Homebuyer Tips & Advice - Veltri Group of Brevard | Lew and Tina Ve...

Veltri Group of Brevard Homebuyer Blog

Expert Tips for Buying Your Home on Florida's Space Coast

When to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage—and Why It Matters for Homebuyers

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ve likely heard the term “pre-approval” thrown around by real estate agents, lenders, and even friends who’ve purchased homes. But what exactly does it mean to get pre-approved for a mortgage, and when should you do it? Why Pre-Approval Comes FirstThe truth is, the best time to get pre-approved is before you set foot in the first open house or scroll through a single listing. Obtaining a pre-approval isn’t just another step in the process—it’s the foundation on which you’ll build your home search. Here’s why: Know Your Budget Beforehand:Pre-approval gives you a clear understanding of what you can afford. It factors in your credit score, employment history, income, and other financial details. With a solid budget in mind, you can focus your search on homes that fit comfortably within your price range, saving you time and avoiding disappointment. Streamline Your Home Search:Instead of browsing every property in your dream neighborhood, pre-approval narrows down the options. By zeroing in on homes that align with your pre-approved loan amount, you can quickly eliminate unrealistic choices and spend more energy on serious contenders. Boost Your Credibility in a Competitive Market:In many areas, the housing market moves fast. Having a pre-approval letter in hand shows sellers you mean business. It demonstrates that you’re a serious buyer who has already taken steps to secure financing. When multiple offers hit the table, sellers often prioritize buyers who are pre-approved, giving you an edge in negotiations. Be Ready to Act Quickly:The perfect home might appear on the market when you least expect it. If you’re already pre-approved, you’ll be in a strong position to make an offer right away—no scrambling for paperwork or waiting for a lender’s response. This preparedness can make all the difference in a competitive bidding situation. Next StepsReady to dive deeper into the mortgage pre-approval process and other essential tips for making the most of your homebuying journey? Check out our comprehensive FAQs for Homebuyers to ensure you’re fully informed from the very start. By arming yourself with knowledge and planning ahead, you’ll set the stage for a smoother, more confident path to homeownership. Connect With Us! Lew & Tina Veltri — your sibling team at Veltri Group of Brevard, serving all of Florida’s Space Coast. We are dedicated to providing "Two Agents. Twice the Service. Local Expertise. Our family helping yours," ensuring every client receives personalized, expert service. Working together as one, we help navigate the complexities of buying and selling homes with ease and confidence. We’re ready to discuss your real estate needs or answer any questions. Reach out to us at: Phone: 321-341-6541 Email: veltri@veltrigroupofbrevard.com Visit Our Website: Veltri Group of Brevard For more, follow us on Facebook. Veltri Group of Brevard: Lew & Tina Veltri
How Much Home Can You Afford? Use Our Mortgage Calculator to Find Out

If you’re thinking about buying a home, one of the first questions on your mind is likely, “How much house can I afford?” Understanding your potential monthly payments is key to budgeting for a new home—and that’s where our Mortgage Calculator comes in! At the Veltri Group of Brevard, powered by LPT Realty, we’re dedicated to making your home-buying journey smooth and stress-free. Our free tool helps you estimate your mortgage costs so you can plan your purchase with confidence. Why You Should Use a Mortgage Calculator Before Buying a Home Estimate Your Monthly Mortgage PaymentKnowing your potential monthly payment is essential when deciding how much home you can comfortably afford. Our calculator factors in the home price, loan amount, interest rate, and more to provide you with an accurate estimate. Compare Loan ScenariosConsidering a 30-year mortgage versus a 15-year loan? Wondering how a larger down payment might reduce your monthly payments? Use the calculator to explore different loan options and find the best fit for your financial goals. Plan Your Budget More EffectivelyBy understanding your estimated monthly mortgage costs, you can plan for additional expenses like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance. Avoid Financial SurprisesUnexpected costs can derail your plans. Using a mortgage calculator helps you prepare for your financial commitment so you can focus on finding the perfect home. How to Use Our Mortgage Calculator Using our easy-to-use mortgage calculator is a simple process: Enter the home price of the property you’re considering. Input your anticipated down payment amount. Add the loan term (15 or 30 years) and interest rate. Get an instant estimate of your monthly mortgage payment! 