FIRPTA, or the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act, is a U.S. law that requires foreign sellers of U.S. real estate to pay U.S. taxes on the gains from the sale. Basically, if someone who isn’t a U.S. citizen or permanent resident sells property in the U.S., the IRS wants to make sure they pay taxes on that profit.
How It Works
When a foreign owner sells property, the buyer must withhold 15% of the sale price (sometimes lower under certain conditions) and send it to the IRS.
The seller then files a U.S. tax return to report the actual gain. If the withholding was more than owed, they get a refund; if less, they pay the balance.
Why It Matters
FIRPTA protects the U.S. tax system by ensuring foreign investors don’t avoid paying taxes on U.S. real estate sales. For buyers, it’s important because failing to withhold can make them personally responsible for the tax.
Return on Investment (ROI): Impact windows and doors can provide an ROI of around 70-80% of the cost, sometimes more in high-risk hurricane areas.
Perceived Value: Buyers often see impact windows and doors as a safety upgrade, energy saver, and lower insurance risk, making your home more appealing.
Impact windows are specialized windows designed to resist strong winds, flying debris, and hurricanes—perfect for places like Florida.
2. Insurance Benefits
Many Florida insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for homes with impact-resistant windows and doors. This can be a selling point and make your home more marketable.
3. Energy Efficiency
Impact windows also help with insulation, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Energy savings are attractive to buyers, especially in Florida’s hot climate.
4. Marketing Advantage
Homes with hurricane protection can stand out in listings. Highlighting that your home has impact-resistant windows and doors can attract buyers who value safety and long-term savings.
5. Neighborhood Factor
If your neighbors don’t have impact windows, adding them can make your home more desirable. Conversely, if most homes in your area already have them, it may be expected rather than a bonus.
6. Price Expectation
While exact numbers vary, in Florida, adding impact windows and doors could increase your home’s sale price by 2-5% or more, depending on the home’s size, neighborhood, and the quality of installation.
In short, they’re a strong selling point in Florida, especially for safety-conscious buyers, and can make your home easier to sell at a slightly higher price. Call me for a Free Comparative Market Analysis if you’re thinking of selling your home.
Get ready to fall in love with this beautifully crafted, newly constructed home designed for modern living, comfort, and style — with no HOA fees and located in a NO FLOOD ZONE!
Thoughtful Design Meets Everyday Luxury
Step inside through a stunning leaded glass front door and be greeted by a bright, open foyer with a built-in closet — the perfect welcome home. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features 10-foot ceilings throughout, soaring cathedral ceilings in the main living areas, and an effortless open-concept floor plan that’s perfect for everyday life and entertaining.
Spacious & Seamless Living
The living room, dining room, and kitchen blend together under breathtaking cathedral ceilings, creating an expansive space filled with natural light. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the layout is designed to flow beautifully — inside and out.
A Kitchen That Delivers Style & Function
Calling all home chefs! This kitchen is a showstopper:
Custom white shaker cabinets
Oversized granite island
Full suite of stainless steel appliances
Double ovens + drawer microwave
Pot filler over the range for convenience
Walk-in pantry + tons of cabinet storage
It’s a dream kitchen built for cooking, gathering, and impressing.
Relaxing Bedrooms & Gorgeous Bathrooms
Primary Suite: Spacious with walk-in closet, ceiling fan, and a spa-like en suite bathroom featuring double vanities, oversized mirrors, and a luxurious dual shower with two shower heads.
Secondary Bedrooms: Each offers built-in closets, ceiling fans, and plenty of natural light.
Guest Bathroom: Includes a granite vanity, generous storage, and a full-sized tub — perfect for guests or family.
Smart Utility Room & Practical Features
The indoor laundry room includes:
Sink & storage cabinetry
Washer/dryer hookups
Easy access just off the main living area
Plus, all windows come with blinds, and every door and window is hurricane & impact-rated for peace of mind.
Outdoor Living & Backyard Oasis
Enjoy your morning coffee or evening glass of wine on the screened-in back porch, overlooking a huge backyard — fully fenced for privacy with gated access at the front. It’s ready for your garden, pool, play area, or your dream outdoor kitchen.
Prime Location with Everything Nearby
Live just one block from the Pinellas Park Arts District, with walkable access to:
Local parks & playgrounds
Public library & post office
Vibrant dining & shopping options
Short drive to top-rated beaches & downtown St. Pete
Easy access to major roads makes commuting or weekend getaways a breeze!
Why You’ll Love It!
