How much down payment do I need to buy a home?

Less than most people think. Conventional loans start at 3% down. FHA loans require 3.5% down. VA loans and USDA loans offer 0% down for eligible borrowers. There are also Florida-specific down payment assistance programs that can cover part or all of your down payment. I can walk you through every option.

What is the difference between FHA and conventional loans?

FHA loans are government-insured, have lower credit requirements (580+), and require 3.5% down, but charge mortgage insurance for the life of the loan. Conventional loans require higher credit (620+) but let you drop mortgage insurance once you hit 20% equity. Your best choice depends on your credit score, down payment, and how long you plan to stay in the home.

Do you serve all of Florida?

Yes. I am licensed to serve borrowers throughout the entire state of Florida, from Pensacola to Key West. Most of my process is digital, so we can work together regardless of where you are in the state. I am based in the Florida panhandle but serve clients in Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, and everywhere in between.

How long does the mortgage closing process take?

Typically 30 to 45 days from contract to closing. Some loans can close faster. VA loans sometimes take a few extra days due to the VA appraisal process. The biggest factor is how quickly you provide your documentation. I give you a clear checklist upfront so there are no surprises.

What are VA loan benefits for veterans?

VA loans are one of the best mortgage products available. Benefits include 0% down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), competitive interest rates, and limited closing costs. As a Navy veteran myself with 15 years of service, I understand the VA loan process inside and out and can guide you through it.

How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage?

Start with the 60-second qualifier, the secure application, or call me directly at 850-346-8514. I will review income, assets, credit, debts, and goals so you understand the next step before you shop seriously.

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

The basics: two years of W-2s or tax returns, two months of bank statements, 30 days of pay stubs, and a valid government ID. Self-employed borrowers need two years of full tax returns including all schedules. I provide a complete checklist when we start so you know exactly what to gather.

Can I buy a home if I am self-employed?

Yes. Self-employed borrowers have several loan options. Most programs require two years of tax returns to verify income. Bank statement loans are another option where we use 12 to 24 months of deposits instead of tax returns. I work with many self-employed clients and know how to present your income in the strongest way.

What is PMI and how do I avoid it?

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is required on conventional loans when your down payment is less than 20%. It typically costs 0.5% to 1% of the loan amount per year. You can avoid PMI by putting 20% down, using a VA loan (no PMI ever), or requesting PMI removal once you reach 20% equity. Some lender-paid PMI options are also available.

What are closing costs and how much should I expect?

Closing costs typically run 2% to 5% of the loan amount. They include lender fees, appraisal, title insurance, recording fees, and prepaid taxes and insurance. On a $300,000 loan, expect roughly $6,000 to $15,000. I provide a detailed Loan Estimate within three days of application so you see every cost upfront. In some cases, sellers can contribute toward your closing costs.

What is the difference between a fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage locks your interest rate for the entire loan term, usually 15 or 30 years. Your payment never changes. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) starts with a lower rate for a set period (usually 5 or 7 years), then adjusts annually based on market rates. ARMs can save money if you plan to sell or refinance within that initial period.

Can I buy a home with student loan debt?

Yes. Student loans do affect your debt-to-income ratio, but they do not disqualify you. FHA, VA, and conventional loans all have specific guidelines for how student loan payments are calculated. Income-driven repayment plans can help keep your ratios manageable. I have helped many borrowers with student debt become homeowners.

What is a USDA loan and do I qualify?

USDA loans offer 0% down payment for homes in eligible rural and suburban areas. Many areas outside major Florida cities qualify, including parts of counties around Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville. Income limits apply based on household size and county. I can check your property and income eligibility in minutes.

Why should I use a mortgage broker instead of a bank?

A bank offers only their own products. As a mortgage broker, I shop dozens of lenders to find you the best rate and terms. I also have access to specialty programs that banks do not offer, like bank statement loans, non-QM products, and niche VA programs. My job is to be your advocate and find the best deal, not push a single lender's products.

Know Your Mortgage Options Before You Apply

Dennis Ross helps Florida buyers compare loan paths, payments, and next steps before they hand over a full application.

600+

Families Helped

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Wholesale loan options

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Takes less than a minute. No credit check required. Ready buyers can go straight to the secure application.

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What's your target home price?

This helps us find the right loan programs for you

First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Make your first home feel possible, not overwhelming.

What you can get:

✓ Down payment assistance where available
✓ FHA loans with as little as 3.5 percent down
✓ Access to first time buyer grants and incentives
✓ Clear guidance so you know what to expect before you make an offer

Get Your Pre-Approval

VA Loan Benefits for Veterans

Use the benefits you earned. No confusion. No complications.