💡 Pro Tip: Pair your results with a conversation with our team to explore your buying options. We’ll connect you with trusted local lenders who can help you navigate the financing process. Benefits of Planning Your Mortgage Early Understand affordability: Know exactly how much home you can afford before you start your search. Make confident offers: Be prepared to make competitive offers with a clear understanding of your financial limits. Save time and stress: Narrow your search to homes within your budget, saving you time and avoiding disappointment. FAQs About Using a Mortgage Calculator Do I need to know my credit score to use the calculator?While knowing your credit score can help refine your estimate, our calculator provides a great starting point without it. What other factors should I consider?Along with your monthly payment, plan for closing costs, property taxes, and homeowners insurance. Is the calculator accurate?Yes! Our calculator provides a reliable estimate based on the information you input. For the most accurate results, connect with a lender to pre-qualify. Start Planning Your Dream Home Today! Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading to your forever home, our Mortgage Calculator is the perfect tool to kickstart your journey. 👉 Try Our Mortgage Calculator Now! At the Veltri Group of Brevard, we specialize in helping homebuyers navigate the Space Coast real estate market. With over 20 years of experience and local expertise, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Two Agents. Twice the Service. Local Expertise. Let our family help yours find the perfect home. Contact us today to start your home-buying journey! Lew & Tina Veltri / 321-341-6541
Your Guide to the Homebuying Process: Step by Step with Veltri Group of Brevard

Welcome to the Veltri Group of Brevard's comprehensive guide to buying your dream home. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or experienced in real estate, we are here to make this process as seamless and informed as possible. Our family is ready to help yours, every step of the way. With two agents and twice the service, you'll benefit from local expertise right here on Florida's Space Coast. Step 1: Hire a Local Expert Before diving into the homebuying process, it’s essential to have the right team by your side. A local real estate expert can make all the difference, providing the guidance and knowledge you need to navigate the market confidently. At the Veltri Group of Brevard, we bring you: Local Expertise: As longtime residents of Florida’s Space Coast, we know the neighborhoods, schools, and amenities like the back of our hand. Personalized Service: With our sibling team approach, you’ll have two dedicated agents offering twice the support and care. Professional Experience: From pre-approval to closing, we guide you every step of the way, ensuring your journey is smooth and informed. Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for Your Mortgage The first step to buying a home is determining how much you can afford. A pre-approval letter from a reputable lender will help you understand your budget, including loan amount, interest rate, and estimated monthly payment. This document is also an essential signal to sellers that you're a serious buyer. Step 3: Find Your Perfect Home This is where the excitement begins! Our dedicated agents, Lew and Tina Veltri, will work with you to find a home that meets your needs and budget. We provide local insights into neighborhoods, amenities, and potential resale value. From scheduling showings to assisting with research, we're with you every step of the way. Explore homes for sale in Brevard County now. Step 4: Make an Offer Once you find the home you love, it's time to make an offer. We will help you craft a competitive offer that reflects the market, taking into account price, terms, and contingencies. Our negotiation expertise, with Lew's years of experience and Tina's personalized approach, ensures you're in the best position to succeed. Step 5: Submit Earnest Money to the Title Company Earnest money is a deposit that shows the seller you're serious