5 Surprises You’ll Discover When Moving to Parrish, Florida

Parrish, Florida, is a booming area that’s quickly gaining attention. If you’re searching for an affordable new construction home in Florida, chances are Parrish has already popped up on your radar.

Our family made the big move from the Florida Keys to Parrish for better medical access and schools for our kids. While the transition was a big one, we’re happy with our decision. That said, there are a few things I wish I had known before settling here.

Even after experiencing these things firsthand, we’d still choose Parrish, Florida. None of them are deal-breakers—just little surprises I hadn’t considered. Here’s my list of the five things I wish I knew before making the move to Parrish:

Rain
Rain in Parrish, Florida, is next level. When I say it rains hard, I mean buckets. From May through October, we’re in full-on rainy season mode. Picture this: it’s around 3:30 or 4:00 p.m., the sky darkens, and then—bam!—a torrential downpour hits like someone flipped a switch.

Every day, we cross our fingers, hoping to avoid getting drenched during the school bus drop-offs. Driving in this kind of rain? Let’s just say it’s not for the faint of heart. The rain comes down so fast it floods the streets, making it nearly impossible to see anything in front of you. It’s like driving in a car wash, but way less fun.

If you’re moving to Parrish during rainy season, plan to get everything done by 3 p.m. because after that, you’re probably going to get soaked. The good news? The rain doesn’t last all night and usually wraps up around 7:30 or 8:00 p.m. The bad news? Everything outside is soggy, so evening plans might need to wait.

Bugs in Parrish, Florida

Let me just say—I was not prepared for the sheer number of bugs in Parrish, Florida. I’ve never seen dragonflies so big or grasshoppers that could practically cover the palm of your hand. Big bugs, little bugs, crawling bugs, flying bugs—Parrish has them all.

If you’re buying a new construction home, brace yourself for even more bugs. I think it’s because the ground is being stirred up so much during construction. Thankfully, the bug population seems to have gone down a bit now that construction has moved farther away and more homeowners have moved in. I think everyone is spraying their yards, and it’s helping!

Now, let’s talk about love bugs. Did anyone warn you about these? Because no one warned us! And guess what—it was love bug season when we first moved in. If you’re unfamiliar, love bugs are these little black insects with wings, and when they’re in season, they’re everywhere.

Love bug season in Parrish, Florida, happens twice a year:

• Spring (April to May)
• Fall (September to October)

During these times, they’ll swarm around your house, your car, and just about everywhere else. Opening your front door becomes a race to get inside before they follow you. And don’t even get me started on your car—they’ll splatter all over it. Be sure to clean them off quickly because if left too long, they can damage your paint job. Gross, right? But hey, it’s all part of the Florida experience!

The Drinking Water

Oh, the drinking water in Parrish. When you first move into your home, you’ll be greeted by plenty of solicitors—especially the water treatment guys. And honestly, they have a point, because the water here? It’s pretty terrible.

For us, the biggest issue was the sulfur smell. It was awful. You’d wash your hands, and the rotten egg smell would stick to you. It was hard to ignore. We talked to a few water sales reps, but they all quoted us anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for a whole-house water system.

So, we tried to be “smart” about it and went the cheap route, buying a water system online. Well, $1,000 later, we realized that wasn’t exactly working as planned. After some more research (and frustration), we ended up splurging on a fancier water system. It cost a lot more, but hey—our water doesn’t stink like eggs anymore, so no complaints here!

The moral of the story? Don’t try to cheap out like we did. Trust me, your nose will thank you!

It’s Hot in Parrish!

I’ve lived in Florida for 20 years—mostly in the Florida Keys and a few years in Delray Beach. I was always close to the water, just a few miles away. But Parrish, Florida? This is the first place I’ve lived this far inland, and let me tell you—it’s a whole new level of hot.

Sure, it’s hot in those other parts of Florida, but Parrish? It’s hot hot. Like, fry-an-egg-on-the-pavement hot. I think it’s because we don’t have that ocean breeze to cool us down. I honestly wasn’t expecting it to be this intense, but here we are.

