Buying in Ocala
RFG serves buyers across Ocala and Marion County, including On Top of the World and Calesa Township, where RFG is a preferred lender. Many buyers relocate from out of state or from elsewhere in Florida, so we plan around sale timing, cash from a previous home and new Florida property costs.
Preferred lender in On Top of the World and Calesa
RFG is a preferred lender for On Top of the World, a 55+ master-planned community, and for Calesa Township, an all-ages community built by Colen Built. A majority of homes may qualify for a closing-cost credit when the buyer uses an eligible preferred lender. Availability, amount and permitted use vary, so confirm with the community and RFG before relying on it. More on our preferred relationships.
New construction timelines
Builder contracts, deposits, construction schedules and rate-lock options need to line up. Ask how long a rate can be locked and what happens if completion slips. See new construction home loans.
Acreage and rural properties
Horse properties, larger parcels and homes with wells or septic systems can raise appraisal and eligibility questions. Some areas outside city limits may be eligible for USDA financing; check the address on USDA’s map.
Buying before your current home sells
Many Ocala buyers are also sellers. Discuss whether the purchase can be approved without the sale, how a contingency affects the offer and where the down payment will come from.
A better preapproval conversation
- Goals and timing: why you are buying, when, and how long you plan to stay.
- Documented qualifications: credit, income, assets and funds to close reviewed before you shop.
- Property-specific estimate: taxes, insurance, HOA and CDD for the actual address before you offer.
- Team communication: buyer, agent and lender aligned from contract to closing.
Ocala financing questions
Do 55+ communities need special financing?
Not usually. Standard programs can apply, but association dues, any community fees and insurance must fit the budget, and the lender may review association information.
Can I get a mortgage on acreage in Marion County?
Often, but parcel size, use, outbuildings and comparable sales matter. Share the listing early so the right program is chosen.
Should I use the builder’s lender to get the incentive?
Compare carefully. Where RFG is a preferred lender, eligible credits may be available with RFG. Get the incentive terms in writing.
Sources and editorial information
Published by The Rice Financial Group. Editorial update: November 10, 2026. How we prepare our resources.
Educational information, not an approval, rate quote or commitment to lend. Program rules, pricing and availability can change. Confirm the requirements for your borrower, property and transaction with the mortgage team.
Make the information personal.
Tell us what you are planning and where you need clarity. You do not need to be ready to apply to ask a question.
Run numbers on an address