Seller Resources • January 2, 2026

Why Local Experience Matters in Citrus and Marion County Real Estate

by Jacinta Burkhardt

local real estate experience guiding buyers and sellers in Citrus and Marion County

Local real estate experience plays a major role when buying or selling a home in Citrus and Marion County. While national headlines talk about the housing market as a whole, real estate decisions are made locally. Because of that, understanding the area matters more than many people realize.

In addition, pricing, timing, and buyer behavior can change from one neighborhood to the next. Local experience helps guide decisions with more clarity and confidence from the very beginning.

Pricing Requires Neighborhood Knowledge

Online estimates and general market data do not tell the full story. Accurate pricing depends on understanding recent sales, current competition, and buyer demand within specific neighborhoods.

A local Realtor knows how similar homes are performing nearby and how buyers are responding right now. This insight helps protect value and reduce unnecessary price reductions.

Buyer Behavior Varies by Area

Buyer behavior often changes depending on location. For example, some areas attract retirees, while others appeal to families or second home buyers. Because of these differences, homes must be positioned carefully.

As a result, local real estate experience helps match a home to the buyers most likely to be interested, which improves both activity and results.

Marketing Is More Effective When It Is Local

Marketing works best when it targets the right audience. Local knowledge helps determine where buyers are coming from and how they search for homes in this area.

Effective marketing combines online exposure with local insight to reach buyers who are actively looking in Citrus and Marion County.

You can learn more about my approach here:
<a href=”YOUR_HOW_I_MARKET_LINK_HERE”>How I Market Your Home to Sell in Citrus County</a>.

Inspections and Appraisals Are Market Specific

Local experience also matters during inspections and appraisals. Certain issues appear more frequently in specific areas, and understanding what is common versus concerning helps keep transactions moving.

Knowing how local appraisers evaluate homes and how inspectors approach properties in this region can prevent unnecessary delays or surprises.

Local Relationships Make a Difference

Experienced local Realtors build relationships with other professionals in the area. Lenders, inspectors, contractors, and appraisers all play a role in a successful transaction.

These relationships help streamline communication and resolve issues more efficiently when challenges arise.

In addition, when local real estate experience guides pricing and marketing decisions, sellers often feel more confident throughout the process.

Why Local Experience Protects You

Buying or selling a home involves many moving parts. Local experience helps anticipate challenges, adjust strategies, and guide decisions with confidence.

Instead of relying on general advice, local knowledge provides clear guidance tailored to your specific situation and location.

If you are preparing to buy or sell and want to work with someone who understands the local market, visit my
<a href=”YOUR_SELLER_RESOURCES_LINK_HERE”>Seller Resources page</a> for helpful tools and guides.

For broader housing information and consumer resources, you can also explore insights from the
<a href=”https://www.nar.realtor”>National Association of Realtors</a>.

Seller Resources • January 2, 2026

Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Realtor

by Jacinta Burkhardt

questions to ask before hiring a Realtor during a client consultation

Hiring a Realtor is one of the most important decisions you will make when buying or selling a home, and the questions you ask upfront can shape the entire experience.

A good Realtor welcomes questions. In fact, the right questions help you feel confident and informed before moving forward.

How Will You Price My Home or Help Me Write a Strong Offer?

Pricing is not guesswork. A Realtor should be able to clearly explain how they determine pricing using recent sales, current market conditions, and buyer behavior.

Whether you are selling or buying, understanding the strategy behind pricing helps avoid costly mistakes and missed opportunities.

How Will My Home Be Marketed or How Will You Find the Right Home for Me?

Not all agents approach marketing the same way. Some rely only on the MLS, while others use a broader strategy that includes online exposure, professional presentation, and direct outreach.

As a buyer, this question helps you understand how proactive your agent will be when identifying homes and opportunities that fit your goals.

How Often Will We Communicate?

Clear communication matters. You should know how often you will receive updates and how questions will be handled throughout the process.

A Realtor who sets expectations early helps reduce stress and confusion along the way.

What Experience Do You Have in This Local Market?

Real estate is local. Neighborhood trends, pricing patterns, and buyer behavior can vary widely even within the same county.