Luckily, it’s only a few months out of the year, but by the end of September, you’ll feel like you’re losing it, counting down the days until cooler weather arrives. It’s that sticky, sweat-the-second-you-step-outside kind of heat that tests your patience.

But here’s the funny thing—when the cooler months finally come, you totally forget how miserable the summer was. You’re just out there enjoying life, sipping your iced coffee in 70-degree weather, as if you didn’t just survive a sauna for three months straight. Florida life, right?

Traffic in Parrish, Florida

Okay, I know I heard the traffic could be bad, but folks, once you’re living it, you’ll realize those people weren’t lying. Parrish, as you know, is a developing area, and what does that really mean? Construction. Everywhere. New roads being added, bridges being built, and some not-so-great right-of-ways. All this construction makes getting around a challenge.

And if that wasn’t enough, with the area growing so quickly, more people are moving in, which only adds to the congestion. Highway 75 around Parrish? It’s no joke. If you need to be somewhere during rush hour, plan to leave early—trust me on this one.

Oh, and let’s not forget the Florida drivers. There are definitely a few wild ones out there, so be on alert and stay sharp when driving in the area.

Conclusion

So, those are my 5 things I wish I knew before moving to Parrish, Florida. Do I still love where I live? Absolutely! Sure, these quirks can drive you a little nuts sometimes, but Parrish is still an amazing place to call home and the best value. We’re so happy with our decision to move to this fantastic area. Every place has its little surprises, and Parrish is no different—but the charm, community, and opportunities here more than make up for it.

If you’re moving to Parrish, Florida, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is whether your property is in a flood zone. Be sure to check out our post Is Parrish, Florida in a Flood Zone? to understand flood risks in this area.

Meet the Team

Amy Prumo

Amy Prumo is an Elite agent with extensive experience and deep local expertise, known for delivering outstanding results in the Parrish real estate market. Amy’s attention to detail, strong communication skills, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made her one of the most sought-after agents in the business. 

Thomas Carden

Thomas Carden brings a wealth of knowledge from his background in building, planning, zoning, and development. With over 20 certifications from the International Code Council, including Planner Review and Certified Building Official, he is a recognized expert in his field and an expert legal witness in construction. 

Best Neighborhood to consider in Parrish, Florida?

So, Parrish, Florida keeps popping up on your radar, and you’re wondering: what’s the best neighborhood in Parrish? The truth is, the answer will be different for everyone. Each person has unique preferences when it comes to what they like (or don’t like) about a community. It really depends on the individual.

I know that might not be the straightforward answer you were hoping for, but let’s see if we can help narrow it down a little.

Fees

Ask yourself, how do you feel about paying HOA or CDD fees? In Parrish, some neighborhoods have both, some have one, and some have neither. If you’d prefer a smaller HOA fee and no CDD fees, you can target those communities. Not sure where to begin? No worries! We’ve already done the research. Check out our new construction and established neighborhoods pages for more details about fees by neighborhood in Parrish.

New or Established Neighborhoods

There are plenty of new and established neighborhoods in Parrish. New homes are attractive, of course, because they’re brand new, but they can also come with some extra work. Many new homes won’t include a refrigerator, washer, or dryer. Some don’t come with cabinet pulls, and others may lack shelving in closets. Don’t forget about landscaping — new neighborhoods often don’t have mature trees yet. All these things add up quickly and can get expensive.

On the other hand, homes in established neighborhoods may have a bit more wear and tear. However, they often come with essentials like a washer, dryer, refrigerator, blinds, fences, and mature landscaping that’s lush and fully grown. So, keep these factors in mind when deciding what the best neighborhood in Parrish is for you.

Amenities

Do you want amenities? Some neighborhoods in Parrish offer just a few, while others feel like living at a resort with tons of options. Amenities are great to have, but are you really going to use them? Sometimes people buy in a community with lots of amenities, only to realize later that they’d rather have their own private pool and more privacy. So, before buying into a neighborhood with lots of amenities, take a moment to think about whether you’ll actually use them or not.

