The holiday season is a magical time in homes everywhere, but did you know that Christmas traditions vary wildly across the globe? From festive foods to unique decorations, each country has its own way of celebrating the joy of the season. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most fascinating holiday traditions around the world:

• Italy: La Befana and the Nativity Scene

In Italy, children look forward not only to Santa Claus but also to La Befana, a friendly witch who delivers gifts on January 5th. Nativity scenes are also central to Italian holiday decor, often elaborately displayed in homes and public squares.

• Germany: Advent Calendars and Markets

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets filled with twinkling lights, handmade ornaments, and seasonal treats like gingerbread and mulled wine. Advent calendars are also a huge tradition, helping families count down to Christmas day with little surprises each morning.

• Japan: Fried Chicken Feasts

In Japan, Christmas isn’t a national holiday, but it has become a festive celebration over the years. One of the most famous traditions is enjoying KFC for Christmas dinner! Many families pre-order buckets of fried chicken months in advance, and it has become a quirky, beloved holiday custom.

• Iceland – The Yule Lads

Instead of Santa, Iceland has 13 Yule Lads who visit children on the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. Kids leave shoes in the window, and each lad leaves small gifts or potatoes depending on whether the child has been good or naughty.

• Italy – La Befana

In Italy, a friendly witch called La Befana delivers gifts to children on January 6th, Epiphany. She fills stockings with sweets for good kids and coal for naughty ones.

• Venezuela – Roller Skating to Church

In Caracas, people often roller skate to early morning Christmas Mass during December. Streets even close to cars to make it safer for skating.

Why Traditions Matter

These celebrations show that while Christmas is a global holiday, it’s also deeply local—shaped by culture, climate, and family customs. No matter where you are, the heart of the holiday remains the same: love, togetherness, and joy.

🎄MERRY CHRISTMAS! 🎄

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

State of the Market
–  “November’s slowdown reflects typical market behavior heading into the holiday season. Buyers tend to be less active, while many sellers hold off on listing their homes or take them off the market to avoid navigating a slower time of year,” said Lawrence Bellido, president of the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association. “This leads to fewer listings and less competition, which can create opportunities for buyers but also limit inventory for those actively searching. As we approach the new year, it’s important to keep an eye on interest rates and inventory levels, as these will continue to impact both buying and selling decisions.”

–  The median home price for November was recorded at $385,000, up 1.3% from October’s median home price of $380,000.

–  Overall sales fell by 22.1% from October to November. There were 2,335 sales in October and 1,820 sales in November.

–  Inventory for November was recorded at 12,516, down 4.1% from October when inventory was recorded at 13,047.

–  November’s interest rate was recorded at 6.1%, up from 6.0% in October.

–  New listings fell 21.4% from October to November, with 2,891 new homes on the market in November, compared to 3,676 in in October.

–  24 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 1.3% of all home sales in November. This is a 7.7% decrease from October, when 26 distressed homes sold.

ORRA’s full State of the Market Report for November 2025 can be found at https://www.orlandorealtors.org/statemarket

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

The time of year has arrived when we gather to celebrate with delicious food. It’s incredibly difficult to resist slipping your furry friend a bite, but that small gesture of love can quickly lead to trouble. Before you share, read over the following list of human foods that may or may not be suitable for Fido or Kitty.

            Suitable Treats for Pets

• A small amount of cooked, plain white turkey meat is fine. However, always remove the skin first, as its fat and spices can lead to digestive issues or serious problems like pancreatitis.
• If you’re celebrating with prime rib or ham, a few bites of meat without herbs or spices is a nice snack.
• Gravy can be a yummy topping for your pet’s regular food, but limit the amount to just a few tablespoons. Gravies are typically too high in salt and fat for animals.
• Before you turn your baked sweet potatoes or pureed pumpkin into pies, pass a spoonful or two along as a treat. Both are rich in vitamins and high in fiber, and are a great anytime snack.

