Your Florida Homeowner's Closing Success Kit
Congratulations on your successful closing! The keys are yours, but there are a few critical steps left to protect your investment and save money on taxes.
Step 1: Register for Free Property Fraud Alerts
Deed theft and title fraud are rising in South Florida. Scammers can forge documents to transfer ownership of your property or take out loans against it. County services can send an email or text if a document is recorded under your name.
Step 2: Apply for Florida Homestead Exemption
If your new property is your primary residence, filing for Homestead Exemption can reduce taxable value and help cap future tax increases through Save Our Homes.
Important deadline: Applications should be submitted by March 1st of the tax year.
Step 3: Store Your Important Closing Documents
Keep physical copies in a fireproof safe and secure digital backups in encrypted cloud storage.
Closing Disclosure (CD) / ALTA Settlement Statement — Details all financial transactions and fees. Needed for tax purposes.
Owner's Title Insurance Policy — Protects your ownership rights (typically issued after recording).
Recorded Warranty Deed — The legal document proving ownership.
Property Survey — Shows boundaries and is useful for fence/pool planning.
Promissory Note & Mortgage — Keep if the purchase was financed.
Step 4: Utilities and Official Address Updates
Don't miss important notices or tax bills. Transfer services and update your address right away.
Utilities (South Florida)
- Electric: FPL (Florida Power & Light)
- Water/Sewer: Your city or county utility department
- Internet/Cable: Xfinity, AT&T, or local fiber providers
Address Updates
- USPS Official Change of Address
- Update your address with the DMV for your driver's license
- Notify your bank, credit cards, and employer
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Common Post-Closing Questions in Florida
When will I receive my original recorded deed?
The original deed is sent to the county recorder immediately after closing. Once recorded, the county mails the original document back. This typically takes 4 to 6 weeks in Florida.
When do I get my Owner's Title Insurance Policy?
Your final Owner's Title Insurance Policy is issued after the deed and mortgage are fully recorded with the county. You can expect to receive your policy by mail or secure email within 6 to 8 weeks after closing.
What happens if I miss the March 1st Homestead Exemption deadline?
If you miss March 1st, you will not receive homestead benefits for the current tax year. You can still file for the following year. Some counties permit late filing in limited cases, but filing before March 1st is strongly recommended.
Do I need to pay a company to get a copy of my deed?
No. You may receive misleading mailers offering deed copies for high fees. You can request a certified copy directly from your county clerk for a small fee, and view most records online for free.
Planning Your Next Move?
Whether you are considering a refinance, buying an investment property, or transferring ownership to a family member or trust, our title experts are here to help.
Contact Location TitleGet in Touch
Looking for title services or a quote for your property? We serve Miami Lakes, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Orlando, Tampa, Naples, Doral, the Florida Keys, and all of Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Orange, Monroe, and Collier Counties. We also offer Commercial Title Services and RON across Florida. Reach out to us today with any questions!
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Contact Information
We are here to assist you with all your title and escrow needs. Reach out to us through any of the following methods.
Location Title & Escrow LLC Headquarters
15450 New Barn Rd #214
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
Business Hours
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Weekend Closings: By Appointment