Popular Neighborhoods in Parrish

While I can’t tell you for sure which neighborhood in Parrish is the best— that’s up to you — I can point out some of the larger and more popular neighborhoods in the area.

North River Ranch

You can’t explore Parrish without coming across North River Ranch. It’s a huge, master-planned community with several different builders offering a variety of homes. The community has a wide range of amenities and multiple neighborhoods to choose from. For more details, check out our page on North River Ranch!

Canoe Creek

Canoe Creek is a fantastic neighborhood in Parrish, built by Neal Communities. It has a lot to offer its homeowners. One of the best things about Canoe Creek is that there are no HOA fees. So, if you’re looking for a community without HOA fees, this could be a great option. Check out our Canoe Creek page for more information!

Bella Lago

Bella Lago is a fabulous community located right next to North River Ranch. It’s close to schools, grocery stores, and the up-and-coming downtown area. Built by DR Horton, Bella Lago offers great convenience. Take a look at our Bella Lago page for more information about this community.

Location

Highway 75

Location plays a huge role in where individuals choose to live. Some neighborhoods in Parrish are close to Highway 75, making it easy to access the highway, while others are a bit farther away. If you’re going to be traveling and need quick access to 75, you’ll want to consider choosing a house nearby. Some neighborhoods in Parrish close to Highway 75 include Isle of Bayview, Summerwoods, and Sawgrass Lakes.

Lakewood Ranch

Others might prefer being close to Lakewood Ranch. Currently, Parrish is still being developed, so there aren’t many stores and restaurants in place yet. If you want access to these amenities, being near Lakewood Ranch could be ideal for you. Some neighborhoods close to Lakewood Ranch include Rye Crossing or Avairy at Rutland Ranch

Our Conclusion to the Best Neighborhood in Parrish

I know I wasn’t able to give you a definitive answer to what the best neighborhood in Parrish is, but I hope we provided some insights on what to consider when choosing the right community for you and your family. As always, Keys to the Coast Real Estate is here to guide you through the process.

What is happening with real estate commissions in Parrish, Florida?

As of August 17, 2024, a new rule has come into play in the real estate world. Sellers are no longer automatically required to pay the commission for the buyer’s agent in a real estate transaction.

Buyers now need formal agreements with their agents that outline the maximum compensation the agent can receive and specify who will cover the cost. These agreements must be signed and in writing before viewing any property—whether in person or virtually.

The new agreements are a positive change. They provide clarity for buyers by outlining the exact costs upfront, ensuring there are no hidden fees. Buyers can feel more confident knowing what they will owe and who is responsible for covering it. Additionally, buyers remain in control throughout the entire process. Remember, commissions are never set in stone and can always be negotiated.

The agreement can be tailored to a specific property, area, or time period. It can also be exclusive, meaning the buyer agrees to work solely with this broker during the specified timeframe, or non-exclusive, which allows buyers the freedom to work with other agents while ensuring that the broker who assists with the purchase still receives the commission.

Buyers Have Four Options for Compensating Their Buyer Broker:

1. Limit Property Showings:

Buyers can instruct their broker to only show properties where the seller offers compensation to the buyer’s broker. This means any listings where the seller isn’t covering the broker’s commission won’t be shown. While this may be appealing to buyers not used to paying agent fees, it could limit their home options and result in fewer offers for sellers.

2. Pay the Broker Directly

Buyers can choose to pay their broker directly for any home they purchase, regardless of the seller’s compensation. While this lowers the seller’s closing costs, it’s likely to be the least popular option. Buyers who select this route often factor the broker’s fee into their offer and negotiations.

3. Include Compensation in the Contract

Buyers can request their broker to include a clause in the sales contract that requires the seller to cover the broker’s commission if it’s not already offered. This option maintains the traditional setup where sellers pay the buyer’s broker.

