100 Keyes, 1926 - 2026
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Buyer Basics

Thinking about buying a home and don't know where to start?

Buying is an incredibly rewarding experience, and Keyes is here to make it as stress-free as possible. Our expert Realtors® are dedicated to simplifying the complex process and guiding you every step of the way.

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The buying process, from search to closing

Here’s what your journey home will look like:

  1. Timing your purchase

    Determining your financial and emotional readiness is a crucial first step in buying your first home.

  2. Hire a Realtor

    Not all Realtors® have access to the latest real estate technology or the expertise needed to guide you. A Keyes Realtor® brings both, ensuring you have the support you need to buy your home.

  3. Get pre-approved

    Getting pre-approved shows sellers how much you can likely afford and confirms you’re a serious buyer.

    Get your financing options

  4. Start your search 

    Your Keyes Realtor® has access to the newest listings and valuable insights, including connections that might help you find homes not yet on the market or about to be available again if an offer falls through.

  5. Find your home

    Amazing homes are out there waiting for you, and the right Realtor® will help you find them and guide you in making the best possible offer.

  6. Make an offer

    Your Keyes Realtor® will help you craft a smart, competitive offer that catches the seller’s eye. If your first offer isn’t accepted, don’t worry—your perfect home is still out there, and you’ll find it!

  7. Perform due diligence

    Due diligence includes inspections, title searches, and appraisals. Your Keyes Realtor® will guide you through the process to ensure you make the right choice. For more info, see our “Due Diligence” section below.

  8. Secure financing 

    There are various mortgage options based on your unique situation. Your Keyes Realtor® and mortgage partner will help you find the best fit. Explore the basic loan types here!

  9. Close the deal

    Keep your finances steady throughout the transaction process so that your mortgage approval comes through. Understand your escrow and closing costs, and make sure to safely send them to your title company.

  10. Protect your investment 

    Whether homeowners, flood, or other insurances and upkeep, make sure you take care of your home. When you do this, it will take care of you and provide value and security for years to come.

Your fresh start, starts here

What do you need to secure financing

Different lenders need different documents, depending on their lending criteria. Below is a list of what you will likely need available during the application process.

  • Pay stubs for each applicant reflecting a minimum of 30 days of income.
  • Names/addresses of employers during the previous two years.
  • W-2s for the previous two years.
  • One or two (or more) years of tax returns.
  • IRS Form 4506-T or 4506T-EZ
  • Two or three (or more) months of bank statements.

If you have other forms of income or are self-employed, you will need to provide proof of income. Your lender will also request information on outstanding debts like auto or student loans and credit cards. As they review your application, your lender will likely request other documents.

What's the difference?

Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval

Many lenders use these terms interchangeably, but what you provide for a pre-qualification and pre-approval may differ. Either way, it is important that you and your Realtor® position you to show sellers that you will be able to secure financing once you enter into a contract to buy their home.

Pre-qualification usually requires that you supply your income, assets, debts and credit score to a lender, but doesn’t require full documentation of your financial history. This means that they won’t check the full accuracy of what you report. Pre-approval requires this documentation to verify that what you report is correct. It will also often require a credit check and corresponding hard inquiry on your credit report.

Because of this, pre-approvals may be seen as a more definitive ability to get approved for a mortgage. If you report your financial history accurately, a pre-qualification will report the same or similar amount when it comes to the loan a lender will approve.

Either way, once you receive your pre-qualification or pre-approval it’s important to make sure you don’t do anything that will negatively affect you when it comes time to officially apply for financing.

Get Pre-Approved

FAQs

While these may not answer all of your questions, they’ll give you valuable insight to help you move forward. If you still have more, we’re here to help.

Contact an Agent

  • Your situation is unique. If you are seriously asking yourself this question, chances are, probably! To find out definitively, let’s discuss your situation and whether it’s time to start the homebuying process.

  • Requirements are determined by the mortgage lender and are typically 3 - 20% of the purchase price. However, there are specific loan options with up to 100% financing available.

  • Due to constant home appreciation, tax benefits and a true sense of personal satisfaction of owning something that is truly yours, buying a home is typically better than renting in the long term.

