Buy Your First Home Without the Stress (or Surprises)
The honest, plain-English guide every first-time buyer in Orlando, Winter Park & Central Florida needs before they start searching.
Everything I Wish Someone Had Told Me
The Central Florida First-Time Buyer Guide
A no-fluff, honest walkthrough of the process — from getting pre-approved to closing day.
- How to get pre-approved (and what to avoid on your credit before you do)
- What inspections actually cover — and what they don't
- The real cost of buying: closing costs, HOA fees & more
- How to compete in a hot market without overpaying
- Questions your agent should be asking (but many don't)
- Neighborhood breakdowns: Winter Park, Mills 50, College Park & more
The Agent You'll Actually Hear From
Your interests first
I got into real estate after being let down as a buyer. I know how it feels — and I make sure my clients never do.
Always reachable
No ghosting, no runaround. You'll always know where things stand throughout the process.
Hyper-local expertise
Deep knowledge of Orlando, Winter Park, and surrounding neighborhoods where you want to be.
100% focus on you
You're not client #47. As a dedicated agent, every client gets my full attention and energy.
Santiago Hernandez Palma
Tampa native, USF alum, and Central Florida Realtor with a simple mission: to be the agent I wished I'd had when I bought my first home. I bring honesty, hustle, and genuine care to every transaction.