Many buyers focus only on the mortgage payment and get hit with $500–$1,000+ extra each month. Here's the 2026 Central Florida reality check.
- Annual maintenance: 1–2% of home value ($4,000–$8,000 on a $400k home)
- Utilities (AC-heavy): $250–$400/month
- Closing costs in FL: 2.5–3.5% of purchase price
- Emergency fund tip: Save 3–6 months of total housing costs
Local angle: New communities in Lake & Polk County often have rising HOA + utility bills.
Ready to run your real numbers? Let's talk.
Text Stephen: 321-297-4742