Mortgage Calculator

The Savvy Buyer's Toolkit: Mortgage Calculator and South Florida Home Buying Resources

What's in your tool belt?

Buying a home doesn't have to be overwhelming or exhausting. Savvy buyers start with the right tools: accurate, current information that helps them make a wise and timely decision, and stretch their buying power.

I've curated the resources I share with my own buyers. Start with the calculator, then come back to this page as often as you need throughout your search.

Three Numbers South Florida Buyers Get Wrong

• Property tax: don't use the current owner's tax bill. In Florida, a home's taxable value is usually reassessed after a sale, so your taxes may be higher than the seller's.
• Home insurance: premiums here vary widely with the roof's age, the windows, and the location. Get a real quote on the specific home before you commit.
• HOA fees: many Miramar and Pembroke Pines communities have monthly dues. Add them, because they affect how much home you can afford.

This calculator gives estimates for planning only. It is not a loan offer. Confirm your numbers with a licensed lender.

Book Your Buyer Consultation and we'll run your real numbers together.

Tools for Your Budget

• Florida Housing homebuyer programs: state loan and down payment assistance programs. Availability and funding change, so check current details.
• Broward County housing programs: county help for first-time buyers.
• CFPB home buying guide: plain-language help with comparing loans and closing costs.
• The True Cost of Homeownership: my guide to what you pay beyond the mortgage.

Tools for Researching a Home

• Broward County Property Appraiser: look up any property's records, and use the Home Buyer's Tax Estimator.
• FEMA Flood Map Service Center: check a home's flood zone by address.
• GreatSchools: Miramar: school information from an independent source, so you can do your own research.
• 6 Strategies to Save on Home Insurance Premiums

Tools for Buying a Home That Needs Work

Some of the best values are dated homes other buyers pass over. I've renovated homes myself, so I can help you see the potential, and the pitfalls, before you make an offer.

• HUD's FHA 203(k) program overview: a loan that can combine the purchase price and renovation costs in one mortgage.

Ask your lender whether a renovation loan fits your situation.

Tools for Learning the Process

• Live HUD-approved homebuyer classes: offered on Zoom by the Housing Foundation of America. I've presented to first-time buyers in this course.
• HUD's home buying guide
• 5 Easy Steps to Buying Your First Home

The Best Tool Is a Good Guide

Links can inform you. A conversation can give you a plan. Let's talk about your goals, your budget, and your next step.

Book Your Buyer Consultation  |  See How I Work With Buyers

Links to outside websites are provided for your convenience. I don't control their content and am not responsible for its accuracy.