How Much Are Closing Costs in Florida?

Buying a home in Florida is exciting, but if it’s your first time or you’re relocating here, the last thing you want is a surprise at the closing table. Most buyers budget for their down payment, but there are a whole range of closing costs in Florida that you’ll need to plan for.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what buyers should expect to pay at closing. From lender fees and title costs, to property tax adjustments, inspections, and even how buyer agent compensation works after the recent NAR changes.

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to budget so you can buy with confidence and avoid last-minute stress.

The Big Picture: Florida Closing Costs in 2025

On average, closing costs in Florida run between 2% and 5% of the purchase price, not including your down payment.

For example, on a median-priced home of about $410,000 here in Sarasota, that’s somewhere between $8,000 and $20,000. But here’s the catch: what makes up those numbers depends on whether you’re financing or paying cash, the type of loan you’re using, and even the county you’re buying in.

Loan & Lender Fees

If you’re financing your purchase, loan-related costs will make up a big portion of your closing costs. These typically include:

• Loan origination fee: 0.5%–1% of your loan amount.

• Appraisal: $300–$500 (higher for larger homes).

• Credit report: $25–$75.

• Discount points: Optional, but each point is 1% of the loan if you’re buying down your rate.

• Escrow account setup: Prepaid property taxes and homeowner’s insurance — this can add several thousand dollars depending on the time of year.

💡 Cash buyers: You’ll skip most of these fees, but you’ll still face other costs like title, insurance, and government taxes.

Title & Settlement Costs

Title work is one of the most important parts of closing. Here’s what to expect:

• Owner’s Title Insurance: Protects you against future title claims. In Sarasota, the buyer typically pays this (though it varies by county). On a $400,000 home, expect around $2,000.

• Lender’s Title Insurance: Protects the lender, a few hundred dollars.

• Closing/Settlement fee: $500–$800 to the title company or attorney.

• Wire transfer fees: $25–$50 per transfer.

This is one area where regional customs matter, so always ask what’s typical in the county you’re buying in.

Government Fees & Taxes

The State of Florida and county governments also collect their share at closing:

• Doc stamp tax on the deed: 70¢ per $100 of the purchase price (60¢ in Miami-Dade).

• Doc stamp tax on the mortgage: 35¢ per $100 of the loan.

• Intangible tax: 0.2% of the loan amount.

• Recording fees: $10 for the first page, $8.50 for each additional page.

💡 Example: On a $400,000 home with a $320,000 mortgage, you’d pay:

• Deed stamps: $2,800

• Mortgage stamps: $1,120

• Intangible tax: $640

• Recording fees: ~$40

That’s over $4,500 in government fees alone — and that’s before title, insurance, or inspections.

Don’t forget: you’ll also reimburse the seller for their share of prepaid property taxes at closing.

Inspections & Insurance

Florida is inspection-heavy, and most buyers cover these costs upfront:

• Home inspection: $300–$500

• 4-point or wind mitigation inspection: $75–$200 (often required for insurance)

• Termite inspection: $100–$250

• Survey: $300–$500

On top of that, lenders usually require you to pay a full year of homeowner’s insurance upfront. If you’re in a flood zone, flood insurance may also be mandatory. Always get quotes before you go under contract so you’re not blindsided.

HOA, CDD & Hidden Costs

If you’re buying in a community, budget for extras:

• HOA or condo application fees: $100–$500+

• Transfer fees or special assessments: For example, if a new roof is needed.

• CDD fees (Community Development Districts): Built into your property taxes, these can add thousands per year in newer developments.

These aren’t always closing costs, but they affect your long-term affordability.

Buyer’s Agent Compensation in 2025

This is where things have changed since the 2024 NAR settlement.

Traditionally, sellers in Florida covered both agents’ commissions. That’s still common today, especially in Sarasota where competition is high, but it’s no longer guaranteed.

• In a buyer’s market, sellers are more likely to cover your agent’s fee.

• In a seller’s market, you may need to negotiate or cover it yourself.

Before you start shopping, you’ll sign a buyer representation agreement with your agent that outlines how compensation will be handled. The good news? It’s always negotiable.

Final Thoughts

Let’s recap:

• Closing costs in Florida = 2%–5% of the purchase price.

• They cover lender fees, title and settlement, government taxes, inspections, insurance, and HOA/CDD extras.

• Cash buyers save on loan fees, but not on title or taxes.

• Regional customs matter, and so do hidden costs like flood insurance or HOA assessments.

• In 2025, buyer agent compensation is something you’ll want to clarify upfront.

Buying a home here is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make but with the right preparation, you can avoid surprises and focus on enjoying your new life in the Sunshine State.

Ready to Buy in Sarasota?

If you’re relocating to Sarasota or anywhere along Florida’s Gulf Coast and want a clear breakdown of what your numbers would look like, reach out to me. I’ll walk you through the full costs so you know exactly what to budget before you make an offer.

Contact me today to start your Florida home search with confidence.