Tampa and Miami Rent vs Buy: Which Makes More Sense Right Now?

If you’re renting in Florida, you’ve probably asked yourself the same question many others are asking in 2026:

Does it still make sense to buy — or should I keep renting?

In markets like Tampa and Miami, the answer depends on more than just home prices. Rent growth, mortgage rates, insurance, and lifestyle goals all play a role.

Here’s a clear, side-by-side breakdown to help renters decide when buying actually makes more sense than renting in Tampa and Miami right now.

The Current Rent Landscape in Tampa and Miami

Renting in Tampa

• Rent prices remain elevated compared to pre-2020 levels

• Competition is still strong in desirable neighborhoods

• Many renters are paying close to — or more than — a starter home mortgage payment

Tampa renters often reach a point where they realize they’re paying someone else’s mortgage without building equity.

Renting in Miami

• Rents are among the highest in Florida

• Condo-heavy inventory keeps rental demand strong

• Many renters choose flexibility but face frequent rent increases

Miami renters tend to stay renters longer — largely due to higher upfront buying costs.

Buying a Home in Tampa: When It Makes Sense

Buying in Tampa often becomes attractive when:

• You plan to stay 3–5 years or longer

• You qualify for a low down payment or first-time buyer program

• You want predictable monthly payments instead of annual rent hikes

Why Tampa favors buyers:

• More single-family inventory

• Lower price points compared to South Florida

• Easier conventional loan approvals

📌 Many Tampa renters are surprised to learn their mortgage payment can be similar to rent — especially with the right loan structure.

Buying a Home in Miami: A Different Calculation

Buying in Miami makes sense when:

• You have stable income and plan to stay long-term

• You’re buying for lifestyle or investment reasons

• You understand condo financing and HOA costs

Miami buyer considerations:

• Higher purchase prices

• Condo HOAs can significantly impact monthly payments

• Some condos require larger down payments or specialty financing

Buying in Miami is often more strategic than emotional — but ownership can still outperform renting over time for the right buyer.

Rent vs Buy: Monthly Cost Comparison

Here’s where many renters change their mindset.

Renting

• No equity

• Rent increases over time

• No tax advantages

• Limited control

Buying

• Fixed-rate mortgage = predictable payment

• Equity growth over time

• Possible tax benefits

• Long-term stability

Even when buying costs slightly more upfront, many buyers prefer building wealth instead of paying rent indefinitely.

Interest Rates Matter — But They’re Not Everything

A common misconception is that you must wait for “perfect” interest rates to buy.

In reality:

• Rates can be refinanced later

• Home prices may rise as rates fall

• Waiting can cost more than buying strategically

The key is structuring the loan correctly from the start, especially in Tampa and Miami where taxes, insurance, and HOAs vary widely.

When Renting Still Makes Sense

Renting may still be the better option if:

• You plan to move within 1–2 years

• Your income is highly variable

• You’re unsure which city or neighborhood you want

The goal isn’t to push buying — it’s to help you make the right financial move.

So… Rent or Buy in Tampa and Miami?

In Tampa:
Buying often makes sense sooner due to affordability, inventory, and easier financing.

In Miami:
Buying can be a smart long-term move, but only with a clear strategy and accurate payment breakdown.

Either way, the decision should be based on real numbers — not online estimates or assumptions.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Real Payment Before Deciding

Two renters with the same income can have very different outcomes depending on:

• Loan program

• Down payment strategy

• Property type

• Insurance and HOA costs

That’s why talking with a local Tampa or Miami mortgage lender before deciding to rent or buy can save you years of lost equity.

📩 Thinking About Buying in Tampa or Miami?

We offer free mortgage consultations and real payment breakdowns so you can compare renting vs buying with confidence — no pressure, no obligation.

👉 Message us to see what buying would actually look like for you in Tampa or Miami.

Trump’s Fed Chair Pick and What It Means for Mortgage Rates & Home Values (2026)

On January 30, 2026, President Donald Trump formally nominated Kevin Warsh — a former Federal Reserve governor — to be the next Federal Reserve Chair, succeeding Jerome Powell when his term ends later this spring.