Working with a Realtor who understands the local market helps you make better decisions and avoid surprises.

How Do You Handle Negotiations?

Negotiation involves more than agreeing on a price. It includes timelines, inspections, repairs, credits, and contingencies.

A Realtor should be able to explain how they protect your interests and guide you through negotiations calmly and confidently.

What Happens If Issues Come Up During Inspections or Appraisals?

Most transactions face challenges at some point. Inspections and appraisals are common stages where questions or concerns arise.

Knowing how your Realtor handles these moments can make a big difference in keeping the transaction on track.

What Support Will I Have From Contract to Closing?

The process does not end once an offer is accepted. Deadlines, paperwork, and coordination continue all the way to closing day.

A Realtor should clearly explain how they support you after the contract is signed.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Hiring a Realtor is about more than credentials or experience alone. It is about finding someone who listens, communicates clearly, and provides guidance you can trust.

The answers to these questions can help you feel confident in your decision and prepared for the road ahead.

If you are thinking about buying or selling and want to learn more about what working with a trusted local Realtor looks like, visit my
<a href=”YOUR_SELLER_RESOURCES_LINK_HERE”>Seller Resources page</a> for helpful guides and tools.

You can also explore general housing trends and consumer information through the
<a href=”https://www.nar.realtor”>National Association of Realtors</a>.

Seller FAQ • Seller Resources • January 2, 2026

The Difference Between Listing a Home and Strategically Selling One

by Jacinta Burkhardt

buyer representation for home buyers in Florida

Many homeowners believe that listing a home and selling a home are the same thing. In reality, there is a big difference. Listing a home is passive. Strategically selling a home is intentional.

Understanding this difference can affect how quickly your home sells, how much it sells for, and how smooth the process feels from start to finish.

Listing a Home vs Strategically Selling a Home

Listing a home usually means placing it on the MLS, adding photos, and waiting for buyers to schedule showings. While this step is necessary, it is only the beginning.

A listing without a plan relies on luck. It assumes the right buyer will appear at the right time without much guidance or adjustment along the way.

Strategically Selling a Home Requires a Plan

Strategically selling a home involves creating a clear plan before the home ever goes live. This includes pricing strategy, preparation guidance, and a marketing approach designed to attract the right buyers early.

Homes that launch with a strategy often perform better because they are positioned correctly from day one.

Pricing Is More Than a Number

Listing price is one of the most important decisions in the process. Listing a home often focuses on what the seller hopes to get. Strategically selling focuses on what the market will support.

When pricing is backed by data, buyer behavior, and current competition, a home is more likely to generate strong interest early, which helps protect value.

Marketing Is Ongoing, Not One Time

When a home is simply listed, marketing often stops after the first week. Strategically selling a home means marketing continues throughout the listing period.

This includes monitoring online activity, adjusting messaging when needed, and making sure the home stays visible to buyers who are actively searching.

You can learn more about my approach here:
<a href=”YOUR_HOW_I_MARKET_LINK_HERE”>How I Market Your Home to Sell in Citrus County</a>.

Buyer Feedback Drives Smart Decisions

Strategic selling pays close attention to buyer feedback. Showings, comments, and activity provide valuable insight.

Instead of guessing, this feedback helps guide adjustments to pricing, presentation, or marketing so the home stays competitive.

Negotiation Goes Beyond Accepting an Offer

Listing a home focuses on getting an offer. Strategically selling a home focuses on negotiating the best overall outcome.

This includes price, terms, timelines, inspections, and contingencies. Experience and preparation help reduce surprises and keep deals together through closing.

Strategy Protects You During Inspections and Appraisals

Many deals face challenges after the contract is signed. Inspections and appraisals are common points where transactions can slow down or fall apart.

Strategic selling anticipates these moments and addresses them calmly and effectively, helping keep the process on track.

Why Strategy Makes a Difference

Not all homes sell under the same conditions. Markets change, buyer behavior shifts, and competition varies by neighborhood.

A strategic approach adapts to these factors instead of relying on a one size fits all method.

If you are preparing to sell and want to understand what a strategic selling plan looks like, visit my
<a href=”YOUR_SELLER_RESOURCES_LINK_HERE”>Seller Resources page</a> for helpful guides and tools.

