Buyers Checklist

Buyers Due Diligence Checklist  And Helpful Tips! 

This may or may not apply to you as a buyer 

Things to check during  INSPECTION PERIOD

For Home Buyers 

1. Property Details 

  • Title and Ownership 

  • Verify clear title and ownership history. 

  • Where to Check: County Clerk's Office or a title company. 

  • Home Inspection 

  • Check structural integrity, roof condition, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. 

  • Where to Check: Hire a certified home inspector. 

  • HOA/Community Rules 

  • Understand restrictions, fees, and regulations if the property is in a community with a Homeowners Association. 

  • Where to Check: HOA governing documents and community management office. 

2. Zoning and Permits 

  • Zoning Compliance 

  • Confirm property usage aligns with your needs. 

  • Where to Check: County Zoning Office or GIS mapping tool. 

  • Building Permits 

  • Verify any past renovations have the proper permits. 

  • Where to Check: Local Building Department. 

  • Depending on the location of the property contact the City or County to verify additional information 

3. Environmental Concerns 

  • Flood Zones 

  • Determine if the property is in a flood zone and insurance requirements. 

  • Where to Check: FEMA Flood Maps or county GIS resources. 

  • Sinkhole Activity 

  • Check for past sinkhole claims or activity in the area. 

  • Where to Check: County records or Florida Geological Survey. 

4. Utilities and Services 

  • Water and Sewer 

  • Confirm the availability and cost of public utilities or the condition of private systems (well/septic). 

  • Soil Test/Perk Test for the well to be placed if needed 

  • Check the septic system and have it inspected 

  • Where to Check: Local utility providers or the County Health Department. 

  • Internet and Cable 

  • Check service availability in the area. 

  • Where to Check: Local providers (e.g., Spectrum, CenturyLink). 

5. Financial Considerations 

  • Property Taxes 

  • Review current and projected property taxes. 

  • Where to Check: County Property Appraiser's Office. 

  • Insurance Costs 

  • Estimate costs for homeowners, flood, and windstorm insurance. 

  • Where to Check: Insurance agents specializing in Florida properties. 

********************************************************************************

For Vacant Land Buyers 

1. Property Details 

  • Survey and Boundaries 

  • Obtain a recent land survey to confirm boundaries and easements. 

  • Where to Check: Hire a licensed surveyor. 

  • Title Search 

  • Confirm no liens or encumbrances. 

  • Where to Check: Title company or County Clerk's Office. 

2. Zoning and Permits 

  • Zoning and Land Use 

  • Verify the zoning category and future land use plans. 

  • Where to Check: County Zoning Department or Future Land Use Maps. 

  • Development Restrictions 

  • Check for wetland designations or protected areas. 

  • Where to Check: County Environmental Services or Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). If in city limits contact  

  • Depending on the location of the property contact the City or County to verify additional information. 

3. Utilities and Access 

  • Road Access 

  • Confirm legal and physical access to the property. 

  • Where to Check: County records or the title company. 

  • Utility Availability 

  • Determine if electricity, water, and sewage are available or need to be installed. 

  • Soil Test/Perk Test for the well to be placed if needed 

  • Check the septic system and have it inspected 

  • Where to Check: Local utility companies. 

4. Environmental and Legal Factors 

  • Environmental Surveys 

  • Check for wetlands, endangered species, or contamination. 

  • Where to Check: Environmental consultant or FDEP. 

  • Future Developments Nearby 

  • Research upcoming development projects that could impact the land’s value or use. 

  • Where to Check: County Planning Department. 

5. Financial Considerations 

  • Tax Assessment 

  • Confirm current property tax rate and agricultural exemptions if applicable. 

  • Where to Check: County Property Appraiser's Office. 

  • Impact Fees 

  • Understand fees for building or development. 

  • Where to Check: County Planning Department. 

  • Financing  

       **ALWAYS check with your lender for their requirements. 

********************************************************************************

Helpful Resources by County 

Sumter County 

    Zoning and Development: Sumter County Development Services 

Citrus County 

Hernando County 

This checklist ensures you’re informed and prepared when purchasing real estate in these Florida counties.