Warsh’s nomination has sparked a mix of optimism and skepticism among economists, financial markets, and housing market observers. Below is a clear, FAQ-style breakdown of the nomination and how it could influence mortgage rates and home values.

📌 What Is the Federal Reserve Chair and Why Does It Matter?

The Federal Reserve Chair leads the U.S. central bank, guiding monetary policy that influences interest rates across the economy — including mortgage rates. The Fed doesn’t directly set mortgage rates, but its policy decisions (especially about the federal funds rate) influence borrowing costs. Lower policy interest rates often lead to lower mortgage rates over time.

🧑‍💼 Who Is Kevin Warsh?

Kevin Warsh is a former Federal Reserve governor under President George W. Bush and a longtime financial market expert. Trump’s choice reflects a preference for someone experienced in central banking who has publicly advocated for lower interest rates.

Warsh is known for his criticism of past Fed policies and his support for recalibrating monetary policy to focus more on growth and lower borrowing costs.

❓ Why Did Trump Pick Warsh?

Trump has been openly critical of the Fed’s previous rate decisions and has consistently pushed for lower interest rates, which he argues would make housing and borrowing more affordable.

Warsh, while not considered the most aggressive rate-cut advocate among Trump’s shortlist of candidates, aligns with the administration’s goal of a less restrictive monetary policy that could ease borrowing costs.

📉 Could This Lead to Lower Mortgage Rates?

Potentially — but not automatically.

Here’s how it could play out:

• Warsh may be more receptive to lower interest rates than some past chairs, which could put downward pressure on the federal funds rate if supported by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC).

• Lower policy rates can influence shorter-term loan costs and sometimes encourage lenders to lower fixed mortgage rates.

• However, long-term mortgage rates (like 30-year fixed) are also driven by Treasury bond yields, inflation expectations, and global capital flows, not just Fed decisions.

So a Fed rate cut under Warsh might help mortgage rates, but it’s not guaranteed that mortgage rates would drop sharply or immediately.

🏠 How Could This Influence Home Values?

If mortgage rates do trend lower over time, it can have these effects:

🟢 Lower Rates → More Buyer Demand

Lower borrowing costs make monthly payments more affordable, potentially boosting demand from buyers and allowing them to qualify for larger loans.

🟢 Higher Demand → Increased Home Prices

Sustained demand growth may push home prices higher, especially in markets with limited inventory. However, strong demand isn’t the only factor — inventory levels, job growth, and wage trends matter too.

⚠️ But… It’s Complicated

Economists have noted that lower mortgage rates alone don’t guarantee big price increases. Barriers like limited housing supply and affordability constraints can still temper price growth.

So while easier borrowing can support home values, it’s not the only driver.

❓ Will the Fed Cut Rates Just Because Trump Wants It?

Not necessarily. The Federal Reserve operates independently, and its leaders, including Warsh, must consider inflation, employment, and broader economic conditions — not political pressure.

Some analysts believe Warsh might balance Trump’s push for lower rates with the Fed’s mandate to keep inflation in check. Skepticism exists about how aggressively any rate cuts would actually happen.

🔎 Summary: What This Means For You

Lower Mortgage Rates: Possible but not guaranteed

Higher Home Demand: Likely if rates fall significantly

Higher Home Values: Possible in high-demand markets

Fed Independence:Still a key factor

In short, Trump’s pick of Kevin Warsh as Fed chair could influence mortgage rates and home prices — but the timing, size, and direction of that impact depends on broader economic conditions and Fed policy decisions once he (hopefully) takes office.

📌 Final Thoughts

For homeowners and prospective buyers, this means:

• Watching mortgage rate trends closely

• Understanding that Fed policy is one of many conditions affecting housing costs

• Staying informed through reliable financial updates

Staying updated and understanding how the Fed’s leadership affects borrowing costs can help you time your home purchase or refinance more strategically.

Why Zillow Payment Estimates Are Often Wrong in Tampa

Zillow is a great place to browse homes — but when it comes to monthly payment estimates, especially in Tampa, those numbers are often misleading.

