First-Time Home Buying in Tampa Bay What to Know

Published On: March 3, 2023|Categories: Blog|Tags: , |

First Time Home Buying in Tampa Bay What to Know

Are you thinking about buying your first home in Tampa Bay? If so, congratulations! Buying a home is a big step, but it can also be a little overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to do your research and know what you’re getting into. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what you need to know about first-time home buying in Tampa Bay.

Get Your Finances in Order

Before you start looking for a home, it’s important to get your finances in order. This means figuring out how much you can afford to spend on a home, getting pre-approved for a mortgage, and saving up for a down payment. The more you can save for a down payment, the better. A larger down payment can help you get a better interest rate and lower monthly payments.

Related: How to find your dream home in Tampa’s competitive real estate market

Hire a Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent can be a valuable resource for first-time home buyers. An agent can help you find homes that fit your needs and budget, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through the home-buying process. They can also help you understand the local real estate market and answer any questions you may have.

Related: The best things to do with kids in Tampa Bay

Do Your Research

Before you start looking at homes, it’s important to do your research. This means figuring out what you’re looking for in a home, what the different neighborhoods in Tampa Bay have to offer, and what you can expect to pay for a home in each neighborhood. You should also research the local real estate market to see what homes have recently sold for and what the average home prices are.

Inspect the Home

Once you’ve found a home that you’re interested in, it’s important to have it inspected. A home inspection will tell you if there are any major issues with the home, such as a leaky roof or a faulty foundation. An inspection can also give you peace of mind and help you make an informed decision about whether to buy the home.

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Buying your first home in Tampa Bay can be an exciting and overwhelming experience, but with the right information and preparation, you can make it a successful one. Just remember to get your finances in order, hire a real estate agent, do your research, and inspect the home before you buy.

Absolutely gorgeous coastal contemporary home that is SOLAR POWERED,  MOVE IN READY and conveniently located for both South Tampa and easy access to St Pete. Built in 2020, with quality construction and upgraded finishes, this is no cookie cutter. As you enter the home, you will be amazed at the soaring ceilings. Linger to absorb the architectural details and upgraded features. Observe the carefully curated lighting and fixtures, espresso, soft close cabinetry, upgraded quartz, and a chef's island. Planation shutters maximize the natural light and showcase the streamlined design. An oversized laundry room and pantry satisfy your storage needs. A separate powder room bath is conveniently located off the kitchen for guests.
The primary suite, located on the main level, has a custom walk-in closet and luxurious en suite bath with dual vanities. 
Head up the stairs and take in the view, the sheer volume of the space will captivate you. 
The upper level loft is extremely versatile and suits the open, airy architecture. Two large bedrooms and a full size bath with quartz countertops  complete the upper level. Both bedrooms have full size closets and plantation shutters. 
Head downstairs and take in both the huge oversized garage with epoxy floor and the spectacular outdoor patio and fully landscaped backyard oasis. With composite decking, this area is huge and ready for the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Fully fenced, the fan palms and bamboo add privacy and serenity.
The solar panels lower your electricity bill to almost nothing. The owners currently pay TECO $7/month. The fully elevated construction- all living area is located 10' above flood zone and your insurance costs will be substantially lower due to both the engineered flow through design and elevation. 

Port Tampa is an historic and bustling community with dozens of new builds nestled among the historic cottages and homes.  The location provides easy access to all things Tampa Bay. Don't miss the Picnic Island dog park, a local favorite. You are minutes from award winning restaurants, shopping, Hyde Park, MacDill, all that S.Tampa and St Pete have to offer. $699,500 Active

