Frequently Asked Questions

 

---

1. Are you a licensed REALTOR® in Florida?

Yes. I am a licensed REALTOR® with CENTURY 21 Carioti, proudly serving buyers, sellers, and investors throughout Central Florida.

⸻

2. What areas do you serve?

I assist clients throughout:

• Orlando
• Winter Park
• Oviedo
• Lake Nona
• Winter Springs
• Sanford
• Kissimmee
• Davenport
• Clermont
• Surrounding Central Florida communities

⸻

3. Do you help first-time homebuyers?

Absolutely. I guide first-time buyers step-by-step through financing, home search, negotiations, inspections, and closing.

⸻

4. What is a Buyer Strategy Consultation?

A Buyer Strategy Consultation is a one-on-one planning session where we discuss:

• Budget
• Financing
• Timeline
• Preferred areas
• Market conditions
• Home goals
• Next steps

This creates clarity and confidence before beginning the home search.

⸻

5. What is a Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA)?

A Buyer Broker Agreement is a professional agreement that outlines how your REALTOR® represents and advocates for you throughout the home-buying process.

It establishes clear expectations, communication, agency representation, and compensation transparency.

⸻

6. Why do buyers sign a Buyer Broker Agreement?

The agreement helps ensure:

• Dedicated representation
• Confidential guidance
• Strategic negotiations
• Consistent communication
• Professional advocacy throughout the transaction

⸻

7. Does signing a Buyer Broker Agreement cost me money upfront?

No. Signing the agreement does not automatically require upfront payment.

Compensation details are discussed clearly and transparently before moving forward with any transaction.

⸻

8. Do I need to sign a Buyer Representation Agreement before touring homes?

Yes. Under current NAR and brokerage compliance requirements, buyer agreements must be signed before home tours or showings are provided.

These agreements help clearly outline:

• Representation
• Compensation disclosures
• Expectations
• Services provided throughout the transaction

I take time to properly explain every agreement so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.

⸻

9. What types of buyer agreements are available?

Depending on the situation, different agreements may be used, including:

• Showing Agreements — for limited or single-property showings
• Non-Exclusive Buyer Agreements — allowing more flexibility
• Exclusive Buyer Agreements — creating a dedicated working relationship and stronger representation structure

I’ll help guide you through the option that best fits your goals and comfort level.

⸻

10. How is REALTOR® compensation handled today?

Compensation and fees must now be clearly disclosed in writing before touring homes.

In many cases, seller concessions, builder incentives, negotiated terms, or creative financing strategies may help structure the overall transaction.

Every situation is unique, and I work to help buyers understand their options clearly before moving forward.

⸻

11. What is creative financing?

Creative financing refers to alternative strategies that may help buyers structure a purchase more effectively depending on their goals and qualifications.

Examples can include:

• Seller concessions
• Rate buydowns
• Builder incentives
• Down payment assistance programs
• Adjustable financing structures
• Specialized loan products

These options vary by property, lender, and buyer qualifications.

⸻

12. What if I’m not ready to buy yet?

That’s perfectly okay. Many clients begin by gathering information, reviewing financing options, and creating a long-term plan before actively entering the market.

⸻

13. Can you help me explore financing options?

Yes. I can connect you with trusted lending professionals who can help explore:

• Conventional loans
• FHA loans
• VA loans
• Down payment assistance programs
• New construction incentives
• Creative financing options when available

Every buyer’s situation is unique, and the goal is to help you understand the options that best align with your goals and financial position.

⸻

14. What if my credit is not perfect?

You may still have options. Many buyers are surprised to learn they may qualify sooner than expected after reviewing their full financial picture with a lender.

⸻

15. Do I need 20% down to buy a home?

No. Many loan programs allow qualified buyers to purchase with significantly lower down payments.

⸻

16. How much are closing costs?

Closing costs vary depending on:

• Purchase price
• Loan type
• Taxes
• Insurance
• Negotiated seller contributions

I help buyers understand estimated costs before moving forward.

⸻

17. Can sellers help with closing costs?

Yes. Depending on the market and negotiations, seller concessions or builder incentives may help reduce upfront expenses.

⸻

18. Is now a good time to buy?

Every situation is unique. The best time to buy depends on your goals, financial readiness, and long-term plans — not just headlines or market trends.

⸻

19. What if interest rates go down later?

Many buyers choose to refinance in the future if rates improve. Waiting may also mean facing increased competition or higher home prices later.

⸻

20. Why should I use a REALTOR® instead of contacting the listing agent directly?

The listing agent represents the seller’s interests. Having your own representation gives you an advocate focused on protecting your goals, negotiating strategically, and guiding you throughout the process.

⸻

21. Is renting always cheaper than owning?

Not always. While renting may offer short-term flexibility, homeownership can create long-term benefits through equity, appreciation, stability, and potential tax advantages.

Every situation is different, which is why reviewing your personal goals, timeline, and financial position matters before deciding.

⸻

22. Is buying a home only about the transaction?

No. Real estate is often connected to lifestyle, legacy, stability, wealth-building, and long-term opportunity.

A home purchase is more than a contract—it’s a strategic life decision that can impact your future financially and personally for years to come.

⸻

23. Am I living in the right home for this season of my life?

That’s an important question many homeowners eventually ask themselves.

Sometimes a home still fits perfectly. Other times, changing needs, family dynamics, finances, lifestyle goals, or investment opportunities create the need for a different strategy.

Whether upgrading, downsizing, relocating, or simply exploring options, clarity begins with understanding what aligns best with your current goals.

⸻

24. Do you work with new construction homes?

Yes. I help clients navigate:

• Builder contracts
• Incentives
• Lot selection
• Upgrade considerations
• Financing options

Professional representation remains valuable even when purchasing new construction.

⸻

25. Can you help investors?

Yes. I assist investors seeking:

• Rental properties
• Long-term appreciation
• Relocation investments
• New construction opportunities
• Portfolio growth strategies

⸻

26. What if I’m relocating to Florida?

I help relocation buyers understand:

• Areas and communities
• Lifestyle goals
• Commute considerations
• School zones
• Market conditions
• Virtual showing options

⸻

27. Do you help sellers prepare their homes for the market?

Yes. I provide guidance on:

• Pricing strategy
• Home presentation
• Marketing exposure
• Negotiation strategy
• Contract-to-close coordination

⸻

28. How long does it take to buy or sell a home?

Every transaction is different depending on financing, inspections, negotiations, inventory, and market conditions.

⸻

29. What makes your approach different?

My approach focuses on education, strategy, communication, and relationship-building — helping clients move with confidence rather than pressure.

⸻

30. How do I get started?

Buyer Intake Form

https://us.bigin.online/org910980698/forms/buyer-intake-form

Seller Intake Form

https://us.bigin.online/org910980698/forms/seller--intake-form

Schedule a Buyer Strategy Consultation

https://us.bigin.online/org910980698/bookings/aleluyahomes-buyer-strategy-consultation

---

Lisa Martinez | REALTOR®
CENTURY 21 Carioti

📍 Central Florida
📞 407-668-0324
💌 lisa@aleluyahomes.com

“In All Realty, Aleluya.”