  • Mortgage interest and real estate taxes may generally be deductible on your annual taxes, subject to eligibility requirements and applicable tax laws. Please consult your tax advisor or accountant to determine your specific eligibility.

  • It takes time, effort, knowledge, and, of course, money to buy a home. However, it doesn’t have to be difficult. Using the right agent and having a clear view of the whole process truly helps. Breaking it all down into small parts such as being financially ready, deciding on the type of home and having a clear view of all timelines helps immensely, making the process rewarding and exciting at the same time.

  • Homeownership isn’t just about the traditional single-family purchase. Here are three alternative paths that can make buying your first home more affordable and financially strategic:

    Primary Multi-Family: Buy a multi-unit property with only 5% down, live in one unit, and rent out the others. The rental income can help offset your mortgage, making homeownership more affordable.

    Co-Buying: Partner with friends or family to buy a home together. You’ll split the down payment, mortgage, and maintenance costs—while also sharing in the home’s appreciation over time.

    Rentvesting: Purchase a home in a growing market and rent it out (short- or long-term) while you continue renting where you live. This strategy helps you build equity while keeping your living situation flexible.

    Our partner, Nestment, specializes in helping first-time buyers explore these options. Whether you're considering co-buying, house hacking, or rentvesting, Nestment provides the tools, resources, and expert guidance to make it happen.

What goes into due diligence?

Inspection

Once your offer is accepted by the seller, you will want to hire an inspection company to walk through the home. They will let you know more about the appliances, HVAC, roof, foundation, and more.

Title Search

In addition to holding down payment and other closing funds in escrow, your title company will complete records searches and other details to make sure no other parties can claim ownership, liens, or debts on the property.

Insurance

Your insurance provider will request the details of the inspection to quote your homeowner’s insurance policy details. If your property requires flood insurance, that will be included as well.

Appraisal

Your mortgage partner will have an appraiser review recent sales in the area to determine the value of the home they will use to approve the mortgage loan.

HOA Approval

Some subdivisions with a homeowners association require that you get HOA approval before closing on your home. Make sure you or your Realtor® connect with the association to find their requirements and restrictions early on in the process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Buying, selling, and moving across South Florida and Central Florida.

