Why New Yorkers Should Consider Mortgaging a Home on Florida’s Emerald Coast

Austin Jones
Nov 7
3 min read

🗽☀️ Why New Yorkers Should Consider Mortgaging a Home on Florida’s Emerald Coast

Every year, more New Yorkers trade subway commutes for sea breezes and there’s one Florida destination that keeps topping their list: the Emerald Coast. Stretching from Navarre Beach to 30A, this region offers a rare blend of natural beauty, affordability, and investment potential that’s hard to find anywhere else.

If you’re considering making the move (or purchasing a second home), now is the time to explore why mortgaging a home on Florida’s Emerald Coast through a smart mortgage strategy can be one of the best decisions you’ll make.

💰 1️⃣ Your Money Goes Further Here

In New York, even modest homes often come with seven figure price tags and high property taxes. On Florida’s Emerald Coast, that same budget can buy a Gulf view condo, a bayfront retreat, or a luxury single family home with room to breathe.

When you work with an experienced local mortgage planner like Bradley “Brad” Hacker of Benchmark Mortgage, you can leverage flexible loan options to make the most of your investment, whether it’s a primary residence, vacation home, or income property.

Plus, Florida has no state income tax, lower overall cost of living, and strong property value appreciation. A win-win for long-term owners. We also may soon see property taxes in general be eliminated per Governor Ron Desantis's agenda.

🏡 2️⃣ Mortgage Options That Fit Your Lifestyle

The right mortgage makes owning coastal property surprisingly attainable. Brad specializes in helping buyers design financing that fits their goals and lifestyle.

Here’s how:

✅ Primary Residences – Competitive fixed or adjustable-rate mortgages with down payments starting around 5%–10% for qualified buyers.

✅ Second Homes – Flexible programs allowing as little as 10% down, often with lower rates than investment loans.

✅ Investment Properties – Options that consider rental income potential, ideal for buyers planning to Airbnb or VRBO their property when not in use.

With 20+ years of experience, Brad helps buyers understand each program’s advantages while preparing a financial plan that maximizes both lifestyle and return.

🌴 3️⃣ A Market Built on Stability and Growth

Unlike fast fluctuating metro markets, the Emerald Coast has shown steady growth and high buyer demand fueled by tourism, military families, and remote professionals. Cities like Destin, Miramar Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach consistently rank among Florida’s strongest real estate performers.

Securing a mortgage here isn’t just about owning a home, it’s about owning a reliable investment in one of the nation’s most resilient coastal markets.

📈 4️⃣ Why Local Expertise Matters

Financing coastal real estate comes with unique considerations like flood insurance, condo lending rules, and short-term rental zoning all play a role.

That’s where working with a local expert like Bradley Hacker makes all the difference. Online lenders can’t offer insight into neighborhood nuances or property specific challenges. Brad works with local realtors, appraisers, and title companies to ensure a smooth, well informed transaction from pre-approval to closing.

🌊 5️⃣ A Better Way to Live and Invest

Imagine mornings walking on pure white sand, afternoons boating in Choctawhatchee Bay, and evenings watching the sun dip into emerald water. Owning a home here isn’t just about escaping the cold. I’s about investing in a lifestyle that delivers both personal fulfillment and financial strength.

With personalized mortgage guidance, New Yorkers can transition seamlessly from high-cost city living to a smarter, sunnier way of life.

✅ Mortgaging a Home on Florida's Emerald Coast

If you’ve been dreaming of Florida’s Emerald Coast, now is the perfect time to make it a reality. With the right mortgage plan, you can enjoy:

Lower taxes and cost of living
Rental income potential
A quality of life that feels like every day’s a vacation

💬 Contact Bradley “Brad” Hacker

Senior Mortgage Planner | Benchmark Mortgage

(859)-977-5239

📍 Serving Destin, Miramar Beach, 30A, Niceville, Navarre & Fort Walton Beach

NMLS #22435 | Florida Mortgage Loan Originator License #LO101348Benchmark Mortgage – NMLS #2143 | Equal Housing Lender