Frequently Asked Questions
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Questions for Buyers:
1. Get Pre-Approved
The first step is securing your financing. We connect you with trusted local lenders who will help determine your budget and provide a pre-approval letter—an essential document that shows sellers you’re serious and ready to buy.
2. Work with Angela Rodriguez, Your Real Estate Partner
With over a decade of experience, Angela Rodriguez leads Dream Finders Realty Group with unmatched professionalism and deep knowledge of the Central Florida market. From your first tour to closing day, you’ll be guided by a REALTOR® who truly understands your needs.
📞 Call Angela today at +1 (407) 873‑8379 to begin your journey with a top-performing team.
3. Sign the Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA)
As of August 2024, buyers are required to sign a Buyer Broker Agreement before touring homes with a licensed agent. This agreement ensures full transparency about how your REALTOR® is compensated and outlines the services you’ll receive—without locking you into any exclusive commitment unless you choose it. At Dream Finders, we believe in informed, empowered buyers.
4. Search for Homes with Local Expertise
We’ll help you explore the best neighborhoods in Central Florida—whether you’re looking for family-friendly suburbs, luxury estates, or hidden gems. You’ll get curated options that match your goals and lifestyle.
5. Make a Competitive Offer
Angela and her team will use market data and negotiation expertise to present a strong offer that protects your interests and gets you the best value.
6. Home Inspection & Appraisal
We guide you through this vital stage to ensure the property is in top condition and fairly priced. Our network of trusted professionals makes this process smooth and reliable.
7. Close & Celebrate
Once your offer is accepted and all conditions are met, it’s time to sign and receive your keys! Dream Finders Realty ensures your closing process is efficient, accurate, and exciting.
As of August 2024, due to changes from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) settlement, all homebuyers must sign a Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA) before touring homes with a licensed REALTOR®.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, we use the BBA to ensure transparency and trust from the very beginning. This agreement clearly outlines:
The services your agent will provide
How your agent is compensated
Your rights as a buyer
Signing a BBA does not lock you into an exclusive contract unless you choose to make it exclusive. It simply protects both you and your agent by defining expectations and confirming that your REALTOR® is working in your best interest.
Angela Rodriguez and her team are committed to making this process simple, clear, and stress-free—so you feel confident every step of the way.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, we strongly recommend getting pre-approved before beginning your home search—and here’s why it makes all the difference:
1. Shows You’re a Serious Buyer
Pre-approval proves to sellers that you’re financially prepared and ready to make a move. It shows that a lender has already reviewed your financials and confirmed your borrowing capacity—giving your offer immediate credibility.
2. Helps You Know Your Budget
No more guessing. Pre-approval gives you a clear picture of how much home you can afford, so you can focus your search within a realistic price range and avoid falling in love with properties outside your financial comfort zone.
3. Strengthens Your Offer
In a competitive market like Central Florida, pre-approved buyers have the upper hand. Sellers are far more likely to accept an offer from someone who already has financing secured, reducing the risk of delays or fall-throughs.
4. Speeds Up the Process
Since your financials have already been reviewed, the final loan approval happens faster once your offer is accepted. This can make the entire closing process smoother and help you get the keys to your new home sooner.
5. Required by Many Sellers
Especially in competitive neighborhoods, sellers may only consider offers from pre-approved buyers. Being prepared ensures you don’t miss out on your dream home.
6. Helps You Spot Financial Issues Early
If there are any concerns with your credit or income, they’ll surface during pre-approval—giving you time to resolve them before making offers.
Pre-approval gives you confidence, clarity, and a powerful edge in today’s real estate market. It’s the first smart step toward owning a home in Central Florida.
No —there’s no age limit when it comes to owning a piece of Central Florida!
As long as you’re 18 or older and legally able to sign a contract, you can buy a home—whether you’re just starting out, building your future, or investing in your dream retirement property.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez and her team proudly help clients at every life stage make confident, informed decisions. Whether it’s your first home or your forever home, we’re here to guide you with clarity, care, and market expertise.
📞 Ready to take the next step? Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and let’s start planning your move.