Many buyers in Tampa get excited about a home, only to find out later that the real payment is hundreds of dollars higher than Zillow projected. Here’s why that happens — and how to get an accurate estimate before you make an offer.

1. Zillow Uses Generic Assumptions (Not Your Real Scenario)

Zillow’s payment calculator makes broad assumptions about:

• Down payment

• Credit score

• Interest rate

• Loan type

In Tampa, small changes in insurance, taxes, or loan programs can dramatically affect your monthly payment — and Zillow doesn’t account for most of them.

📌 Two buyers looking at the same home can have payments that differ by $500+ per month.

2. Tampa Property Taxes Are Often Underestimated

Zillow typically bases property taxes on previous assessments, not what a new buyer will actually pay.

In Hillsborough County:

• Taxes often reset after purchase

• Homestead exemptions may not yet apply

• New buyers frequently pay more than what Zillow shows

➡️ This alone can throw off the estimate by $150–$300 per month.

3. Homeowners Insurance in Tampa Is a Big Wildcard

Insurance is one of the most inaccurate parts of Zillow’s estimate.

Tampa insurance costs vary based on:

• Roof age

• Flood zone

• Wind mitigation

• Construction type

Zillow uses averages — but real quotes can be much higher, especially on older homes or properties near water.

⚠️ We regularly see Zillow estimates off by $200–$400/month just from insurance alone.

4. HOA & Condo Fees Are Often Missing or Wrong

Many Tampa homes are in:

• Gated communities

• Townhome developments

• Condo buildings

Zillow may:

• Exclude HOA fees entirely

• Underestimate condo association dues

• Miss special assessments

💡 Condo buyers are especially vulnerable to bad estimates.

5. Zillow Doesn’t Know What Loan You Actually Qualify For

Zillow usually assumes:

• Conventional loan

• 20% down

• Strong credit

But many Tampa buyers qualify for:

• First-time buyer programs

• 1% or low-down-payment conventional loans

• VA or FHA options

Each loan type has different PMI, rates, and costs — none of which Zillow customizes for you.

6. Interest Rates Change — Zillow Updates Slowly

Rates can move daily.

Zillow:

• Lags behind real-time rate changes

• Uses national averages

• Doesn’t factor in lender credits or buydowns

A small rate difference can change payments significantly on Tampa home prices.

The Real Risk: Making an Offer Based on the Wrong Payment

This is where buyers get burned:

• Offer accepted

• Inspection ordered

• Appraisal paid for

• Then… payment shock

At that point, you’ve already spent money.

How to Get an Accurate Tampa Mortgage Payment

The only way to know your true payment is with:

• Your actual credit profile

• Real insurance quotes

• Correct Tampa property taxes

• The right loan program

A local lender can calculate this before you make an offer — saving you stress, time, and money.

Final Thoughts: Use Zillow for Homes — Not Payments

Zillow is excellent for:

• Browsing listings

• Comparing neighborhoods

• Tracking price history

But when it comes to monthly payments in Tampa, Zillow estimates are often incomplete and inaccurate.

Before falling in love with a house, make sure the payment actually fits your lifestyle.

📩 Want a Real Payment Estimate?

We offer free, no-obligation mortgage consultations and accurate payment breakdowns based on your situation — not Zillow’s guess.

👉 Message us to find out what rate and payment you’d actually qualify for.

Tampa vs Miami Cost of Living: Housing Breakdown (2026 Guide)

If you’re deciding between Tampa and Miami, housing costs are usually the biggest deciding factor. While both cities offer sunshine, strong job growth, and no state income tax, the true cost of owning a home can look very different depending on where you land.

Here’s a clear, side-by-side breakdown of housing costs, affordability, and mortgage considerations in Tampa vs Miami in 2026.

Median Home Prices: Tampa vs Miami

Tampa

• Lower median home prices than Miami

• More single-family inventory at entry-level price points

• Popular with first-time buyers and families relocating from out of state

Miami

• Significantly higher median home prices

• Condo-heavy market, especially in urban and waterfront areas

• Strong demand from international and luxury buyers

💡 Bottom line: Buyers typically get more space and newer homes for their money in Tampa.

