buying a house

What Inspections Matter Most for Older Homes?

Buying an older home in Jacksonville is one of those decisions that rewards patience and curiosity. Walk through the right neighborhood – Springfield, Riverside, Avondale, Murray Hill, San Marco – and you’ll find things that newer construction simply can’t replicate: deep front porches built for actual use, hardwood floors that have been walked on for […]

Amanda Searle | Apr 9, 2026

Is Jacksonville still affordable in 2026 compared to other Florida cities?

If you’re comparing Florida cities from out of state, affordability is probably near the top of your list. In 2026, Jacksonville continues to stand out as one of the more affordable major metros in the state. This is especially true when you factor in income, housing costs, and long‑term projections. Market forecasts show Jacksonville offering […]

Amanda Searle | Mar 13, 2026

First-Time Buyer Mistakes I See Every Week (and How to Avoid Them)

Buying your first home is exciting – but it can also be overwhelming. Every week, I work with first-time buyers across Jacksonville who make the same avoidable mistakes. The good news? With the right information and guidance, these mistakes don’t have to derail your plans. This guide breaks down the most common first-time buyer missteps […]

Amanda Searle | Feb 27, 2026

Are there any down payment assistance programs in Jacksonville for first-time buyers?

If the only thing holding you back from buying a home in Jacksonville is the down payment, you’re exactly who many assistance programs are designed for. In 2026, qualified first-time buyers can access local, state, and lender-based options. These programs help cover part of the upfront cash you need to close. The City of Jacksonville’s […]

Amanda Searle | Feb 13, 2026

How Buyers Are Getting Homes Before They Hit Zillow

Discover how Jacksonville buyers are finding homes before they hit Zillow using Coming Soon listings, agent networks, and custom saved searches -especially in Springfield, Riverside, Avondale, Murray Hill, and San Marco. If Zillow Feels Too Late… You’re Not Wrong If it feels like every home you love in Jacksonville is already under contract by the […]

Amanda Searle | Feb 10, 2026

How much do I really need for a down payment to buy in Jacksonville?

One of the biggest myths I hear from first-time buyers in Jacksonville is that you “must” have 20% down to buy a home. That simply isn’t true, and believing it keeps a lot of people renting years longer than they need to. In 2026, most first-time buyers in Jacksonville are purchasing with somewhere between 3% […]

Amanda Searle | Feb 5, 2026

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