Hi, I'm Romy.

How do I know when I'm ready to go from renting to purchasing a home?

No one truly knows when they are ready to buy a home, however, when you get tired of paying rent for something that you do not own, then it is time.  When a person rents, they make a monthly payment and they get the privilege of living in the space. However, when you purchase a home, a person gets to own the land, the house and gets to reap all the benefits of homeownership as an investment.

How important is credit when buying a home?

Credit is important when buying a home, but there are also many other factors a lender considers when looking at loan options. Lenders will ask for many documents to get a full view of financials when deciding if they should approve a home buyer. Items such as debt-to-income ratios, employment history, assets, credit scores, etc. Realtors are not loan specialists but have many partnerships with lenders and help guide you in the process.

How much of a downpayment is required when purchasing a home?

Downpayment requirements depend on many individual factors that are unique to each person.  Typically there are loans that require 3.5%, 5%,10%, 15%, or 20% of a downpayment. However, every lender is different and has different loan options for every buyer.

Who pays closing costs?

This is determined by lenders and their contracts and requirements.  Some buyers ask sellers to pay a portion of their closing costs. In a typical transaction, buyers pay their side of closing costs and sellers pay their half of closing costs.

Are inspections required when purchasing a home?

Inspections are not required, but they are highly recommended.  They should be done by a licensed inspector within 7-10 days of an accepted contract.

How can I make sure I'm getting the best price for my home's sale?

The best way to get the best price for your home is to have a clean, decluttered home with curb appeal, and by making sure repairs and issues are resolved before listing. Also, working with a quality agent who prices your home at market value to sell and:

• knows the neighborhood
• knows the area
• knows the comparables
• takes the time to set up a marketing plan

What updates should I consider prior to listing my home?

A fresh coat of neutral paint goes a long way and making sure major repairs are either disclosed or repaired. Buyers want clean, open sight lines, and  kitchen and bath updates. 

How do I find the best real estate agent for me?

The best process is to interview and talk to realtors to find out their marketing strategy. A real estate agent should be trusting, loyal, knowledgeable of the market, and know how to negotiate.  As a buyer or seller, you should be open and honest with trust for your agent and their experience. When interviewing, you should focus on their experience, professionalism, care for their work, and making sure they are a good listener. Pay attention to their negotiating skills and willingness to take your needs to heart.

How do I know if the market is in a good place to buy or sell a home?

A good agent will study the comparables and come up with a plan to suit your individual needs. They will also know the market and be able to explain where the market is and how it is moving.

Why is a home a good investment?

A home is most likely the biggest purchase you will ever make in your life!  A home offers a roof over your head, a place to grow a family and make memories. Why give someone else the rent when you can own a home yourself?  It is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and a home appreciates in value and is a place to grow that is all yours.  When you rent you have to get permission to paint, remodel, or make any changes, and when you own, it is your story to create and tell.