Monthly Housing Costs & Affordability

Mortgage payments aren’t just about price — insurance, taxes, and HOA fees matter.

Tampa Housing Costs

• Lower homeowners insurance compared to South Florida

• Property taxes remain manageable in most neighborhoods

• Fewer mandatory HOA fees outside of planned communities

Miami Housing Costs

• Higher insurance premiums due to hurricane exposure

• Condo HOAs can add hundreds per month

• Flood insurance is more common

📌 Even when home prices are close, Miami’s carrying costs often push monthly payments higher.

Rent vs Buy Comparison

Tampa

• Rent has increased, but ownership is still attainable

• Buying can be cheaper long-term than renting in many neighborhoods

• Strong appreciation without extreme volatility

Miami

• Rents are high and competitive

• Buying often requires higher income or larger down payment

• Ownership makes more sense for long-term residents

👉 Tampa tends to favor buyers transitioning out of renting, while Miami skews toward high-income renters and investors.

Condo vs Single-Family Homes

This is where many buyers get surprised.

Miami Condos

• Many buildings are non-warrantable

• Stricter lending rules

• Larger down payments often required

Tampa Homes

• More single-family options

• Easier conventional financing

• Fewer condo lending restrictions

⚠️ Not all condos qualify for standard loans — financing matters before you make an offer.

Who Tampa Is Best For

• First-time homebuyers

• Families seeking space and affordability

• Buyers relocating from higher-cost states

• Anyone prioritizing monthly payment comfort

Who Miami Is Best For

• High-income professionals

• Investors and second-home buyers

• Buyers seeking urban or luxury lifestyles

• International purchasers

Mortgage Strategy Matters More Than City Choice

Two buyers can purchase the same-priced home and end up with very different payments depending on:

• Loan program

• Down payment strategy

• Rate structure

• Insurance and property type

This is especially true when comparing Tampa vs Miami.

Final Thoughts: Tampa vs Miami in 2026

If affordability and long-term comfort are your priorities, Tampa offers a lower barrier to homeownership with strong growth potential.
If lifestyle and global exposure matter most — and budget allows — Miami remains unmatched.

Either way, the smartest move is understanding your true monthly cost before making an offer.

📩 Thinking about buying in Tampa or Miami?

We offer free mortgage consultations, fast closings, and multiple loan options — including programs many buyers don’t realize they qualify for.

Message us to get a personalized breakdown for Tampa or Miami.

📉 Rates at a 3-Year Low: Why This Could Unlock Inventory in Tampa & Miami

Mortgage rates hovering near three-year lows are doing more than just lowering payments — they’re changing behavior across the housing market. For cities like Tampa and Miami, this shift may finally relieve some of the inventory pressure that’s frustrated buyers and sellers alike.

Let’s break down why lower rates can spark refinances, boost buyer confidence, and — most importantly — encourage more homeowners to sell, adding badly needed supply.

🔁 Refinancing Is Back on the Table

When rates were climbing toward the mid-6% and 7% range, refinancing activity slowed to a crawl. Today’s lower rates reopen that door.

What this means locally:

• Homeowners in Tampa and Miami who bought or refinanced at higher rates now have real opportunities to lower their monthly payment.

• Some homeowners can refinance to improve cash flow and then re-enter the market as buyers, using equity to move up, downsize, or relocate.

• Investors who paused activity due to thin margins may find deals pencil again.

Refinancing doesn’t just help individuals — it increases market mobility, which feeds directly into inventory.

🏡 Buyer Confidence Improves When Rates Stabilize

Lower and more stable rates restore buyer confidence in a big way.

In Tampa and Miami:

• Buyers feel more comfortable locking in payments without fear of rapidly rising rates.

• Pre-approval amounts often increase, expanding buyer options.

• First-time buyers who were priced out re-engage with the market.

When buyers feel confident, transactions increase — and that momentum often encourages hesitant sellers to list.

