FAQs
What does MLS mean?
MLS stands for multiple listing service and is a computerized listing of the homes for sale in an area listed with a REALTOR®. Only REALTORS® are granted access to the MLS and can use it to find a house in a particular price range or area.
What does a buyer’s agent cost?
There is zero cost to have our team represent you as a buyer in a real estate transaction. It is very common that the seller and seller’s agent pay a commission to the buyer’s agent, meaning no commisions come out of pocket for you!
What are closing costs?
Closing costs are the expenses incurred by buyers and sellers in transferring ownership of a property.
What if a house comes on the market and you are not immediately available to show it to me?
I have another member of my team, Ryan, and can assure you that one of us would be available to show you a house at any time!
In a seller’s market, why should I hire a real estate agent?
A real estate agent is there to act on your behalf. As your agent, I will act as a buffer to take the spam out of your property showings and I will field calls that lead to nowhere saving you time and helping you find serious buyers who are ready to make an offer. I have an intimate knowledge of the neighborhoods and can help you with pricing your home and marketing it correctly. Your home will be added to the MLS so that a large number of buyers will have access to the property. I will also absorb the costs of advertising and marketing your home. I will help with all your negotiations to ensure a smooth process and will then handle the volumes of paperwork that follow a sale.
How do you come up with the listing price of a home?
Location, condition, square footage, subdivision, and amenities all come into play. We also try to find comparable homes to show market value. I spend a lot of time researching before we decide on a price. We want to list your home so it is on the market the least amount of time and you get the offers you are looking for.
Can I back out of my contract with one buyer to accept a higher offer?
It would not be wise to try to back out of a contract because a purchase offer that is accepted is a legal contract that the buyer can seek legal remedies to enforce.
What is a contingency?
A contingency is a provision included in a sales contract stating that certain events must occur or certain conditions must be met before a closing and recording of the deed.
Can I buy a home and sell my current one at the same time?
Yes! This is where a “sale contingency” may need to be listed in your contract which I would be able assist in providing proper documentation.
What is due diligence?
Due diligence is the time period for the buyer to do their property investigations. This includes home inspection, radon inspection, termite inspection, etc. The buyer will usually write the seller a non-refundable check for the right to carry out these inspections. However, the buyer can still back at out any point during this time. If the transaction ends up going to closing, due diligence fees are usually credited to the buyer.
When is the best time to sell my home?
Every real estate market is different; therefore, the best time to sell a home will be different from real estate community to real estate community. However, in general, the spring months are the best time to be selling your home but selling in the winter has its advantages as well!
What is the first step in the home buying process?
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the first step you need to take. Feel free to reach out to me to connect you with lenders I work with often and trust. This also streamlines the closing process and makes home buying even easier on you.
What does “pre-approval” mean?
Pre-approval from a lender is based on your income, debt, and credit history. By getting pre-approved, you will know how much you can afford and it also allows us to position you as the best buyer.