Broker Associate · CENTURY 21 CariotiCENTURY 21 Carioti
Central Florida Real Estate
Buying a Home with David Dorman
From our first conversation to your new front door, here’s what you can expect.
Buying a home should be exciting! I’ve helped Central Florida buyers and sellers since 1999, and I’ll personally guide you through the decisions, deadlines, and details—right up to the moment you get your keys.
First, Let’s Understand Your Finances
Knowledge is power
Before we tour homes, I encourage you to talk with a lender. Not because I’m checking whether you can afford a house, but because I want you to know what feels comfortable. Your budget includes more than a down payment: think closing costs, inspections, insurance and possibly an appraisal. You may qualify for $700,000 and still prefer a much lower monthly payment—and that’s perfectly fine. I work with several lenders, or you can choose your own. A preapproval or proof of funds also helps us act confidently when the right property appears.
Finding a Home You’ll Love
We search together
Now comes the fun part. We’ll discuss neighborhoods, layout, bedrooms, schools if relevant, commute and your must-haves. I’ll search the MLS, and I encourage you to send me homes you find on Zillow or Realtor.com. This is a partnership. When something catches your eye, we’ll tour it and review comparable sales before deciding whether the asking price makes sense.
Making an Offer
More than just a number
A strong offer covers the purchase price, financing, escrow deposit, inspection period, closing date and any request for seller concessions or a rate buydown. We’ll put it in writing so the terms are clear. A seller may accept, reject or counter, and sometimes there’s some back-and-forth. I’ll help you negotiate strategically without letting emotion take over. Once acceptance is properly signed and communicated, our contract deadlines begin.
Escrow and Important Dates
Protecting your deposit
Your escrow deposit is typically held by the designated escrow holder and credited toward your purchase at closing. It can be at risk if you miss contractual obligations or cancel without a valid right to do so. That’s why I pay close attention to deadlines, contingencies and the details that keep your purchase on track.
Inspections
Know what you’re buying
A home inspection is your opportunity to understand the roof, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical systems, structure and other major components. I believe we should account for visible cosmetic issues when making the original offer. If an inspection reveals something unexpected, we can discuss repairs, credits or other options. The seller may decline a request, and your right to cancel depends on the contract. I’ll help you weigh the facts before making a decision.
Appraisal and Property Value
When the numbers don’t match
If you’re getting a mortgage, your lender will generally order an independent appraisal. Suppose we agreed on $450,000 but the appraisal comes in at $440,000. We may ask for a price reduction, negotiate a compromise, explore a reconsideration of value or discuss bringing additional cash, depending on the contract and loan terms. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and we’ll talk through your options.
Financing, Insurance and Title
The work behind the scenes
Your lender may request updated documents while the title company prepares for closing and addresses title and survey requirements. You’ll also arrange homeowners insurance. One important rule: don’t open new credit accounts or finance a car or furniture without checking with your lender first. Financial changes can affect your loan approval—even after preapproval.
Walkthrough, Closing and Keys
Welcome home!
Shortly before closing, we’ll confirm the property’s condition and check that agreed-upon items remain. Your lender and closing agent will provide the final figures and payment instructions; always verify wire details directly using a trusted phone number. Depending on the transaction, you may sign in person, with a mobile notary or through permitted remote online notarization. I prefer earlier closing appointments, especially on Fridays, to allow time for funding. Once the transaction is closed and possession is due, we’ll arrange your keys. Welcome home!
You don’t have to figure it out alone. I’ll help you understand your options, negotiate on your behalf, track important dates, and stay involved from the first conversation to the final walkthrough.
☎ 407-948-8295 │ ✉ [email protected] │ ◉ www.DavidDorman.com
When you hire David Dorman you GET David Dorman.