Question 1

What the first step of the home buying process?

Accepted Answer

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the first step of the home buying process.

Question 2

How long does it take to buy a home?

Accepted Answer

Buying a home typically takes between 10 to 12 weeks. After a home is selected and the offer is accepted, the average time to complete the escrow period is approximately 30 to 45 days when market conditions are "normal." Buyers who pay cash can usually expedite the process.

Question 3

What is a seller’s market?

Accepted Answer

A sellers’ market occurs when there is an increased demand for homes drives up prices. It can be due to economic factors, interest rates trending downward, a short-term spike in interest rates, or low inventory.

Question 4

What is a buyer’s market?

Accepted Answer

A buyer’s market occurs when home prices decline and demand reduces. Factors include interest rates trending higher, short term drop in interest rates, high inventory, or natural disasters.

Question 5

What is a stratified market?

Accepted Answer

A stratified market occurs where supply and demand characteristics differ by price point, within the same area (typically by city).

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

Home buyers pay little or no fees to an agent to buy their home.

Question 7

What kind of credit score do I need to buy a home?

Accepted Answer

Most loan programs require a FICO score of 620 or higher, because it demonstrates less risk to the lender. Those with higher scores ten to have lower down payment requirements and better interest rates. Borrowers with lower credit scores may need to have more money on hand or pay a higher interest rate to reduce the lendor's risk.

Question 8

How much do I need for a down payment?

Accepted Answer

The national average for down payment is 11%. However, it depends on your loan program, credit, and whether you have down payment assistance.

Question 9

Should I sell my current home before buying a new one?

Accepted Answer

If the built-up equity in your current home will be applied to the down payment on the new home, naturally the former will need to be sold first.

Question 10

How many homes should I view before buying one?

Accepted Answer

Sure! It is easy to view homes from the comfort of your current space. But, it is always a good idea to get a feel of a house in person.

Question 11

What is earnest money?

Accepted Answer

When making an offer on a home, your agent will ask for a check to accompany, typically 1% to 2% of the purchase price. Earnest money is made in good faith demonstrating to the seller that the buyer’s offer is genuine.

Question 12

How long can the seller take to respond to my offer?

Accepted Answer

Written offers should specify the timeframe in which the seller should respond. Allowing them twenty-four hours should be sufficient.

Question 13

Should I order a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Home inspections are required if you plan on financing your home with an FHA or VA loan. For other mortgage programs, inspections are not required. It is suggested that you have a home inspection because they can reveal defects in the home that are not detected at first sight. Have peace of mind when undertaking a major investment through obtaining a home inspection.

Question 14

Do I need to do a final walk-through?

Accepted Answer

While it is not required, it is suggested. Final walk-throughs give buyers a chance to make sure nothing has changed since their first home visit.

Price Your Home

Price Your Home

Price Your Home

Price Your Home

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