Buying FAQ’s
-
I'm ready to buy a home. Where do I start?
The best first step to take after you’ve decided you’d like to purchase a home is to connect with a trusted realtor such as myself.
We have extensive experience in successfully helping numerous families and past clients with the homebuying process and we will get you situated from A-Z!
The process of buying a home can be a stressful time for many, but when you have an experienced trustworthy agent like myself on your side, we help to make the process as smooth & stress-free as possible.
We’ll hold your hand throughout the way, & get you connected with the right people at every step. We’ll take care of all the hard work for you, so you don’t have to. You are in good hands!
-
Are Buyer Services Free? Or Do I Have to Pay Out of Pocket?
Do I have to pay my real estate agent as a buyer?
Short Answer: Usually no—and that’s a huge win for you. Some agents may try to collect retainer fees or compensation for their services but I have never charged my buyers an agent fee, nor do I plan to do so!
Traditionally, the seller covers commissions for both their listing agent and the buyer’s agent. That means you get expert representation with no upfront cost.
Allow me the opportunity to serve you as your buyer’s agent, and take advantage of utilizing all of my help & expertise throughout your home buying journey- all at no out of pocket cost to you!
My buyer representation services are always free of charge to my valued clients!
-
What advantages do I offer as a Buyer's Agent compared to other Realtors?
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make—and the agent you choose can make or break that experience. Here’s how I give my clients an edge:
• Uncovering Hidden Gems
With thousands of homes flooding the market, the best opportunities often get overlooked. I have a knack for digging deep into the MLS to find the hidden gems— your dream home might be flying under your radar, but I’ll make sure to help you capitalize when the perfect opportunity comes.
• Master Negotiator
Saving money isn’t luck—it’s strategy. I’ve helped numerous clients save tens of thousands of dollars by negotiating smarter and harder than the competition. When I represent you, I fight for every dollar so you get the absolute best deal possible.
• A Sharp Eye for Red Flags
A house can look perfect at first glance, but problems sometimes hide beneath the surface. I know exactly what to look for—issues other agents might miss or ignore—so you can move forward with confidence and avoid costly surprises.
• Dedication
I don’t cut corners or take shortcuts to make my own job easier. My clients’ best interests always come first, even if it means putting in more time, more effort, and more energy to get things done the right way. I will always go the extra mile for my clients in order to help them win big.
Choosing me means you’re not just getting someone to unlock doors—you’re getting a dedicated partner who works tirelessly to find the right home, at the right price, with your best interest at heart.
-
The Home Search & Finding Your Dream Home!
The Skill of Home Hunting:
With thousands of listings available online, your perfect home might be buried in the deep sea of MLS listings. That’s where I come in. I know exactly what to look for and have a sharp eye for details that are easy to miss. With a fine eye and an understanding of what’s trending and in demand, I’ll help you zero in on the homes that truly stand out—finding you the best home for your budget & the criteria that matters most to you.
What Should I Look for During Home Tours, or Browsing Online Listings?
It’s easy to fall in love with the kitchen backsplash, chic accent walls, or the updated bathrooms with the gold hardware finishes—but I’ll help you pay attention to what really matters: condition, layout flow, structural issues, resale red flags, and location quality. I’m not just opening doors; I’m helping you make a smart long-term investment.
What happens if the inspection finds problems?
Inspections aren’t pass/fail—they’re a tool. If something comes up (and something always does), I’ll help you renegotiate, request repairs, or walk away if needed. You’ll never be pressured to move forward on a house that doesn’t feel right. My job is to get you a good deal, not just any deal.
How long does it take to buy a home from start to finish?
Once you’re under contract, most closings happen in 30–45 days, with 30 days being the most typical and considered as a standard closing timetable. The whole process however—from getting pre-approved to getting keys—can take a few months depending on how quickly we find the right home.
I’ll keep things moving efficiently and keep you updated every step of the way.
-
The Pre-Approval Letter
What’s the difference between a Pre-Qualification and a Pre-Approval? And how important is it to have one in place before going home shopping?
A pre-qualification is a quick estimate of what you might be able to borrow—it’s a good starting point. A pre-approval is a deeper dive with verified income, credit, and assets, and it carries way more weight when submitting offers. I always recommend getting pre-approved before we go house hunting—it makes your offer stronger and shows sellers you’re ready to go.
Most of the times, when submitting an offer for a property, if you fail to include a pre-approval letter with your written offer, it is considered to be incomplete. Many agents & homeowners will not even give your offer any sincere consideration, especially if they have other offers from other agents & buyers on hand. So it is very critical to have this pre-approval on hand if you identify a home you want to have a genuine shot at winning!
As your trusted realtor, I can get you connected to the right professionals to help you figure out your financing options while helping you get Pre-Approved in as little as 48 hours or less. Just be sure to mention it to me and we can help you get the ball rolling in no time!
-
The Homebuying Process, from A-Z.
What Does the Homebuying Process Look Like?
1. Connect with a Great Realtor (That’s Me!)
The first step in buying a home is finding a knowledgeable, responsive, and trustworthy real estate agent—like yours truly. I’ll guide you through every phase of the process, explain your options clearly, and protect your interests from day one. Think of me as your strategic partner and Real Estate translator.2. Get Pre-Approved for Financing
Before we start shopping, it’s crucial to know what you can afford. I’ll connect you with trusted local lenders who can get you pre-approved and lay out your financing options. With a pre-approval letter in hand, sellers will know you’re serious, and we’ll have a competitive edge when it’s time to submit offers.3. Start House Hunting
Now the fun part—finding your future home! I’ll help narrow down options that match your criteria, budget, and lifestyle. From neighborhood insights to pointing out things you might not notice on your own, I’ll make sure you’re making informed choices every step of the way.4. Make a Winning Offer
Once we find the one, I’ll guide you through crafting a strong, strategic offer. I’ll help you understand the comps (comparable sales), market conditions, and what terms might make your offer stand out without overpaying.5. Negotiate Terms on Your Behalf
Here’s where my expertise really shines. Whether it’s price, closing costs, contingencies, or repairs, I’ll negotiate to get you the best possible terms. I’m here to protect your money, your time, and your peace of mind.6. Submit Your Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)
Once the offer is accepted, you’ll submit an Earnest Money Deposit—typically 1–3% of the purchase price—which goes into an escrow account. This shows the seller you’re serious and gets the deal officially rolling.7. Schedule Inspections & Appraisal
We’ll get your home inspected by a licensed pro to uncover any issues, and your lender will order an appraisal to verify the home’s value. I’ll help coordinate it all, interpret the results, and renegotiate if necessary based on what we find.8. Closing Day
You’ve made it! After all documents are signed, funds are transferred, and keys are handed over, you’re officially a homeowner. I’ll be right there with you on closing day to ensure everything goes smoothly—and be there to celebrate your big win with you and congratulate you on making it to the finish line!