One of the first things you should consider doing is to talk with a lender who will Pre-Qualify you based on your income, debt ratio, and money available for a down payment. It is a very easy thing to do and can usually be done right over the phone. In this way you will know the price range in which to concentrate. Also, when you do make an offer, sellers tend to take you more seriously and you are more apt to have your offer accepted. I strongly suggest that you use a local lender who is familiar with the details exclusive to purchasing in the Keys, rather than an out of area lender. Generally, the entire procedure goes much more smoothly. Here are a few:

Fairway Mortgage Corp Linda Luttrell

PO Box 501620, Marathon, FL 33050

Phone: 305-743-3220 Cell: 305-395-0564

Email: lindal@fairwaymc.com

Countrywide Bank Lisa Feliciano

100360 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Phone: 305-451-9669 Cell: 305-766-0643

Email: Lisa_Feliciano@countrywide.com

Centennial Bank Michael Kiraly

11290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Phone: 305-743-4449

Email: mkiraly@my100bank.com

Orion Bank Rich Tompkins

12640 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Phone:305-289-5806 Cell: 305-393-3926

Email: rich.tompkins@orionbank.com

Keys Federal Credit Union Chris King

553 Peary Court Rd, PO Box 1898, Key West, FL 33041

Phone: 305-395-2739

Email: Chris.king@keysfcu.org