Think You Need 20% Down? First-Time Buyer Truths in Central Florida

If buying a home has been sitting quietly on your “someday” list because you believe you need 20% down, flawless credit, and perfect timing-you’re not alone. That belief delays more first-time buyers than almost anything else.

But here’s the truth: many of the rules people think still apply… don’t.

What first-time buyers in Central Florida are doing differently right now isn’t rushing-it’s learning how today’s market actually works and making informed decisions based on current options, not outdated advice.

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💰 The 20% Down Myth (Why It Persists)

You do not need 20% down to buy a home.

Many first-time buyers are purchasing with:

• FHA loans as low as 3.5% down

• Conventional loan programs at 3-5% down

• Down payment assistance programs that help reduce upfront costs

For most buyers, the challenge isn’t savings-it’s misinformation that’s stuck around from a very different market.

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🏡 FHA Loans: Reputation vs. Reality

FHA loans often get labeled as “weak,” but in today’s market that label doesn’t hold much weight.

Currently:

• FHA buyers are getting offers accepted

• Sellers are more open to negotiation

• Preparation, guidance, and realistic pricing matter more than loan type

A strong plan will always outperform assumptions.

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📍 Where Starter Homes Still Exist

Starter homes haven’t disappeared-they’ve shifted.

Buyers finding success are:

• Looking just outside the most competitive pockets

• Prioritizing structure, layout, and long-term value

• Choosing homes that make sense now and grow with them over time

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s a smart entry point.

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📊 Why This Moment Matters

Today’s market offers something first-time buyers haven’t had in a while: breathing room.

• Fewer bidding wars

• More negotiation opportunities

• Time to ask questions and evaluate options

That space allows buyers to move with confidence instead of pressure.

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🔗 Helpful First-Time Buyer Resources

If you like to do your own homework (and I respect that), these non-commercial, trusted resources can help you understand your options:

• FHA Loan Basics (HUD)
  https://www.hud.gov/buying/loans
• Florida Housing – First-Time Buyer Programs
  https://www.floridahousing.org
• Down Payment Assistance Overview (HUD)
  https://www.hud.gov/states/florida/homeownership/buyingprgms

These resources explain programs in plain language and are a great starting point for understanding what may be available.

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📞 Free Rental Strategy Call
If you’re weighing buying vs. renting-or wondering how a second home could work as an investment-I offer a complimentary rental strategy call to help you run the numbers and clarify your options.

Reply to this email or message me directly to schedule.

If you’ve been curious about whether buying is more achievable than you once thought-or simply want clarity without pressure-I’m always happy to share insight and answer questions as they come up.

Sometimes the biggest shift isn’t the market-it’s replacing old assumptions with current information.

Warmly,
Lisa Lugo Manns, REALTOR®
ERA Grizzard Real Estate
📱 954-261-0886
🌐 RealEstateByLisaM.com

Clear guidance. Local insight. Community-first service.