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Less than you think. Conventional loans can go as low as 3% for first-time buyers. FHA is 3.5%. VA and USDA can be 0% if you qualify. The real number depends on the loan type, the home price, and what makes the strongest offer in the current market. We'll walk through your options before you fall in love with a house you can't afford.

Pre-approval: 1-3 days. Searching: 2 weeks to 3 months depending on inventory. Under contract to closing: 30-45 days. Realistically, plan for 60-90 days from 'I want to buy' to keys in hand.

Yes. Most sellers won't even consider an offer without it. Pre-approval also tells you the actual budget you're working with so you don't waste weeks touring homes you can't buy.

That's the point of the inspection. We negotiate. Sellers either fix the issues, credit you the cost, or you walk. We won't let you buy a house with hidden surprises unless you've priced them in.

In Florida, traditionally the seller pays both agents from the sale proceeds. Recent NAR settlement changes mean you might be asked to sign a buyer agreement upfront. We'll explain exactly what that means for your situation before you sign anything.