🔓 The “Golden Handcuffs” Start to Loosen for Sellers

For years, one of the biggest inventory constraints has been homeowners locked into ultra-low rates, often around 2–3%.

At 6.5%+, many sellers asked:

“Why would I sell and give up my 2% rate?”

As rates trend lower, that psychological and financial gap shrinks.

This is critical for inventory:

• Sellers are less worried about doubling their interest rate on the next home.

• Move-up buyers feel the jump is more manageable.

• Downsizers and retirees are more willing to transact.

In short: lower rates reduce seller paralysis.

📈 Why This Matters Specifically for Tampa & Miami

🌴 Tampa

• Strong job growth and continued in-migration keep demand high.

• Inventory has lagged demand, especially in entry-level and move-up price points.

• As rates ease, more homeowners may list, bringing healthier balance to the market rather than runaway competition.

🌊 Miami

• A dynamic mix of primary residents, investors, and second-home buyers.

• Rate relief helps domestic buyers compete while motivating sellers who delayed moves.

• Increased listings could cool bidding wars without stalling price stability.

Both markets benefit when inventory rises organically, rather than through price drops or economic stress.

⚖️ What This Could Mean for Prices

More inventory doesn’t necessarily mean falling prices.

Instead, Tampa and Miami may see:

• More choices for buyers

• Less frantic competition

• More realistic pricing

• Smoother transactions

That’s a healthier market for everyone.

✅ Bottom Line

Rates at a three-year low aren’t just about cheaper payments — they’re about unlocking movement.

• More refinancing options

• More confident buyers

• Fewer sellers stuck on the sidelines

• More inventory hitting the market

For Tampa and Miami, this environment creates opportunity — not just to buy or sell, but to make smarter, more strategic moves.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or refinancing in 2026, understanding how rates affect behavior — not just affordability — can give you a real edge.

🎉 Celebrating 5 Years of First Team Lending: Faster Closings & $500 at Closing

At First Team Lending, we believe trust is earned — and results matter. As we celebrate our 5-year anniversary, we want to thank our clients, partners, and community by offering something that truly makes a difference in today’s market: speed and savings.

For a limited time, qualified clients can take advantage of our 5-Day Clear to Close (CTC) Guarantee and receive $500 toward closing costs when they buy or refinance with First Team Lending.

🏁 The 5-Day Clear to Close Guarantee

In real estate, time kills deals. Delays cost buyers money, frustrate sellers, and put contracts at risk. That’s why we’re introducing our 5-Day CTC Guarantee — built for buyers who want certainty and confidence.

What does that mean?

Once your loan file is fully submitted and underwritten, we commit to delivering a Clear to Close within 5 business days.

And if we don’t?

👉 Your cash credit increases to $1,000 at closing.

This guarantee reflects the efficiency, communication, and accountability that First Team Lending has been known for over the past five years.

💰 $500 at Closing — Our Thank You for 5 Years

To celebrate our milestone, we’re also offering $500 toward closing costs on purchase or refinance transactions for qualified applicants.

This credit can be used to:

• Reduce your out-of-pocket closing costs

• Offset prepaid expenses

• Make homeownership more affordable from day one

It’s our way of saying thank you for trusting First Team Lending with one of life’s biggest financial decisions.

⭐ Why We Can Stand Behind These Offers

For five years, First Team Lending has built its reputation on:

• Fast turn times

• Clear communication

• Competitive pricing

• Seven-day availability

• Personalized service, not call-center lending

The 5-Day CTC and anniversary credit aren’t marketing fluff — they’re backed by proven systems, experienced loan officers, and a team that treats every file like it’s their own.

⏳ Limited-Time Anniversary Offer

These incentives are available for a limited time and are subject to qualification and terms. Whether you’re:

• Buying your first home

• Moving up

• Refinancing to improve your financial picture

There’s never been a better time to work with First Team Lending.

📲 Get Started Today

Celebrate 5 years of First Team Lending with faster closings and real savings.

👉 Apply now or schedule a free consultation
👉 Ask about the 5-Day Clear to Close Guarantee
👉 Lock in your $500 anniversary closing credit

First Team Lending — Five Years Strong, and Just Getting Started.

