The Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You Hire One

What should I ask a realtor before I list my home?

Ask how they will price it, what they would fix or skip before listing, how they will market it, and how they will handle offers and negotiation.

My answers: a comparative market analysis, a pre-listing walkthrough, professional marketing, and every offer weighed on price, terms and financing. Start with my house selling checklist.

How do I start the home buying process?

The first step is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. It tells you how much you can afford and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. From there, we talk through your must-haves, preferred neighborhoods and timeline, then start touring homes that match.

How much home can I afford?

Your lender gives you the precise number, based on your income, debts, credit score and down payment. Count the whole monthly cost, not only the mortgage: taxes and insurance too. I can refer you to lenders my clients have used.

What is a mortgage pre-approval?

A pre-approval is a letter from a lender stating how much it is willing to lend you. Unlike a pre-qualification, which is an estimate, a pre-approval verifies your income, assets and credit. Get one before you make an offer. Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously.

How long does it take to buy a home?

Finding the right home can take a few weeks or a few months, depending on what you want and the market. After your offer is accepted, the contract sets the closing date. Once we find your home, I keep every step on track.

What are closing costs?

Closing costs include lender fees, title insurance, the appraisal, the inspection, escrow, and prepaid taxes and insurance. Some can be negotiated. I negotiated a $20,000 builder contribution to closing costs for buyers in Forney.

Should I get a home inspection?

Yes. A licensed inspector examines the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and more. If issues are found, we can negotiate repairs or a price reduction with the seller. Never skip the inspection.

What is earnest money?

Earnest money is a deposit that shows the seller you are serious. It is held in escrow and applied toward your closing costs or down payment at closing. If the deal falls through for a reason covered in your contract, you get it back.

Can I buy a home with less-than-perfect credit?

Often, yes. A higher credit score gets you a better rate, but there are loan programs for many credit situations. FHA loans can allow scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down, and the VA sets no minimum score (lenders may set their own). I can refer you to lenders my clients have used, and they will tell you which programs fit.

What is PMI (private mortgage insurance)?

PMI protects the lender when you put less than 20% down on a conventional loan. It is added to your monthly payment, and once you reach 20% equity you can ask to have it removed. FHA loans have their own version, called MIP.

What is the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?

A pre-qualification is a quick estimate from information you report yourself, and it carries little weight with sellers. A pre-approval means the lender has verified your income, assets, employment and credit. It tells sellers you are ready to buy.

How do I choose the right neighborhood?

Think about amenities, schools, your drive to work and future development plans. Visit at different times of day. As a local REALTOR in Sunnyvale, Forney, Mesquite and Dallas County, I can tell you how home prices, lot sizes and commutes compare.

What should I look for during a home tour?

Beyond the finishes, look at the roof, the foundation, water stains, windows, the age of the HVAC, water pressure, the electrical panel and storage. Check the street too: noise and parking. I will point out what you might miss.

When is the best time to sell my home?

Homes sell year-round in North Texas. The best time to sell is when you are ready, and I will walk you through every step in any season.

How do I price my home correctly?

I prepare a detailed comparative market analysis of recent sales, active listings, market trends and your home’s features. Overpricing leads to more time on the market. Underpricing leaves money on the table. My aim is a price that draws strong offers.

Should I stage my home before selling?

At minimum, declutter, depersonalize and deep clean. For a vacant home, professional staging makes a real difference. I will tell you what is worth the money for your home and price point.

What repairs should I make before listing?

Start with what buyers notice first: neutral paint, leaky faucets, dated light fixtures, systems that work and curb appeal. I do a pre-listing walkthrough and tell you which repairs are worth it.

What are seller closing costs?

They can include agent commissions, title insurance, escrow fees, prorated taxes and any repairs or concessions you agree to. I walk you through the likely costs before you list.

Should I accept the first offer?

Not necessarily. I weigh every offer on price, terms, contingencies, the buyer’s financing and the closing timeline. Sometimes a lower offer with fewer contingencies and stronger financing is the better deal.