Choose Wisely
ready to stop renting and start owning.
outgrowing their current home.
relocating into Georgia.
not just buy fast.
frequently asked questions
If I sign a Buyer Representation Agreement, how long must I work with that REALTOR®?
It depends on the loan type. Conventional loans often start around 3% to 5% down, FHA loans start at 3.5%, and VA loans can be 0% down for qualified veterans. The bigger picture also includes closing costs and reserves, which I'll walk you through with a trusted lender during your pre-qualification.
Do Buyer Representation Agreements include a section for a fee for the REALTOR® who helps me find a property?
REALTOR® fees are always negotiable and are not set by law. Fees are an important item to discuss at the outset of a property search. The Buyer Representation Agreement includes a section where the buyer can agree to pay a Broker fee in a variety of ways, including as a percentage of the final price you pay for a property or a fixed amount.
Can the seller pay the fee I agreed to pay my REALTOR®?
Broker fees are always negotiable among the parties. You can ask your REALTOR® to request that the seller pay some or all of the Broker fee you have agreed to pay your REALTOR®. This request can be included in any purchase offer your REALTOR® submits to a seller on your behalf. But it is up to the seller to decide whether or not to pay your REALTOR® a fee, and if so, how much.
If the seller refuses or fails to pay the Broker fee that you have agreed to pay your REALTOR® in the written Buyer Representation Agreement, you will pay the fee or the balance due.
Do I need to be pre-qualified before I look at homes?
Yes, and it's the smartest first step you can take. Pre-qualification tells you what you can actually afford, makes your offers stronger, and saves you from falling in love with a home that's out of reach. I'll connect you with a lender I trust to get you there.
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan type. Conventional loans often start around 3% to 5% down, FHA loans start at 3.5%, and VA loans can be 0% down for qualified veterans. The bigger picture also includes closing costs and reserves, which I'll walk you through with a trusted lender during your pre-qualification.
How long does the buying process actually take?
From the first conversation to closing day, most buyers take 60 to 90 days, sometimes faster, sometimes longer depending on financing and the home you choose. I'll build a timeline around your needs during our Discovery Call and keep you on track every step of the way.
I heard that I now have to sign an agreement just to tour a house, is that true?
Yes, and that's actually a good thing for you. As of August 2024, due to the NAR settlement, buyers are required to sign a written buyer agency agreement with their agent before touring homes.
If you want a REALTOR® to work in your best interest and help you tour a property, the REALTOR® must now have you first sign a Buyer Representation Agreement before touring a property. This is true for in-person and virtual showings. This new requirement is intended to provide transparency and protection to a buyer in what can be the largest financial transaction in a buyer’s life. It sets clear expectations, and ensures you understand exactly what services I'll provide and and establishes REALTOR® fees.
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