By Beatriz “Bea” Rocha, Broker Associate – Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

Buying a property in Miami is an exciting milestone, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, relocating from another state, or investing in one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in the country.
To help you feel confident at every stage, here is a clear and complete guide to the key steps of the home-buying process—from getting pre-approved to signing your closing documents.

1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

The first and most important step is obtaining a pre-approval letter from a reputable lender.
This document shows how much you can borrow and demonstrates to sellers that you are a serious, qualified buyer.

Why pre-approval matters:

• Helps define a realistic budget

• Strengthens your offer in a competitive market

• Avoids delays during the closing process

• Identifies the best loan options (conventional, VA, FHA, jumbo, foreign national loans)

If you’re an international buyer, additional documents may be required, but the process is still straightforward with an experienced lender.

Even if you plan to purchase with cash, it can be smart to speak with a lender. In some cases, leveraging financing may offer tax, liquidity, or investment advantages. A lender can help you analyze whether taking a loan makes sense for your situation.

For cash offers, sellers will almost always require proof of funds to confirm that you have the financial ability to complete the purchase. This is a standard part of the process and helps ensure a smooth transaction.

2. Start Your Property Search With a Real Estate Professional

Once you’re pre-approved, the next step is to begin your property search.
As your real estate advisor, my job is to help you:

• Identify the best neighborhoods based on lifestyle and ROI

• Compare buildings, amenities, and association rules

• Evaluate property values and market trends

• Schedule showings and private tours

• Spot red flags before you make an offer

Whether you’re searching in Key Biscayne, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, or North Bay Village, having a knowledgeable local expert saves you time and protects your investment.

3. Making an Offer: Understanding the “As-Is” Contract

In Florida, most residential purchases use an “As-Is” Contract for Sale and Purchase.
This does not mean you’re buying a property without inspections—quite the opposite.

What an “As-Is” contract really means:

• The seller is not required to make repairs

• You, the buyer, have the right to inspect the property

• You can cancel the contract (within the inspection period) if issues are found

• You may renegotiate based on inspection findings

• The seller must disclose known defects

This form is widely used in Florida because it provides fairness and protection for both sides, and it keeps transactions moving efficiently.

4. The Inspection Period

After your offer is accepted, the inspection period begins. In the as-is contract the default is 15 days. The amount of inspecion days  is completely negotiable.

During this phase, you may schedule:

• General home inspection

• Plumbing and electrical evaluation

• Roof inspection

• Mold assessment

• Condo document review (budget, reserves, assessments)

If issues arise, the buyer may request credits, a price reduction, or an extension to allow for further evaluation. The buyer also has the right to cancel the purchase and receive a refund of the deposit, provided this is done within the inspection period deadlines and with proper notice to the seller.

5. Completing the Mortgage and Appraisal

If you are buying using a morgage, the lender will order an appraisal of the property to confirm the property’s market value.

At the same time, the lender finalizes:

• Income verification

• Asset review

• Employment confirmation

• Condo/HOA approval (if applicable)

This stage is crucial, and working with an experienced agent helps keep the process smooth.  Your realtor and lender will give you tips to follow during these important days.

6. Preparing for Closing

Your title company or attorney will begin preparing the legal documents and ensure the title is clear of liens or issues.

Before closing, you will receive a Closing Disclosure (CD) outlining all costs, including:

• Loan fees

• Title fees

• Prorated taxes

• HOA prorations

• Insurance

• Escrow amounts

• Legal and/ or title Company fees
• Realtor estate compensation fees, and others

We will review all documents together to ensure accuracy and transparency.

7. Final Walkthrough & Closing Day

Just before closing, we complete a final walkthrough to confirm the property is in the same condition as when you made the offer.

At closing, you will:

• Sign loan documents

• Transfer final funds

• Receive the keys to your new home

Congratulations—you are officially a homeowner!

🌟 Work With a Trusted Real Estate Advisor

Buying a property is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make.
With the right guidance, the process can be smooth, efficient, and even enjoyable.

If you’re thinking of buying in Miami—whether a primary home, vacation residence, or investment property—I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Bea Rocha, Broker Associate
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury
Key Biscayne • Brickell • Coconut Grove • Coral Gables • Miami

www.BeaRocha.com