            Keep These Foods on Your Plate

• Any dish containing onions is a definite no–they contain thiosulphate, which is quite harmful to dogs and cats.
• Bones of any kind can be a real danger because of splintering, and could cause choking as well as a perforated digestive system.
• Stuffing may not only be too carb-rich, but the onions, garlic and spices that most stuffings contain can be toxic to your pets.
• Going sugar free? Double-check artificial sweetener ingredients for xylitol. If present, ensure your pet never consumes anything that contains it, as it is highly toxic.
• Do not give your pet baked goods. These treats contain excessive sugar and often include chocolate, which is toxic to both cats and dogs. If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, contact your vet right away.

The extra commotion of a holiday gathering can stress pets. Give them a quiet place to escape the hustle. Before sitting down to eat, remind all guests not to share food with the persistent, sad-eyed beggars. If you really want to include your beloved canine in your family meal, try this little doggy casserole from Rachael Rae, and cats will enjoy the Turkey Cat Treats recipe that is easy to make!

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

The holiday season has arrived in Central Florida—twinkling lights on palm trees, festive events at every corner, and yes… sometimes a bit of stress, too. Between the cooking, shopping, hosting, and navigating busy Orlando attractions, the holidays can feel overwhelming. But this season should be joyful, relaxing, and full of meaningful moments.

Here are some simple tips to help you enjoy a calm and bright holiday season here in Orlando:

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Let Go of Perfection

It’s easy to get caught up in picture-perfect holiday expectations—especially with social media influencers showing off magazine-worthy décor. But the truth is, none of that matters if you’re too stressed to enjoy the season.
Choose what actually brings you joy:

• Bake cookies with the kids
• Decorate your tree with your favorite ornaments
• Enjoy a stroll through Lake Eola to see the holiday lights

And if hosting big gatherings isn’t your thing? Skip it. Your holidays don’t need to be perfect—they just need to be meaningful.

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Choose Online Shopping When You Can

Orlando traffic during the holidays—especially near the malls and outlets—can be a bit much. If browsing the Florida Mall or Millenia Mall energizes you, go for it! But if crowds and parking garages aren’t your style, cozy up in your PJs, make a cup of hot cocoa, and shop online.

Most stores offer the same Black Friday and holiday deals online, and you’ll save time (and energy!) that you can spend actually relaxing.

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Delegate—You Don’t Have to Do It All

Holiday tasks feel lighter when everyone pitches in:

• Have older kids help decorate the tree
• Host a potluck instead of preparing every dish yourself
• Ask your spouse to grab last-minute items on the way home
• Share tasks with family so no one feels overwhelmed

Together, holiday prep becomes more enjoyable—and much less stressful.

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Try These Time-Savers

A few small changes can give you more time to enjoy the season:

• Say no to events and activities that drain your energy
• Choose pre-printed holiday cards for quick mailing
• Keep your decorations simple and easy to set up
• Make a complete shopping list so you only make one trip

These little adjustments can free up hours—perfect for spending time with loved ones or enjoying Orlando’s festive events.

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Show Kindness Wherever You Can

One of the best ways to relieve stress is to focus outward. Acts of kindness—donating toys, volunteering, or simply helping a neighbor—can bring an incredible sense of peace and joy.

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Enjoy the Season

Take care of yourself, do what feels meaningful, and remember that the holidays don’t have to be perfect—they just have to be enjoyed. Wishing you a calm, bright, and beautiful holiday season here in Orlando! 🎄✨

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

October is National Fire Prevention Month and the perfect time to do more than just test your smoke alarm batteries — it’s also a great reminder to inspect anything in your home that could pose a fire risk if not used or maintained properly. Take this opportunity to sit down with your family and review your emergency fire escape plan.

Not sure where to begin? Start with these simple tips:

• Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach in your kitchen. If you don’t have one, be sure to purchase one. If you already do, have it inspected to ensure it’s still in proper working condition.
• Smoke alarms are essential for every home. Older models can be overly sensitive, often going off during cooking — which may lead to removing the battery and forgetting to replace it. Newer models often include a temporary sensitivity button to reduce false alarms while cooking, automatically resetting after a short time.
• If your home has more than one story, keep a fire escape ladder near an easily accessible window on the upper floor. SafeWise.com offers a helpful guide with top-rated ladder options and tips on how to choose the best one for your home’s layout and needs.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets, and use extension cords only as a short-term solution. If you find yourself constantly needing more outlets, hire a licensed electrician to install them. The cost is minimal compared to the potential damage of an electrical fire.
• Call a licensed electrician if you notice warning signs like sparking outlets, flickering lights, or frequently tripped circuit breakers. These could indicate serious electrical issues that need immediate attention.
• After every load, clean the lint screen in your dryer, and regularly clear lint from the vent and the back of the dryer to prevent buildup.
• Have your chimneys and furnaces inspected and cleaned before use to ensure they’re safe and functioning properly. If you use a wood-burning fireplace, check that the screen protector is intact and use only a flame-resistant rug in front of the hearth.
• While rare, lightning can ignite house fires. Lightning rods might seem old-fashioned, but they effectively redirect lightning to prevent fires and protect your electronics from damage.