4. Split the Compensation

Buyers and sellers can split the broker’s fee. Buyers agree to cover the difference between the maximum compensation stated in the buyer-broker agreement and the amount the seller is offering. This ensures the broker is fully compensated while sharing the cost.

Current Trend in Real Estate Commissions

The majority of buyers are still opting for sellers to cover the buyer broker commission, and what we’ve seen in the market is that most sellers are agreeing to this arrangement. Even with the recent changes in commission rules, about 99% of sellers continue to offer compensation to buyer brokers.

This is also true with new construction developments in Parrish, Florida. Most developers are still offering buyer broker commissions as part of their incentive packages to attract buyers and their agents. For buyers, this means they can still benefit from having professional representation without having to pay the broker directly out of pocket.

In fact, working with a buyer broker during the purchase of new construction can be especially valuable because the broker can help navigate contracts, negotiate upgrades, and ensure that the buyer is fully informed about warranties, inspections, and potential closing costs.

Developers understand the value of buyer brokers in facilitating a smooth transaction, which is why many continue to offer commissions as a standard practice.

While it’s no longer mandatory for sellers to pay the buyer broker commission, the market trends show that offering compensation typically leads to more showings and competitive offers, benefiting both parties.

Conclusion

Understanding buyer broker agreements and commissions is key to navigating the real estate market in Parrish, Florida.

At Keys to the Coast Real Estate, we strive to empower our clients with the knowledge they need. We want you to feel confident and informed every step of the way. Our goal is to provide you with a seamless experience as you search for your perfect home.

Don’t forget to check out our buyers page, where we go over all the top buyer concerns for homes in Parrish, FL!

Meet the Team

Amy Prumo

Amy Prumo is an Elite agent with extensive experience and deep local expertise, known for delivering outstanding results in the Parrish real estate market. Amy’s attention to detail, strong communication skills, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made her one of the most sought-after agents in the business. 

Thomas Carden

Thomas Carden brings a wealth of knowledge from his background in building, planning, zoning, and development. With over 20 certifications from the International Code Council, including Planner Review and Certified Building Official, he is a recognized expert in his field and an expert legal witness in construction. 

A Buyer’s Guide to New Home Construction Contracts in Parrish, FL

So, you’re thinking about buying a new construction home in one of Parrish, FL’s many exciting developments. If you haven’t done so already, be sure to check out our new construction page, where we take a deep dive into all the exciting projects available in the area. 

Buying a new construction home is quite different from purchasing a resale property, so it’s crucial to understand what you’re getting into. In this blog post, we’ll break down the essential sections of the builder’s contract you need to know when looking at houses for sale in Parrish, FL.

Builder Contract Vs. As-Is Contract for Houses for Sale in Parrish, FL

With new construction homes in Parrish, FL, be prepared to put down a larger deposit than you would for resale properties. The builder will want you to have “skin in the game” since you won’t close and pay for the home until it’s fully completed. If you’re considering new houses for sale in Parrish, FL, make sure your budget accounts for this larger upfront cost.

(We also have a post on the As-Is Contract if you’re looking for more information on that.)

No Inspection Period (Due Diligence Period)
When you enter into a contract with a builder, there’s no inspection period. This means there’s no escape clause to back out of the agreement. Once you sign, you’re committed, and if you decide to cancel, you risk losing your deposit.

In contrast, the Florida “As-Is” contract usually includes a 15-day inspection period. During this time, you have the option to back out and receive your deposit back if things don’t pan out.

Bigger Deposit Amounts for Parrish, FL New Construction Homes
When you sign a contract with a builder, be prepared to put down a bigger deposit than you would with an As-Is contract. Since you won’t close and pay for the home until it’s fully completed, the builder wants you to have some skin in the game. This ensures that you’re committed to the process and the home, giving them confidence to move forward with the build.

Buyer Pays the Document Stamps
In Florida, document stamps are taxes imposed on specific documents recorded in the public records, like deeds and mortgage documents. The amount you pay varies based on the sales price of the property. This can add up quickly, especially with new construction homes in Parrish, FL.