Mortgage Rate Outlook: Our predictions for the Coming Years

The conversation around interest rates, inflation, and mortgage costs is heating up again. Many consumers are closely watching the Federal Reserve and wondering what’s next for borrowing costs. Here’s my take on what’s likely to happen and how it could impact mortgage rates over the next couple of years.

Short-Term Outlook: 2025

Tariff revenue combined with stronger consumer spending should help ease inflationary pressures this year. With that backdrop, I expect the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates twice in 2025.

However, it’s important to note that the market has already priced in these anticipated cuts. In other words, the impact of these moves on mortgage rates may not be as significant as some consumers hope. Many people assume that Fed rate cuts automatically translate into much lower mortgage rates, but that’s not always the case. Mortgage pricing is tied more directly to long-term bond yields, and those yields already reflect much of what’s expected from the Fed.

The Powell Factor: Leadership Change in 2026

Looking ahead, the bigger shift may not come from the Fed’s incremental cuts, but from its leadership. Chair Jerome Powell’s term ends in May 2026. If he is replaced by a more dovish governor—as many anticipate—the Fed could adopt a more accommodative stance toward interest rates.

This change in leadership has the potential to create real momentum for lower long-term borrowing costs, especially if inflation continues trending lower and economic growth remains steady.

Mortgage Rate Predictions Through 2026

Based on these factors, I believe mortgage rates will gradually decline but not in the sharp, immediate way that some predict. Instead, we may see a slow drift downward through 2025, with the more meaningful changes coming after Powell’s successor takes over.

By the end of 2026, I expect mortgage rates to settle in the high 4% range—a level that would be very welcome for homebuyers compared to recent years.

What This Means for Buyers and Homeowners

For buyers: Waiting for a massive drop in rates this year may lead to disappointment. While rates could inch lower, affordability gains won’t be dramatic until leadership changes at the Fed.

For current homeowners: If you’re thinking about refinancing, timing will matter. Some opportunities may open up later in 2025, but the most attractive refinance wave may arrive in 2026.

Final Thoughts

The path to lower mortgage rates won’t be overnight—it will be a process shaped by both market expectations and Fed leadership. For now, the best strategy is to stay informed, work with a knowledgeable lender, and position yourself to act when opportunities arise.

At First Team Lending, we’re committed to helping clients make smart mortgage decisions, no matter where rates stand. If you’re planning to buy or refinance, let’s talk about your best options today.

Start the New Year Right: Make Homeownership Your Resolution!

As the New Year begins, many of us are setting goals to improve our lives. Whether it’s getting in shape, saving money, or pursuing new opportunities, one resolution often stands out: achieving the dream of homeownership. At First Team Lending, we’re here to help you turn that dream into a reality.

Why Homeownership Should Be on Your 2024 Resolution List

Owning a home is more than just having a place to call your own. It’s an investment in your future. Here’s why buying a home this year can be a game-changer:

1. Build Wealth: Every mortgage payment brings you closer to owning an asset that grows in value over time.

2. Stability: Say goodbye to rising rents and hello to the security of a fixed-rate mortgage.

3. Personalization: Make your house truly yours with customizations and upgrades.

4. Community: Being a homeowner connects you with your neighborhood in meaningful ways.

How First Team Lending Helps You Achieve Homeownership

We understand that buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. That’s why we’re committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s how we can help:

1. First-Time Homebuyer Incentives: We offer special programs to make buying your first home more affordable. From grants to low down payments, we’ve got you covered.

2. Fast Closings: We know timing is critical in the housing market. Our efficient process ensures you can close quickly and secure your dream home.

3. Flexible Hours: We’re here for you, even on weekends and late nights, to fit your busy schedule.

4. Personalized Service: Our team works closely with you to find the best mortgage options tailored to your needs.

5. Expert Guidance: We’ll guide you every step of the way, from pre-approval to closing, ensuring you feel confident in your decisions.

