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✦ Frequently Asked Questions

Got Questions?

Answers to the questions clients ask most often — across real estate, lending, title, and insurance. Can't find what you need? Email Danny directly and we'll add it here.

General

Do I have to use all four of Danny's companies?
No. Each company is independent and you can use any one of them on its own. Most clients choose to bundle services because it saves time and money, but it's never required.
How does using one team save me money?
When the same team handles real estate, lending, title, and insurance, you avoid duplicate fees that get charged when each side bills separately. Bundled clients typically save 1-2% of the home price across closing costs and premiums.
Where does Danny's team operate?
All four companies are licensed across the entire state of Florida — all 67 counties, from the Panhandle to the Keys. We work with clients in person and remotely depending on what makes sense for your transaction.
How long does a typical home purchase take?
From signed contract to keys in hand, expect 30-45 days for a standard purchase. Because our team coordinates directly, we typically close 5-10 days faster than buyers who use four separate companies.
What does it cost to work with Danny's team?
Most services are free to you — real estate buyer agents are paid by the seller, mortgage brokers are paid by the lender (no fee to borrowers), and insurance brokers are paid by the carrier. Title fees are standard regulated costs. You always get a full Loan Estimate and closing disclosure showing every dollar.
How do I get started?
Email Danny directly at dannydivito@me.com, or visit the Contact page for direct lines to each company. There's no application fee, no commitment, and the first conversation is always free.

Real Estate

Can Danny help me sell my home?
Yes — Divito Real Estate Group provides full-service seller representation including pricing strategy, professional photography, MLS listing, marketing, negotiation, and closing coordination. We typically net sellers more than discount brokerages because of stronger negotiation and better marketing.
Does Danny's team work with investors?
Yes. Divito Real Estate Group helps investors find cash-flowing rentals, flips, and commercial properties. Divito Lending handles investment property loans (typically 20-25% down, 700+ credit). Atlantic Title handles complex commercial closings. We work with everyone from first-time investors to portfolio builders.
Does Danny offer commercial real estate services?
Yes. Divito Real Estate Group handles commercial purchases and sales. Divito Lending arranges commercial mortgages, construction loans, and multifamily financing. Atlantic Title handles complex commercial closings with multi-party escrow.

Mortgage Lending

What credit score do I need to buy a home?
It depends on the loan type. FHA accepts 580+, VA typically 580-620, conventional 620+, and jumbo 700+. Divito Lending shops 50+ lenders to find the best rate for your specific credit profile.
How much down payment do I need?
VA and USDA loans require 0% down, FHA requires 3.5%, conventional starts at 3% for first-time buyers, and jumbo loans typically require 10-20%. On a $400,000 Florida home, that ranges from $0 to $80,000.
Why use a mortgage broker instead of going directly to a bank?
Brokers like Divito Lending access wholesale rates that retail banks don't offer to consumers directly. This typically saves 0.25-0.5% on your interest rate, which can mean tens of thousands of dollars over a 30-year mortgage.
Can I refinance my mortgage with Divito Lending?
Yes — Divito Lending handles rate-and-term refinances, cash-out refinances, FHA streamline refis, and VA IRRRL streamline refis. We run a free break-even analysis to show you whether refinancing makes sense for your specific situation.
What if I'm self-employed?
Self-employed borrowers can absolutely get a mortgage. Divito Lending works with 2-year tax-return loans, bank-statement loans, and non-QM products designed for self-employed borrowers whose tax returns don't show enough income on paper.
How fast can I get pre-approved for a mortgage?
Divito Lending typically issues pre-approval letters within 24 hours of receiving a complete application. The application itself takes about 15 minutes online. Pre-approval letters are valid for 90 days.
Are there programs for first-time homebuyers in Florida?
Yes. Florida Housing Finance Corporation offers:

Florida Assist: Up to $10,000 deferred loan
Florida HFA Preferred: 3-5% grant for down payment / closing
Hometown Heroes: Up to $35,000 for first responders, teachers, healthcare workers

We help qualified buyers apply.

Title & Closings

What is title insurance and do I need it?
Title insurance protects you against undiscovered title defects, liens, or ownership disputes from before you bought the property. Lenders require it on mortgages; it's strongly recommended for cash buyers too. In Florida, sellers traditionally pay for the owner's policy in most counties.
How much do closing costs run in Florida?
Florida closing costs typically total 2-5% of the loan amount. That includes lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, the Florida documentary stamp tax ($0.35 per $100 borrowed + $0.70 per $100 on the deed), and prepaid escrows. On a $400,000 loan, expect $8,000-$20,000.
Who does the title work in a Florida transaction?
In Florida, the buyer typically chooses the title company. When you work with Danny's team, Atlantic Title Firm handles the full title search, issues title insurance, manages escrow, and conducts the closing — all coordinated directly with the realtor and lender to avoid delays.

Insurance

What is life insurance for, when buying a home?
A mortgage is the biggest debt most families carry. Life insurance ensures that if anything happens to the primary earner, your family doesn't lose the home. Divito Insurance can structure a policy specifically designed to pay off the mortgage balance.
What's the difference between term and whole life insurance?
Term life covers you for a set period (10/20/30 years) at a lower cost — best for protecting a mortgage or young family. Whole life lasts your entire life and builds cash value — best for estate planning. Return-of-premium term refunds your premiums if you outlive the policy. Divito Insurance walks you through which fits your goals.
How much life insurance do I need?
A common guideline is 10-12× your annual income, plus enough to pay off your mortgage and cover education costs for any kids. We run a free needs analysis based on your specific situation — no obligation.

Florida-Specific

Do I need flood insurance in Florida?
Federal law requires flood insurance if your home is in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) — typically Zone A or V — and you have a mortgage. Even outside flood zones, lenders may recommend it. Annual costs range from $400 to $4,000+ depending on the zone.
What's the Florida homestead exemption?
Florida residents who own and occupy their primary residence can claim a homestead exemption of up to $50,000 off the assessed value for property tax purposes. Must be filed with your county property appraiser by March 1st. Also caps annual assessed value growth at 3% (Save Our Homes).
How does hurricane insurance work in Florida?
Florida homeowners insurance typically requires a separate windstorm / hurricane deductible (often 2-5% of dwelling coverage). Premiums in coastal areas run $4,000-$10,000+ annually and are escrowed monthly with your mortgage payment. This materially impacts what you can afford — we factor it into every pre-approval.
Are property taxes high in Florida?
Florida's effective property tax rate averages about 0.91% — close to the national average. However, Florida has no state income tax, making the overall tax burden lower than most states. Homesteaded residences get a $50K exemption and the 3% Save Our Homes assessment cap.

Just ask.

Email Danny directly or reach out through the contact page — we'll get back to you within one business day.