Orlando First-Time Home Buyer Realtor
Celeste Crowley of The Realest Journey Group helps first-time buyers in Orlando find the down payment help, lender and home that fit, with Epique Realty.
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Buying your first home in Orlando
Orlando is a renter-heavy city: only about 4 in 10 homes are owner-occupied, and the typical owner-occupied home is valued well above many nearby towns. That makes a plan matter for first-time buyers. Before you tour, we help you understand three things: what you can comfortably afford each month, which assistance programs you may qualify for, and which neighborhoods match your budget and commute.
Down payment and closing cost help. Celeste works closely with lenders and with city and county housing staff so buyers know which grant and assistance programs are open, the income and price limits, and how long approval takes. Programs from the City of Orlando, Orange County and Florida Housing change during the year, so we confirm the current status for you before you make an offer.
Choosing an area. Many Orlando buyers compare in-city neighborhoods with more affordable options in nearby Osceola and Polk counties. Our team covers all of them, so you can compare honestly.
Orlando at a glance
| Measure | Figure |
|---|---|
| Population, 2020 Census | 307,573 |
| Population estimate, July 2025 | 333,888 |
| Median value of owner-occupied homes | $394,100 |
| Owner-occupied housing rate | 39.5% |
| Speak a language other than English at home | 40.8% |
| Average commute to work | 26.2 minutes |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts (2020 Census; 2020–2024 American Community Survey; 2025 population estimate where shown).
What first-time buyers should check
| Area | What it's like | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Assistance programs | City, county and state programs with different rules | Income and price limits, first-time buyer definition, homebuyer education class, whether funds are currently available |
| Condos and townhomes | Often the most affordable way to own in the city | HOA fees and reserves, insurance cost, whether the community qualifies for FHA or VA financing |
| Older single-family homes | Established neighborhoods with character | Roof age, electrical and plumbing, insurance quotes before you commit |
| New construction nearby | Builders active in outlying areas | Builder incentives vs. lender programs, CDD fees, register your agent at the first visit |
Meet Celeste
Celeste Crowley — Orlando area. Celeste focuses on first-time homebuyers and works with lenders and city and county officials to help buyers access grants and down payment assistance.
Celeste is part of The Realest Journey Group, led by Jamie Polanco, MBA. The team also covers Davenport and Polk County, Orlando, Kissimmee and Poinciana, and Wesley Chapel and Pasco County.
Frequently asked questions
Is there down payment assistance in Orlando?
Yes. The City of Orlando, Orange County and Florida Housing have offered programs for eligible buyers. Each has income and price limits and its own timeline, and funding opens and closes during the year. Celeste will tell you which ones are open now and whether you may qualify.
How much do I need to buy my first home?
It depends on the loan. Some loans allow a small down payment, and assistance can cover part of the down payment or closing costs. A lender pre-approval is the first step; we can introduce you to lenders who work with these programs.
Do I pay my Realtor as a buyer?
Buyer agent pay is negotiable and agreed in writing before we tour homes. In many cases a seller or builder contributes toward it. We explain your options in the first call.
Can I get help in Spanish?
Yes. Our team includes a fully bilingual Realtor, and we can review every step with you in Spanish.
Ready to talk?
Book a free 15-minute call or text (347) 856-8958.
The Realest Journey Group, brokered by Epique Realty. Program details are general and change often; confirm current terms with the program and your lender.