Tips to Start Your Homebuying Journey

Ready to make 2024 the year you become a homeowner? Here’s how to get started:

1. Set Your Budget: Determine what you can afford by evaluating your income, expenses, and savings.

2. Check Your Credit: A good credit score can help you qualify for better rates. Don’t worry if it needs improvement; we can guide you on how to boost it.

3. Get Pre-Approved: A pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re serious and helps you understand your price range.

4. Work with a Trusted Team: Partnering with a reliable lender, like First Team Lending, ensures you’re supported throughout the process.

5. Start the Search: With your finances in order, it’s time to find the perfect home for you and your family.

Make 2024 Your Year

Don’t let another year go by dreaming about owning a home. With First Team Lending by your side, you can take that first step toward homeownership. Whether you’re in Florida or Michigan, our team is ready to help you achieve your goals and turn your New Year’s resolution into reality.

Contact us today to start your journey. Let’s make 2024 the year you move into your dream home!

Builder Incentives

Unlock Better Homebuying Opportunities with Our Builder/Seller Buydown Program

In today's challenging housing market, builders and sellers face mounting pressure to close deals and keep homes moving. At First Team Lending, we understand the obstacles you face, and we’re here to help. Our Builder/Seller Buydown Program is designed to empower you with a powerful incentive for buyers: the ability to reduce their interest rate by a full 2 percent!

This innovative program isn’t just a game-changer for homebuyers; it’s a strategic tool for builders and sellers looking to stand out in a competitive market. Here’s how it works and why it’s the perfect solution for moving inventory and making homeownership more affordable.

What Is a 2-1 Buydown Program?

A 2-1 buydown program allows the seller or builder to provide financial concessions that are applied to the buyer’s mortgage payments, reducing their interest rate by 2% in the first year and 1% in the second year. By the third year, the buyer transitions to the standard fixed rate of the loan.

For example:

• Year 1: If the fixed rate is 6%, the buyer pays only 4%.

• Year 2: The buyer’s rate adjusts to 5%.

• Year 3: The loan resumes the full fixed rate of 6%.

This structure offers significant savings upfront, making homeownership more attainable for buyers who may otherwise be hesitant due to rising rates or affordability concerns.

Why Builders and Sellers Love This Program

1. Increased Buyer Affordability: By lowering monthly payments in the critical first two years, buyers gain financial breathing room, making it easier to commit to purchasing a new home.

2. Faster Sales: Homes with interest rate incentives are more attractive to potential buyers, helping you move properties off the market more quickly.

3. Competitive Edge: Stand out from other builders or sellers by offering a benefit that directly addresses buyers’ concerns about high rates.

Exclusive Perks for Builders

In addition to the Builder/Seller Buydown Program, First Team Lending offers low-cost refinance options for your clients. Once their new home is complete, we can help them transition from a construction loan to a permanent mortgage with ease. Our refinance solutions are designed to save your buyers money while providing you with a seamless handoff.

By partnering with us, you’ll gain access to a team that’s dedicated to supporting your success every step of the way.

Why Partner with First Team Lending?

• Personalized Service: We’re available when you need us, including weekends and late nights.

• Fast Closings: Our streamlined process ensures that buyers are in their new homes without delays.

• First-Time Buyer Incentives: Make homeownership dreams come true for a broader audience.

• Expert Guidance: We specialize in providing tailored mortgage solutions, so your buyers feel confident every step of the way.

Let’s Close More Deals Together

If you’re a builder or seller looking to increase sales and provide exceptional value to your clients, it’s time to explore the benefits of our Builder/Seller Buydown Program. Contact First Team Lending today to learn how we can help you navigate today’s market challenges and drive success for your business.

Together, we can build more opportunities for buyers, sellers, and builders alike. Reach out to us now and let’s get started!

Unlock the Door to Your New Home with Our End-of-Year Closing Guarantees

The home-buying process is one of the most exciting journeys you'll ever take—but we know it can sometimes feel stressful, especially when it comes to meeting closing deadlines. At First Team Lending, we’re making it easier and faster than ever to step into your dream home with confidence.

