Frequently Asked Questions


1. How do I know how much home I can afford?

Affordability isn’t just about what a lender will approve you for—it’s about what fits your lifestyle comfortably. I recommend starting with a pre-approval to know your range, then factoring in monthly expenses beyond the mortgage: property taxes, insurance, utilities, HOA fees, and maintenance. We’ll sit down together and map out what’s realistic so you feel confident before you ever tour a home.

2. What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on self-reported info—it’s like a handshake. Pre-approval is verified by a lender after reviewing income, credit, and debt—it’s the golden ticket that makes your offer stronger. In today’s competitive market, sellers want to see pre-approval letters before accepting offers.

3. How long does it usually take to buy a home?

On average, from accepted offer to closing is about 30–45 days. The timeline can be shorter if you’re paying cash or longer if there are title, appraisal, or financing issues. I guide the process day-by-day so nothing slips through the cracks, and I’ll give you a clear roadmap at the start so you always know what’s next.

4. Should I sell my current home before buying a new one?

That depends on your financial situation and comfort level. Some people can carry two mortgages briefly, which makes the transition smoother. Others prefer to sell first so they know exactly what they can spend. There are also bridge loans and “buy before you sell” programs we can explore. I’ll help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your personal timeline and market conditions.

5. How do I know what my home is worth?

Online estimates can be misleading. I perform a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), which looks at recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood, active listings, and market trends. I also evaluate condition, upgrades, and unique features. The goal is not just to list, but to strategically position your home to attract multiple offers and maximize your net proceeds.

6. What happens during a home inspection?

A licensed inspector checks the property’s major systems—roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, foundation, and more. The goal isn’t perfection (every home has issues), but awareness. From there, we can negotiate repairs, credits, or price adjustments. I walk you through which items are deal-breakers and which are normal “homeowner maintenance” so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

7. How much money do I need upfront to buy a home?

Beyond the down payment (as low as 0–3% for VA, FHA, or first-time buyer programs), you’ll need closing costs (about 2–3% of the purchase price) plus money for inspections and an appraisal. The good news? There are grants, incentives, and seller concessions we can leverage to reduce out-of-pocket costs. My role is to help you keep as much cash in your pocket as possible.

8. How do you market a home to get top dollar?

Today’s buyers start online, so presentation is everything. I invest in professional photography, video tours, staging advice, and targeted digital ads. Your home will be marketed across the MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, and luxury platforms, plus featured on social media and email campaigns. The goal is maximum exposure, multiple buyers, and the strongest terms possible.

9. What’s the biggest mistake buyers and sellers make?

For buyers: waiting for the “perfect” home or trying to time the market. The right time is when the home fits your needs and finances. For sellers: overpricing. Even in a hot market, an overpriced home can sit stale. Correct pricing plus strong marketing equals success. My job is to keep you focused and protect you from common missteps.

10. Why should I hire you instead of another Realtor?

Because I don’t just unlock doors—I build strategies. I blend local market expertise, negotiation skills, and a concierge-style network of lenders, contractors, and service pros to make your transition seamless. My job is to simplify complexity, protect your interests, and deliver results that set you up for your next chapter.