For broader housing insights, you can also explore data from the
<a href=”https://www.nar.realtor”>National Association of Realtors</a>.

Local Market Updates • Uncategorized • January 1, 2026

November 2025 Housing Market Update

by Jacinta Burkhardt

November 2025 Citrus County housing market statistics showing median sale price, inventory, and sales activity

The November 2025 Citrus Marion housing market shows a clear shift toward more balanced conditions. Overall, home prices have adjusted slightly, inventory has increased, and buyer activity remains steady across both counties. As a result, both buyers and sellers are navigating a changing but active market.

If you prefer a quick overview, you can also watch the video above for a summary of this month’s market activity.

If you prefer to watch the video here it is.

Citrus County Housing Market – November 2025

In November 2025, Citrus County continued to show steady buyer demand. However, market conditions are clearly different from previous years.

Closed Sales
First, Citrus County recorded 274 closed single-family home sales, which is a 14% increase compared to last year. This tells us that well-priced homes are still selling.

Median Sale Price
At the same time, the median sale price was $274,400. That reflects a 4% decrease year over year. Because of this, buyers may have slightly more negotiating power. Sellers, however, must price carefully.

Active Inventory
Additionally, active inventory rose to 1,912 homes, an increase of 21% from last year. As inventory grows, buyers have more options and competition has eased.

New Listings and Pending Sales
Meanwhile, 369 new listings came on the market, which is 14% fewer than last year. Even so, 289 homes went under contract, a 13% increase year over year. This indicates buyers are still active and motivated.

For additional guidance, you may want to visit my Buyer Resources and Seller Resources pages.

Marion County Housing Market – November 2025

Similarly, the November 2025 Citrus Marion housing market reveals important trends in Marion County.

Closed Sales
Marion County recorded 575 closed sales, which is a 7% decrease compared to last year. While activity slowed slightly, homes are still moving.

Median Sale Price
Next, the median sale price in Marion County was $285,000, down 5% year over year. This change reflects a more normalized market after years of rapid growth.

Active Inventory
In addition, Marion County had 4,261 active listings, a 26% increase from last year. Because of this, buyers have more choices, and sellers face more competition.

New Listings and Pending Sales
Finally, 842 new listings entered the market, down 11% from last year. Even so, 683 homes went pending, which is an 8.2% increase year over year. This shows that buyer demand remains consistent.

Side-by-Side Market Snapshot

Metric	Citrus County	Marion County
Closed Sales	274	575
Median Sale Price	$274,400	$285,000
Active Inventory	1,912	4,261
New Listings	369	842
Pending Sales	289	683

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers
Overall, the November 2025 Citrus Marion housing market offers more inventory and better selection. As a result, buyers may find improved negotiating opportunities.

For Sellers
At the same time, pricing correctly is more important than ever. Homes that show well and are marketed properly continue to attract serious buyers.

If you are curious about your home’s value, you can visit my What’s My Home Worth page for a personalized estimate.

Final Thoughts on the November 2025 Market

In conclusion, the November 2025 Citrus Marion housing market update highlights a move toward balance. Inventory has increased, prices have adjusted modestly, and buyer activity remains steady in both counties.

Market data is based on reports from Florida Realtors:
https://www.floridarealtors.org

If you would like a neighborhood-specific breakdown or help deciding your next move, I am always happy to help.

Seller FAQ • Seller Resources • December 29, 2025

Why Marketing Matters More Than Ever When Selling a Home

by Jacinta Burkhardt

professional real estate photography used to market a home for sale

Many homeowners underestimate how important marketing your home for sale really is. In today’s market, simply listing a property is not enough. Strong marketing helps your home stand out, attract buyer attention, and protect both price and timing from the very beginning.

How Marketing Your Home for Sale Has Changed

Buyers start their search online. They scroll through photos, read descriptions, and compare homes long before scheduling a showing. Because of that, the way a home is presented matters more than ever.

Homes that look professional and well marketed often receive more attention early. That early interest can make a big difference in the final result.

