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Buyer guide · Updated October 2026
Florida first-time home buyer guide: every way to save in 2026
Buying your first Florida home? Here's the step-by-step path, the programs that help with down payment and closing costs, and how a home buyer rebate puts thousands back in your pocket.
First home example
$5,250
back at closing
Example only. Commissions are negotiable and vary by transaction. Your rebate is 50% of the compensation actually received, confirmed in writing.
Start my first-home rebate
Reviewed by Bryan Berns, Florida real estate broker (License BK3659524), licensed since 2011 · Updated October 2026Your first-home roadmap
1. Check your budget
Look at payment, insurance, HOA and CDD fees, not just the price.
2. Get pre-approved
Know your loan type and whether you qualify for assistance. Get pre-approved.
3. Choose a rebate agent
Sign a buyer agreement with your 50% rebate in writing.
4. Shop resale or new construction
Register your agent before any builder visit.
5. Inspect and appraise
Protect yourself before your deadlines pass.
6. Close and get your rebate
Your rebate is credited on the settlement statement.
Stack your savings: assistance plus a rebate
Florida first-time buyers may qualify for state and local down payment assistance. A home buyer rebate is separate. It comes from your agent's commission, so you can often use both, subject to your lender's rules.
Example: on a $350,000 home with a 3% commission, your rebate is $5,250. Combined with assistance, your cash to close can drop significantly. See Florida assistance programs.
First-time buyer mistakes to avoid
Walking into a model home alone
You may lose the right to your own agent, and your rebate.
Ignoring insurance costs
Get quotes before you're under contract.
Skipping the inspection
Even new homes deserve independent inspections.
Forgetting HOA and CDD fees
They change your monthly payment.
Ready to see your rebate?
A licensed Firelight Realty Group agent replies the same day with your estimate.
First-time home buyer guide FAQ
What counts as a first-time buyer?
Many programs define it as not having owned a home in the past three years. Veterans may be exempt from that rule in some programs.
Can first-time buyers get a rebate?
Yes. Any buyer can get a rebate in Florida when it's disclosed to all parties and approved by the lender.
How much do I need to buy my first home?
It depends on the loan. FHA requires at least 3.5% down, some conventional loans 3%, and VA and USDA may require nothing down. Closing costs are extra.
Buying your first home? Start here
Tell us your budget and timeline. A licensed agent will help with the whole process, plus your rebate.
Faster: call or text
(407) 357-0357