Buyers Services

A: A Real Estate Agent is more than just someone who opens doors. Here’s what Zach does to guide and
protect you throughout the process:
● Educates you on the market so you understand pricing, timing, and strategy
● Connects you with trusted lenders, inspectors, and contractors
● Sets up and manages your home search, including access to off-market or early listings
● Analyzes comparable sales to help you make smart, competitive offers
● Negotiates on your behalf for price, terms, repairs, and timelines
● Coordinates inspections, appraisals, and closing details to keep everything on track
● Provides clarity and advice when tough decisions come up
● Manages the transaction timeline to keep you on track with all deadlines and contract
requirements

When you work with Zach, you’re tapping into real-world experience navigating contracts,
timelines, and negotiations. That experience matters, especially in an ever-changing market
where informed decisions and steady guidance make all the difference.

A: You may not need as much as you think. Some loan programs allow as little as 3% down, and VA or USDA loans may require no down payment at all. That said, a larger down payment can help reduce your monthly mortgage and eliminate mortgage insurance. Zach can connect you with a trusted lender to help you explore the best fit for your financial goals.

A: Your monthly payment usually includes four things, often called PITI:

● Principal (the loan balance)
● Interest (what the lender charges)
● Taxes (property taxes)
● Insurance (homeowners and sometimes mortgage insurance)

A: Great question—your down payment is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are a few other
common costs to plan for:

● Closing Costs: Typically 2–4% of the purchase price. This can include loan origination fees, title insurance, escrow fees, and more. Your lender can help estimate these upfront based on the property and loan type.

● Home Inspection: Usually around $300–$600 depending on the size and location of the home.

● Appraisal Fee: Required by the lender to confirm the home’s value—typically $500–$700.

● Earnest Money Deposit: A good-faith deposit made when your offer is accepted (often 1–2% of the price). This gets applied to your closing costs or down payment at closing.

● Homeowners Insurance: Required by your lender; paid upfront as part of closing costs and renewed annually.

A: It depends on the market and your financing, but typically:

● Getting pre-approved: 1–2 days
● Home shopping: 1–8 weeks (varies widely!)
● Under contract to closing: Usually 30–45 days for resale homes
● New construction homes can vary much more—anywhere from a few months to over a year depending on the builder and build stage.

Zach will help you navigate every step and keep the process moving.

A: Yes—100%. Getting pre-approved gives you a real sense of your budget, shows sellers you’re serious, and helps you act quickly when you find the right home.

A: That’s what the inspection is for! Zach will help you interpret the report, prioritize needed repairs, and negotiate with the seller if appropriate. Most homes need something—it’s about separating major concerns from minor wear and tear.

A: If the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price, you’ve got a few options. Zach will guide you through next steps—whether it’s negotiating with the seller, bringing additional funds to closing, or terminating the deal if needed.

A: Yes, but timing is key. Zach will help you strategize how to align both transactions, whether through contingencies, leasebacks, or temporary housing solutions. It’s more common than you think.

A: If you're even thinking about buying in the next 6–12 months, now’s the time to talk. Getting
clear on your budget, timeline, and goals upfront makes everything smoother when the time is
right.