Most importantly, every family needs a fire escape plan that everyone knows well. To help you create and practice your own plan, check out the National Fire Protection Association’s page, which offers free printable tools and step-by-step guidelines. Remember, investing time in planning and practicing your fire escape plan is invaluable when it comes to keeping your home and loved ones safe.

Final Thought: Fire prevention is a shared responsibility that starts with awareness and preparation. Taking small, consistent steps today can make all the difference in protecting your home and family tomorrow. Stay safe, stay prepared, and make fire prevention a priority every day.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

If you’ve been house hunting in Orlando, chances are you’ve come across multiple listings that include the words “Homeowners Association” or “HOA.” While HOAs sometimes get a bad rap in the news, the reality is that living in an HOA community can offer major benefits—especially in a fast-growing market like Central Florida.

Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or buying your first home, it’s important to understand how HOAs work in Orlando’s unique real estate landscape.

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🏡 What Is an HOA (and Why Does It Matter in Orlando)?

In Orlando, as in many other metro areas, HOAs are common—especially in newer subdivisions, master-planned communities, and condo developments. When you buy a home in an HOA-managed neighborhood, you automatically become a member and agree to follow the community rules, known as covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). You’ll also be responsible for paying monthly or quarterly fees.

But here’s the upside: these rules and fees are designed to protect your property value, enhance your quality of life, and maintain community amenities.

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💡 Benefits of Buying a Home in an Orlando HOA Community

Here’s why you shouldn’t be scared off by those three little letters:

✅ Curb Appeal & Maintenance Standards
HOAs enforce rules about home upkeep, landscaping, and exterior modifications. This protects the neighborhood’s aesthetic and can boost resale value when it’s time to sell.

✅ Shared Amenities
Depending on the community, your HOA fees may cover access to resort-style pools, fitness centers, playgrounds, gated security, walking trails, or even clubhouses and events—all popular in Orlando’s family-focused communities.

✅ Convenience Services
Some HOAs in Orlando include trash collection, lawn care, pest control, and even exterior maintenance for condos or townhomes.

✅ Local Insight
HOA board members are often residents themselves, meaning they’re invested in making smart decisions that benefit the community.

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💸 What About the Fees?

In Orlando, HOA fees vary widely.

Before you make an offer, ask your Realtor to confirm:

• The current HOA fee amount
• What’s included in the fee
• A copy of the bylaws, restrictions, and financials

This helps you budget wisely—and avoid surprises later.

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🔍 Tips for Buying in an HOA Community

1. Check the Listing Details
   If the home is in an HOA, the MLS listing will usually name the association and list the fee. Use this to do some preliminary research.
2. Search the HOA Online
   Most HOAs have a website or Facebook page where you can view photos, documents, and community news. Look for downloadable CC&Rs and budget info.
3. Tour the Neighborhood
   Drive through the community at different times of day. Are homes well-kept? Are residents active and friendly? Do the amenities look clean and usable?
4. Talk to Residents
   Nothing beats a quick conversation with someone who already lives there. Ask about their experience with the HOA, how responsive the board is, and what they love (or don’t) about the community.
5. Lean on Your Realtor
   A knowledgeable Orlando Realtor can help you identify HOA communities that match your lifestyle—whether you’re looking for low-maintenance living, luxury amenities, or family-friendly features.

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🏠 Final Thoughts: Is an HOA Right for You?

Living in an HOA community isn’t for everyone—but it can be a great choice if you value community standards, shared amenities, and property value protection.

