Buy Smart. Move Confidently.
Meet Team Valdez Real Estate
Lily Chandler & Brian Valdez
* Top 500 Realtor
* Top 35 under 35
* Top Zillow Agent
Did you know the top 10% of real estate agents perform 90% of the business in Florida Real Estate? 
As full-time Realtors, we know buying a home is more than a transaction… It’s about your family, future, and finances. This is likely the biggest investment of your life, not to be taken lightly!
That’s why we combine education, experience, and negotiation strength to guide you every step of the way as if we were guiding a loved one. Your happiness and future matter to us!
5.0
40+ Reviews
100%
Commitment
To your success
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Team Approach
Double the power
Central Florida Market Update
Market Reality
High interest rates created a market with a ton inventory (homes on market) that demands sellers price right and offer incentives. Buyers offer based on mortgage affordability and want move in ready.
Great homes still move fast. Be prepared to offer quickly.
Builder Incentives
Builders offer incentives like covering closing costs and fixed interest rates below 5%. A rare opportunity exclusive to slower markets.
Your Advantage
Team Valdez knows how to find your top choice and close at the best terms for you. Did you know you can buy with as little as $1,000 out of pocket! We can negotiate interest rate buydowns and closing costs being paid!
Don't worry about flaws, age of the bones or ugly walls/floors.
I can negotiate to have your home customized before you move in, paid by the sellers.
What Most Buyers Worry About
"My credit might not qualify."
There are loan programs designed for a wide range of credit profiles. The first step is knowing where you stand. If you have 560+ you can get pre approved usually.
"I don't have enough saved."
Many buyers are surprised to find they need far less than they think — especially with assistance programs available in Florida
"I'm fixating only on the interest rate."
$2,000 monthly X 1 year is $24,000 paying the landlords mortgage.
You can do an interest rate buydown and have a lower rate now. Then in the next few years you'll have equity to refinance for no money out of pocket.
Lessons Learned
Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make
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Waiting Too Long to Talk to a Lender
The earlier you know your numbers, the more options you have. Waiting often means missing the right homes and having to renew your lease.
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Not Truly Understanding Their Budget
Pre-qualification and pre-approval are different. Knowing your real purchasing power prevents disappointment and wasted time
Understanding your numbers is the first step to owning your home.
What Your Lender Does for You
Pre-Approval Power
Strong pre-approvals that make your offers stand out in a competitive market
Down Payment Assistance
Guidance on programs that may dramatically reduce what you need upfront
Loan Option Clarity
Clear breakdown of FHA, conventional, VA, and USDA loans
Cost Clarity
How Much Money Do You Actually Need?
Here's a straightforward look at the typical costs involved — and the good news that often surprises first-time buyers.
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Home Inspection
Typically $300–$500. This is your protection — it reveals condition issues before you're locked in.
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Appraisal
Usually $400–$600, ordered by the lender to confirm the home's value matches the purchase price.
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Down Payment
Ranges from 0% (VA/USDA) to 3–3.5% (FHA/conventional) — not always the 20% myth. Down payment assistance is available!
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Closing Costs
Generally 2–3% of the loan amount — but usually negotiated to be paid by the seller.
You May Qualify For:
  • Down payment assistance programs
  • Seller-paid closing costs negotiated in your offer
  • Grants and forgivable loan programs in Florida
  • Reduced upfront expenses through smart structuring
The total out-of-pocket number is often much lower than you expect.
The Step-by-Step Home Buying Process
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1. Get Pre-Approved
A pre-approval shows you've spoken to a lender and considered the next steps. This gives you an advantage over other home shoppers.
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2. Find a Home
House hunt 3–6 months before you intend to buy. Be optimistic towards cosmetic fixes as those can be the best deals. We'll make sure the home has strong bones.
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3. Escrow Deposit
Typically 1–2% of purchase price, this is money that the title company holds as your commitment to the purchase. This goes towards your down payment.
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4. Home Inspection
A licensed inspector meticulously examines the entire property (in and out). If we need to negotiate anything, we will. We send the 4pt inspection to insurance to get the best insurance rates for you.
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5. Renegotiation
Based on the inspection review, we'll negotiate credits or specific repairs to be done before closing.
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6. Appraisal
The lender orders an appraisal to determine the property's fair market value. They will NOT loan more than the property is worth.
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7. Loan Approval
You work your way with the lender through the underwriting process. Then your loan is officially ready for closing!
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8. Final Walkthrough
Just before closing, we'll conduct a final walkthrough to confirm everything is as it should be, ensuring all agreed-upon repairs have been made and no new issues have arisen.
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9. Closing Day 🎉
The final step! You'll sign all closing documents, transfer funds, and officially take ownership of your new home. Congratulations — the keys are yours!
From pre-approval to closing, most purchases take 30–60 days. The process is more manageable than most buyers imagine.
Our Commitment
How Team Valdez Helps You
We're not just here to open doors. We're here to be your guide, your advocate, and your strategic partner from the first conversation to the closing table — and beyond.
Personalized Home Search
We build a search tailored to your lifestyle, priorities, and budget, not just a generic MLS filter
Step-by-Step Guidance
We walk you through every stage. No surprises, no confusion, no feeling lost in the paperwork.
Strong Negotiation
Our track record of negotiating repairs, costs, and terms saves buyers real money at the closing table
Full Team Coordination
We work directly with all parties so every thing is smooth to closing!
After the Purchase
Trusted Vendor Network
Need a plumber, roofer, landscaper, or contractor? We connect you with the same vendors our clients rely on — vetted and reliable.
Homeowner Guidance
First-time ownership comes with questions. We're always available to walk you through what to expect as a homeowner.
Long-Term Planning
Whether it's building equity, upsizing, or investing… We help you think ahead and make smart real estate decisions for years to come.
Real Estate is Personal
We believe in building authentic connections.
What Our Clients Are Saying
"Lily made the homebuying process fun, and she and Brian stopped at nothing less than helping me find my perfect home. They remembered the details that were important to me, never rushed or pressured me, and I knew they had my back. Thank you so much!."
— Lydia Knowles, Deltona
"I had such an amazing experience working with Lily Chandler From start to finish, they were professional, knowledgeable, and truly cared about helping me every step of the way. They made the process smooth, stress-free, and always kept me updated. Whether it was answering questions, explaining details, or negotiating on my behalf, Lily went above and beyond. I couldn’t have asked for a better Realtor"
— Burton Family, Kissimmee
"Lily Chandler is very knowledgeable of the market, professional and proactive. She helped us through both the purchase and sale of our home. We highly recommend!"
— Tanya Viragh, Davenport
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