Unlike resale transactions, where it’s common for sellers to cover many closing costs, buyers usually bear the responsibility for document stamps in new construction deals. This means that as you prepare to close on your brand-new home, it’s crucial to budget for this additional expense.

Closing Date

In new construction contracts in Parrish, FL, the closing date is usually determined by the builder and their timeline. In contrast, resale properties in the area typically have a more defined closing date that both parties agree on, often within 30 to 60 days of signing the purchase agreement.

The Fine Print in Parrish, FL Builder Contracts

Builder contracts in Parrish, Florida, are way more detailed than your average real estate purchase agreement. These contracts cover a ton of important details! They lay out all the options for your new home, from floor plans to finishes. You’ll find clear timelines for making changes, so you know when to make those big decisions. Plus, they specify the expected timeframe for building your home, so you can get a better idea of when you’ll be moving in.

These contracts also outline how you’ll communicate with the builder, including scheduled meetings and site visits. You’ll definitely want to check in regularly to see how your home is coming along! The plans and drawings will show you what your home will look like, while the materials section breaks down what’s being used in construction.

And don’t forget about warranties! Builder contracts usually include details about warranties, so you’re covered if any issues pop up after closing. With all these moving parts, it’s clear that builder contracts are designed to protect both you and the builder. So, it’s super important to read them carefully and understand every detail before you sign on the dotted line.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to buying new construction homes in Parrish, FL, being informed and proactive is key. Builder contracts are full of important details, so it’s essential to understand what you’re signing. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and stay involved throughout the building process.

If you need guidance or have any questions, We are here to help at Keys to the Coast Real Estate.  We can assist you in navigating the new home construction process in Parrish, FL, ensuring a smooth and confident home buying experience.

Don’t forget to check out our buyers page, where we go over all the top buyer concerns for homes in Parrish, FL!

Florida’s As-Is Contract: A Guide for Buyers of Houses for Sale in Parrish, FL

Buying a home in Parrish, FL, can be exciting, especially with so many houses for sale in Parrish, FL. However, it’s important to understand the As-Is Contract. Knowing the details will help you make smart decisions and protect yourself.

In this post, we’ll cover the key points every homebuyer in Parrish, FL should know.

Note: The As-Is Contract is typically not used for brand-new construction when purchasing through a builder. Instead, when you buy a home from a builder, you must use their specific contract. For more information on new construction contracts, check out our post on builder contracts.

Buyer-Friendly

First off, it’s important to know that the Florida As-Is Contract is considered very buyer-friendly compared to other states. It’s designed with built-in protections that give buyers outs if unexpected issues come up during the process.

Deposits for houses for sale in Parrish, FL

In the Parrish real estate market, it’s common for buyers not to provide a deposit right away. Instead, agents and buyers usually negotiate and finalize the contract first. This way, both sides can agree on the key terms before any money is involved.

Once the seller accepts the buyer’s offer, the buyer typically has around 3 days to submit the deposit, also called the earnest money deposit. This shows the buyer’s good faith and commitment to moving forward with the purchase.

If the buyer doesn’t submit the deposit on time, the seller can cancel the contract, leaving the buyer without a claim on the property. Once the deposit is submitted, it’s usually held in an escrow account until closing. If the sale is completed, the deposit goes toward the purchase price. However, if the buyer backs out during the inspection period for a valid reason, they may get their deposit refunded, depending on the contract terms.

Inspection Period

In Parrish, the Inspection Period is a key part of buying a home. It usually lasts 15 days from the date the contract is signed, giving the buyer time to check out the property. During this time, buyers can hire a home inspector to assess the home’s condition and look for any issues that may not have been obvious during the initial walkthrough. If the inspection finds serious problems, the buyer has options. They can ask the seller to make repairs, request a price reduction, or—if the issues are too big—walk away from the deal and get their deposit back.