3 Beds | 2 Baths | 2-Car Garage
Screened-In Porch + Large Fenced Yard
New Construction = Low Maintenance & High Efficiency
Buying a home in Florida is an exciting adventure, but let’s be real—it can also be a roller-coaster of emotions. You imagine palm trees swaying, sipping coffee on your lanai, and soaking up endless sunshine. But before you get too carried away picturing yourself in flip-flops year-round, there are some important things to watch out for. Let’s dive into the biggest home buying pitfalls and how you can sidestep them like a pro.
1. Skipping the Home Inspection: A Risky Move
Imagine falling in love with a house, only to move in and realize the plumbing has the personality of an old garden hose—leaky and unreliable. A home inspection is your best friend when buying in Florida. With humidity, hurricanes, and sometimes questionable DIY renovations, you need to know exactly what you’re getting into.
A solid home inspector will check for hidden issues like roof damage, termite infestations, and faulty electrical wiring. Skipping this step might save a few hundred bucks now, but it could cost you thousands (and your sanity) later. Always, always get a professional inspection—it’s like getting a health checkup for your future home.
2. Underestimating Insurance Costs (It’s Not Cheap!)
Florida is paradise, but it’s also a place where hurricanes like to crash the party. Home insurance here isn’t just another bill; it’s an absolute must. A lot of new buyers don’t realize just how expensive it can be, especially in flood-prone areas.
Before you fall in love with that dreamy waterfront property, check the insurance rates. You might be surprised to learn that the cost of protecting your home from storms, floods, and wind damage could be more than your mortgage payment. Shop around for the best rates, look into state-backed insurance options, and make sure you understand what’s covered (and what’s not).
3. Forgetting About HOA Rules (Yes, They Can Be Strict)
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) are common in Florida, and while they keep neighborhoods looking nice, they can also be… a bit much. Some HOAs have rules about everything—what color you can paint your house, how many cars you can park, even whether you can put up holiday lights.
Before signing on the dotted line, read the HOA regulations carefully. Are the fees reasonable? Do they cover useful amenities like lawn care and security? If you’re someone who doesn’t like being told what to do with your property, an HOA community might not be your vibe. On the flip side, if you love neatly trimmed lawns and well-kept neighborhoods, it could be a great fit.
4. Ignoring Flood Zones: Don’t Get Caught Off Guard
Just because a home is a few miles from the ocean doesn’t mean it’s safe from flooding. Florida has plenty of areas that flood easily, even after a heavy rainstorm. FEMA’s flood zone maps can help you see if the home you’re eyeing is in a high-risk area.
If it is, factor in the cost of flood insurance and potential risks. Some buyers assume their regular homeowner’s insurance covers flood damage—spoiler alert: it doesn’t. Don’t make this costly mistake; check the maps, ask your agent, and be prepared.
5. Overpaying in a Competitive Market
Florida’s real estate market can be hot—literally and figuratively. It’s easy to get caught up in bidding wars, but overpaying for a home is a fast way to start off on shaky financial ground. Before making an offer, research comparable home prices in the area and set a firm budget.
Don’t let the fear of missing out push you into a bad decision. There will always be another great home, and patience often pays off. Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent who can guide you through the process and help you negotiate smartly.
The Bottom Line
Buying a home in Florida should be an exciting and rewarding experience, not a financial headache. By avoiding these common pitfalls—skipping inspections, underestimating insurance costs, ignoring HOA rules, overlooking flood zones, and overpaying—you’ll be well on your way to owning a piece of paradise without unnecessary stress.
Take your time, do your homework, and ask lots of questions. Hire a Realtor, and when you finally get those keys, kick off your shoes, grab a cold drink, and enjoy that Florida sunshine—you earned it!
Arona McGinley | Charles Rutenberg Realty | RealEstateBitz.com
Every day we have families moving to Clearwater, FL! Clearwater is one of those places that is perfect for families with children, seniors looking to relax and enjoy the perfect weather or a great golf day. When you move to Clearwater, Fl plan on getting rid of the snow boots and heavy winter jackets. Time to stock up on lots of bathing suits, shorts, and sleeveless tees. Whatever the reason it’s definitely one of the best places to live in Florida.
Clearwater Florida has excellent schools, there is so much history and I can’t forget to add Winter the Dolphin at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Clearwater, FL supports over 50,000 local jobs and has been growing every year. If you’re looking for that beach vibe with a slower pace of life then this is the place for you. Check out our downtown and enjoy the museums, great restaurants, and perfect weather. Should you be moving to Clearwater, or are thinking of moving to Clearwater, Fl please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about this beautiful city. I am always happy to help!
