Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the first step of the home buying process. Getting a pre-approval letter from a lender will get the ball rolling in the right direction.

Once a home is selected and the offer is accepted, the average time to complete the escrow period on a home is 30 to 45 days (under normal conditions). Buyers who pay cash have been known to purchase properties a bit faster-conditions must be right.

Most loan programs require a FICO score of 620 or better. When a borrower has a higher credit score it represents less risk to the lender, often resulting in a lower down payment and better interest rate.

This figure will vary depending on circumstances. The average down payment is 11%. I have seen down payments as low as 3.5%.

When you make an offer on a home, I will ask for an earnest money check to accompany it (typically between 1-2% of the purchase price). Earnest money is made in good faith to demonstrate (to the seller) that the buyer's offer is genuine. This money will be part of your down payment.

When preparing to sell your home, the first thing to do is make it presentable. Give the entire house a thorough cleaning and make small repairs.

The exact time it takes to sell a home depends on a number of factors, including:

The time of year you are listing-homes sell faster in the spring and early fall.

Conditions in our housing market-Homes sell faster in a seller's market, when there is low inventory.

The condition of your home-Homes in great condition usually sell faster then homes that need more work.

How the buyer is financing the the property-a mortgage typically take 45 days to close, start to finish.

The first step in deciding your home's list price is to get a comparative market analysis. Contact me to schedule a free consultation!