Most buyers can afford a home priced at 2–4x their annual income, but the real answer depends on your debt, credit score, interest rate, and down payment. A lender pre-approval gives the most accurate number.
A professional market analysis compares your home to recent local sales, current competition, and market trends — far more accurate than online estimates.
Many buyers believe they need 20%, but loan programs allow as little as 3–5% down, and some government-backed loans offer 0% down for qualified buyers.
Most conventional loans require about a 620+ score, while FHA loans may allow lower. Higher scores typically qualify for better interest rates.
Yes. Pre-approval strengthens your offer, clarifies your budget, and helps you move quickly when you find the right home.
Closing costs usually range from 2–5% of the purchase price and include lender fees, title costs, insurance, and prepaid taxes.
Sellers typically pay agent commissions, transfer taxes, and negotiated buyer concessions.
From offer to closing typically takes 30–45 days, but the full process — search to keys — often takes 2–4 months.
Average days on market vary by location and price point, but properly priced homes often go under contract within 2–4 weeks.
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit showing you’re serious. It’s applied toward your purchase at closing.
A licensed inspector evaluates the home’s structure and systems. Buyers can negotiate repairs or credits based on findings.
Only with careful professional guidance. Waiving protections can strengthen an offer but increases risk.
It depends on your timeline, finances, and local market. Buying builds equity; renting offers flexibility.
Spring and early summer are traditionally strongest, but well-priced homes sell year-round in active markets.
Fix major issues first. Cosmetic updates often provide strong ROI, but over-improving rarely pays back fully.
Staged homes typically photograph better and sell faster because buyers can visualize the space more easily.
Price based on current comparable sales — not what you “need” to get or what a neighbor listed for.
Fresh paint, decluttering, lighting upgrades, landscaping, and minor kitchen/bath updates usually deliver the best returns.
It depends on your finances and risk tolerance. Options include contingent offers, bridge loans, or leasebacks.
Strategic pricing, professional photography, strong marketing, and broad online exposure are the biggest drivers.
Our expertise in negotiation, savvy marketing, and access to real-time market data used in conjunction with our love & understanding of our community is what sets us apart.