First Impressions Happen Online

The first showing usually happens on a screen. Photos, descriptions, and online exposure shape how buyers feel before they ever walk through the door.

Professional photography and thoughtful presentation help buyers see value right away. On the other hand, poor photos or limited exposure can cause buyers to skip a home entirely.

Why Marketing Your Home for Sale Creates Demand

Marketing is not just about visibility. It is about creating demand. When more buyers are aware of a home, sellers gain leverage.

Increased demand often leads to stronger offers and better terms. It can also reduce the need for price reductions later.

The MLS Alone Is Not Enough

The MLS is an important tool, but it should not be the only one. Strong marketing goes beyond a single platform.

Online visibility, social media exposure, email outreach, and local presence all work together. When these pieces are combined, a home reaches more qualified buyers.

You can learn more about my approach here:
<a href=”YOUR_HOW_I_MARKET_LINK_HERE”>How I Market Your Home to Sell in Citrus County</a>.

Marketing Protects Your Negotiating Position

When a home attracts consistent interest, buyers know they are competing. This helps protect price and reduces pressure to accept weaker terms.

On the other hand, limited marketing can lead to fewer showings and less leverage during negotiations.

Why Marketing Matters From Day One

The first weeks on the market are critical. This is when buyer interest is highest. Strong marketing from the start helps capture that momentum.

Homes that launch with a clear plan often perform better than those that try to catch up later.

When marketing your home for sale is handled with a clear strategy, sellers are better positioned for strong offers and smoother negotiations.

Choosing an Agent With a Marketing Strategy

Not all agents market homes the same way. Some rely on basic exposure. Others take a more active role.

When marketing is treated as a strategy instead of an afterthought, sellers are better positioned for success.

If you are preparing to sell and want to understand what effective marketing looks like, visit my
<a href=”YOUR_SELLER_RESOURCES_LINK_HERE”>Seller Resources page</a> for helpful tools and guidance.

For broader housing insights, you can also explore data from the
<a href=”https://www.nar.realtor”>National Association of Realtors</a>.

Seller FAQ • Seller Resources • December 29, 2025

What a Full Service Realtor Actually Does

by Jacinta Burkhardt

full service Realtor marketing kit with professional listing materials

Many homeowners are surprised to learn what a full service Realtor actually does when selling a home. While some agents focus only on listing a property, a full service approach includes strategic pricing, preparation, marketing, negotiation, and guidance from start to finish. Understanding how a full service Realtor works helps protect your price, timeline, and peace of mind..

A full service Realtor uses a complete marketing kit to professionally showcase a home across multiple platforms.

How a Home Is Priced the Right Way

Pricing a home correctly is one of the most important steps in selling. A strong price is not a guess. It comes from recent sales, current listings, and buyer activity in your area.

When a home is priced well, it attracts attention early. As a result, sellers often receive stronger offers and avoid long days on the market.

Getting Your Home Ready to Show Well

Preparation matters. Before a home goes live, simple steps can improve how buyers see it. These steps may include decluttering, light staging, and small updates.

Homes that look clean and welcoming tend to photograph better. They also feel better during showings.

How Your Home Reaches the Right Buyers

Marketing does more than place a home on the MLS. A good plan uses professional photos, clear descriptions, online exposure, and social media.

In addition, strong marketing builds interest. This interest helps protect your price and your position during negotiations. You can learn more about my process here:
<a href=”YOUR_HOW_I_MARKET_LINK_HERE”>How I Market Your Home to Sell in Citrus County</a>.

Managing Showings and Feedback

Showings tell an important story. Feedback from buyers shows what is working and what is not. Tracking this feedback helps guide next steps.

Clear updates during this stage help sellers stay calm and confident.

Negotiation That Protects You

Negotiation involves more than price alone. It includes timelines, inspections, repairs, and credits.

Problems often appear during inspections or appraisals. Strong guidance helps keep the deal moving forward instead of falling apart.

Support Through Inspections and Closing

Once a contract is signed, the work continues. Inspections, appraisals, and lender steps all need attention.

Careful coordination keeps delays to a minimum and helps closing stay on track.

Clear Communication From Start to Finish

Selling a home feels easier when you know what is happening. Regular updates and honest answers help remove confusion.