about buying their property. We will guide you through the process of submitting this deposit to the title company to ensure everything is done smoothly. Step 6: Conduct a Home Inspection A home inspection is one of the most crucial parts of the homebuying journey. We recommend hiring a certified home inspector to ensure there are no surprises after you move in. Tina, our staging and visual expert, will also offer input on potential improvements. Step 7: Negotiate Repairs or Adjust Offer After reviewing the inspection report, there may be items that require further negotiation. The inspection objection and resolution period allows us to negotiate repairs or adjust the offer accordingly. With Lew's deep understanding of home inspections and Tina's strong communication skills, you will be well-represented during these discussions. Step 8: Appraisal Ordered by Lender To ensure the property value supports the purchase price, your lender will order an appraisal. If the appraisal comes back lower than the offer price, we have options, such as renegotiating or modifying the terms. We are committed to protecting your interests during this critical stage. Step 9: Clear to Close Once the appraisal and all other contingencies are met, your lender will give you the "clear to close." This means all conditions are satisfied, and we can move forward with closing preparations. Step 10: Attend the Closing This is the day you sign the paperwork and officially become a homeowner! The closing will take place at a title company, where we will be by your side to ensure everything is done properly. Learn more about what happens before closing and how long it takes to close on a home in Brevard County, Florida. Step 11: Sign, Receive Keys, and Celebrate After signing all necessary documents, you'll receive the keys to your new home! Congratulations — the Veltri Group of Brevard is thrilled to be part of this momentous milestone. The Veltri Difference: Personalized Homebuying Experience When you choose the Veltri Group of Brevard, you're not just getting two real estate agents — you're getting twice the local knowledge, twice the service, and twice the dedication to ensuring a successful and enjoyable homebuying journey. We are a sibling team who grew up right here on the Space Coast, and we're proud to use our expertise to help you call this beautiful area home. The Veltri Difference: Personalized Homebuying Experience When you choose to work with the Veltri Group of Brevard, you’re not just getting real estate agents — you’re getting a dedicated sibling team with unmatched local expertise and a deep commitment to helping you find the perfect home. With our personal touch and professional experience, we tailor every step of the buying process to suit your individual needs. Our Personalized Service We understand that every buyer is unique, with different needs, preferences, and timelines. That’s why we offer a personalized buying experience that is custom-fit to you. From our initial consultation to handing you the keys, we are here to serve you and guide you with care and dedication. Expertise You Can Trust Lew and Tina Veltri each bring their own strengths and specialties to the table. Lew is a seasoned real estate professional with decades of experience in negotiation and understanding market values. Tina’s background in visual display, staging, and customer communication ensures every client receives the highest level of service. Together, we cover all aspects of the buying journey, from finding your dream home to navigating inspections and contracts. Whether you’re looking for a cozy neighborhood home or a unique property on the Space Coast, we’ve got you covered. Local Insights and Data-Driven Strategy We leverage cutting-edge technology, market analysis, and our deep local knowledge to provide you with a competitive edge. From price analysis to neighborhood trends, our goal is to empower you with all the information you need to make the best decisions. We are not just agents — we’re your partners in finding the home that’s right for you. Full-Service Guidance From start to finish, the Veltri Group of Brevard is by your side. We handle every aspect of the process, ensuring a smooth journey to homeownership. With two agents working seamlessly together, you receive twice the expertise, twice the service, and a team that truly cares about your success. Contact us today to start your journey! Two Agents. Twice the Service. Local Expertise. Have more questions? Read through our FAQs for Homebuyers: Your Complete Guide to Buying a Home.