7405 S Juanita Street Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,989 SqFt 0.110 Acres

Under Construction. Experience a remarkable lifestyle when you reside in this stunning new construction South Tampa pool home. Situated in the highly sought-after Grady, Coleman, and Plant school district, this exclusive Reflection Custom Home property has 4,223 SF of interior living space featuring 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, media room, study & a 2 car garage on a 60 x 127 lot. A luxury landscape package, dramatic sloped roof lines, and artful touches invite you to explore the comfort and luxury that await inside. The airy foyer leads through to entertaining-sized living with views of the pool. The gourmet kitchen showcases modern style and comfort, with upscale Fisher & Paykel appliances, island seating, custom cabinetry & pantry prep room. The open 1st-floor layout includes the in-law suite, office, dining, and plenty of storage. The second level has a lux primary suite with a spacious bathroom w/soaking tub, walk-in glass enclosed shower and a large custom closets. The remaining 3 bedrooms, each have custom baths & generous closets, media room, and laundry room completes the 2nd Floor. The amazing rear property overlooking the screened-in pool and spa has a covered lanai with painted wood tongue & groove ceiling and a summer kitchen with 457SF of covered outdoor living space. Additional upgrades include a Whole home generator, impact windows, in-wall pest tubes, Elan Smart Home System, interior 8ft doors, crown molding, 25 Seer HVAC w/multi zoned control, Icynene R-21 spray foam insulation, speaker pre-wires, future elevator shaft, 2-10 Builder Warranty & so much more. Estimated completion is the end of July 2024. $2,525,000 Active

3902 W Platt Street Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 5 Baths 4,223 SqFt 0.170 Acres

Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Tampa's Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood! This stunning 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom gem underwent a complete renovation in 2022 including a new Roof, HVAC, Water Heater  As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting open concept layout seamlessly connecting the living room, dining area, and kitchen. The kitchen is a chef's delight, boasting brand new quartz countertops, sleek cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. On the right side of the house, you'll find three generously sized bedrooms, each exuding charm and style, along with a fully renovated bathroom featuring contemporary finishes. Towards the rear of the home awaits a versatile space that can be customized to suit your needs – whether it's an office, family room, or whatever you desire. But the real showstopper awaits in the spacious primary suite, offering a cozy seating area, a luxurious, completely renovated bathroom, and an abundance of closet space, providing a serene retreat at the end of a long day. Step outside to discover your own private oasis, featuring a large screened-in porch, perfect for soaking in the Florida sunshine year-round. With a detached 2-car garage and ample parking space in the rear, there's no shortage of room for vehicles and recreational activities. Located just minutes from I-275, commuting anywhere in the Tampa Bay area is a breeze. And with Downtown, Armature Works, Busch Gardens, and an array of amenities are just a short drive away, you'll have endless entertainment options at your fingertips. Don't let this opportunity slip away – seize the chance to make this impeccable home yours today! Call now to schedule your private showing. $549,900 Active

5707 N 15th St Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 2 Baths 1,731 SqFt 0.180 Acres

Under Construction. *Pictures represent our model home at 1912 1/2 W Chestnut St. - same floor plan, similar, high-end finishes*

Welcome to your dream abode in the heart of historic Old West Tampa! This brand new, impeccably crafted home boasts 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 1,894 square feet of luxurious living space. Step inside and be greeted by modern elegance fused with timeless charm. 

The spacious open floor plan invites you into a bright and airy living area, perfect for both entertaining guests and relaxing evenings with loved ones. Gleaming vinyl floors lead you seamlessly from the inviting living room to the gourmet kitchen, where sleek stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and custom cabinetry await the culinary enthusiast. 

Upstairs, discover a tranquil retreat in the lavish master suite, complete with a walk-in closet and a spa-like ensuite bathroom featuring dual vanities and a separate glass-enclosed shower. Two additional generously sized bedrooms offer ample space for family members or guests, accompanied by a shared full bathroom. 

Outside, a substantial private fenced yard provides the ideal setting for al fresco dining or enjoying the Florida sunshine. With a convenient half bath and wet bar on the main level, a laundry room, and plenty of storage space throughout, every aspect of this home has been thoughtfully designed for modern comfort and convenience. 

Located in the historic Old West Tampa neighborhood, residents will enjoy easy access to downtown amenities, including shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Additionally, residents will be moments from everything coming in the West River Redevelopment (including a brand-new Publix)! Don't miss your chance to own this exquisite new construction home in Tampa's next most coveted neighborhood. Schedule your showing today and make your dream of living in the up-incoming Old West Tampa a reality! $619,500 Active

1910 N Tampania Avenue Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,894 SqFt 0.080 Acres

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