When sellers feel informed, they make better decisions.

Why a Full Service Approach Matters

Not all agents sell homes the same way. Some focus on speed. Others focus on volume. A full service approach focuses on preparation, marketing, and guidance at every step.

If you are thinking about selling, visit my
<a href=”YOUR_SELLER_RESOURCES_LINK_HERE”>Seller Resources page</a> for helpful guides and tools.

For broader housing trends, you can also visit the
<a href=”https://www.nar.realtor”>National Association of Realtors</a>.

Buyer Guides • Citrus County Real Estate • Florida Home Buying Tips • Levy County Real Estate • Marion County Real Estate • Mortgage & Financing • Real Estate FAQ • December 28, 2025

What Is a Wind Mitigation Report and Why Buyers Need One in Citrus County?

by Jacinta Burkhardt

Inspector checking roof attachments during a wind mitigation inspection in Citrus County Florida

Understanding a Wind Mitigation Report

A wind mitigation report in Citrus County shows how well a home can handle strong winds. Florida insurance companies rely on this report to see if the home has features that reduce storm damage. When a home has these protections, it may qualify for insurance discounts. As a result, many buyers choose to get this inspection before closing. With clear information about the roof and structure, you can feel more confident in your purchase.

For more buyer questions and home buying guides in Citrus County, visit my <a href=”https://cindyburkhardt.com/buying-and-selling-tips”>Buyer Resources page</a>.

What a Wind Mitigation Report Includes

A wind mitigation report in Citrus County reviews several key features that improve a home’s protection. These include:

Roof shape and materials
Certain roof shapes perform better in high winds. Materials and installation methods also affect durability.

Roof to wall connections
Inspectors check how securely the roof is attached to the walls. Stronger connections help prevent wind uplift.

Roof decking and nails
The size and spacing of nails are evaluated, since they play a major role in keeping the roof intact during storms.

Opening protection
Windows, doors, and garage doors are checked for shutters, impact glass, or reinforced hardware.

Additional structural features
The inspector may note secondary protection systems and other upgrades that help the home resist wind damage.

When these features meet current safety standards, homeowners often qualify for insurance discounts.

http://Many buyers also ask what documents they need to get pre-approved before scheduling inspections and finalizing insurance quotes.

Why Buyers Should Consider a Wind Mitigation Report

Getting a wind mitigation report in Citrus County can help buyers save money and avoid surprises. Many insurance companies offer discounts when a home has wind-resistant features. In addition, the report gives you a better understanding of the roof’s condition and any needed upgrades. Even if a discount isn’t available, the inspection still provides helpful information about potential future repairs. Because of that, many buyers use this report to plan ahead and protect their investment.

If you’d like more information about insurance requirements and inspections, the
<a href=”https://www.consumerfinance.gov/”>Consumer Financial Protection Bureau</a> offers helpful homebuyer tools.

Seller FAQ • Seller Resources • December 24, 2025

How I Market Your Home to Sell in Citrus County

by Jacinta Burkhardt

how I market your home to sell with a complete real estate marketing plan

Many homeowners want to know how I market your home once it is listed. This is an important question because marketing directly impacts how many buyers see your home and how strong the offers are. When you list with me, my goal is to market your home strategically so it attracts qualified buyers and sells with confidence.

In Citrus County, successful marketing is more than placing a listing online. Instead, it requires a clear plan, strong presentation, and local knowledge.

Looking for answers to other seller questions? Visit my Seller FAQ resource for Citrus County homeowners.

A strategic home marketing plan helps attract qualified buyers and sell homes confidently in Citrus County.

How I Market Your Home With Strategic Pricing

The first step in my home marketing strategy is pricing your home correctly from the start. Pricing sets the tone for buyer interest. If a home is priced too high, it may sit on the market. If it is priced too low, sellers may leave money on the table.

Therefore, I begin with a detailed review of recent sales, active listings, and current buyer demand. As a result, your home is positioned to attract attention quickly and compete effectively.

How I Market Your Home With Professional Photography

First impressions matter. Most buyers see your home online before they ever schedule a showing. Because of this, professional photography is a key part of the way I market homes.

