We know buying a home can be scary. We're here to help.
When it comes to buying or selling a home, there are so many factors to consider. We are hoping to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about buying or selling a home.
Q. Should I buy or rent?
A. Buying a home has many advantages such as tax benefits, being able to make improvements, privacy, community ties, and most importantly, buying a home is an investment. Renting advantages include initial low investment, limited responsibility, low maintenance, and easier to budget. Renting can at times be more beneficial for those who are extremely busy, on the go, or travel for work. Renting or buying advantages and disadvantages are unique for each individuals needs!
Q. What is the first step to buying a home?
A. The single most important step in the home buying process is to make sure you can afford to buy a home. Speaking with a lender or to a real estate agent who can connect you to a lender is the starting point to see if you qualify for a home mortgage loan, and if so, for how much.
Q. Are there mortgages or programs available for first time home buyers?
A. YES! There are several programs for first time home buyers. Your real estate agent should have contacts of lenders who can discuss first time home buyers programs with you.
Q. How much should I have for a down payment?
A. There are mortgages that offer no down payment assistance while other loan types such as conventional loans, FHA loans, USDA loans and VA loans varies from no down payment, upwards to five percent for a down payment.
Q. Should I contact a real estate agent?
A. YES! A good real estate agent will have knowledge of the area, lenders, loan types, as well as be able to find a home in your price range, negotiate a price, schedule home inspections, and provide information to close on a home.
Q. How long does it take to close on a loan once an offer is accepted?
A. On average, a closing can take 30 to 60 days.
Q. Will there be closing cost involved when buying a home?
A. Yes! It is always a good idea to have 2% to 5% of the home price in savings for closing cost.
Q. What does closing cost consist of?
A. Closing cost consists of an appraisal, home inspections, bank fees, attorney fees, credit report and documenting fees. Closing cost varies depending on the lender, attorney and inspectors used and the fees each charge.
Q. If I am selling my home, can I use Zillow as a fair estimate of my homes value?
A. No! Zillow does not represent real value of a property regardless if you are buying or selling.
Q. How is my home value determined?
A. Your home value is determined by a comparable market analysis of other homes similar to yours that have sold in close proximity to yours in the last six months. Your real estate agent has all of the tools necessary to complete a market analysis of your home for an accurate listing price.
Q. Does assessed value have anything to do with market value?
A. NO! Assessed value is nothing more than a figure the local municipality uses to collect an appropriate amount of taxes.
Q. What should I do to prepare to sell my home?
A. Tidy Up. Clean. Remove clutter. Make small inexpensive repairs that are needed. Have carpets cleaned. Remember, first impressions are everything! You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Q. When is a good time to sell my home?
A. Statistics show that Spring is usually the best time to sell a home, but homes are selling quickly during other seasons as well.
Q. What will you do to sell my home?
A. Your home will be listed on the Multiple Listing Service, displaying for thousands of agents statewide to see. The MLS prompts internet exposure such as Truilia and Zillow. Your house will be advertised on the internet, as well as holding open houses.
We hope this has answered several frequently asked questions about the home buying or selling process. Please do not hesitate to call, email or set up consultation time for additional information on buying or selling a home.