Mortgages in Clay County, Florida
Clay County sits just southwest of Jacksonville along the St. Johns River, with communities like Orange Park, Fleming Island, Oakleaf, Middleburg, Green Cove Springs and Keystone Heights. It offers everything from planned neighborhoods to waterfront homes and acreage, and we help buyers, homeowners and investors across the county.
The area at a glance
- Clay County has its own property tax rates and its own property appraiser. Check the Clay County Property Appraiser's website for the home you are considering, because the payment can differ from the same price in Duval County.
- Waterfront and low-lying homes near the St. Johns River, Black Creek and Doctors Lake can need flood insurance, and lenders require it in high-risk flood zones. Check the flood zone and get homeowners and wind insurance quotes before you make an offer.
- Northeast Florida has a large military community, and VA loans are a popular option for eligible veterans and service members. They often allow no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, though a funding fee usually applies.
- Homes on larger lots, especially in the western and southern parts of the county, may use a well or septic system. Lenders may require inspections or water tests for these properties, so plan for them in your timeline.
Typical property types
Single-family homes
The most common purchase, from established neighborhoods in Orange Park and Fleming Island to newer communities in Oakleaf and Green Cove Springs. Conventional, FHA and VA programs can all fit.
Waterfront homes
Homes on the river, creeks and lakes can come with flood insurance, dock and seawall considerations. Ask your loan officer how the lender treats them.
Acreage and rural homes
Some rural areas of the county may be eligible for USDA loans, which can allow no down payment for eligible buyers with income limits. Check the USDA eligibility map for the address.
Investment properties
DSCR loans can qualify a rental on the property's rent instead of your personal income. Check local and HOA rules if you plan short-term rentals.
Local closing cost notes
- On a purchase loan, the buyer usually pays Florida's documentary stamp tax on the mortgage ($0.35 per $100 of the loan) and the intangible tax (0.2% of the loan).
- Who pays for the owner's title insurance policy varies by county and by contract, so check your contract.
- Florida property taxes are paid in arrears, so expect a deposit toward property taxes at closing if your loan has an escrow account.
- If the home will be your primary residence, you can apply for the Florida homestead exemption with the Clay County Property Appraiser. You must own and live in the home on January 1 and apply by March 1 to qualify for that tax year.
Buying or refinancing in Clay County, Florida?
Talk to a licensed loan officer. No obligation, and no credit check for the first conversation.