FAQs for Homebuyers: Your Complete Guide to Buying a Home

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and it’s natural to have a lot of questions. From understanding financing options to knowing what to look for in a property, the process can feel overwhelming—especially for first-time buyers. To help you navigate the journey, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions from homebuyers. Whether you’re just getting started or nearing the final steps, this FAQ guide is here to provide clarity, ease your concerns, and empower you to make confident decisions on your path to homeownership. Q: What factors determine a home's value, and why are they important for buyers and sellers? A: A home’s value is influenced by multiple factors, including its location, size, condition, features, and recent comparable sales in the area. Location is one of the strongest influences—homes in desirable neighborhoods or close to amenities, schools, and transportation tend to be valued higher. Other elements include the home’s size, layout, condition, and upgrades, such as a remodeled kitchen or outdoor living space. Additionally, recent sales of similar homes nearby, known as "comps," are used to assess a home's market value. Comps give buyers and sellers an idea of current market trends, helping buyers make fair offers and sellers price competitively. Q: When should I get pre-approved for a mortgage, and why is it important for homebuyers? A: The best time to get pre-approved for a mortgage is before you begin your home search. Pre-approval is essential for understanding your budget and narrowing down your options, helping you focus only on homes within your price range. Additionally, a pre-approval is often necessary to make a formal offer, ensuring you’re prepared to act quickly when you find the right property. In a competitive market, having a pre-approval shows sellers you’re a serious buyer, ready to make a purchase. Q: Should I go to my local bank for a mortgage, or are there other options to consider? A: While your local bank can be a convenient option, it’s often beneficial to explore a range of lenders, including local mortgage lenders who may offer more specialized programs. Local lenders are often more familiar with the specific needs of buyers in your area and may provide unique loan programs, better rates, or flexible terms to suit various financial situations. Comparing options from local banks, credit unions, and online lenders can help you find the best mortgage terms and save money over the life of the loan. Q: How much do I need to put down on a home, and what are my options? A: The amount required for a down payment depends on the type of loan and your financial goals. Many lenders offer conventional loan options with down payments as low as 3%, while FHA loans may require as little as 3.5%. VA and USDA loans even provide zero-down options for qualified buyers. Your lender will be able to guide you through the options available based on your financial profile and goals, helping you choose a down payment amount that works for your budget. A larger down payment can reduce your monthly payments, but lower down payment options make homeownership accessible for many buyers. Q: Is an earnest money deposit required when buying a home, and why is it important? A: Yes, in most cases, an earnest money deposit is required when buying a home. This deposit, typically 1-3% of the purchase price, shows the seller that you’re serious about your offer and committed to the transaction. Earnest money is placed in an escrow account and applied toward your down payment or closing costs if the sale goes through. If you back out of the deal for reasons outside of your contingencies, you may lose the deposit. An earnest money deposit strengthens your offer and helps you stand out in competitive markets. Q: Is a home inspection necessary when buying a house, and why is it important? A: Yes, a home inspection is highly recommended for anyone buying a house. A home inspection provides a detailed assessment of the property’s condition, uncovering any potential issues such as structural problems, electrical issues, plumbing concerns, or hidden damage. This information is essential for buyers and their agents for better informed decisions, negotiating repairs, or adjusting the offer if necessary. Skipping a home inspection can lead to unexpected repair costs and safety risks down the line, so it’s best to ensure a thorough inspection before finalizing your purchase. Q: What is a home appraisal, and why do I need one when buying a house? A: A home appraisal is a professional evaluation of a property’s market value, conducted by a licensed appraiser. Appraisals are usually required by lenders to ensure that the home’s value matches the loan amount, protecting both the buyer and the lender from overpaying. The appraiser assesses various factors, including the property’s location, condition, size, features, and recent comparable sales (or “comps”) in the area. A home appraisal is essential because it confirms that you’re paying a fair price for the property and that the lender isn’t financing more than the home is worth. If the appraisal comes in lower than the agreed purchase price, you may need to renegotiate the price or cover the difference out of pocket. Q: How much should I expect to pay in closing costs, and what do they include? A: Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price, though the