So, don’t skip over a home just because it’s in an HOA. Do your homework, ask questions, and consider how the benefits align with your lifestyle.

With so many different HOA communities across Orlando, there’s something for everyone. You just have to find the right fit.

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Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

New Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association data shows a drop in sales, inventory, and new listings as Orlando continues to shift to a buyer’s market

State of the Market
– “Over the past month, we’ve seen a drop in inventory and homes sitting on the market for longer periods of time,” said Lawrence Bellido, president of the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association. “When you take this, and couple it with the lowest interest rate we’ve seen all year, this certainly makes it a great time for buyers to enter the market. For sellers, they must be pricing their home reasonably to avoid it sitting on the market and having to lower the listing price.”

– The median home price for August was recorded at $382,950, down 1.8% from July’s median home price of $389,999.

– Overall sales decreased by 9.6% from July to August. There were 2,551 sales in July and 2,306 sales in August.

Orlando area inventory fell 1.9% from July to August. Inventory in July was 13,557, and inventory in August was 13,306.

– August’s interest rate was recorded at 6.4%, down from 6.5% in July. This is the lowest interest rates have been in 2025.

– 29 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 1.3% of all home sales in August. This is a 52.8% increase from July, when only 21 distressed homes sold.

– New listings fell 11.5% from July to August, with 3,353 new homes on the market in August, compared to 3,788 in July/

ORRA’s full State of the Market Report for August 2025 can be found at https://www.orlandorealtors.org/statemarket

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

When selling your home, it’s important to remember that prospective buyers will be looking at it with a fresh perspective. Things you might not even notice could stand out to them. To make sure your home is in the best possible shape, keep these seven things in mind:

• Curb appeal is the first–and very important–impression! At the very least, keep the grass cut and shrubbery trimmed. Go a step further and lay down fresh mulch in the flowerbeds and add a pot of flowers near the front steps–don’t forget to keep them healthy!
  
• When you declutter, don’t pack everything in storage containers and leave them in the garage. Temporarily renting storage or keeping them in a shed will keep your home looking neat, and rooms will appear larger without all the “stuff.”

• If you have mice or insects in your home, have them exterminated before you put a sign in your yard. Rodent traps or insect baits sitting around are discouraging to buyers.
  
• Dripping faucets or cracked windows will not be appealing to buyers, so have these repaired.
  
• If you can’t find the time to deep-clean the house, hire a professional. Potential buyers will be turned off by a grimy stove or mildewed bathroom grout.
  
• Unpleasant odors will have buyers wrinkling their noses as soon as they walk in. Cleaning is important to remove dirt, but you need to clean for odors, too. Follow these tips from realtor.com^® for removing any funky smells from your home.
  
• Natural light is important to many home buyers, so window treatments that block light need to come down, cleaned, and stored for moving. Let the sunshine in by using sheers or easy-pull blinds or shades while your home is on the market.

You control the impression your house makes on potential buyers. Think of it as a sales pitch: your effort is what will draw them in, grab their attention, and keep it. The care you put into the small details will be reflected in the feedback and offers you receive.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

All your pre-sale tasks are finally done — the home is clean, staged, and your RealtorⓇ is lining up the marketing strategy. It’s officially go-time! But before those buyer showings turn into serious offers, now’s the perfect moment to think ahead to the home inspection process.

While a home inspection doesn’t technically come with a “pass or fail,” it can become a major roadblock if you haven’t tackled basic repairs and maintenance. A good-looking home is only half the battle — what’s behind the walls (and under the sink) matters just as much.

Here’s a 2025-ready checklist to help you avoid costly surprises:

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🔍 2025 Home Inspection Prep Checklist

🐜 1. Inspect for Pest Damage or Infestation

Rodents, termites, or other pests can cause serious structural and health issues — and you might not even know they’re there. Book a professional pest inspection to ensure your home is critter-free before potential buyers find out the hard way.

🚰 2. Look for Leaks and Plumbing Issues

Turn on every faucet and check under sinks for drips. Test toilets for running water and make sure all drains flow smoothly. Even small plumbing issues can raise red flags for inspectors.

🌫️ 3. Check for Mold and Mildew

Inspect dark, damp areas like the attic, crawl spaces, and basement for any signs of mold or mildew. Look especially at the underside of the roof. Addressing moisture issues now prevents a major inspection hang-up later.