The real estate market is always evolving—but for many, now is a smart time to buy in Central Florida. With property values continuing to rise and strong demand across Orlando, Winter Garden, Windermere , Dr. Phillips, and surrounding areas, purchasing a home today could mean building equity faster than ever.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez provides up-to-date market insights tailored to your goals, whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading your space, or making a long-term investment.
Let’s talk. Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 for a free, no-obligation market review.
It depends on your goals, budget, and timeline.
Buying a new home often means less maintenance, modern features, and a faster move-in process—ideal if you want convenience and predictability. On the other hand, remodeling can let you personalize a home to your taste, but may involve hidden costs, delays, or structural surprises.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez will walk you through both options based on your financial plan and lifestyle needs, so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Not sure which route is right for you?
Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and let’s find the path that works best for you.
On average, buying a home takes between 30 to 60 days from the moment your offer is accepted to the day you close and receive the keys. However, the full timeline can vary depending on several factors—including financing, inspections, and the seller’s timeline.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez and her team work closely with trusted lenders, inspectors, and title companies to keep the process moving smoothly and efficiently. From first showing to final signature, we’re committed to making sure every step is clear, timely, and stress-free.
Whether you’re buying in Orlando, Winter Garden, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Bella Colina/ Mt. verde, Clermont, or anywhere across Central Florida, we’ll help you stay on track—and get into your new home as quickly as possible.
The answer depends on your goals, budget, and timeline.
Building a home gives you full control over layout, finishes, and features—but it can take longer, may involve unexpected costs, and often requires more upfront planning.
Buying an existing home, on the other hand, is usually faster, less complex, and more affordable upfront, especially in the competitive Central Florida market where well-priced homes move quickly.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez helps you evaluate both paths—based on your financial comfort, location preferences, and lifestyle needs—so you can make the right move with confidence.
📞 Still unsure which route is best? Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and we’ll guide you through the pros and cons to help you make the smartest decision.
Buying a second home—whether it’s a vacation getaway or an investment property—requires a slightly different approach than your first purchase. At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez specializes in helping clients navigate this exciting next step with clarity and confidence.
1. Review Your Financial Readiness
Lenders often require higher credit scores, a larger down payment, and may apply stricter debt-to-income ratios for second-home purchases. Understanding your financial profile is key to choosing the right property and mortgage product.
2. Get Pre-Approved
Before touring homes, it’s essential to get pre-approved. This gives you a clear idea of what you can afford and shows sellers that you’re financially prepared to make a serious offer.
3. Partner with a Local Expert
Angela Rodriguez knows Central Florida’s most desirable communities—whether you’re eyeing a lakeside retreat, a home near theme parks, or a property to generate rental income. As a top-producing REALTOR® with over a decade of experience, she’ll help you find the perfect second home with long-term value.
📞 Ready to begin? Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and let’s discuss the smartest strategy for your second-home goals.
Yes, you can—but it must be done the right way.
If you have a self-directed IRA (SDIRA), you can legally invest in real estate, including rental properties, land, or even vacation homes. This strategy allows your investment to grow within a tax-advantaged account.
However, there are important IRS rules and restrictions to follow—such as not using the property for personal benefit and ensuring all income and expenses flow through the IRA.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez works closely with financial professionals to help clients explore this powerful wealth-building option safely and strategically.
📞 Want to see if this approach is right for you? Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and let’s discuss your goals.
Buying a home is more than just choosing what looks good—it’s about making a smart, long-term decision. Here’s what to focus on during your search:
1. Location, Location, Location
The neighborhood you choose affects not only your lifestyle, but also your future resale value. Consider proximity to schools, shopping, highways, and community vibe.
2. Condition of the Home
Always schedule a professional inspection. Look beyond aesthetics to check for structural issues, roofing, plumbing, electrical systems, and overall maintenance.
3. Resale Potential
Even if you’re planning to stay long-term, think ahead. Homes in growth areas, with strong school zones or unique features, tend to appreciate faster and sell easier.
4. Work With a Trusted REALTOR®
Angela Rodriguez brings over a decade of experience helping buyers throughout Central Florida find homes that meet both their needs and financial goals. She’ll guide you with honesty, precision, and deep local insight.