exact amount can vary based on factors like location, loan type, and lender requirements. These costs cover a variety of fees associated with finalizing the home purchase, including appraisal fees, title insurance, loan origination fees, attorney fees, property taxes, and prepaid homeowner’s insurance. Lenders are required to provide a Loan Estimate, which breaks down these costs early in the process, so you have a clear understanding of your expenses. It’s essential to budget for closing costs in addition to your down payment, as they are due at the time of closing and can impact your overall out-of-pocket expenses. Q: When should I arrange for homeowners insurance, and is it required before closing? A: Homeowners insurance should be in place before your closing date, as most lenders require proof of insurance to finalize the loan. Ideally, you should start shopping for homeowners insurance once your offer is accepted to allow time for comparing coverage options and rates. Once you choose a policy, your insurance provider will issue a binder or proof of insurance, which you’ll need to provide to your lender before closing. Having this insurance ensures that your home is protected from the moment you officially own it, covering potential risks such as fire, theft, and liability. Q: What should I know about buying a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) property, and why is it important to work with Veltri Group of Brevard - Lew and Tina Veltri? A: If you're considering purchasing a "For Sale By Owner" (FSBO) property in Brevard County, it’s crucial to involve Veltri Group of Brevard - Lew and Tina Veltri before contacting the seller directly. By allowing us to reach out to the FSBO seller on your behalf, we can officially represent you in the transaction. This ensures that you’ll have professional guidance through each step, including negotiations, paperwork, inspections, and closing. If you contact the seller independently, we may not be able to fully represent you, which could leave you without expert assistance. Working with Veltri Group of Brevard means having experienced real estate professionals advocating for you, making the FSBO buying process smoother, safer, and more straightforward. Should I Consider a New Construction Home, and Why Work with Veltri Group of Brevard? If you're considering a new construction home in Brevard County, it’s essential to involve Veltri Group of Brevard - Lew and Tina Veltri before visiting the builder's sales office. Many buyers aren’t aware that the builder’s sales representatives work exclusively for the builder, not the buyer. By contacting us first, you ensure that you have dedicated representation throughout the entire process—from negotiations and contract review to inspections and final walkthroughs. Visiting the builder alone means you’ll be unrepresented, leaving you without an advocate to protect your interests. With Veltri Group of Brevard on your side, you have experienced real estate professionals ensuring that your needs and rights are prioritized in every step of the new construction purchase. Q: When is the right time to start working with a Realtor, and what are the benefits of working with Veltri Group of Brevard - Lew and Tina Veltri? A: It’s never too early to start working with a Realtor when considering buying or selling a home in Brevard County. Connecting with Veltri Group of Brevard - Lew and Tina Veltri from the beginning gives you a distinct advantage. Early guidance ensures you’re fully informed about the market, financing options, and steps in the buying or selling process. Starting with us also means you’ll be prepared to act quickly when the right opportunity arises, especially in a competitive market. Waiting to involve a Realtor may result in missed opportunities, or potential missteps, as our professional expertise ensures each decision is strategically made with your best interests in mind. Working with Veltri Group of Brevard from day one provides you with trusted representation, expert advice, and the confidence to move forward effectively in your real estate journey. Ready to start Your Homebuying journey? Let's talk. At Veltri Group of Brevard, we’re here to answer all your questions and find your perfect dream home. Contact us for a FREE home-buying consultation, and let’s create a custom strategy that works for you. Lew and Tina Veltri - Veltri Group of Brevard - LPT Realty Your Space Coast Sibling TeamTwo Agents. Twice the Service. Local Expertise. 📞 321-341-6541📧 veltri@veltrigroupbrevard.com🌐 veltrigroupofbrevard.com Visit our Homebuyer Blog Your Guide to the Homebuying Process: Step by Step with Veltri Group of Brevard
First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide: Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Buy

