First-Time Home Buyer Help in Florida — Clear Guidance, Smart Options, Strong Pre-Approval
Buying your first home should feel exciting — not overwhelming. I'm Brandt Myers, a local Winter Garden mortgage broker helping first-time buyers throughout Central Florida compare loan options, understand upfront costs, and move forward with confidence.
Free Buyer Resource
The Central Florida First-Time Buyer Playbook
Want a simple breakdown of down payments, credit scores, DPA programs, and the buying process? Grab the free guide.
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You Probably Need Less Than You Think
Most first-time buyers overestimate how much they need to get started. Here's what's actually available.
VA Loan (eligible veterans)
Conventional Loan
FHA Loan
FHA + Lender DPA*
*Lender-paid down payment assistance. Subject to qualification. Credit score 620–640 required. Rate may be slightly higher.
Best Loan Options for First-Time Buyers in Florida
Every buyer is different. The best fit depends on your credit, income, savings, and how much cash you want to bring to closing. I'll compare all options side by side.
Most Popular First-Time Buyer Program
As low as 3.5% down with credit scores from 580. Flexible qualification makes FHA the most popular choice for first-time buyers in Florida. Entire down payment can come from gift funds.
Learn About FHA Loans →Best for Buyers With Stronger Credit
3% down for qualified first-time buyers with credit scores of 620+. PMI is removable at 20% equity — unlike FHA MIP which stays for the life of most loans. Often the better long-term value.
Learn About Conventional Loans →Best Program Available for Veterans
$0 down and no monthly mortgage insurance for eligible veterans and active duty service members. The strongest mortgage program available for those who qualify.
Learn About VA Loans →I work with select wholesale lenders that offer down payment assistance programs — including grants and forgivable options forgiven after just 6 months — covering your entire FHA 3.5% down payment. Credit score of 620–640 required. Rate may be slightly higher than standard FHA.
What Costs Should You Expect Upfront?
Many first-time buyers focus only on the down payment — but there are other upfront costs to plan for. Here's the full picture.
Down Payment
The portion of the purchase price you pay upfront. VA: $0. Conventional: 3%. FHA: 3.5%. Can potentially be covered by lender DPA programs or gift funds from family.
Closing Costs
Fees paid at closing covering lender charges, title, appraisal, and prepaid items. Typically 2–4% of the loan amount in Florida. Can sometimes be reduced via seller concessions.
Prepaids & Escrow
Florida buyers should plan for prepaid homeowners insurance, property taxes, and HOA dues if applicable. Florida insurance costs are among the highest in the country — I'll factor these in upfront.
Earnest Money
A deposit submitted with your offer — typically 1–2% of the purchase price — showing the seller you're serious. This is credited toward your closing costs at closing.
Down Payment Examples at Common Florida Price Points
*Lender DPA covers down payment. Closing costs still apply. Credit score 620–640 required. Rate may be slightly higher.
Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes to Avoid in Florida
These are the most common pitfalls — knowing them ahead of time puts you in a much stronger position.
Shopping Without Pre-Approval
In Florida's active markets sellers favor buyers with a verified pre-approval. Without one you risk losing homes to better-prepared buyers or making offers you can't support.
Underestimating Insurance Costs
Florida homeowners insurance is among the highest in the country. Many buyers focus only on the mortgage payment and are surprised by insurance. I'll factor in real estimates from day one.
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.
Focusing Only on the Rate
Rate matters — but so does mortgage insurance, cash-to-close, and 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 significantly impact your monthly budget and qualifying amount. I'll factor these in from the start so there are no surprises.
Waiting Too Long to Start
Many buyers wait until they find a home to talk to a broker. Starting earlier means a stronger pre-approval, time to fix credit issues, and a clearer budget before you fall in love with a home.
Your First Home Buying Steps
Clear next steps, honest communication, and personal support from start to closing day.
Figure Out Your Budget
We estimate payments, review goals, and decide what monthly range feels comfortable before you start shopping. No credit pull required to start — just a conversation.
Get Pre-Approved
I'll review your income, assets, and credit and compare loan programs side by side — FHA, VA, conventional, and DPA options — so you can choose the best path forward.
Shop, Contract & Close
Pre-approval in hand, you can make strong offers with confidence. I'll guide you through appraisal, underwriting, and closing prep so there are no surprises on closing day.
Helpful Resources for First-Time Buyers
Everything you need to understand your options and take the next step.
FHA Loans
3.5% down, flexible credit. Florida's most popular first-time buyer loan program.
Down Payment Assistance
Lender-paid grants and forgivable DPA covering your FHA down payment. Forgiven after just 6 months.
VA Loans
$0 down for eligible veterans. No mortgage insurance. Best program available for those who qualify.
Conventional Loans
3% down for first-time buyers. PMI removable at 20% equity. Best for buyers with stronger credit.
Get Pre-Approved
Fast pre-approval — usually same day. Know exactly what you qualify for before you start shopping.
📖 Free Buyer Guide
The Central Florida First-Time Buyer Playbook — down payments, credit, DPA, and the full process explained simply.
First-Time Buyer FAQs
Do I need perfect credit to buy my first home?
No. FHA loans allow credit scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down. Conventional loans start at 620. VA loans have flexible requirements for eligible veterans. I'll review your full profile and find the best path forward regardless of where your credit stands today.
How much money do I really need upfront?
Less than most buyers think. Down payment can be as low as $0 (VA) or 3–3.5% (conventional/FHA). Closing costs typically run 2–4% of the loan amount but can be reduced via seller concessions. I'll give you a full cash-to-close estimate upfront so there are no surprises.
Is there down payment assistance available for first-time buyers in Florida?
Yes — I work with select wholesale lenders that offer lender-paid down payment assistance programs including grants and forgivable options that cover your entire FHA 3.5% down payment. One program forgives the balance after just 6 months. Credit score of 620–640 required. Learn more about DPA →
Should I get pre-approved before I start shopping?
Yes — strongly recommended. A strong pre-approval shows sellers you're serious, gives you a clear budget, and lets you move fast when the right home comes up. In Florida's market good homes move quickly. I can typically get you pre-approved the same day documents are received.
What counts as a first-time home buyer?
Generally anyone who has never owned a home — or has not owned a primary residence in the last 3 years. This matters because some loan programs like the 3% conventional option are specifically for first-time buyers. Not sure if you qualify? I'll help you sort it out quickly.
Can I buy a home with student loan debt?
In many cases yes. Student loans are included in your debt-to-income ratio calculation. The best loan strategy depends on your full financial profile — income, debts, credit, and savings. I'll run the numbers and tell you honestly what you qualify for.
How long does the home buying process take in Florida?
From pre-approval to closing day typically runs 30–45 days once you're under contract. Getting pre-approved before you start shopping can shorten that significantly. I'll walk you through every step so you always know what's coming next.
Helping First-Time Buyers Throughout Central Florida
Based in Winter Garden, I help first-time buyers throughout the Orlando metro and across Florida.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're just starting to explore or ready to buy soon — I'll help you map out the smartest path forward with clear guidance and no pressure.