How much is my home worth in Boynton Beach?
Your home's value depends on its location, condition, size, recent upgrades, and what comparable homes nearby have recently sold for. Online estimates are a starting point, but they often miss local details. I'll prepare a free, no-obligation comparative market analysis (CMA) based on real Boynton Beach sales so you get an accurate number.
How do I sell my house fast in South Florida?
Pricing it correctly from day one, preparing it to show well, and marketing it where buyers are looking are the biggest factors in a quick sale. I'll help you set the right price, get professional photos and full listing exposure, and handle showings and offers so you can move on your timeline.
Can I sell my house as-is in Florida?
Yes. You can sell a home as-is and let buyers know you won't be making repairs. You'll still complete the standard Florida disclosures, and I'll help you weigh as-is offers against the cost of small improvements that could raise your final price.
When is the best time of year to sell a home in Florida?
South Florida has buyers year-round, including seasonal "snowbird" demand in the cooler months. The best time really depends on your local market, your home, and your own timeline. I can show you current conditions in your neighborhood so you can decide with real data.
How much does it cost to sell a house, and what about the agent commission?
Real estate commissions in Florida aren't set by law — they're negotiable and agreed in writing before your home goes on the market. Following the 2024 industry changes, agent compensation is discussed and documented up front, so there are no surprises. I'm glad to walk through the full cost picture, including typical closing costs, for your situation.
Can I buy and sell a home at the same time?
Yes, and many South Florida homeowners do. The key is coordinating the timing of your sale and purchase and understanding your options, such as a sale contingency or bridge financing. I'll help you map out a plan so you're not caught between two closings.
How do I get a free home valuation or CMA?
Just reach out and I'll prepare a free comparative market analysis using recent sales near you — no cost and no obligation. It's the most accurate way to understand what your home could sell for today.
How do I buy a home in Florida?
The usual path is: get pre-approved with a lender, decide on your must-haves and budget, tour homes, make an offer, complete inspections, and close. I'll guide you through each step and represent your interests from search to closing.
What should a first-time home buyer in Florida know?
Start by getting pre-approved so you know your budget, and plan for closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and (in Florida) potential HOA or flood insurance costs. As a first-time buyer you may also qualify for assistance programs. I'll make sure you understand each step before you commit.
Are there first-time home buyer programs in Florida?
Yes. Florida Housing offers programs such as down payment and closing-cost assistance, and federal loans like FHA and VA can lower your upfront costs. Eligibility depends on income, price, and loan type, and program availability can change — I can connect you with a trusted lender to see what you currently qualify for.
How much home can I afford?
It comes down to your income, monthly debts, down payment, and current interest rates — a lender can give you an exact figure with a pre-approval. I can connect you with local lenders and help you find homes that fit comfortably within your budget.
How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage?
You'll give a lender basic income, asset, and credit information, and they'll tell you how much you can borrow. Pre-approval makes your offers stronger in a competitive market. I work with local lenders and can introduce you to a few to compare.
I'm relocating to Florida from out of state — how does that work?
I help out-of-state buyers regularly. We can tour homes virtually, I can be your eyes on the ground for in-person showings and inspections, and I'll walk you through neighborhoods, commutes, and HOA details remotely. Many relocation clients close without needing to fly down repeatedly.
Can I buy a vacation home or investment property in Florida?
Absolutely. Whether it's a seasonal getaway or a rental investment, I can help you evaluate locations, rental rules, HOA restrictions, and the numbers that make a property worth it. South Florida has a wide range of options from condos to single-family homes.
Do you help with waterfront homes and condos?
Yes. South Florida has everything from oceanfront and intracoastal condos to canal-front and pool homes. These purchases come with extra considerations — insurance, HOA reserves, milestone inspections, and dock or water access — and I'll make sure you understand them before you buy.
Do you work with 55+ and active adult communities?
Yes. There are many 55-plus and active-adult communities across Palm Beach and Broward counties, each with its own amenities, fees, and rules. I'll help you compare them and find one that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Do you help with new construction homes?
Yes. With new construction it's important to have your own agent representing you — not just the builder's sales rep — to review contracts, upgrades, timelines, and pricing. I can represent you at no cost to you in most builder transactions.
How do I search current listings or the MLS?
You can search live listings right on my website, and I can set up a custom search that emails you new homes the moment they hit the market — often before the big portals update. Just let me know your criteria.
What areas do you serve?
I'm based in Boynton Beach and help buyers and sellers up Florida's southeast coast and into the Orlando metro. Communities I serve include:

Palm Beach County: Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Highland Beach, Ocean Ridge, Gulf Stream, Manalapan, Lantana, Hypoluxo, Atlantis, Palm Springs, Greenacres, Lake Worth Beach, Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, and Tequesta.

Broward County: Deerfield Beach, Hillsboro Beach, Lighthouse Point, Pompano Beach, Coconut Creek, Coral Springs, Parkland, Margate, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Oakland Park, Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Davie, Cooper City, Weston, Hollywood, Dania Beach, Hallandale Beach, Pembroke Pines, and Miramar.

Miami-Dade County: Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Bal Harbour, Surfside, North Miami Beach, North Miami, Miami Shores, Miami Beach, Miami, Brickell, Doral, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Kendall, Cutler Bay, Homestead, and Florida City.

Treasure Coast: Hobe Sound, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, and Sebastian.

Greater Orlando & Central Florida: Orlando, Winter Park, Maitland, Winter Garden, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Lake Nona, Ocoee, Apopka, Lake Mary, Sanford, Altamonte Springs, Casselberry, Winter Springs, Oviedo, Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Celebration, Poinciana, Clermont, Mount Dora, and Leesburg.

Don't see your community? Reach out — I likely cover it or can refer you to a trusted agent who does.
How do I schedule a showing or a consultation?
Reach out by phone, email, or the contact form on my site and we'll set up a time that works for you — in person or virtually. There's no cost or obligation to talk through your options.
Why work with you and The Keyes Company?
The Keyes Company is one of Florida's established independent brokerages, which gives my clients strong local market access and resources. My focus is on clear communication and looking out for your interests, whether you're buying or selling. Reach out and let's talk about your goals.
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