Navigating the real estate market for the first time can be exciting yet challenging, and timing is essential for finding the best opportunities. Many people overlook fall, but for first-time homebuyers, it’s a season filled with unique advantages. Here’s why fall is an ideal time to buy your first home and tips to help make your journey with the Veltri Group of Brevard as smooth as possible. 1. Less Competition for Listings Real estate heats up in spring and summer, with many families aiming to settle before the new school year. By fall, the rush slows down, giving first-time homebuyers a chance to explore options without pressure. With fewer buyers, bidding wars are less common, allowing you more time to evaluate homes and consider your decisions carefully. Pro Tip: Schedule multiple showings and use the quieter market to thoroughly research homes that fit your budget and lifestyle. 2. Potential for Lower Home Prices Prices often peak in summer when demand is high, but by fall, many sellers are motivated to lower prices. Homes lingering on the market may be reduced, creating opportunities for first-time buyers to negotiate and save. Pro Tip: Watch for price reductions and work with us to negotiate the best deal, potentially including closing cost assistance or requested repairs. 3. Take Advantage of Year-End Tax Benefits Purchasing a home before year-end may make you eligible for tax deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes, and other costs, helping to offset initial expenses. Pro Tip: Consult with a tax advisor to understand how buying in fall could positively impact your finances. 4. Mild Weather Makes Moving Easier Autumn’s cooler temperatures mean more comfortable moving conditions compared to summer’s heat or winter’s potential rain. This weather can simplify your moving experience, reducing stress and logistical complications. Pro Tip: Plan your move in early fall to enjoy the best weather for a stress-free relocation. 5. A Streamlined Closing Process A less crowded real estate market often means shorter wait times for inspections, appraisals, and closings. Fall buyers may benefit from a smoother, quicker process—ideal for first-time buyers hoping for a fast transition. Pro Tip: Stay in close contact with our team to complete paperwork efficiently and move into your new home as quickly as possible. 6. Better Negotiation Opportunities Sellers with homes still on the market by fall may be more inclined to negotiate. Whether it’s a price reduction, repair requests, or added perks like appliances, fall offers a chance to secure a favorable deal. Pro Tip: Work with us to create a competitive offer that reflects your priorities, from price negotiations to requested additions. 7. Seasonal Discounts on Home Essentials As you settle into your new home, fall offers excellent deals on furniture, appliances, and décor. Retailers often reduce prices to make room for incoming models, helping you furnish affordably. Pro Tip: Take advantage of these seasonal discounts to make your new space feel like home without overspending. 8. Fall Curb Appeal Fall’s vibrant colors can make homes look especially appealing. This seasonal charm can help you envision how your potential new home could look throughout the year, especially with seasonal curb appeal. Pro Tip: Pay attention to landscaping and exterior details during fall to assess the property’s year-round potential. Final Thoughts: Why First-Time Homebuyers Should Buy in the Fall Fall presents several key advantages for first-time homebuyers in Brevard County. From fewer competing buyers and potential price reductions to shorter closing times and unique tax benefits, autumn offers a golden opportunity to make your homeownership dreams a reality. If you’re ready to take the next step, the Veltri Group of Brevard is here to guide you. With local expertise, two agents for dedicated service, and a personal approach to real estate, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect first home. Check out our FAQs for Homebuyers Blog. veltri@veltrigroupofbrevard.com https://veltrigroupofbrevard.com
Mortgage Rate Trends: What Homebuyers Can Expect This Fall

Today Freddie Mac released its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® As we transition into the fall, potential homebuyers are closely watching the mortgage rate trends. Despite recent fluctuations, there's a positive outlook on the horizon for those looking to enter the housing market. Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist, provides a detailed analysis of the current mortgage landscape: “The decline in mortgage rates has stalled due to a mix of escalating geopolitical tensions and a rebound in short-term rates that indicate the market’s enthusiasm on rate cuts was premature,” says Khater. “Zooming out to the bigger picture, mortgage rates have declined one and a half percentage points over the last 12 months, home price growth is slowing, inventory is increasing, and incomes continue to rise. As a result, the backdrop for homebuyers this fall is improving and should continue through the rest of the year.” This overview gives us a clear snapshot of what has been happening with mortgage rates over the past year and what we might expect in the months to come. The significant decline in rates combined with slowing home price growth and rising inventories create a more favorable environment for buyers. Additionally, the steady rise in incomes helps bolster purchasing power at a crucial time. For those considering buying a home, this fall could present a unique opportunity. The combination of more available homes and better financial conditions could make this the perfect time to find a dream home. Sign up NOW and receive all the benefits: 1. Full access to up-to-date and accurate MLS listing information in real-time. 2. Save the searches you perform or save your favorite listings so you can be emailed when new listings or price changes hit the market. 3. Stay up-to-date on current market trends with our monthly newsletter and blogs and get expert advice when you need it.

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