The First-Time Buyer's Guide to Marion County FL Real Estate: Why 2026 is the Year to Stop Waiting

If you've been sitting on the sidelines of the Marion County FL real estate market for the last couple of years, I completely get it. Between the roller-coaster interest rates of 2024 and the inventory shortages of 2025, the "perfect time" to buy felt like a moving target. But here we are in May 2026, and I'm telling my clients the same thing: the wait is officially over.

I'm Laurie Glover, a Realtor here at Watson Realty Corp, and I've spent my career helping people navigate the beautiful landscapes of Marion, Citrus, Sumter, and Levy counties. I've seen the market at its craziest and its quietest. Right now, we are in a "sweet spot" that I haven't seen in years. If bec...

Click Here to Read More...

10 Essential Questions to Ask Before Buying a Florida Home (Insurance, Roofs, and More)

Buying a home in Florida is a dream for many, especially in the beautiful stretches of Marion, Citrus, Sumter, and Levy counties. Whether you are looking at the rolling hills of horse country in Ocala or the serene coastal vibes of the Nature Coast, the Sunshine State offers a lifestyle like no other. However, our unique climate and geography mean that the home-buying process requires a bit more "detective work" than in other states.

As a Realtor with Watson Realty Corp, I have seen many buyers fall in love with a kitchen or a view, only to be surprised by insurance premiums or maintenance requirements later. To ensure your Florida dream doesn't turn into a logistical headache, I have compiled the ten most cri...

Click Here to Read More...

Looking for Citrus County FL Homes for Sale? Here Are 5 Insurance "Must-Haves" to Check Before You Offer

If you have been browsing Citrus County FL homes for sale lately, you already know why this area is such a gem. Between the manatees in Crystal River, the rolling hills of Inverness, and the quiet, moss-draped streets of Floral City, it is a place that feels like the "real" Florida. I'm Laurie Glover, and as a Realtor with Watson Realty Corp, I spend a lot of my time helping people find their slice of paradise right here on the Nature Coast.

However, buying a home in 2026 is a little different than it was a few years ago. While the scenery remains breathtaking, the "behind-the-scenes" mechanics of how to buy a house in Florida have shifted: specifically when it comes to homeow...

Click Here to Read More...

Your 2026 Guide to Buying a House in Florida: Steps for Success

Thinking about buying a home in Florida this year? You're not alone. Whether you're relocating to the Sunshine State, upgrading from your current place, or purchasing your very first home, 2026 is shaping up to be an interesting time to make a move.

If you've been wondering how to buy a house in Florida, I've put together this straightforward guide to walk you through the process. I'll cover everything from getting your finances in order to handing you the keys, with a special focus on what buyers in the Ocala, Marion County, and Citrus County areas need to know right now.

Let's dive in.

What the 2026 North Central Florida Market Looks Like

Before we get into the steps, let's talk about what's happening in the market. Good...

Click Here to Read More...