Your VA benefits can include:

✓ Zero down payment on many purchases
✓ No private mortgage insurance
✓ Competitive fixed interest rates
✓ Flexible credit and guideline allowances

Get Your VA Pre-Approval

Credit Improvement Solutions

Not ready yet is still a plan if you follow the right steps.

Here is how I help:

✓ Review your credit picture
✓ Give direct steps to raise your scores
✓ Connect you with trusted credit partners
✓ Show you loan options that fit as scores improve

Start Your Journey

Smart Strategies for Repeat Buyers

Use the equity and experience you already have to get a better move.

Smart options for repeat buyers:

✓ Compare fixed and adjustable loans for long term savings
✓ Use seller paid buydowns to lower your payment early
✓ Plan for a refinance when rates shift
✓ Decide when to tap equity and when to hold it

Get Your Savings Plan

Investor Financing Solutions

Real options for investors at every level, from first rental to full portfolio.

What type of investor financing do you need?

DSCR Loan Qualify based on rental income

Fix and Flip Loan Short-term renovation financing

Hard Money Renovation Loan Fast funding for rehab projects

Bank Statement Investor Loan Use bank deposits instead of tax returns

Investment Property HELOC Access equity in rental properties

Portfolio or Blanket Loan Finance multiple properties under one loan

Tell me what you want to build and I will map out the best financing options for it.

How It Works

Three clear steps to your home loan.

Take the 60 second quiz

Answer a few quick questions about your goals. No credit check.

Get your custom plan

I match you with smart loan options and show you a clear payment.

Close on your home

Shop with a stronger plan after your income, credit, cash to close, and payment range are reviewed.

Loan Options You Can Qualify For

You get matched with the best loan options across many lenders. I compare everything for you so you understand your numbers before you make a move.

FHA Loans

Minimum 3.5 percent down. Strong option for buyers building or rebuilding credit.

VA Loans

Zero down. No PMI. The strongest financing available for eligible veterans and active duty.

Conventional Loans

Starting at 3 percent down for eligible buyers, with pricing that depends on credit, loan size, and property details.

USDA Loans

Zero down in qualifying rural areas. Lower monthly cost for buyers outside metro zones.

Bank Statement Loans

Twelve to twenty four months of business deposits used as income. Ideal for self employed buyers who do not show high taxable income.

DSCR Investor Loans

Approval based on rental income, not personal income. Clean solution for investors expanding their portfolio.

Not sure which option fits you?

Client Success Stories

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Mortgage Payment Calculator

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Home Price

Down Payment

Loan Type

Loan Term

Interest Rate (%)

Property Tax (Annual)

Home Insurance (Annual)

HOA Fees (Monthly)

PMI (Monthly)

Conventional: PMI if <20% down

VA Loan — No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Required

Home Value

Down Payment

Interest Rate (%)

Loan Term

VA Funding Fee Status

Property Tax (Annual)

Home Insurance (Annual)

HOA (Monthly)

Current Loan Information

Current Loan Balance

Current Interest Rate (%)

Current Term Remaining (Years)

New VA Loan Information

New Interest Rate (%)

New Loan Term

Refinance Purpose

VA Funding Fee Status

Closing Costs

Investment Property — Debt-Service Coverage Ratio Loan

Property Purchase Price

Down Payment (%)

Interest Rate (%)

Loan Term

Monthly Rental Income

Property Tax (Annual)

Insurance (Annual)

HOA (Monthly)

Property Management Fee (%)

Vacancy Rate (%)

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Disclaimer:

Results from this calculator are for comparison only and depend on the information entered by the user.

This calculator does not pre-qualify you for any loan program. Qualification requires review by a licensed loan originator and may require additional details such as credit score, income, assets, and cash reserves. Rates, pricing, taxes, insurance, PMI, HOA dues, and fees are estimates and subject to change.

Want Dennis to review the numbers?

Send your scenario through the 60-second qualifier or call Dennis directly.

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Ready to Apply?

If you are close to making an offer, here is what helps us move fast.

You should have:

✓ Basic employment and income details
✓ Recent pay stubs or tax returns
✓ A snapshot of your savings or retirement accounts
✓ Permission to pull your credit when you feel ready

Apply Now - Secure Application

About Dr. MortgageUSA

I'm Dennis Ross, but you can call me Dr. Mortgage USA. I am a Navy veteran with fifteen years of service, five years on active duty with two combat deployments, and I continue to serve in the Navy Reserve. I bring that background into every part of my work as a Florida mortgage broker based in Orlando.

