Buying a home in South Florida is exciting—but let’s be honest, it’s also a little overwhelming. Between inspections, appraisals, and paperwork, one thing that can easily get overlooked (but absolutely shouldn’t) is homeowners insurance.
If you’re in the process of buying a home, especially for the first time, here’s what you need to know to avoid surprises, delays, or sticker shock when it’s time to close.
Why Insurance Matters Before You Close
Most lenders require you to secure a homeowners insurance policy before closing day. But here’s the catch: in Florida, getting insurance isn’t always quick—or cheap. Between rising premiums, stricter underwriting, and storm risk, you don’t want to leave this step for the last minute.
At Florida 1st Insurance, we work with buyers across South Florida to make sure your new home is covered and your closing stays on track.
4 Things That Can Affect Your Home Insurance Quote
Not all homes are created equal in the eyes of insurance companies. When you’re getting quotes, here are a few big factors that can impact your premium:
- Age of the Roof
Insurance carriers want to see newer, hurricane-resistant roofs. If the home you’re buying has an older roof (especially one over 15 years), expect higher premiums—or limited options.
- Wind Mitigation Features
Does the home have impact windows, hurricane straps, or shutters? These upgrades can make a huge difference in your insurance cost. Make sure to request a wind mitigation inspection—it could save you hundreds.
- Location & Flood Zones
Living near the coast? You may need a separate flood insurance policy, which isn’t included in standard homeowners coverage. Flood zone designation will directly affect cost and eligibility. You can click here to access FEMA’s flood map to see if your home is in a flood zone.
- Electrical, Plumbing, & HVAC
Outdated systems may increase your rate or disqualify you from certain carriers. Some insurers won’t write policies on homes with old wiring (like aluminum or knob-and-tube).
Avoid Closing Delays With These Tips
We’ve seen it happen—buyers wait too long to secure insurance and end up scrambling days before closing. Here’s how to stay ahead:
- Get insurance quotes as soon as you go under contract
- Share the inspection report with your insurance agent to flag any issues
- Ask about bundling options if you also need auto or umbrella insurance
- Work with a local, independent agency (like us!) who knows the Florida market
How Florida 1st Insurance Can Help
We specialize in helping South Florida homebuyers get the coverage they need—fast.
We shop multiple carriers to find the best rate and coverage for your specific property, and we’ll walk you through every step so you feel confident, not confused.
Whether you’re buying your first home, your forever home, or an investment property, we’ve got your back.
Ready to Make Closing Day a Breeze?
Don’t wait until the final walk-through to think about insurance. Call Florida 1st Insurance today at 954-942-7888, and let’s make sure you’re protected and prepared—so your dream home doesn’t turn into a paperwork nightmare.