📞 Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and let us help you find the perfect match.
Most conventional lenders require a credit score of 620 or higher to qualify for a home loan. However, depending on the loan type, there may be options available for buyers with lower credit scores—especially through FHA or VA programs.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez partners with trusted local lenders who can evaluate your credit profile and help you explore the best financing solutions based on your situation.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or returning to the market, knowing your score is just the beginning. We’ll help you understand what programs you qualify for and how to strengthen your credit, if needed.
📞 Call us today at +1 (407) 873‑8379 to connect with our network of mortgage professionals and take the first step toward homeownership.
If you’re financially ready and planning to stay in one place for the next few years, buying a home can be one of the smartest decisions you make.
Homeownership offers long-term benefits like building equity, tax advantages, and the freedom to personalize your space. In Central Florida’s growing market, it can also be a powerful investment in your future.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez helps buyers assess their goals, finances, and timing to determine whether now is the right moment to make a move.
📞 Curious if buying makes sense for you?
Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 for honest, expert advice tailored to your situation.
It depends on your lifestyle, finances, and future plans.
Renting may offer flexibility with fewer upfront costs—ideal if you’re planning a short stay or exploring a new area. But buying a home can provide long-term stability, equity growth, and the freedom to truly make a space your own.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez helps you weigh the pros and cons of both paths based on your unique situation. Whether you’re navigating your first move or deciding if it’s time to settle down, we’ll give you the clarity you need to make the smartest choice.
📞 Ready to explore your options?
Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 for personalized, no-obligation guidance.
The price range you qualify for depends on a few key factors, including your income, credit score, existing debt, and the loan program you choose. Lenders typically look at your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to determine what monthly payment you can afford.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, we work closely with trusted local lenders who will guide you through the pre-approval process and help you understand exactly how much home fits comfortably within your budget—without overextending yourself.
📞 Ready to run the numbers?
Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379, and we’ll connect you with a preferred lender offering competitive rates and expert advice.
Buying a home involves more than just the purchase price. To avoid surprises, it’s important to understand the full financial picture. Here’s a breakdown of common costs:
1. Closing Costs
These typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price, and include title fees, attorney fees, lender charges, and escrow deposits.
2. Home Inspection Fees
A licensed inspector will evaluate the condition of the property. While optional, this is a highly recommended step to avoid costly surprises later.
3. Appraisal Fees
Your lender will require a professional appraisal to confirm the home’s value. This typically costs between $300–$600.
4. Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
If your down payment is less than 20%, your lender may require PMI to protect their investment. This adds a monthly fee to your mortgage payment.
5. Prepaid Costs
These may include property taxes, homeowners insurance, and interest accrued before your first mortgage payment.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez will walk you through every step of the process—so you can plan with clarity and confidence.
📞 Have questions about homebuying costs? Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 for expert guidance.
The right offer depends on several key factors, including:
Current market conditions (Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market?)
How long the home has been listed
Comparable sales (similar properties in the same area)
Property condition and upgrades
Your budget and timeline
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez will perform a comprehensive market analysis to help you submit a competitive yet realistic offer—one that protects your interests while increasing your chances of acceptance.
📞 Need expert guidance before making an offer?
Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and we’ll walk you through the strategy step-by-step.
Contingencies are built-in protections that give you the right to walk away from a contract under certain conditions—without losing your deposit. Including the right ones is essential to safeguarding your investment.
Here are the most common contingencies buyers should consider:
1. Home Inspection Contingency
Allows you to hire a licensed inspector to evaluate the condition of the property. If major issues are found, you can renegotiate, request repairs, or cancel the contract.
2. Appraisal Contingency
Required by most lenders, this ensures the home is valued at or above the agreed purchase price. If the appraisal comes in low, you may be able to renegotiate or back out.
3. Financing Contingency
Protects you in case your mortgage approval falls through. It gives you time to secure financing and ensures you aren’t locked into the deal without a loan.
4. Sale of Current Home (Optional)
If you’re buying a new home while selling your current one, this contingency allows the purchase to proceed only if your existing home sells within a certain timeframe.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez will guide you through the offer process and help you choose the right contingencies to keep your deal—and your investment—secure.
