What is the first step of the home buying process?

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the first step in the home buying process. First, you need to know how much you can borrow. Second, the loan estimate from your lender will show how much money is required for the down payment and closing costs. Finally, being pre-approved for a mortgage demonstrates that you are a serious buyer to both your real estate agent and the person selling their home.

How long does it take to buy a home?

Once a home is selected and the offer is accepted, the average time to complete the escrow period on a home is 30 to 45 days. Though, well-prepared home buyers who pay cash have been known to purchase properties faster than that.

How much do I have to pay an agent to help me buy a house?

Home buyers will pay little to no fee to an agent to buy a home. For most home sales, there are two real estate agents involved in the deal: sellers agent and buyers agent. Buyers agents are compensated by the listing broker for bringing home buyers to the table. When the home is sold, the listing broker splits the listing fee with the buyer’s agent. Thus, buyers don’t pay their agents.

As a sellers agent, will you show my home to potential buyers?

Yes! We will show and sell your home as your agent. We will not just list your home on the MLS. As your agent we will represent you and your home. We will advertise, show and sell your home.

How much do I need for a down payment?

The national average for down payments is 11%; however, first time homebuyers usually only put down 3 to 5% on a home. VA loans and USDA loans can be made with zero down. Conventional loans require a 20% down payment.

What is earnest money?

When you make an offer on your home your agent will ask for a check to accompany it typically 1% to 2% of the purchase price. Earnest money is made in good faith to demonstrate - to the seller that the buyer’s offer is genuine. Earnest money is considered part of your down payment. Earnest money is normally returned if the deal falls through.

How much is my house worth?

Most homeowners want to know how much their home is worth. This frequently asked question is another one that cannot be answered with a generalized answer. Finding out how much your home is worth is not something that should be done without asking me to research the price point.

Why is the assessed value different than what you say my home is worth?

Assessed value is not the same as market value or as appraised value.  There are many homes that could be sold for significantly more than an assessed value and others that maybe sold for significantly less.  The assessed value of a home is used for the purpose of taxes in your local municipality.  The assessed value of a home is multiplied by the local tax rate to determine what your yearly taxes are.  The assessed value has no impact on how much your home is worth to a potential buyer in the marketplace.

How do I respond to low ball offers?

When selling a home, it’s best to think of any decision as a business decision rather than an emotional one.   The worst decision you can make if you receive a low ball offer is not responding.  Some home owners are so upset they decide they do not want to respond to a low ball offer, which ultimately ends any potential chance for a deal.  A counter offer, even if it’s close to the list price, is better than letting a potential buyer walk!

How do you plan on marketing my home?

A marketing plan is something that you should expect from me before listing your home. Together we will decide and discuss the best marketing approach for your situation.

What should I do to prepare my home for showings?

Let us help you stage your home. A well staged and prepared home will likely sell faster than it’s competition. Making sure a home is cleaned, de-cluttered and bright are just a few things that we can help you do to prepare your home for showings.

Will you be holding open houses?

Yes! If you choose to do an open house we will hold open houses. We highly recommend holding at least one open house.