The Inspection Period is also a good time to research insurance costs, which can help determine if the home is affordable in the long run. It’s important for buyers to use this period wisely. Get all the necessary information and make sure the property is in good shape. This time is limited, so it’s best to act quickly and gather all the details needed to make a smart decision.

Financing Contingency on Houses for Sale in Parrish, FL

In a typical Florida’s As-Is Contract, if you’re getting a loan to buy a property in Parrish, FL, a financing contingency is usually included. This contingency gives you about 30 days from the contract date to secure loan approval from your lender.

During this time, you’ll work with your chosen lender to complete the loan application and submit all necessary documents. The lender will review your financial information, credit history, and other details to see if you qualify for the loan.

You’ll also need to get the property appraised within this timeframe. The lender typically orders this appraisal to determine the home’s fair market value. It’s a crucial step to ensure the home’s value matches the purchase price. If the appraisal comes back lower than expected, it could affect your financing. You might need to renegotiate with the seller or bring extra cash to cover the difference.

Having a financing contingency in your Florida’s As-Is Contract is important for your protection as a homebuyer in Parrish, FL. If you can’t secure loan approval within the specified time, you can back out of the contract without losing your earnest money deposit. This gives you peace of mind and an option if you face challenges with financing or if the appraisal isn’t in line with your purchase price.

As you explore houses for sale in Parrish, FL, understanding these financing details will help you make informed decisions and enhance your home buying experience.

Effective Date

In a real estate transaction in Parrish, FL, the effective date of the contract is when all parties have signed and the contract is delivered to everyone involved. At this moment, the contract becomes legally binding, and the timeline for various important dates begins.

For instance, as we discussed earlier, both the Inspection Period and the Financing Contingency Period start counting down from the effective date. Other key deadlines, such as the closing date, the deadline for completing repairs (if any), and other negotiated terms, will also be based on this date.

Since the effective date marks the start of everyone’s obligations under the contract, it’s crucial for all parties in Parrish to keep track of this date and the deadlines that follow. Understanding these timelines will help ensure a smooth and successful transaction in the vibrant Parrish real estate market.

Closing Date

The closing date is a key part of any real estate transaction. It’s when the sale officially closes and ownership of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. It’s important for both sides to agree on a realistic closing date during negotiations.

In the Parrish real estate market, agents often include phrases like “on or before” a certain date in the contract. This allows for some flexibility, so the closing can happen earlier if everyone is ready. As a buyer, make sure to give yourself enough time to avoid feeling rushed or stressed during the closing process.

Think about your situation and any upcoming commitments before settling on a closing date. If you think you’ll need more time for things like securing financing, moving, or personal matters, bring this up early in the negotiations. Asking for a closing date that allows for enough time can help reduce pressure and avoid complications later.

Keep in mind that unforeseen delays can happen during the closing process, such as last-minute documentation issues or title concerns. Having a bit of buffer time is helpful for both buyers and sellers. This extra time ensures all necessary steps—like inspections, appraisals, and loan approvals—can be completed thoroughly and without unnecessary stress.

Keys to the Coast in Parrish, FL

In conclusion, navigating the real estate process in Parrish, FL, involves understanding key elements like the effective date, inspection period, financing contingency, and closing date. Each of these aspects plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth transaction for both buyers and sellers. By staying informed and proactive, you can make confident decisions that lead to a successful home purchase.

At Keys to the Coast Real Estate, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Don’t forget to check out our buyers page, where we go over all the top buyer concerns for homes in Parrish, FL!

Meet the Team

Amy Prumo

Amy Prumo is an Elite agent with extensive experience and deep local expertise, known for delivering outstanding results in the Parrish real estate market. Amy’s attention to detail, strong communication skills, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made her one of the most sought-after agents in the business. 

Thomas Carden

Thomas Carden brings a wealth of knowledge from his background in building, planning, zoning, and development. With over 20 certifications from the International Code Council, including Planner Review and Certified Building Official, he is a recognized expert in his field and an expert legal witness in construction.