📞 Have questions about contingencies? Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 for expert guidance.
Knowing whether a home is a smart investment goes beyond price—it’s about long-term value, growth potential, and location strategy.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez provides a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) that evaluates:
Recent sales of similar properties in the area
Neighborhood trends, including school ratings, safety, and walkability
Future developments and planned infrastructure that could increase property value
Rental potential or resale strength, depending on your investment goals
Whether you’re buying your first home, a vacation property, or an income-generating asset, Angela will help you analyze the numbers and local data to ensure you’re making a sound financial decision.
📞 Ready to review investment-worthy properties in Central Florida?
Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 for personalized insights.
Getting pre-approved is a smart first step in the homebuying process. It shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and helps you understand exactly what you can afford.
Here’s how to get pre-approved:
1. Check Your Credit Score
Make sure your credit is in good standing. Most lenders require a score of 620 or higher, but some programs accept lower scores.
2. Gather Key Documents
You’ll need proof of income (W-2s, pay stubs), bank statements, tax returns, employment verification, and a valid photo ID.
3. Choose a Trusted Lender
We recommend working with one of Angela Rodriguez’s preferred lenders, who offer competitive rates and personalized service in the Central Florida market.
4. Submit Your Application
Complete the lender’s pre-approval form and upload your supporting documents.
5. Undergo a Credit Check
The lender will pull your credit report to verify eligibility and determine your loan terms.
6. Receive Your Pre-Approval Letter
If approved, you’ll receive a letter stating the loan amount you qualify for. This can be used to strengthen your offer when making an offer on a home.
At Dream Finders Realty Group, we’ll walk you through each step and connect you with professionals we trust—so you can shop with confidence and clarity.
📞 Ready to start? Call us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 and we’ll connect you with the right lender.
Questions for Sellers:
Real estate agents are legally required to provide full transparency throughout the home buying or selling process. In Florida, this includes:
1. Material Defects
Agents must disclose any known material defects that could affect the value, safety, or desirability of the property—such as roof damage, foundation issues, plumbing problems, or previous flooding.
2. Agency Relationships
If the agent represents both parties in a transaction (buyer and seller), or has a personal or financial relationship with either side, this must be disclosed in writing. At Dream Finders Realty Group, Angela Rodriguez is committed to maintaining full honesty and ethical representation at all times.
3. Other Required Disclosures
Depending on the situation, additional disclosures may be required regarding:
Lead-based paint (for homes built before 1978)
Environmental hazards
Homeowners association (HOA) restrictions or fees
Previous insurance claims or open permits
Angela Rodriguez ensures every client is fully informed before signing any contract—because transparency builds trust, and your protection is her top priority.
📞 Have questions about disclosures? Contact us at +1 (407) 873‑8379 for expert real estate guidance in Central Florida.
Real estate agents are typically compensated through a commission based on the final sale price of the home. This commission usually ranges between 5% and 6%, and is commonly split between the buyer’s agent and the seller’s agent.
The total commission is agreed upon in the listing agreement and is paid by the seller at closing. The agents then receive their share through their respective brokerages, which may also retain a portion.
It’s important to note that commission structures can vary depending on the market, property type, and terms negotiated between the seller and their listing agent. In some cases, commissions may be adjusted due to promotional offers, reduced services, or flat-fee arrangements.
Understanding how commissions work helps buyers and sellers make more informed decisions and evaluate the value of professional real estate services during a transaction.
In most real estate transactions, the seller is responsible for paying the agent commissions. The total commission—usually a percentage of the final sale price—is then split between the listing agent (seller’s agent) and the buyer’s agent.
While buyers don’t usually pay these fees directly, the commission is factored into the overall transaction cost. However, depending on the agreement and the market, commission structures can vary and may be negotiated differently in certain situations, such as for new construction or for-sale-by-owner properties.
Understanding who pays what in a transaction ensures both parties enter the process with clear expectations and no surprises at closing.
Real estate taxes in Florida are calculated based on the assessed value of your property and vary depending on the county and municipality where the home is located.
The average property tax rate in Florida is approximately 0.83% of the home’s assessed value—lower than the national average. However, this rate can fluctuate depending on local millage rates, school districts, and special assessments.
