FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
You can either pay your own mortgage, or someone else’s. That’s typically my philosophy. However, there are circumstances that make sense to rent vs own. E.g., Maybe you are just moving into the area and want to get to know your surroundings before you invest. Or, maybe current market conditions aren’t favorable (interest rates are high, home values are decreasing).
If you are asking, then maybe you are not ready OR maybe you just need a good Realtor who can walk you through the entire process so you have a clear picture of what you can expect. Either way – I will guide you every step of the way in a direction that is most comfortable for you.
It is important to select a community or area that you like or enjoy. If the community looks run down – your home value will too. Remember, you can always change the flooring and cabinetry, but you can’t pick up your home and move it.
On average, closing costs may run between 3-4% of the purchase price. They typically include the state and county transfer/recordation charges, title fee’s, title insurance, lender fees, etc.
I ALWAYS recommend a home warranty. Most people buy warranties on their brand new electronics – why not on your biggest investment ever? This is your HOME and big ticket items like a furnace is not typically cheap. A warranty covers most of your mechanicals (furnace, air conditioning, appliances, electrical, plumbing). However, you want to read the warranty carefully, not all are treated the same.
I offer flexible commissions ranging from 1% of the sale price up to 6%.
There is no cost to you for me to represent you as a buyer’s agent*.
*Refer to buyer agency agreement.
A pre-qualification is typically something you can obtain on your own online. You can simply input how much money you earn and your estimated debt. A Pre-qualification can also be obtained by “talking” with a lender. A Pre-approval is when you have spoken to a Lender, they have pulled your credit, verified your income and debt and provided you with a letter that can be used when submitting an offer. In truth, you “can” submit an offer with a pre-qualification letter as well, but the seller and listing agent know not to take them seriously, which can ultimately result in your offer being REJECTED.
This is a loaded question with many different variables. When you find a home you want to buy, the first thing I do for you is prepare a detailed market analysis to determine market value (similar to an appraisal). If the home is overpriced – then I would suggest an offer at or near the market value. If the market value is equal to or less than the asking price and you are competing with multiple buyers – then I would HIGHLY recommend making an “attractive” offer. One that is reasonable, but the seller can’t resist (let’s discuss. further).
I strongly encourage you to conduct a home inspection. It is helpful to not only have a detailed report of the inner workings of all structural and mechanical aspects of the home…. but you’ll have a piece of mind as well. Just because the home looks good on the outside – doesn’t always mean it was well taken care of.
The cost of an inspection varies on the home size, style and sale price. On average, a general home inspection is approximately $400. A radon inspection is about $125. A termite inspection is approximately $50.
Closing, or settlement, is the day ownership of a property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. This is the day and time the buyer will sign their loan documents, fund the purchase and receive keys. The seller may pre-sign their documents ahead of you OR sign with you.
Absolutely! As an Accredited Staging Professional, I take great pride in making sure your home shows its BERRY best. You only have ONE chance to make a good first impression.
No, I sell homes throughout Howard County, Anne Arundel and surrounding counties. However, I LOVE selling in Elkridge…where I’ve called home since 1991.