First-Time Home Buyers in South Florida

Your first home purchase comes with a lot of new language, new decisions and new deadlines. My job is to make sure you understand what you are signing, what you are spending and what happens next.

I help first-time buyers throughout Palm Beach and Broward Counties move through the home-buying process with a clear plan—from getting financially prepared to receiving the keys.

Start With the Numbers

Before we start looking at homes, we need to understand what buying comfortably looks like for you. That means more than knowing the maximum amount a lender may approve.

We will talk through your target monthly payment, available funds, timing and the additional costs that can come with buying a home in South Florida.

Costs to Plan For May Include:

  • Down payment
  • Earnest money deposit
  • Home inspection and other property inspections
  • Appraisal costs
  • Closing costs and prepaid expenses
  • Homeowners insurance
  • HOA or condominium fees when applicable

Before We Tour Homes

Before touring properties, we will review a written buyer agreement so you understand how I represent you, the services I provide and how compensation works.

I want you to understand the relationship before we start—not discover important details halfway through the transaction.

Then We Build the Right Search

Buying your first home is not about seeing the most houses. It is about identifying homes that fit your priorities, finances and lifestyle.

We will narrow your search based on the things that matter most to you, including location, price, property type, commute, community considerations and your longer-term plans.

When You Find the Right Home

I will help you understand the property, comparable sales, market conditions and the terms that can make an offer stronger or riskier.

We will look beyond the purchase price and talk through important parts of the offer, including deposits, financing, inspections, appraisal, closing timeline and other contractual terms before you sign.

Under Contract Is Not the Finish Line

Once your offer is accepted, the transaction moves quickly. Inspections, financing, appraisal, insurance, title work and contractual deadlines may all be happening at the same time.

I help keep the process organized and make sure you know what requires your attention and what comes next.

You Do Not Have to Know Everything Before You Start

You do not need to understand every real estate term or have your entire home-buying plan figured out before reaching out.

You just need a starting point. We can build the plan from there.

TALK WITH KERRY ABOUT BUYING

No pressure. We can start with your questions, timeline and what you want to accomplish.

Kerry Francis

Charles Rutenberg Realty Fort Lauderdale


Office:
2201 W. Prospect Road #200, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33309
www.CRRUnited.com
(954) 396-3001
Agent:
kerry@morningstarroad.com
(561) 975-9907

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This content last updated on Saturday, October 10, 2026 10:24 AM from BEACHES

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