Getting Started: Your First Steps to Buying a Home
Thinking about buying your first home in Florida? You’re not alone — and you’re in the right place. Whether you’re just starting to explore or ready to take the first step, this guide will walk you through the entire process with clarity, confidence, and no pressure.
Where Do I Start?
• Do I need a Realtor?
Yes — A Realtor doesn’t just show homes — they protect your interests. From spotting red flags during showings to navigating contracts, inspections, and negotiations, a licensed agent helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures you're making informed decisions throughout the process.
• How much do I need for a down payment?
Some programs allow as little as 3% down. VA and USDA loans may offer 0% down options.
• What’s the first step?
Get pre-approved by a lender. This gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re serious.
• Can AGG Realty help?
Absolutely. We’ll walk you through every step and connect you with trusted lending partners.
Income and Credit Requirements
• Income: Lenders typically want to see that your monthly housing costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance) won’t exceed about 30–35% of your gross monthly income.
• Credit Score: A minimum credit score of 620 is usually required for conventional loans. FHA loans may accept scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment.
• Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Your total debt payments (including mortgage) should generally stay below 43% of your gross monthly income.
Understanding Costs
Here’s a breakdown of typical homebuying costs:
• Down Payment
• Closing Costs (2–5% of purchase price)
• Home Inspection Fee
• Appraisal Fee
• Property Taxes & Insurance
• Moving Costs
We’ll review all of these with you, so you’re never caught off guard.
Finding, Buying & Moving In: What to Expect Next
Once you’re pre-approved and ready to start your home search, the real journey begins. From finding the right property to negotiating offers, handling inspections, and finally getting the keys — we’re with you every step of the way. Here’s what to expect as you move from home shopping to homeownership.
The Home Search
We help you:
• Identify neighborhoods and property types that fit your goals
• Set up real-time property alerts
• Schedule showings and evaluate homes
Making an Offer
We’ll guide you through:
• Comparing similar recent sales
• Structuring a competitive offer
• Negotiating with the seller
Home Inspection & Appraisal
Once under contract, we’ll help coordinate:
• A home inspection to identify any issues
• An appraisal to verify the home’s value
• Any repair negotiations or credits if needed
Closing the Deal
We manage all the details leading up to closing:
• Coordinating with title companies and lenders
• Reviewing final documents
• Making sure everything is in place for closing day
• Handing you the keys to your new home