Meet Dennis Ross

Florida mortgage broker, Navy veteran, and guide for buyers who want clear answers without the runaround.

I served five years on active duty with two combat deployments and continue to serve in the Navy Reserve, totaling fifteen years of military service. After active duty, I earned my master's degree in social work and built a career focused on helping people through major life decisions. I moved into the mortgage industry in 2020 with the same mindset the military and social work taught me. Stay disciplined, stay accurate, and keep people calm when the pressure is real. I bring that approach into every loan I handle.

My focus is simple. I help first time buyers, single buyers, and veterans understand their numbers, compare smart options, and move with clarity. You will know what your payment could look like, which loan options may fit, and what steps come next.

I work as a wholesale mortgage broker, which means you get more loan options than any local bank or credit union in Florida. I shop the market for you and build a plan that fits your situation.

Whether you are buying your first home in Florida or moving here from out of state, my job is to make the process clear, predictable, and low stress.

What sets me apart:

Veterans come first.

I lived this life. I know how VA loans actually work. I fight to get funding fees waived where possible, help you secure property tax relief, and close clean VA loans.

More loan options than any local bank.

As an independent broker, I am not locked into one menu. I compare real time options across many lenders so we can match your credit, income, and goals to the right program.

You will understand every number.

I walk you through your figures on Zoom so you see everything in real time. I follow up with plain language summaries. You get clear answers, not jargon.

My Mission: Serve every family in Florida and every family relocating to our beautiful state of Florida with honest guidance, clear communication, and financing that fits their goals.

Apply Now - Secure Application

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"Your VA benefit has NO expiration date. Use it now or use it later — it's yours."

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"580 credit score can still buy a home in Florida with FHA. Stop waiting for perfect."

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From the Blog

Straight talk on mortgages, loans, and Florida real estate

VA Loans

VA Loan Guide for Florida Veterans: Everything You Need to Know in 2026

Complete guide to VA loans in Florida. 0% down payment, no PMI, eligibility requirements, and how to use your benefit.

Read the guide →

First-Time Buyers

First-Time Homebuyer Guide: How to Buy Your First Home in Florida (2026)

Step-by-step for first-time buyers. Down payment assistance, loan options, and credit requirements explained clearly.

Read the guide →

Loan Comparison

FHA vs. Conventional Loan in Florida: Which One Is Right for You?

Side-by-side breakdown. Down payment, credit score, PMI differences, and how to decide which loan fits your situation.

Read the guide →

View All Posts

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common mortgage questions Florida homebuyers ask. Still have questions? Call me at 850-346-8514.

It depends on the loan type. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum. FHA loans go as low as 580 with 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down. VA loans have no official minimum, but most lenders want 580+. I work with borrowers across the credit spectrum and can help you find the right program for your situation.

Get Your Free Quote Today

Ready to Make Your Move?

Join 600+ Florida families who found their path to homeownership with Dr. MortgageUSA

Call: 850-346-8514

Call Dennis

Know Your Mortgage Options Before You Apply

Today's Mortgage Rates

What's your target home price?

Which best describes you?

How much can you put down?

Almost there. Where should I send your results?

When do you want to move?

First-Time Homebuyer Programs

What you can get:

Get Your Pre-Approval

VA Loan Benefits for Veterans

Your VA benefits can include:

Get Your VA Pre-Approval

Credit Improvement Solutions

Here is how I help:

Start Your Journey

Smart Strategies for Repeat Buyers

Smart options for repeat buyers:

Get Your Savings Plan

Investor Financing Solutions

What type of investor financing do you need?

How It Works

Take the 60 second quiz

Get your custom plan

Close on your home

Loan Options You Can Qualify For

FHA Loans

VA Loans

Conventional Loans

USDA Loans

Bank Statement Loans

DSCR Investor Loans

Client Success Stories

Mortgage Payment Calculator

Like what you see?

Want Dennis to review the numbers?

Ready to Apply?

You should have:

About Dr. MortgageUSA

Meet Dennis Ross

What sets me apart:

Veterans come first.

More loan options than any local bank.

You will understand every number.

Stay Connected

Today's Mortgage Rates

Follow @dr.mortgageusa

From the Blog

VA Loan Guide for Florida Veterans: Everything You Need to Know in 2026

First-Time Homebuyer Guide: How to Buy Your First Home in Florida (2026)

FHA vs. Conventional Loan in Florida: Which One Is Right for You?

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Make Your Move?