Buying a home is a big step, and it should feel clear, not confusing. This guide walks you through how the process works across Gainesville, Alachua County and North Central Florida — from your first questions to closing day — so you always know what comes next.
Before an agent tours homes with you, you'll sign a written buyer agreement — this became standard practice nationwide in 2024. It explains what your agent will do for you and how they'll be paid. It's negotiable, and agreeing to see a property doesn't lock you into anything permanent.
The question we hear most right now. Your agent's fee is agreed up front, in writing, and it's negotiable. In many sales the seller still covers it; in others the buyer pays directly. Either way it's an open, clearly stated part of the deal — not something hidden in the price.
Beyond the price of the home, buyers plan for a few upfront costs: your down payment, earnest money, and closing costs like title, inspection, and appraisal fees. Because this is Florida, it helps to understand ongoing costs early too — property taxes and insurance.
Most buyers start by getting pre-approved — it tells you what you can borrow and shows sellers you're serious (a step beyond a quick pre-qualification). Loan types, rates, down payment amounts, and Florida assistance programs all live on our finance page.
Once you find the home, we help you put together an offer — price, timing, and the contingencies that protect you. After it's accepted, you're under contract, and a series of steps runs on a timeline: inspection, appraisal, title work, insurance, and your loan finishing up, ending with a final walkthrough and closing day.
Guides for your situation
First-time buyers
New to all of this? Start here for a plain-English walkthrough.
The right neighborhood depends on your commute, schools, and lifestyle. Explore communities across Gainesville and North Central Florida and see what fits.
We're based in Gainesville and work with buyers throughout Alachua County and North Central Florida — on your side of the table from your first questions to closing day.
In most cases, yes — an agent will have you sign a written buyer agreement before touring. It lays out what the agent does for you and how they're paid, and it's negotiable.
It's agreed up front and negotiable. Often the seller covers it; sometimes the buyer pays directly. We explain your options before you commit.
Yes. It's set by agreement in writing, not by law.
Typically a down payment, earnest money, and closing costs. The amounts vary by loan type and price — our finance page breaks it down.
Once you're under contract, closing commonly takes around 30–45 days, depending on your loan and the details of the deal.
Ready to start?
Search homes across North Central Florida, or talk to a Rabell agent about your next move.
