How to Buy a Florida Home for Retirement While You’re Still Working in Another State

Dreaming of retiring in Florida? Warm weather, no state income tax, beautiful beaches, it’s no surprise so many people want to move here.The good news is: you don’t have to wait until you retire to buy your Florida home. In fact, buying early can make the process easier and more affordable. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.

1. Choose How You’ll Use the Home for Now

Before buying, decide if the Florida home will be:

Primary Residence

You move to Florida right away.

• Lowest rates

• Lowest down payment

  
  

Second Home (Most popular for future retirees)

You live out of state but visit Florida throughout the year.

• Great rates

• Lower down payment

• Can’t rent short-term

  
  

Investment Property

You want to rent it out until retirement.

• Higher rates

• Higher down payment

  
  

2. You CAN Get a Florida Mortgage While Working Out of State

You don’t need a Florida job to qualify. Lenders only need to see:

• Stable income

• Employment history

• Ability to handle the mortgage payment

  
  

Remote workers qualify, too; just show your employer allows remote work if needed.

3. Plan for Florida-Specific Costs

Florida is unique, so make sure you budget for:

• Homeowners insurance (higher due to storms)

• Flood insurance in certain areas

• HOA or condo fees (very common in Florida)

• CDD fees in newer communities

  
  

Knowing these costs upfront helps avoid surprises.

4. You Don’t Have to Sell Your Current Home First

Many people think they must sell their home up north before buying in Florida. Not true!

You may qualify for both mortgages, or you can use tools like:

• A HELOC

• A bridge loan

• A cash-out refinance

  
  

These options help you buy now and sell later.

5. Buying Before Retirement Has Big Advantages

• Lock in today’s home prices

• Start building equity early

• Avoid buying during retirement when income changes

• Give yourself time to find the perfect area

  
  

For many people, buying early is actually the smarter move.

6. The Simple 6-Step Process

1. Get pre-approved with a Florida lender

2. Choose property type (primary, second home, or investment)

3. Review Florida insurance + taxes

4. Pick your Florida location

5. Tour homes in person or virtually

6. Close remotely from your current state

   
   

Florida makes remote closings easy and fast.

Ready to Start Planning Your Florida Retirement Home?

Whether you're a few months or a few years away from retirement, buying now can set you up for a smooth transition later. I’m here to walk you through every step, no matter where you currently live.

Let’s plan your retirement home the smart way.