Pricing your home right is essential to attract buyers and sell quickly.
Angela Rodriguez will prepare a personalized Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) based on recent sales, local trends, and your home’s unique features.
With her expert guidance, you’ll avoid overpricing and maximize your home’s value from day one.
📞 Ready to find out what your home is worth? +1 (407) 873‑8379 Contact Angela today.
On average, homes in a balanced market sell in 30 to 60 days, but timing depends on your pricing, property condition, and local demand.
With Angela Rodriguez’s expert marketing and pricing strategy, you’ll be positioned to sell faster and more efficiently—especially in today’s active Central Florida market.
📞 Want a personalized timeline? +1 (407) 873‑8379 Let’s talk.
To make a great first impression, start by decluttering, deep cleaning, and handling basic repairs. Simple upgrades like fresh paint, landscaping, and modern light fixtures can go a long way.
Angela Rodriguez will guide you through what changes matter most—and which ones add real value—so your home shines on the market and attracts serious buyers.
📞 Need expert prep tips? +1 (407) 873‑8379 Angela is just a call away.
While spring and summer are traditionally the busiest seasons for real estate—thanks to better weather and school schedules—homes in Central Florida sell year-round.
The right time depends on market conditions and your personal goals.
Angela Rodriguez will analyze the local trends and guide you on the ideal moment to list for maximum visibility and profit.
📞 Thinking about selling? +1 (407) 873‑8379 Let’s plan the perfect timing together.
Yes—making key repairs can help your home sell faster and for more money.
Focus on cost-effective improvements like fixing leaks, patching walls, or replacing outdated fixtures. These small upgrades boost buyer confidence and curb appeal.
Angela Rodriguez will guide you on which repairs are worth it and which ones to skip—so you get the best return without overspending.
Not sure where to start? +1 (407) 873‑8379 Ask Angela for a pre-listing walkthrough.
Receiving multiple offers is exciting, but choosing the right one requires strategy. It’s not just about price—consider the buyer’s financing, contingencies, flexibility, and closing timeline.
Angela Rodriguez will help you compare offers side by side, negotiate effectively, and guide you through options like counter-offers or requesting “best and final” offers to maximize your outcome.
📞 Need expert help navigating multiple offers? +1 (407) 873‑8379 Angela’s got you covered.
Yes. In most states—including Florida—sellers are legally required to disclose any known issues that could affect the property’s value or safety. This includes structural damage, water leaks, mold, roof problems, or pest infestations.
Failure to disclose known defects can result in legal consequences, even after the sale.
Angela Rodriguez will guide you through the proper disclosure process to ensure compliance and protect both you and the buyer.
Yes—you can absolutely sell your home even if you still have a mortgage.
At closing, the proceeds from the sale will first be used to pay off your remaining loan balance. Any funds left over after that are yours to keep.
It’s important to work closely with your lender to get your exact payoff amount, and with a real estate expert—like Angela Rodriguez—to make sure everything is handled smoothly during the sale process.
Closing costs are the expenses a seller pays to finalize the sale of a home. These typically include:
Real estate agent commissions (usually 5–6%)
Title insurance
Escrow or settlement fees
Prorated property taxes
Possible seller concessions or transaction-specific fees
In total, sellers can expect to pay around 8–10% of the home’s sale price in closing costs, depending on the property, location, and agreement terms.
Your real estate agent or title company will provide a full breakdown so you know exactly what to expect before closing day.
Real Estate Terms:
In real estate, a contingent status means a buyer’s offer has been accepted, but the sale depends on specific conditions—called contingencies—being met before the deal can close.
Common contingencies include:
Financing approval
Home inspection results
Appraisal matching sale price
Sale of the buyer’s current home
During this stage, the property is technically still on the market, but in a limited way.
If the contingencies aren’t met, the contract can be canceled—and the home may become available again.
In real estate, “pending” means that all contingencies—such as financing, inspections, and appraisal—have been satisfied, and the sale is officially moving toward closing.
At this stage, the home is considered off the market, and no further offers are typically accepted. Final paperwork and legal steps are underway to complete the transaction.
