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Buyer FAQ’s
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While it’s possible to sell without an agent, having one can provide expert market advice, negotiate better deals, handle legal paperwork, and market the property effectively, often leading to a quicker sale at a higher price. Nearly 82% of people who list as a FSBO (For-Sale-By-Owner), eventually list with a REALTOR and sell quickly for a higher price.
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Determining the market value of a home can be done by a REALTOR that has access to the homes that have sold in the MLS that are similar to yours. REALTORS use several criteria to find "comps" - or, comparables" - to help determine the value of the home. Likewise, a seller can hire an appraiser to conduct an appraisal and give an opinion of value.
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It can take anywhere from half a day to several months to sell a home. The key factors are the condition of the home, the competition (other homes like it on the market), and the willingness of the seller to negotiate with a buyer.
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Minor repairs and cosmetic updates can increase your home's appeal. Major renovations may not always bring a high return on investment. A REALTOR'S job is to help you determine where to invest your money for the highest return.
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Showings can be scheduled by appointment, or you can hold an open house. Ensuring the home is clean, clutter-free, and ready for showings at short notice helps increase interest from buyers.
Seller FAQ’s
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This depends on your income, expenses, down payment, and current debt levels. A common guideline is that your mortgage payment should not exceed 28-30% of your gross monthly income.
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Pre-qualification is an initial estimate of how much you can borrow based on your financial information. Pre-approval is a more thorough process where the lender verifies your financial details and gives you a conditional commitment for a loan amount.
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A down payment is the upfront cash you pay towards the purchase of the house. It typically ranges from 3% to 20% of the purchase price. Higher down payments can reduce your mortgage rate and eliminate private mortgage insurance (PMI). Different loan products have different requirements for down payments!
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Closing costs are fees associated with finalizing the purchase of a home, such as appraisal fees, title insurance, and loan origination fees. They usually range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount.
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The home buying process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on factors like the efficiency of your lender, the negotiation process, and how quickly you find the right property.