Ready to buy your first home in Tampa Bay? 🏡 Whether you're just thinking about it or already house-hunting, this episode of The Colton Elliott Podcast breaks down everything you need to know about first-time homeownership, loan options, and what to expect in today’s lending market.

I’m joined by Bryan Kennedy, founder of Statewide Mortgage Company, a top-tier lender who has helped thousands navigate the homebuying process in Florida. In this value-packed conversation, we cover:

✅ What first-time buyers need to do BEFORE talking to a realtor
✅ FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional loan options
✅ Down payment assistance programs available in Tampa Bay
✅ What to expect from lenders during the pre-approval and underwriting process
✅ Common mistakes buyers make — and how to avoid them
✅ How to prepare financially, mentally, and spiritually for homeownership

Whether you're self-employed, renting, or saving up, this is your playbook to becoming a confident, informed buyer in today’s market.

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🎧 LISTEN TO THE FULL PODCAST on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
📲 Connect with Bryan Kennedy:
Website: [Insert Link]
Instagram: [Insert Handle]
Email: [Insert Contact Email]

💼 Need a real estate team in Tampa Bay that fights for YOU?
Connect with The Colton Elliott Group:
Website: www.ColtonElliottRealtor.com
Instagram: @ColtonElliottRealtor

🔔 Like, Subscribe & Comment below — what part helped you most?

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Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
2:00 - Meet Bryan Kennedy of Statewide Mortgage
6:30 - What First-Time Buyers Need to Know
14:45 - FHA vs. VA vs. Conventional Loans
22:10 - Tampa Bay Lending Programs
31:00 - Pre-Approval vs. Pre-Qualification
39:20 - Common Buyer Mistakes
48:15 - Final Advice from Bryan
55:00 - Outro & Resources

#TampaRealEstate #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #MortgageTips #ColtonElliottPodcast #StatewideMortgage #HomeBuyingJourney