First…CONGRATULATIONS!  This is a truly exciting time.  You are about to make an important investment and our entire team applauds you!

Consult a Realtor
Let a professional talk with you about financing, the current market, homes available, neighborhoods, and the process overall.  Look forward to spending at least an hour just simply discussing home buying before you ever see a property.  Bring your questions, bring your ideas, and bring your concerns.  Your Realtor truly wants to help make this important purchase easy and fun.

Financing
If this is your first property, you may very well be looking for financing.  Many lenders have first-time buyer programs, down payment assistance grants, and other options.  Do not be afraid to talk with several lenders, as each may have different options available.  Call and set an appointment, asking in advance what documents they will need to see.  Typically your lender will want your most recent pay stubs, bank account statements, tax return, and investment information.

Your lender will determine how much they will finance, the monthly payments, and the estimated closing costs.  You will then receive a letter stating the amount “preapproved” or “prequalified.”  Bring this letter when you start the home shopping process.  When an offer is presented, your Realtor may ask for a copy to forward to the seller.  This letter shows you are a serious buyer, ready and willing to own your first home.

Narrow your focus
It is easy to be overwhelmed when shopping for a home.  If you do not narrow your focus, you could easily find yourself contemplating far too many homes and wasting time and energy instead of finding your dream home.  Just like going to the grocery store, the best thing to do is make a list!

What is your price range?

What size house do you want?
Square footage
Number of bedrooms and baths
Carport, garage, or workshop
Den or family room

Do you have a preferred location?
School district or area
Corner lot, water view, or other premium location

Are there features you just cannot live without?
Style of kitchen
Formal dining area
Pool or big yard

Making offers
Whether the market is considered a “buyer’s market” or a “seller’s market,” well maintained homes priced at market value always sell the fastest.  Be ready to make an offer if you see a home you love.

• Decide your offering price
• Determine when you want to close on the home
• Know how much you want to put down with the initial offer and have a check available
• Be ready to pay for inspections
• Provide copies of your mortgage preapproval

Signing the contract
When you have an accepted offer and a fully executed contract – meaning both you AND the seller signed the sales contract – the closing process begins.  Inspections will be ordered and completed, any repairs handled per the contract terms, and a closing date established.  Your Realtor keeps in touch with you throughout this process and lets you know when any additional deposits are required, when to establish your utility services, and the time and date of your closing.  You are on your way to having a brand new Florida address!