Brandt Myers • NMLS #2030154 • Winter Garden, FL
Buy a Home in Florida
Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading to a larger property, or relocating to Central Florida — I'll help you compare loan options from multiple wholesale lenders, get fully pre-approved, and navigate the process from application through closing with clear guidance and no runaround.
Where Are You in the Buying Process?
Whether you're just starting to explore or ready to make an offer — here's how I can help at every stage.
Just Starting to Look
Not sure how much home you can afford or which loan program fits best. I'll run your numbers, explain your options, and set a realistic budget before you start shopping.
Schedule a Quick Call →Actively Shopping
You're touring homes and want a strong pre-approval in hand so you can move quickly when the right home comes up. I'll get you fully pre-approved fast.
Get Pre-Approved →Under Contract
You've found a home and are under contract. I'll move quickly through underwriting, coordinate the appraisal, and keep the process on track toward your closing date.
Start Application →Relocating to Florida
Moving from out of state? I can help you get pre-approved remotely and navigate Florida-specific considerations like insurance costs, HOAs, and local market dynamics.
Talk to Brandt →Loan Programs for Florida Home Buyers
Every buyer's situation is different. Here are the most common programs I offer — and I'll compare them side by side to help you choose the best fit.
Conventional Loans
Flexible financing for buyers with solid credit. As low as 3% down. PMI removable at 20% equity.
FHA Loans
Popular for first-time buyers. As low as 3.5% down with flexible credit requirements.
VA Loans
$0 down and no monthly mortgage insurance for eligible veterans and active duty service members.
Jumbo Loans
Competitive financing for higher-priced Florida properties above conventional loan limits.
DSCR Investor Loans
Qualify based on rental income for investment and short-term rental properties. No personal income docs required.
Down Payment Examples for Florida Buyers
Here's what minimum down payments look like at common Florida price points across the most popular loan programs. Closing costs are separate.
$350,000 Purchase
+ closing costs. MIP required.
$350,000 Purchase
+ closing costs. PMI removable at 20%.
$450,000 Purchase
For eligible veterans. No monthly PMI.
$500,000 Purchase
+ closing costs. PMI removable at 20%.
Find Out How Much You May Qualify For
Answer a few quick questions and I'll follow up with your personalized home purchase options — no obligation, no credit pull required to start.
I've got your info — I'll review everything and follow up shortly with where you stand and your best home purchase options.
How the Home Purchase Process Works
Clear next steps, fast answers, and personal support from your first call through closing day.
Step 1
Get Pre-Approved
I'll review your income, assets, credit, and goals and get back to you with a clear pre-approval — usually the same day documents are received. You'll know exactly how much home you can buy and what your payment looks like.
Step 2
Shop With Confidence
Your pre-approval letter shows sellers you're serious. I'll also give you a payment breakdown and cash-to-close estimate so there are no surprises when you find the right home.
Step 3
Go Under Contract
Once you're under contract, I'll order the appraisal, lock your rate, and start the underwriting process. I'll coordinate with your Realtor to keep everything on schedule.
Step 4
Underwriting & Approval
I'll work through underwriting conditions quickly and keep you updated at every stage so you always know what's coming next and what's needed from you.
Step 5
Clear to Close & Closing Day
Once the loan is approved, we'll schedule your closing. Most Florida purchases close in 21–30 days from application. You sign your documents and get your keys.
Common Home Buying Mistakes to Avoid in Florida
Shopping Without a Pre-Approval
In Florida's active markets, sellers favor buyers with a verified pre-approval in hand. Without one, you risk losing homes to better-prepared buyers or making an offer you can't support.
Underestimating Florida Insurance Costs
Florida homeowners insurance is among the highest in the country. Many buyers focus only on the mortgage payment and are surprised by the insurance cost. I'll factor in real insurance estimates from day one.
Making Big Financial Moves Before Closing
Opening new credit accounts, financing furniture, or changing jobs between application and closing can derail your loan. Keep your financial picture stable until you have keys in hand.
Focusing Only on the Rate
Rate matters — but so do program costs, mortgage insurance, cash-to-close, and the long-term plan. I'll show you the full picture so you can choose the loan that actually fits your goals.
Ignoring HOA Dues
Many Florida communities have HOA dues that can significantly impact your monthly budget and what you qualify for. I'll factor these in from the start so there are no surprises.
I put together a complete guide covering loan options, down payment examples, common mistakes, and Florida assistance programs — specifically for first-time buyers.
Home Purchase FAQs
How do I get pre-approved to buy a home in Florida?
Apply online or schedule a quick call. I'll review your income, assets, credit, and goals and provide a pre-approval with a clear payment estimate — usually the same day documents are received. Pre-approval is free and doesn't commit you to anything.
How much do I need for a down payment to buy a home in Florida?
It depends on the loan program. VA loans allow $0 down for eligible veterans. FHA loans start at 3.5% down. Conventional loans allow as little as 3% down for qualified first-time buyers. I'll compare all programs side by side so you can see the real difference in payment and upfront cost.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Florida?
Minimum credit scores vary by loan type. FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down. Conventional loans typically require 620+. VA loans have flexible requirements for eligible veterans. Better scores get better pricing on all programs.
How long does it take to get pre-approved?
Most borrowers receive a pre-approval the same day documents are submitted. The key documents needed are pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank statements, and a valid ID. I'll give you a clear checklist so you can gather everything quickly.
What is the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on self-reported information. Pre-approval is more thorough — it involves reviewing actual documents and gives you a verified letter that carries real weight with sellers. In today's Florida market, a pre-approval is strongly preferred over pre-qualification.
How long does it take to close on a home in Florida?
Most Florida purchases close in 21–30 days from application once under contract. The timeline depends on the loan program, documentation, and appraisal turnaround. I'll set clear expectations from day one and keep things moving throughout the process.
Helping Florida Buyers Throughout Central Florida
Based in Winter Garden, I help buyers purchase homes throughout the Orlando metro and across the state.
Ready to Buy a Home in Florida?
Whether you're just getting started or ready to make an offer — I'll help you get pre-approved and map out the smartest path forward.
Call or Text: (407) 758-7166