In addition, I help guide presentation so your home shows well in photos and in person. Clean, well presented homes often receive more showings and stronger interest from buyers.

How I Market Your Home Online to Reach Buyers

Today’s buyers search online. For that reason, my marketing plan for your home includes strong online exposure across major real estate websites and platforms buyers use every day.

In addition, I market homes to buyers relocating to Citrus County. This helps reach people who may not yet live locally but are actively searching for a home in this area.

How I Market Your Home With Local Expertise

Every neighborhood in Citrus County is different. What attracts buyers in Inverness may not be the same as what works in Crystal River, Homosassa, or Dunnellon.

Because I understand local buyer behavior, my home marketing strategy includes targeted messaging that highlights what matters most in your specific location. This creates stronger interest and emotional connection.

Ongoing Communication and Marketing Adjustments

Marketing does not stop once your home is live. I actively monitor showings, feedback, and market activity. When needed, I adjust strategy to keep your home competitive.

This ongoing communication helps ensure your home stays visible and appealing throughout the selling process.

How Marketing Supports Strong Negotiation

Marketing brings buyers through the door. However, strong negotiation helps protect your bottom line. Once offers are received, I guide you through each option and negotiate on your behalf.

From inspections to appraisal, I help manage each step so the transaction stays on track.

According to the
<a href=”https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/quick-real-estate-statistics” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>National Association of Realtors</a>, homes that are professionally marketed and represented often achieve stronger results.

Why a Complete Marketing Plan Matters

Marketing is a process, not a single step. It starts before your home is listed and continues through closing.

By combining pricing strategy, professional presentation, online exposure, and local expertise, I market your home to attract the right buyers and support a successful sale.

For more seller tools and resources, visit my
<a href=”https://cindyburkhardt.com/seller-resources/”>Seller Resources page</a>
for helpful guidance as you prepare to sell.

Understanding how I market your home gives you clarity and confidence. With the right plan in place, selling your home becomes a smoother and more rewarding experience.

• Best time to sell a home in Citrus County
• Why hire a Realtor instead of selling by owner
• Capital gains tax when selling a home

Seller FAQ • Seller Resources • December 24, 2025

Why Hire a Realtor Instead of Selling By Owner in Citrus County?

by Jacinta Burkhardt

Many homeowners think about selling by owner to save money. At first, it sounds simple. However, selling a home involves more than placing a sign in the yard. Understanding why many sellers choose to hire a Realtor instead of selling by owner helps you make a confident decision.

In Citrus County, selling a home includes pricing, marketing, negotiation, and legal steps. Because of this, many sellers decide professional guidance is worth it.

Looking for answers to other seller questions? Visit my Seller FAQ resource for Citrus County homeowners.

Working with a Realtor helps sellers navigate pricing, marketing, and negotiations with confidence.

Pricing Your Home Correctly From the Start

Pricing is one of the most important steps. If a home is priced too high, it may sit on the market. On the other hand, pricing too low can leave money behind.

A Realtor studies recent sales and current listings. Therefore, pricing is based on real data, not guesswork. As a result, homes attract more serious buyers.

Exposure and Marketing Make a Difference

Selling by owner often limits exposure. Most buyers work with agents and search on large real estate websites.

A Realtor markets your home professionally. For example, this includes photos, online listings, and agent networks. In addition, strong marketing creates competition among buyers.

Negotiation Is Often Emotional

Negotiating directly with buyers can be stressful. Emotions can quickly get involved, especially during repair or price discussions.

A Realtor handles negotiations calmly. Therefore, sellers avoid uncomfortable conversations and costly mistakes. This keeps the deal moving forward.

Managing Inspections and Appraisals

Once a home is under contract, inspections and appraisals follow. This stage causes many deals to fall apart.

A Realtor helps sellers understand requests. In addition, they help decide what is reasonable. Because of this, sellers avoid unnecessary concessions.

Legal and Contract Risks Matter

Real estate contracts are legally binding. Missing deadlines or disclosures can cause serious problems.

A Realtor manages paperwork and timelines. As a result, sellers reduce legal risk and stress.

