Your Complete Guide
to Buying a Home
From pre-approval to closing day: James Zito walks you through every step of buying a home on Florida's Treasure Coast. Traditional financing or crypto: we handle both.
6 Steps to Buying Your Home
James guides you through every step: from your first conversation to the moment you get your keys.
Choose Your Broker
Partner with James Zito: a licensed Florida broker with 38+ years of experience on the Treasure Coast. Your representation is free as a buyer; the seller pays the commission.
Get Pre-Approved
Before you shop, get a mortgage pre-approval letter from a lender. This tells you exactly what you can afford and makes your offers competitive. Crypto buyers: we handle that too.
Search & Tour Homes
James will set up custom MLS alerts matching your criteria and personally tour properties with you: pointing out what to look for and what to avoid.
Make an Offer
When you find the right home, James crafts a strategic offer designed to win: using 36 years of negotiation expertise to protect your interests and your wallet.
Inspections & Due Diligence
After your offer is accepted, you'll have an inspection period. James coordinates inspectors, reviews reports, and negotiates any repairs or credits on your behalf.
Close & Get Your Keys
James walks you through every closing document, coordinates with the title company, and makes sure you understand exactly what you're signing. Then: keys in hand.
2026 Buyers Guide: Free PDF
Download the complete Zito Realty Buyers Guide: everything you need to know about buying a home on the Treasure Coast.
Why Buy on the Treasure Coast?
Florida's Treasure Coast offers a rare combination of lifestyle, value, and investment potential.
Strong Market Appreciation
Port Saint Lucie and the Treasure Coast have seen consistent year-over-year appreciation, making it one of Florida's best long-term investment markets.
Waterfront Lifestyle
From the St. Lucie River to the Atlantic coast, the Treasure Coast offers unmatched waterfront living: boating, fishing, beaches, and golf all within minutes.
No State Income Tax
Florida has zero state income tax, making it one of the most tax-friendly states in the country for homeowners and real estate investors alike.
Crypto-Enabled Transactions
Zito Realty is Florida's only crypto-enabled brokerage: accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Pi Network as full or partial payment on any transaction.
Top Communities to Consider
Each community on the Treasure Coast has its own character, price point, and lifestyle. James knows them all.
Buyers' Most Common Questions
How much do I need for a down payment?
Down payments vary by loan type. Conventional loans typically require 3–20%. FHA loans require as little as 3.5%. VA and USDA loans may require 0% down. James will connect you with trusted local lenders to find the best fit.
How long does the buying process take?
From accepted offer to closing, most transactions take 30–45 days. Cash purchases can close in as little as 10–14 days. Crypto transactions are handled on a case-by-case timeline.
What are closing costs for buyers in Florida?
Buyers typically pay 2–5% of the purchase price in closing costs, including lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, and prepaid items. James will provide a detailed estimate before you make an offer.
Can I really buy a home with Bitcoin or Ethereum?
Yes: Zito Realty is Florida's pioneering crypto-enabled brokerage. James has completed crypto real estate transactions and handles all compliance, documentation, and IRS reporting requirements.
Do I need a home inspection?
Absolutely. A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. James works with trusted, licensed inspectors and will review every finding with you to protect your investment.
What areas do you serve?
James serves the entire Treasure Coast: Port Saint Lucie, Stuart, Jensen Beach, Palm City, Fort Pierce, Martin County: plus Jupiter, Palm Beach, Hobe Sound, and surrounding communities.
"As first-time buyers, we were nervous. James walked us through every step and found us the perfect waterfront home in Jensen Beach. He's a true professional."
The Martinez Family
Jensen Beach, FL
Ready to Find Your Home?
Call James directly: he answers his own phone. Or search available listings right now and set up custom alerts for your criteria.