Free Guide

    The Complete Homebuyer's Guide

    From pre-approval to closing day — everything you need to confidently purchase your home in Florida or Georgia.

    01

    Check Your Finances

    • Review your credit score — 580+ for FHA and VA, 620+ for conventional, 680+ for physician loans
    • Calculate your debt-to-income ratio (aim for under 43%)
    • Determine how much you can comfortably afford monthly (principal, interest, taxes, insurance)
    • Save for a down payment: 3.5% for FHA, 0% for VA, as low as 1–3% for conventional
    • Build an emergency fund of 3–6 months' expenses separate from your down payment
    02

    Get Pre-Approved

    • Gather documents: W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs
    • Compare lenders — Wynnmore connects you with trusted partners for VA, FHA, conventional, and physician loans
    • Get a pre-approval letter (not just pre-qualification) for serious offer positioning
    • Understand your rate lock options and timeline
    03

    Define Your Criteria

    • Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves — bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, yard, HOA
    • Preferred neighborhoods and commute tolerance
    • New construction vs. existing home
    • School district priorities if applicable
    • Future plans: 5-year vs. forever home affects your strategy
    04

    Search & Tour Homes

    • Your Wynnmore agent will curate listings matched to your criteria
    • Tour in person — photos don't capture noise, natural light, or neighborhood feel
    • Take notes and photos during each tour
    • Ask about property history, HOA rules, and pending assessments
    • Evaluate potential for appreciation based on market trends
    05

    Make an Offer

    • Your agent will run a Comparative Market Analysis to determine fair offer price
    • Structure your offer: price, earnest money, contingencies, closing date
    • Include an escalation clause in competitive markets
    • Be prepared to negotiate — the first counter is expected
    06

    Due Diligence Period

    • Schedule a professional home inspection (budget $300–$500)
    • Review the inspection report and negotiate repairs or credits
    • Order a termite/WDO inspection (often required in Florida)
    • The lender will order an appraisal to verify property value
    • Review HOA documents, covenants, and financial health
    • Purchase homeowner's insurance and flood insurance if in a flood zone
    07

    Close on Your New Home

    • Review the Closing Disclosure at least 3 days before closing
    • Wire your closing funds (never send to an unverified account)
    • Conduct a final walkthrough 24–48 hours before closing
    • Sign closing documents at the title company
    • Receive the keys and celebrate — you're a homeowner!

    Residential

    Loan Types at a Glance

    Wynnmore connects you with trusted lenders who offer all major loan programs.

    Loan TypeDown PaymentMin. CreditBest For
    Conventional1–3%620+Buyers with strong credit and savings
    FHA3.5%580+Primary residence buyers, lower down payments
    VA0%580+Veterans and active-duty military
    USDA0%640+Buyers in zoned rural areas
    Physician0–5%680+Medical professionals

    Ready to Start Your Home Search?

    Wynnmore Realty guides buyers through every step with market knowledge, responsive communication, and strategic advocacy.

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