According to the
<a href=”https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/quick-real-estate-statistics” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>National Association of Realtors</a>, homes sold with professional representation often sell for more than those sold by owner.

When Selling By Owner Becomes Challenging

Selling by owner may work in limited situations. However, many sellers struggle with pricing, showings, or buyer negotiations.

As a result, many FSBO sellers eventually hire a Realtor after time and money are lost.

How a Local Realtor Adds Value

A local Realtor understands Citrus County markets. For example, what works in Inverness may differ from Crystal River, Homosassa, or Dunnellon.

By hiring a Realtor, sellers gain guidance, protection, and peace of mind.

For more seller guidance, visit my
<a href=”https://cindyburkhardt.com/seller-resources/”>Seller Resources page</a>
for helpful tools and information.

Choosing to hire a Realtor instead of selling by owner gives sellers support from start to finish. Therefore, many homeowners find the process smoother and more profitable.

• Best time to sell a home in Citrus County
• How inspections work for sellers
• How I market your home to sell in Citrus County

Seller FAQ • Seller Resources • Uncategorized • December 24, 2025

Do I Have to Pay Capital Gains Tax When Selling My Home in Florida?

by Jacinta Burkhardt

Many homeowners worry about capital gains tax when selling a home, especially if their property has increased in value over time. Understanding how capital gains tax works can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises at closing. If you are selling a home in Florida, knowing the basics puts you in a stronger position.

Capital gains tax applies to the profit made from selling a property. However, not every seller will owe this tax. Several exemptions and rules may reduce or eliminate it entirely.

Looking for answers to other seller questions? Visit my Seller FAQ resource for Citrus County homeowners.

Understanding capital gains tax helps homeowners plan confidently when selling a home.

What Is Capital Gains Tax?

Capital gains tax is a tax on the profit you make when selling an asset, including real estate. The gain is generally the difference between what you paid for the home and what you sell it for, minus certain allowable expenses.

The amount of tax owed depends on how long you owned the home and whether it qualifies as a primary residence.

Do Florida Home Sellers Pay State Capital Gains Tax?

Florida does not have a state income tax. As a result, Florida homeowners do not pay state capital gains tax when selling a home.

However, federal capital gains tax rules may still apply. This is where many sellers have questions.

Capital Gains Tax Exclusion for Primary Residences

If the home you are selling was your primary residence, you may qualify for a capital gains tax exclusion. In many cases, single homeowners can exclude up to $250,000 in profit. Married couples filing jointly may exclude up to $500,000.

To qualify, you generally must have owned and lived in the home for at least two of the last five years. These rules help many sellers avoid paying capital gains tax altogether.

When Capital Gains Tax May Apply

Capital gains tax may apply if the home was not your primary residence. This includes rental properties, second homes, or investment properties. It may also apply if your profit exceeds the exclusion limits.

Additionally, sellers who recently converted a rental into a primary residence may still face partial tax obligations.

How Selling Expenses Can Reduce Capital Gains

Certain selling expenses may reduce your taxable gain. These can include real estate commissions, closing costs, and documented improvements made to the home.

Keeping good records can be helpful when calculating your final numbers.

Why Talking to a Tax Professional Matters

Tax rules can be complex and change over time. While a Realtor can explain how the selling process works, a licensed tax professional or CPA should always be consulted for tax advice.

According to the
<a href=”https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc701″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Internal Revenue Service</a>, homeowners should review eligibility requirements carefully before assuming an exclusion applies.

How a Local Realtor Helps You Plan Ahead

A local Realtor helps you understand how timing, pricing, and selling strategy affect your overall outcome. While tax advice should come from a professional, a Realtor can help you plan your sale in a way that supports your financial goals.

For more seller guidance and planning tools, visit my
<a href=”https://cindyburkhardt.com/seller-resources/”>Seller Resources page</a>
for helpful information as you prepare to sell.

Understanding capital gains tax when selling a home helps you move forward with clarity. With the right planning and guidance, many Florida sellers can sell confidently and keep more of their equity.

• Best time to sell a home in Citrus County
• Why hire a Realtor instead of selling by owner
• How I market your home to sell in Citrus County

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