For buyers
Buying a home in Florida, explained in plain language.
First home or next one, here's what actually happens between "I think I'm ready" and the keys in your hand — and how I stay with you through every step of it.
The seven steps, start to finish
Every purchase is a little different, but the road is the same. Here's the map.
- 1
Get pre-approved (or gather proof of funds)
Before we look at a single home, talk to a lender. A pre-approval letter tells you what you can comfortably afford and tells sellers you're serious. Paying cash? A proof-of-funds letter does the same job. I can introduce you to lenders who work in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
- 2
Tell me what "home" means to you
Areas, commute, budget, must-haves, deal-breakers. We'll also sign a written buyer agreement that explains how I work and how I get paid — no surprises later.
- 3
Tour homes
I set up the showings, drive you through the neighborhoods and tell you what I see — the good and the not-so-good. You'll never feel pushed.
- 4
Make an offer
When you find the one, I'll prepare the offer: price, deposit, financing terms, inspection period, closing date. Then I negotiate for you.
- 5
Under contract: inspection, appraisal, title
This is where questions come up — and where having one person to call matters. Inspection, appraisal, insurance quotes, title work and lender paperwork all happen in these weeks. I keep the timeline and translate the jargon.
- 6
Final walk-through and closing
We check the home one last time, then you sign. Closing usually happens at a title company; in many cases it can be done remotely if you're out of state or abroad — ask me early.
- 7
Keys in hand
Photo, sign, champagne. Welcome home.
The costs nobody puts on the listing
The price is only the biggest number. These are the others — your lender's Loan Estimate and the title company will show you the exact figures for your purchase.
Down payment
Depends on the loan program and your profile. Some programs allow smaller down payments than most people expect; your lender will tell you what you qualify for.
Closing costs
Lender fees, title insurance, recording fees, prepaid taxes and insurance. In Florida there are also state documentary stamp taxes on the mortgage and note. You'll see them all itemized before closing.
Inspection and appraisal
Paid during the contract period. The inspection is for you; the appraisal is for the lender.
Property taxes
In Florida, taxes are generally reassessed when a home sells, so the previous owner's bill isn't necessarily yours. If the home will be your primary residence, ask about the homestead exemption.
Insurance
Homeowners insurance, and depending on the location, wind and flood coverage. Get quotes before you're under contract — it can change the monthly math.
HOA or condo fees
Many communities have monthly or quarterly dues. We'll read the rules and budgets before you commit.
This is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Please confirm the numbers for your situation with your lender, a CPA or an attorney.
Buying from out of state — or another country?
You don't need to be a U.S. citizen or resident to buy a home in Florida. You'll need identification, proof of funds and — if you're financing — a lender that works with international buyers, which I can help you find. Video showings, remote signing and a WhatsApp thread that works across time zones are part of how I work.
Coming from another state? The differences are mostly about insurance, taxes and HOAs — the three things in the section above. We'll go through them before you fall in love with a house.
- Video tours
- Remote closing (when possible)
- English · Spanish · Portuguese
Questions I hear every week
How much do I need to put down?
It depends on the loan program and your profile. Some programs allow smaller down payments than people expect. Talk to a lender first — I'll introduce you to one if you'd like.
Do I pay you as my agent?
Before we tour homes, we'll sign a written buyer agreement that spells out my compensation and how it may be covered — in many transactions the seller agrees to contribute. You'll know exactly how it works before anything is signed.
How long does it take to buy?
From accepted offer to closing, financed purchases usually take a few weeks to a couple of months; cash can be faster. The search itself takes as long as you need.
Can I buy if I'm not a U.S. citizen or resident?
Yes. Ownership isn't tied to immigration status. Financing options differ, so we'll start with the right lender.
What if the inspection finds problems?
You usually have the right to negotiate repairs or credits, or to walk away within the inspection period. That's what the inspection period is for.
Do I need to be in Florida to close?
Often not — many closings can be handled remotely with proper notarization. Tell me early so the title company can plan for it.
See what's for sale right now
Homes across Palm Beach, Broward and St. Lucie Counties, straight from the MLS.
Search homesLet's start with a conversation.
No commitment, no pressure — just tell me what you're thinking and I'll tell you what comes next.