Through the end of the year, we’re proud to offer two incredible guarantees that put your needs front and center:

$2,500 Guarantee for Buyers

We’re so confident in our ability to get you to the finish line that we’ll guarantee $2,500 to you if we don’t close your loan on time.*

$2,000 Guarantee for Sellers

Selling a home? We’re just as committed to meeting your timeline. If we don’t close the buyer’s loan on time, we’ll provide you with $2,000 to make up for the inconvenience.*

Fast-Track Closings in as Little as 15 Days

Time is precious, especially when you're buying or selling a home. That’s why we’ve streamlined our process to close loans in as little as 15 days. Whether you're looking to move in quickly or ensure a smooth sale, our team is here to make it happen.

Why Choose First Team Lending?

• Experience You Can Trust: Our team of experts works tirelessly to simplify the mortgage process.

• Transparent Communication: We keep you informed every step of the way, so you always know what to expect.

• Proven Results: With thousands of happy homeowners served, our track record speaks for itself.

Don’t Miss Out—Act Now!

This special guarantee is only available through the end of the year. If you’re ready to buy or sell, let us help you close with confidence and speed.

Contact us today to learn more about our $2,500 and $2,000 guarantees, and let’s make your homeownership dreams a reality!

*Terms and conditions apply. Guarantees apply to qualifying loans and depend on meeting all required deadlines. Contact our team for full details.

Tampa Expansion!

Exciting News: We’re Expanding to Tampa!

Over the past year, we’ve had the incredible opportunity to immerse ourselves in Tampa’s dynamic and thriving community. From fostering meaningful relationships to conducting in-depth market research, it’s clear that Tampa is the perfect place to take the next step in our journey. Today, we’re thrilled to share some exciting news: we’ve officially received approval to open our second branch in Tampa! 🎉

This expansion is more than just a new location—it’s a chance to better serve our partners, clients, and team members both present and future. Tampa’s energy, opportunities, and growth potential align perfectly with our vision to provide exceptional service and build lasting connections.

Leading the charge in Tampa will be Nico, who has been an integral part of our growth and success while Vittorio continues to run the show in Michigan. Nico’s leadership and dedication will ensure that our Tampa office embodies the same values and standards you’ve come to expect from us. While Nico will oversee the Tampa branch, rest assured that he will remain accessible to all our Michigan partners, clients, and team members. Vittorio will also be available for all things Florida. Our commitment to you doesn’t change with geography—it only gets stronger.

We’re excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to deepen our roots in Tampa while continuing to grow alongside all of you. This expansion represents a new chapter, filled with endless possibilities and the promise of even greater achievements.

Thank you for your continued trust and support. Here’s to growing together, no matter where the road takes us!

If you’re interested in joining our team or learning more about how we can support your goals, visit our contact page today. We’d love to connect with you and explore how we can grow together!

Stay tuned for updates as we settle into our new home in Tampa. 🌴

Warmly,

First Team Lending Tampa

NMLS 2672843

Understanding Property Tax Changes After Buying a Home

When you buy a home, your property taxes might not remain the same as the previous owner’s. Here’s what you need to know about how and when your property taxes may change:

Why Do Property Taxes Change?

Property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of your home and your local tax rate. After a home is sold, many municipalities reassess the property’s value. If the purchase price is higher than the last assessed value, your taxes are likely to increase.

When Will the Change Happen?

• Immediately After Closing: Some counties reassess properties right after the sale. You might see the change reflected in your tax bill during the first full tax year after your purchase.

• Annual Reassessments: In areas with regular annual assessments, the increase may align with your area’s normal assessment schedule.

• Delayed Reassessments: In some states, tax adjustments may not occur until the next official county reassessment cycle, which could take several years.

What Can You Do?

• Budget for Increases: When planning your home purchase, account for potential tax hikes.

• Research Local Policies: Check with your county’s tax office to understand the timing and process for reassessments.

• Consider Exemptions: Some buyers qualify for tax breaks, like homestead exemptions, which can lower your property tax bill.

Understanding these potential changes helps you better prepare for the financial aspects of homeownership. Have questions about how taxes impact your mortgage? Feel free to reach out!