Florida home with palm trees and Smart-N-Loans branding; title text reads ‘5 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers in Florida—Learn about pre-approvals, loan programs, and more.

What First-Time Florida Homebuyers Should Know in 2025

June 01, 20252 min read

Buying your first home is a milestone worth celebrating—but in 2025, it comes with new rules, opportunities, and strategies. If you're a first-time homebuyer in Florida, here's what you need to know to set yourself up for success.

1. Mortgage Rates Are Still Elevated—But Stabilizing
In June 2025, 30-year fixed mortgage rates hover around 6.7%. While higher than pandemic-era lows, they’ve stabilized, offering predictability. Working with a licensed loan officer early can help you lock in the best rate and explore float-down options.

2. Florida Offers Down Payment Assistance (DPA)
First-time buyers may qualify for down payment and closing cost assistance. These programs are often income-based and location-specific. Ask about grants, forgivable loans, and DPA options tied to FHA or USDA loans.

3. Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified
A pre-approval letter shows sellers you're serious. It also gives you a true picture of what you can afford. Smart-N-Loans offers fast, fully digital pre-approvals to help you compete in Florida’s active housing market.

4. Understand the Loan Programs Available
Whether you're looking at FHA, Conventional, or Non-QM products, each comes with different credit and documentation requirements. We walk you through your best-fit program based on your financial goals.

5. Choose a Mortgage Partner Who Gets It
As a Florida mom of three and mortgage pro, I know what families need in a lender: clarity, speed, and honest communication. We’ll guide you step-by-step, so you feel informed and empowered every mile of your home journey.

📲 Ready to buy your first home in Florida?
Get pre-approved today!
📞 321‑321‑9455 | ✉️ [email protected] | 🌐 smart-n-loans.com


Fast. Simple. Smart Loans.
Kelly Nadeau, NMLS #1027618
Loan Officer | Empowered by NEXA Mortgage Smart‑N‑Loans
NEXA Mortgage, LLC | NMLS #1660690
Equal Housing Opportunity
Serving: Florida
🔍
https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/1660690

Not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Terms subject to change. Kelly Nadeau NMLS #1027618 is licensed in Florida. NEXA Mortgage LLC NMLS #1660690. Equal Housing Lender.


Kelly Nadeau

Kelly Nadeau is a dedicated Loan Officer and Florida mortgage expert, proudly empowered by NEXA Mortgage Smart‑N‑Loans. As a mom of three and business partner to her husband, Kelly brings heart, hustle, and high-level service to every client interaction. With access to 200+ lenders and programs—including FHA, VA, Conventional, JUMBO, DSCR, Bank Statement, and First-Time Buyer loans, she tailors each solution to fit real-life goals. Whether guiding a new homebuyer or helping a family refinance, Kelly blends education, empathy, and efficiency. When she’s not helping clients build generational wealth, you’ll find her at the beach with family, crocheting, cooking, or nurturing tropical fruit trees in the Florida sun. Her mission? Make home loans fast, simple, and smart—for every Florida family.

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