First-Time Homebuyer 101
From pre-approval to closing day
A six-part course for buyers purchasing their first home in Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Lake Nona, or the wider Orlando market. Covers affordability, financing, agent selection, offer strategy, due diligence, and closing — with the Florida-specific details most generic guides miss.
Syllabus
6 lessons · ~55 minutes
- 01
How much home can you actually afford?
The 28/36 rule, reserve funds, hidden Florida costs (insurance + HOA), and why your lender's maximum is usually too much.
9 min read
- 02
Pre-approval vs. pre-qualification
Why sellers ignore pre-qualifications in a tight market, what underwritten pre-approval buys you, and how to get one.
7 min read
- 03
Choosing the right buyer's agent
Buyer representation under the 2024 NAR settlement, what to ask before signing, and red flags that predict a bad transaction.
8 min read
- 04
Writing a winning offer
Price, escalation clauses, escrow, contingencies, and appraisal gap coverage — how to win without overpaying.
12 min read
- 05
Inspections, appraisals, and due diligence
The Florida inspection checklist (roof, HVAC, wind mitigation, 4-point), how to negotiate repairs, and when to walk.
10 min read
- 06
Closing day: what actually happens
Title work, final walk-through, wire fraud prevention, and Florida's homestead exemption — the deadline you cannot miss.
9 min read
Questions as you go?
Text Ryan directly.
Most lessons are built from actual client questions. If something in the course doesn't quite match your situation — ask.