Buyer & Seller FAQs
For Buyers
How long does buying a home take?
Your timeline includes getting ready financially, finding the right home, and completing the purchase. The search can be short or take several months. Once an offer is accepted, your contract sets the target closing date; financing, inspections, the appraisal, and title work can affect that schedule. Tell us your move date early so we can plan around it.
What closing costs should I budget for?
Closing costs are separate from your down payment. They may include lender charges, an appraisal, title and settlement services, recording fees, prepaid insurance and taxes, and initial escrow deposits. Some expenses, such as an inspection, may be paid before closing. Ask your lender for a Loan Estimate and a cash-to-close estimate specific to your loan, then review the final Closing Disclosure.
What happens after my offer is accepted?
We review the contract deadlines with you, including any deposit, inspection, financing, and appraisal requirements. You work with your lender on requested documents while the settlement provider handles title work. Before closing, you review the final figures, arrange funds securely, and complete any scheduled final walkthrough. The contract determines when possession and keys are delivered.
Is the appraisal the same as a home inspection?
No. An appraisal helps the lender assess the property’s value. An inspection examines its condition and can identify issues to discuss before closing. Your options to request repairs, renegotiate, or end the purchase depend on the contract’s terms and deadlines. We’ll help you understand the next steps with your inspector and lender.
For Sellers
How long does selling a home take?
Allow time to prepare the property, market it, negotiate an offer, and complete the sale. Pricing, condition, buyer demand, and financing all affect the schedule. An accepted offer sets a target closing date, but contingencies and unresolved issues can change it. We’ll build a plan around your preferred move date and review current local activity with you.
How should I prepare my home before listing?
Start with decluttering, a thorough cleaning, and addressing obvious maintenance issues. Gather information about upgrades, repairs, warranties, and any association documents. Before spending on major renovations, talk with us about which improvements make sense for your home and price range. We’ll help prioritize presentation, photography, and showing readiness.
What costs should I expect when selling?
Your proceeds depend on the sale price, loan payoff, and agreed expenses. Costs may include negotiated brokerage compensation, settlement charges, applicable taxes and prorations, repairs, and any buyer credits you agree to provide. Ask us for an estimated seller net sheet before accepting an offer; your settlement provider confirms the final figures.
What happens after I accept an offer?
We track the contract deadlines and coordinate the next steps with the buyer’s agent and settlement provider. Depending on the agreement, these may include inspections, repair discussions, an appraisal, and financing approval. You’ll prepare for moving, complete agreed work, and review your closing documents. Follow the contract for the home’s condition and possession date.
For most purchase mortgages, your lender must provide the Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. Read the CFPB’s guide.
Every transaction has its own terms. We’ll help you understand the timeline and costs for your home, loan, and contract.
Ask our team a question