Buying a home comes with a lot of questions, and that's completely normal. This FAQ section covers some of the most common topics buyers ask about, helping you better understand the process and what to expect along the way.
Getting pre-approved is one of the most important first steps in the home buying process. It's when a lender reviews your finances and confirms how much you can borrow. Being pre-approved strengthens your offers by showing sellers you’re a serious, qualified buyer and can help you move quickly in competitive situations.
Pre-qualification is an estimate based on information you provide. Pre-approval involves a more thorough review of your finances by a lender.
Earnest money is a deposit made when submitting an offer to demonstrate your commitment to purchasing the home. It is typically applied toward your down payment or closing costs at closing.
No—many buyers purchase with much less. Depending on the loan type, down payments can be as low as 3%–5%, and some programs like VA or USDA loans offer 0% down. The right option depends on your financial situation and goals. Speak with a lender to see what options is best for you.
Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home's purchase price and may include lender fees, title fees, taxes, and prepaid expenses.
The most common risks include inspection issues, appraisal gaps, financing delays, and unclear contract terms. My role is to identify these risks early, guide you through them, and protect your interests at every step so there are no surprises.
Your budget depends on your income, debts, credit score, and current interest rates. A lender will review these factors during pre-approval to give you a clear price range and estimated monthly payment so you can shop confidently.
Timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible. Instead, the focus should be on your personal goals, financial readiness, and long-term plans. The right time to buy is when it makes sense for you—and I help you evaluate that with a clear, strategic approach.
While not always required, a home inspection is highly recommended. It can identify potential issues and help you make an informed decision before finalizing the purchase.
You'll move into the inspection period, finalize financing, complete an appraisal, satisfy contract contingencies, and prepare for closing.
Requirements vary by lender and loan program, but many conventional loans prefer scores of 620 or higher, while some government-backed loans may allow lower scores.
Homeownership may include property taxes, homeowner's insurance, HOA dues, utilities, maintenance, and repairs.
PMI is insurance that may be required when putting less than 20% down on a conventional loan. It protects the lender and is typically added to your monthly payment.
A local expert provides market knowledge, negotiation guidance, contract expertise, and support throughout the buying process to help you make informed decisions.
Whether you're buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, I'm here to help. Share a few details below and I'll be in touch to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.
