BARRETT HENRY | THE NOW TEAM
Buying a Home
I've helped hundreds of buyers find the right home at the right price. Here's how we do it.
Buyer Representation
How Does Buyer Representation Work?
When you work with me as your buyer's agent, I represent your interests exclusively throughout the entire transaction. That means I'm negotiating for the lowest price, the best terms, and the strongest protections — not trying to close a quick deal. With 23+ years of real estate experience, I've seen every scenario that can come up between contract and closing, and I know how to handle each one.
Here's what most buyers don't realize: in the majority of Tampa Bay transactions, the seller pays the buyer's agent commission. That means you get full professional representation — market analysis, negotiation, contract management, and closing coordination — typically at no direct cost to you. There is no good reason to go through this process without an experienced agent in your corner.
Whether you're a first-time buyer figuring out FHA loans or a seasoned investor adding to your portfolio, The NOW Team handles every detail from pre-approval referrals through the final walkthrough. Call me at (813) 733-7907 and let's get started.
Your Advantage
Why Work With Barrett?
I Know This Market
I work across all 8 Tampa Bay counties every day. You get real pricing data, honest neighborhood insights, and investment-grade analysis — not guesswork from a part-timer.
I Fight for Your Deal
23+ years of negotiation experience means I know how to write offers that win, terms that protect you, and strategies that keep more money in your pocket.
The NOW Team Has Your Back
From pre-approval to closing day, my team and I handle every detail — lender referrals, inspections, title coordination, and everything in between. You're never on your own.
Step by Step
What Does the Buying Process Look Like?
Get Pre-Approved
Connect with a lender to understand your budget. A pre-approval letter shows sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer. Not sure where to start? I have trusted lender referrals ready to go.
Define Your Criteria
Bedrooms, neighborhoods, school districts, commute — I'll nail down exactly what you need so we're only looking at homes that actually fit your life.
Tour Homes
See properties in person (or virtually). We'll tour as many homes as it takes to find the one that checks your boxes.
Make an Offer
I'll analyze comparable sales, craft a competitive offer, and negotiate terms that protect your interests. This is where 23+ years of experience pays off.
Inspections & Appraisal
Home inspection, appraisal, and any specialty inspections happen here. The NOW Team handles repair negotiations if anything comes up — you won't be left guessing.
Close & Get Keys
Final walkthrough, sign the paperwork, and pick up the keys to your new home. Welcome to Tampa Bay!
Be Prepared
What Do You Need to Buy a Home?
Pre-Approval Letter
A lender reviews your income, credit, and assets to determine how much home you can afford. This letter tells sellers you're financially qualified — without it, most sellers won't entertain your offer.
A Buyer's Agent
Your agent represents your interests exclusively. I negotiate on your behalf, identify red flags during showings, and handle the paperwork from contract to closing. In most transactions, the seller pays the buyer's agent commission — so my representation typically costs you nothing out of pocket.
Down Payment & Closing Costs
Conventional loans often require 5-20% down, but FHA loans start at 3.5% and VA loans require zero down for eligible veterans. Closing costs in Florida typically run 2-5% of the purchase price. I'll connect you with lenders who can break down the exact numbers for your situation.
Patience & Flexibility
The right home doesn't always appear on day one. Tampa Bay's market moves fast, and having clear priorities — plus the willingness to act quickly when the right property hits — makes all the difference.
Financial Resources
Can You Get Help With Your Down Payment?
Florida offers several programs that help buyers cover down payment and closing costs. These are real dollars — not tax credits — and I've helped many buyers take advantage of them.
Florida Hometown Heroes Program
Designed for first-time buyers who work in over 50 eligible professions — teachers, nurses, law enforcement, firefighters, and more. Offers up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance as a 0% interest, non-amortizing, 30-year deferred second mortgage.
Read the Full GuideFL Assist (Second Mortgage Program)
Available to all qualified borrowers through Florida Housing, FL Assist provides up to $10,000 as a 0% interest, non-amortizing, deferred second mortgage. It can be paired with any first mortgage loan offered through Florida Housing's program.
Learn About FL AssistFirst-Time Buyer Resources
Not sure where to begin? My first-time buyer guide covers everything from credit score requirements and loan types to what happens at the closing table. It's the playbook I give every new buyer I work with.
Read the Buyer GuideLocal Insight
What Should Tampa Bay Buyers Know?
Tampa Bay is one of the most active real estate markets in the Southeast. Inventory levels, interest rates, and seasonal patterns all affect how quickly homes move and what you'll pay. Homes in desirable neighborhoods can go under contract within days of listing — sometimes hours. Having your pre-approval ready and your agent on speed dial is not optional here.
Insurance is a major factor in Florida home buying. Flood zones, wind mitigation credits, roof age, and the condition of the property all affect your insurance premiums. I help buyers evaluate these costs before making an offer — not after. Understanding your total monthly cost (mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA) is the difference between a comfortable purchase and a financial headache.
Whether you're looking in Valrico, Brandon, Riverview, or anywhere else across the region, I'll give you the straight story on pricing, neighborhoods, schools, and commute times. Use the mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payment, then reach out so we can put a plan together.
Financing Options
Florida Loan Programs
Every buyer's financial situation is different. Here are the major loan programs available to Florida home buyers — Barrett can connect you with lenders who specialize in each.
Browse Listings
Search Available Homes
Browse active listings across Tampa Bay — updated every 5 minutes from Stellar MLS. See something you like? Call me directly at (813) 733-7907.
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