1. Where do I start?
Answer:
The first step is understanding your buying power. That means getting pre-approved for a mortgage. A lender will review your finances and tell you how much you can borrow. This helps us focus on homes within your budget and gives you an edge when making an offer. I can connect you with a trusted lender to make the process smooth and stress-free. Once you're pre-approved, we can start house hunting!
2. How much do I need for a down payment?
Answer:
Most people think they need 20%, but that’s a myth! Many loan programs allow first-time buyers to put down as little as 3-5%, and there are grants and assistance programs available to help. I’ll guide you through the best options so you can buy with confidence, even if you don’t have a huge savings account.
Answer:
It’s important to budget for more than just the down payment. Here are a few key costs:
Home inspection and appraisal fees
Moving expenses & home maintenance (furniture, repairs, etc.)
Property taxes & homeowners insurance
Don’t worry—I’ll provide a full breakdown of expected costs so there are no surprises!
4. How do I know how much I can afford?
Answer:
Affordability isn’t just about your mortgage—it’s about your lifestyle. We’ll look at your monthly expenses, future goals, and comfort level to find the right price range. A lender will calculate your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and suggest a budget, but I’ll help make sure you’re financially comfortable with your decision.
5. What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Answer:
Pre-approval is a more detailed review where a lender verifies your finances.
Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously, so I always recommend getting pre-approved before starting your home search.
Answer:
There are several loan options, and the right one depends on your situation. Here are a few common ones:
Conventional Loan (better for strong credit & larger down payments)
VA Loan (for eligible military members, with 0% down)
USDA Loan (for rural buyers, with 0% down)
I’ll help connect you with a lender who can explain which option fits your needs best!
Answer:
Absolutely! As your agent, I:
Negotiate the best deal to save you money
Handle all the paperwork so nothing gets missed
Guide you through inspections, contracts, and closing
Plus, my services are free to you as a buyer—the seller typically pays my commission! My job is to protect your interests and make the process smooth and stress-free.
Answer:
Once we find "the one," here’s what happens:
The seller responds (they can accept, counter, or decline).
If accepted, we start inspections and final mortgage approval.
You do a final walkthrough to ensure everything looks good.
Closing day! You sign paperwork, get your keys, and celebrate! 🎉
Don’t worry—I’ll guide you through every step so you always know what’s next!
9. How long does the buying process take?
Answer:
Once we find the right home, the process usually takes 30-45 days from offer to closing. However, the house-hunting phase depends on how quickly we find the right fit. Some buyers find their dream home in a week, while others take a few months. There’s no rush—I’ll work on your timeline!
10. What if something goes wrong during the process?
Answer:
That’s exactly why I’m here! There are many moving parts in a home purchase, but I anticipate issues before they happen and handle them for you. Whether it’s negotiating repairs after an inspection, solving lender delays, or dealing with appraisal challenges, I’ve got you covered. You’re never alone in this—I’ll be with you every step of the way!