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Buyer FAQs
Whether you are buying a house for the first time, haven't purchased a home in a while or buying an investment property here are some commonly asked questions.
Do I need to be pre-approved with a lender?
Yes, you will want to understand how much you can afford to spend before you start looking. Also, all listing agents will require a pre-approval letter to be submitted with any offer. Need recommendations for local lenders? Send me an email!
What is a typical down payment on a house?
If you are living in the property down payment requirements range from 3.5% (FHA) and between 5%-25% on conventional loans. If you are purchasing an investment property, you will need to put at least 20% down.
What is earnest money?
Earnest money is a good faith payment towards your purchase. Typically 1% of the purchase amount, this money will be a credit on your final loan.
What is a typical inspection cost?
The cost of a home inspection ranges from $500 up to $1200 depending on property type and add-ons. I always recommend adding on a sewer line inspection.
What happens after my offer is accepted?
You’ll schedule a home inspection, finalize your loan, and get the home appraised. You’ll also review the title and insurance. Then it’s just closing paperwork and you get the keys.
How do I get started in real estate investing?
- Research: Most people start on Bigger Pockets – forums, podcasts and online trainings
- Attend local meet-ups and networking groups to start meeting other local investors
- Determine your source of funding. How will you purchase your first investment? Cash, loans, hard money or private money are the most popular sources.
- Narrow down your investing goals – are you looking for cash flow or appreciation. What niche are you most interested in? What investing strategy makes the most sense in the locations you are looking for.
- Start searching!
- Hire an investor-friendly realtor
- MLS
- Driving for Dollars
- Tell your friends and family what you are looking for
What if I can't find any deals in this market?
Unless you travel back in time 10 years this has been a common challenge for the past few years. Prices and rates have made investing in real estate much more challenging. You’ll need to be more patient and more creative to find a “deal”. Know your numbers, buy right and wait for the right opportunity for you (but don’t wait forever, there is no perfect deal).
Still have questions?
Feel free to reach out anytime! If there’s something specific on your mind regarding real estate, just let me know. I’m here to offer the help and guidance you need.
Seller FAQs
Whether you are buying a house for the first time or haven't purchased a home in a while here are some commonly asked questions.
How do I know how much my home is worth?
A professional appraisal or a comparative market analysis (CMA) from a real estate agent can give you a realistic estimate. Online tools like Zillow’s Zestimate are okay for ballpark figures, but they miss key details like recent upgrades or current, local demand.
What should I fix before selling?
Focus on cost-effective improvements that boost appeal: fresh paint, clean landscaping, minor repairs, and updated lighting. Skip big renovations unless you can guarantee at least 2x your investment. If you’d like an opinion on what repairs make sense at your home I’m happy to come out and share my thoughts.
How long will it take to sell my home in this market?
It doesn’t seem possible but supply and demand in the Twin Cities market is always changing. Early spring is traditionally the best time to sell a home. The type of property, price point and location are the biggest factors in determining how quickly a home will sell.
Should I be present during showings?
No. Buyers need space to picture themselves in the home without feeling watched. All showings are booked through an online system called ShowingTime. You’ll know exactly which agents are showing the home at certain times.
What costs will I have to cover at closing?
Sellers typically pay the listing agent, title fees, and buyer agent commissions or closing costs depending on negotiations.
I thought I didn't have to pay for the buyer's agent commission anymore?
In 2024, there were national changes to how real estate commissions were handled. A buyer’s agent commission is now negotiated as part of the offer and included in the purchase agreement.
Still have questions?
Feel free to reach out anytime! If there’s something specific on your mind regarding real estate, just let me know. I’m here to offer the help and guidance you need.
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Real estate can be overwhelming but it doesn’t need to be. No question is a bad one. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out!
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