Whether you are buying or selling a home, there are important first steps that one must take in order to get off on the right foot. 

For homebuyers, getting pre-approved for a loan will speed up and simplify the entire process from start to finish.  By knowing how much you can borrow, you can effectively narrow down your list of potential properties, strengthen your offer, and improve your chances of quickly accepting your offer.

Making your property presentable is priority number one for those selling their home. Start with a good cleaning and decluttering, followed by minor repairs and a good coat of neutral-colored paint.

The answer to this question depends on several factors, from the state of the real estate market to your neighborhood, the economy to pricing, and many others.  Understanding the overall timeline for your unique situation should be discussed directly with your real estate professional; however, homebuyers can expect an average of 10-12 weeks from starting their online search to closing escrow, while sellers can prepare for 8-12 weeks from start to finish.

A credit score of at least 620 is needed for most lenders to purchase a home.  Your FICO credit score can significantly impact your home buying process, from the interest rate you receive to the amount of house you can buy.  However, it is important to note that a lower credit score will not necessarily eliminate you from purchasing a home but might require a higher down payment. 

For years, the standard down payment for a conventional home loan was 20%.  Today, homebuyers can secure a conventional home loan for as little as 3% down if the borrower secures private mortgage insurance (PMI) or 3.5% for an FHA loan.  The average down payment for a home in 2020 is 11%; however, that number can vary depending on several factors.

With nearly 40% of all homes being sold in May through August, early spring and summer are the best time to sell your home quickly and for the best price.

In most situations, homebuyers are responsible for securing a home inspection on the property before purchase.  A home inspection informs the buyer of potential problems or concerns prior to purchasing, allowing for further negotiation, or walking away from the offer.  While a home inspection is often a requirement from the homebuyer’s lending institution, it can also benefit the home seller to pay for a pre-listing inspection.  For $300-500 dollars, a seller can discover potential problems that can be fixed before listing, thus increasing the home’s value and potential listing price.

Professional, knowledgeable real estate agents offer more than industry knowledge, market insights, and access to massive databases:  Top-tier real estate agents are advocates, negotiators, and allies for their clients.  A quality real estate agent can help homebuyers find their dream home or ensure that sellers get top dollar for their property.  They can reduce the stress and anxiety that comes with buying or selling a home, all while providing clear guidance and support along the way.

When you work with a talented, customer-focused real estate professional, you receive quality representation, expert advice, and a streamlined process designed around your unique goals.