It’s the last phase before ownership officially transfers to the buyer.
A real estate broker is a licensed professional with advanced qualifications who can operate independently, manage their own real estate firm, and hire and supervise real estate agents.
Brokers are responsible for:
Overseeing transactions and documentation
Ensuring legal compliance
Providing expert guidance during negotiations
Managing client relationships and agent performance
Working with a broker means having a higher level of accountability and expertise throughout the buying or selling process.
A short sale happens when a homeowner sells their property for less than the amount owed on the mortgage. Because the lender will not receive the full balance of the loan, the sale must be approved by the lender before it can move forward.
Short sales are typically used as an alternative to foreclosure, helping the homeowner avoid a major credit hit while allowing the lender to recover part of the loan.
These transactions can be complex and take longer to close, but with the right guidance, they can offer relief for financially distressed sellers and opportunities for buyers.
A real estate agent is a licensed professional who assists clients in buying, selling, or renting residential and commercial properties.
They act as an advocate throughout the transaction, helping with:
Property searches or listings
Market analysis and pricing
Negotiations and offers
Contracts and closing coordination
Real estate agents must work under the supervision of a licensed broker, and they play a vital role in making real estate transactions smooth, compliant, and successful.
A buyer’s agent is a licensed real estate professional who represents the interests of the homebuyer during a property purchase.
Their role includes:
Helping buyers find the right home
Analyzing market value and writing competitive offers
Negotiating terms and price
Coordinating inspections, paperwork, and closing
Unlike a seller’s agent—who works for the seller—a buyer’s agent advocates solely for the buyer. Their commission is typically paid by the seller, so buyers benefit from expert representation at no direct cost.
A seller’s agent—also known as a listing agent—is a licensed real estate professional who represents the homeowner in the sale of a property.
Their responsibilities include:
Setting a competitive listing price
Marketing the home through MLS, photos, open houses, and online platforms
Coordinating showings and attracting qualified buyers
Negotiating offers to secure the best possible terms
Managing paperwork and guiding the seller through closing
The seller’s agent works exclusively for the seller’s best interest and is typically compensated through a commission paid from the proceeds of the sale.
When a property is under contract, it means the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale is not yet final.
At this stage, both parties are working to satisfy contingencies—such as inspections, financing, and appraisal—and to complete the required legal and financial steps before closing.
While the home is under contract, it’s typically off the market, but the sale can still fall through if contingencies aren’t met.
Pre-approval means a lender has reviewed your financial information—including credit score, income, debts, and assets—and has conditionally agreed to lend you a specific amount for a home purchase.
It’s a crucial first step in the buying process because it:
Shows sellers you’re a serious and qualified buyer
Helps define your budget
Strengthens your offer in competitive markets
Pre-approval is typically documented with a letter and is valid for a limited time, often 60–90 days.
Yes—real estate is widely regarded as a stable, long-term investment that can build wealth through property appreciation, rental income, and tax advantages.
In growing markets like Central Florida, investing in real estate can offer exceptional returns—especially when guided by a trusted expert.
Angela Rodriguez, Broker-Owner of Dream Finders Realty Group and the #1 Realtor in Florida, specializes in helping clients identify high-potential opportunities across Orlando, Winter Garden, Windermere, and beyond.
Whether you’re buying your first investment property or expanding your portfolio, Angela will help you invest with confidence and strategy.
📞 Schedule your free investment consultation today:
+1 (407) 873‑8379
Serving all of Central Florida with proven results
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies that own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate across various sectors—such as residential, commercial, industrial, and healthcare properties.
REITs allow individuals to invest in real estate without owning physical property. Instead, investors buy shares of the REIT—similar to stocks—and receive a portion of the income, typically through dividends.
Key benefits of REITs include:
Passive income without managing property
Diversified exposure to the real estate market
Liquidity, since many REITs are publicly traded
Access to large-scale investments with smaller capital
REITs are ideal for investors seeking real estate returns without the responsibilities of being a landlord.
MLS stands for Multiple Listing Service—a centralized database that real estate professionals use to share, search, and access up-to-date property listings in a given market.