🏚️ 4. Examine Your Roof

From the ground or using a drone (a service many inspectors and roofers now offer in 2025), look for missing shingles, sagging areas, or other damage. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, be prepared to address it in negotiations.

❄️ 5. Service the HVAC System

Your heating and cooling system should be in good working order. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and cleaning. This is often a line item on inspection reports, so having documentation of a recent service can offer buyers peace of mind.

💡 6. Replace Burned-Out Bulbs

Yes, really. If a light doesn’t turn on during the inspection, the inspector may flag it as a possible electrical issue. Replace any missing or dead bulbs so every switch and fixture functions properly.

🪟 7. Repair Window Cracks and Drafts

Check window sills for cracks and ensure windows open, close, and lock smoothly. Leaky or damaged windows are often noted in inspections and can be a concern for energy efficiency.

🧱 8. Address Foundation or Wall Cracks

Any visible cracks in walls (inside or out), ceilings, or the foundation should be assessed by a professional. If needed, complete the repair work before listing — or at least be prepared to offer documentation and repair quotes.

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👷‍♂️ Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection in 2025

If you’re a motivated seller in today’s market, you might want to go one step further: hire your own inspector before you list.

A pre-listing inspection gives you insight into any problems before buyers do. This way, you can:

• Make repairs proactively
• Price your home accordingly
• Offer repair credits instead of losing buyers to surprise issues

In 2025’s competitive housing market, showing buyers that you’re transparent and proactive about your home’s condition builds trust — and that can lead to a faster, smoother sale.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.

If you’re currently renting in Orlando, you’ve probably noticed that rent prices continue to climb. With the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment hovering around $1,700 per month, many renters are starting to ask: Would buying a home actually be more affordable?

The short answer: It could be—if you’re prepared.
Homeownership doesn’t happen overnight. In fact, the process can begin up to a year before you’re ready to start house hunting. The first and most important step? Create a homeowner budget.

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Step 1: Define What You Want—and What You Need

Start by making a list of what you’re looking for in your future home. Break it into “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” Be realistic about what you can afford in the Orlando market, where the median home price is currently around $385,000.

Consider factors like:

• Square footage
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Type of neighborhood or school district
• Commute times and access to public transportation
• Yard size
• Garage or no garage
• Home age (new build vs. resale)

Once you’ve made your list, set a realistic price range based on your income and savings—and stick to it.

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Step 2: Build Your Budget

Create a detailed list of your monthly income and expenses to understand your current financial picture. You can use an online budget calculator or spreadsheet to help. If you’re barely breaking even each month, it’s time to cut unnecessary spending and start saving.

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Step 3: Eliminate Debt

Paying off existing debt—like credit cards, car loans, or personal loans—not only frees up your monthly budget, it also improves your debt-to-income ratio, which lenders use to determine your loan eligibility.

Once a debt is paid off, start redirecting that money into a savings account. You’ll need funds not just for a down payment, but also for:

• Appraisals
• Inspections
• Moving costs
• Closing costs (which can add 2–5% of the purchase price)

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Step 4: Explore Homebuyer Assistance Programs

Even if you have a modest income, homeownership is still possible in Orlando thanks to several government-backed loan programs:

• FHA Loans: Require as little as 3.5% down and are ideal for first-time buyers.
• USDA Loans: Available for rural areas around Central Florida with zero down payment.
• VA Loans: Offer competitive rates and no down payment for eligible veterans.
• Florida Hometown Heroes Program: Assists frontline workers, teachers, and first responders with down payment and closing cost assistance.

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Step 5: Monitor Your Credit

Your credit report and score will play a big role in determining your mortgage terms. Most lenders require a minimum score of 620, but the higher your score, the better your loan options.
Keep paying your bills on time, reduce credit usage, and check your report regularly for errors.

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Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Orlando might feel out of reach, especially with rising costs. But with a clear budget, smart debt management, and the right support, owning a home can become a reality—no matter your income level.

It will take time, discipline, and planning, but the reward—a place of your own in one of Florida’s most dynamic cities—is well worth it.

Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.

Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.

You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently.  You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.