**So if you’re looking at a home where the owner has lived for 20 years, their current property taxes may be significantly lower than what yours will be.**

**That’s why I always encourage buyers to estimate their own future tax bill rather than relying on the amount shown in the listing.**

**5\. What’s a wind mitigation inspection?**

**If you’re moving from another state, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of one!**

**A wind mitigation inspection evaluates features that help protect a home from hurricane-force winds, including roof attachments, roof shape, and storm protection.**

**Why does it matter? Certain features can qualify you for discounts on your homeowners insurance.**

**It’s not automatically required for every home purchase, but it’s definitely something worth understanding when buying in Florida.**

**6\. How do I know which Southwest Florida neighborhood is right for me?**

**This might actually be my favorite question because there’s no one-size-fits-all answer!**

**Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Punta Gorda, and Sarasota all offer different lifestyles, communities, and price points.**

**Some buyers want boating access and waterfront living. Others prioritize golf, walkability, newer construction, or simply finding a quiet neighborhood with low monthly expenses.**

**A big part of my job is helping relocation buyers understand those differences, even before they ever visit in person.**

**Thinking About Making Southwest Florida Home?**

**Relocating isn’t just about finding a house. It’s about figuring out where you want to build your next chapter and understanding what life in a new area will actually look like.**

**Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or you’re ready to make a move, I’m always happy to answer questions, share local insight, and help you navigate the process.**

**Considering a move to Southwest Florida? Let’s connect! I’d love to help you find a place that feels like home.**

**_Shaina Newkirk | SWFL Real Estate Advisor_**

**_Serving buyers and sellers from Naples to Sarasota._**