This must be an exciting time for you and I'm sure this brings back fond memories for everyone reading this thread. After all, at some point in time, we all purchased our first home.
Speaking from experience, I suggest you get in touch with a Realtor you feel comfortable with and can trust. Most Realtors in Florida do not charge a buyer's fee, at least I know we don't. A trusted Realtor on your side will be able to help you find out how much house will fit in your budget, will tell you about programs for down payment assistance, will make homes for sale accessible to you and help and guide you through the entire transaction.

We purchased our first home without a Realtor and now that we are licensed Realtors, we of course realize just how much value a licensed professional brings to the table. It would have saved us so much stress and headache had we worked with a Realtor. Make sure you are working with someone you feel comfortable with and can depend on.

Good luck!

You need to contact a mortgage broker who can qualify you for a loan. Your lender statement is important for a Realtor work on your behalf based on specifications and lender statement

More details you provide your buyers agent makes our life real easy work with you.

National Featured Realtor and Consultant, Texas Mortgage Loan Officer, Credit Repair Lecturer
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Lynn911

S.

Begin by having a clear understanding of your finances. Review your monthly budget accounting for all money coming in and going out. Once you have accomplished this you will be ready to begin the process.

1. Get pre-qualified for a loan

2. preview property on line

3. select an agent

4. identify your homes criteria

5. define your target locations

6. view property

7. make an offer

8. negotiate the purchase price

9. work to close

10. celebrate

I have a couple of mortgage brokers that have done a great job working with my first time home buyers. If you would like their names and numbers, please give me a call. They can usually give you information as to what your price range should be within hours. In order to get the first time home buyer tax credit you must close on a home before the end of November. You need to allow at least 45 days in most cases to finalize everything and go to closing so there's not a lot of time left. You need to be talking with someone as soon as possible and start looking for that perfect home right away. Call if I can help.
Jo Ann Sutton
Ridge Real Estate
863-446-1030

Hi Srenney,
What an exciting time for you. There are going to be many steps and Linda is right on contact a licensed mortgage professional and discuss your personal situation and numbers first then you can start the looking process. Please feel free to give me a call or an e mail.

Melissa Antenucci
Ameritrust Mortgage
561-417-9221

In my opinion, the best place to start is with a loan officer from any bank or mortgage company. He/she will be able to get you started so that you know what price home you can afford. Getting a pre-approval will also help when you find the home you want and submit your offer on the home. Once you've determined what price you can comfortably afford which will usually include the principal, interest, real estate taxes, insurance, and maybe a mortgage insurance premium (if your downpayment on the home is less than 20%), you can then look for a Realtor to work with. When you're ready, I'd be glad to help you find your dream home. You can give me a call at 863-243-3357. There is a first time home buyer tax credit which we can discuss at that time but, it expires December 1(as far as we know at this time) so, you may want to get with a loan officer as soon as possible.