Set your monthly comfort zone
Ask about loan options and a real preapproval. Include principal, interest, property taxes, homeowner insurance, any mortgage insurance, HOA or condo dues, maintenance and utilities.
FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS · BREVARD COUNTY
Your first home.
Your first home.
A plan that fits real life.
Buying your first home in Palm Bay, Melbourne, Viera or the beachside communities involves more than finding a listing. Andrea helps you compare locations, inspect the right details and prepare for the full cost of ownership.
START HERE
01 · FINANCING
02 · LOCATION
03 · DUE DILIGENCE
A first-home roadmap for the Space Coast.
You do not need to know every step before you begin. Start with a comfortable payment, ask a licensed lender about financing, and work with a local real estate professional on the homes and contracts. The goal is a home you can afford and maintain—not just a purchase price that looks attractive online.
Choose your everyday lifestyle
Compare routes to work, nearby services and the type of neighborhood. In Brevard, lot size, utility setup, association rules and coastal exposure can differ from one address to the next.
Understand the specific home
Discuss your inspection and financing contingencies. Ask about roof age, wind mitigation, flood risks, insurance quotes, repair history and title or survey questions before deadlines expire.
PLAN YOUR CASH & TIMELINE
What happens between an offer and moving day?
Before touring
Write down your must-haves, dealbreakers and target move date. Get guidance from a licensed mortgage professional on how much cash you may need at closing; down-payment requirements depend on the actual loan program and your eligibility. Keep a separate cushion for moving and repairs.
When choosing a property
Read seller disclosures and ask for available permit and maintenance records. Compare association fees and rules, and research taxes that may change when a home changes owners. Homeowners and flood insurance can be meaningful costs, especially for coastal properties; obtain quotes for the actual address.
Once your offer is accepted
Track deposit, inspection, financing, appraisal and closing dates with your Realtor, lender and closing team. Your lender should explain the Loan Estimate and cash needed to close. Before signing, review your Closing Disclosure and final walk-through findings. Never rely on a payment estimate alone as a loan approval.
GOOD QUESTIONS TO ASK
First-time buyer questions.
Do I always need 20% down?
No. Down-payment requirements differ by loan type and individual qualification. A licensed lender can explain current programs, closing costs, mortgage insurance and what is actually available to you.
Can I use the seller's current property-tax bill as my budget?
Not by itself. Florida assessments and exemptions can change after a transfer. Ask for a purchase-specific estimate and review records with the Brevard County Property Appraiser.
What should I check in a beachside or condo purchase?
Review flood and wind insurance, roof or building condition, association budgets, reserves, assessments, rules and property-specific maintenance obligations. Verify documents rather than relying on listing summaries.
Where can I learn more about mortgage disclosures?
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides free guides to Loan Estimates, Closing Disclosures and the closing process. A licensed lender can explain the documents for your transaction.
Useful official resources: Brevard County Property Appraiser · CFPB homebuying guide. General information only; verify details for your property and financing.
REAL BROKER LLC · THE HOUSE HUNTERS GROUP
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