What British Buyers Get Wrong About Florida Real Estate (And How to Avoid the Same Mistakes)
Moving from London to South Florida is an exciting leap — sunshine, bigger homes, outdoor living, and a lifestyle that simply doesn’t exist in the UK. But when it comes to buying property here, British buyers often make the same avoidable mistakes. The Florida market plays by different rules, moves at a different speed, and has nuances you simply don’t learn from browsing Zillow.
Here’s what UK buyers commonly misunderstand, and how working with a relocation specialist ensures you avoid costly surprises.
1. Underestimating Property Taxes
This is the number one misunderstanding.
Florida has no state income tax, which is a huge advantage, but property taxes are far more significant than what British buyers are used to. Depending on the county, most homes fall between 1–2% of the assessed value per year.
Where you buy, how you structure ownership, and whether the property will be your primary residence can dramatically change your tax exposure. A relocation specialist walks you through homestead exemptions, portability, and other savings that most newcomers don’t even know exist.
2. Assuming the Market Works Like London — It Doesn’t
London’s property market is driven by off-market deals, slow legal processes, and a culture where the buyer and seller often negotiate through long, formal channels.
Florida is the opposite.
Here’s what surprises British buyers most:
Homes move quickly — especially in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Palm Beach, and Miami.
Sellers expect proof of funds or mortgage pre-approval immediately.
Most transactions are closed within 30 days.
If you hesitate, the deal is gone. Having a relocation expert who prepares your paperwork, connects you with the right local professionals, and guides your strategy makes an enormous difference.
3. Misjudging the True Cost of Ownership
Because South Florida homes are often larger, British buyers underestimate the ongoing expenses. Not because the costs are extreme — they’re usually very manageable — but because they’re simply different.
Key areas people misunderstand:
Homeowners insurance (especially near the water)
HOA fees in gated communities
Pool and lawn maintenance
Pest control (common, inexpensive, and routine here)
These aren’t “hidden costs” — they’re just unfamiliar. A relocation specialist helps you compare neighbourhoods, HOAs, and maintenance levels so you can choose a home that fits your lifestyle and your expectations.
4. Not Realising How Diverse South Florida Really Is
British buyers often imagine South Florida as one single lifestyle… usually a mix between Miami nightlife and beachside living. In reality, the region offers dramatically different environments:
Boca Raton — refined, family-friendly, prestigious communities
Delray Beach — charming, walkable, creative, and social
Palm Beach — ultra-luxury, discreet, old-world elegance
Miami — international, energetic, architecturally bold
Choosing the right community is arguably more important than choosing the right house. That’s where local guidance is irreplaceable.
5. Trying to Navigate Everything Alone
This is the most avoidable mistake of all.
Florida real estate has its own language — escrow, contingencies, HOA approvals, insurance inspections, and more. And because high-end homes often involve multiple layers (tax planning, visa considerations, insurance complexity, and lifestyle adjustments), the process can feel overwhelming without someone advocating for you.
A relocation specialist bridges the gap between London expectations and South Florida realities. They help you understand the market, protect your interests, and ultimately make confident decisions about where and how to build your new life.
Why Jacobs Relocation Makes the Process Seamless
As a London-to-Florida relocation expert, I ensure that you don’t just “buy a house” — you choose the right neighbourhood, the right lifestyle, and the right long-term setup. From schools and healthcare to insurance, visas, and vetted contractors, you gain a knowledgeable partner guiding every step.
South Florida offers incredible opportunities — and with the right guidance, you can enjoy them fully from day one.