The MLS allows agents and brokers to:
View detailed listing information
Promote homes to a broader network
Track market activity and pricing trends
Match buyers with the most accurate inventory available
Homes listed on the MLS gain maximum exposure, often appearing on popular platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin.
Want your home listed on the MLS?
Angela Rodriguez can ensure your property gets full visibility across Central Florida and beyond.
Preliminary status refers to a property that has been recently listed or is in the early stages of entering the market. It’s typically used when:
The listing agreement is signed but marketing is still being prepared
The property is being photographed, staged, or inspected
The home is not yet available for public showings or MLS exposure
This status helps generate early interest while giving the seller and agent time to finalize marketing details.
It’s a great opportunity for serious buyers to get ahead—ask your agent if you can preview preliminary listings before they hit the market fully.
Real estate agents are licensed professionals who help clients buy, sell, or rent properties. Their role is to manage every step of the transaction while protecting their client’s best interests.
Key responsibilities include:
Helping buyers find suitable homes and schedule showings
Advising sellers on pricing and staging strategies
Negotiating offers and counteroffers
Handling contracts, disclosures, and closing documents
Marketing listings through MLS, online platforms, and open houses
Coordinating inspections, appraisals, and timelines
Whether you’re a buyer or seller, an experienced agent ensures the process is smooth, legal, and financially sound from start to finish.
Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) is a good-faith deposit made by a buyer to demonstrate their serious intent to purchase a property.
Key points about EMD:
It’s usually 1%–3% of the purchase price (varies by market)
It’s held in escrow until closing
If the deal closes, the money is typically applied to the down payment or closing costs
If the buyer backs out without a valid contingency, they may forfeit the deposit
Earnest money helps reassure the seller that the buyer is committed—and it plays a key role in making offers more competitive in hot markets.
Due diligence is the critical period after an offer is accepted when the buyer has the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the property before moving forward with the purchase.
This process may include:
Home inspections (structural, roof, plumbing, electrical)
Appraisals to confirm the property’s value
Title review and checking for liens
HOA rules and fees (if applicable)
Survey or zoning research
The goal is to ensure there are no hidden issues or surprises. If serious concerns arise, buyers may renegotiate—or in some cases, cancel the contract without penalty (based on contingencies).
Yes. In most cases, real estate taxes and property taxes refer to the same type of tax:
a local government tax assessed on the value of land and any structures built on it, such as a home or commercial property.
These taxes are typically:
Collected annually by the county or municipality
Based on the property’s assessed value
Used to fund public services like schools, roads, and emergency services
While the terms are used interchangeably, “real estate tax” is more common in legal or financial contexts, while “property tax” is more widely used in everyday conversation
LTV stands for Loan-to-Value ratio—a key metric used by lenders to determine the risk level of a mortgage loan.
It compares the amount of the loan to the appraised value or purchase price of the property (whichever is lower), using this formula:
LTV = (Loan Amount ÷ Property Value) × 100
For example, if you’re buying a $400,000 home and borrowing $320,000, your LTV is 80%.
Why it matters:
A lower LTV often results in better interest rates and loan terms
A higher LTV may require private mortgage insurance (PMI)
Lenders use LTV to assess loan risk and approval eligibility
Understanding your LTV can help you make smarter financial decisions when buying or refinancing a property.
TD stands for Trust Deed (or Deed of Trust)—a legal document used in some states to secure a real estate loan.
In a trust deed arrangement:
The borrower retains equitable title and lives in the home
The lender is the beneficiary of the loan
A neutral third party (trustee) holds legal title to the property until the loan is repaid
If the borrower defaults, the trustee has the authority to initiate foreclosure without court involvement (non-judicial foreclosure), depending on state laws.
Trust deeds are commonly used instead of mortgages in states like California, Texas, and Florida.
Underwriting is the process in which a lender thoroughly evaluates a borrower’s financial profile to determine if they qualify for a mortgage loan.
During underwriting, the lender reviews:
Credit score and credit history
Income and employment verification
Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio
Bank statements and assets
Property appraisal and title reports
The goal is to assess risk and ensure the borrower can repay the loan under the agreed terms.
Once underwriting is complete and approved, the loan moves to final approval and closing.