Yes, but affordability depends on income, down payment, debt, and lifestyle goals. Many buyers are surprised by how much home they can afford, and just as importantly, how much they should afford comfortably. A mortgage pre-approval gives a clear and realistic budget. I help you understand that number so you can shop with confidence and avoid overextending yourself.

For many buyers, yes. Interest rates, inventory, and price trends all matter, but the right time often comes down to personal timing, stability, and long-term plans. If you find a home that fits your life and budget, timing the market matters less than timing your needs.

• 5% for homes under $500,000
• 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% on the remainder above that
• 20% if you want to avoid mortgage insurance

There are also programs available for first-time buyers.

1. Get mortgage pre-approval
2. Define budget, needs, and preferred neighborhoods
3. View homes and shortlist options
4. Submit an offer and negotiate
5. Complete conditions such as financing, inspection, and condo documents
6. Close with your lawyer and receive the keys

My role is to guide and protect you at every step, coordinating the process and reducing risk so nothing gets missed.

Common mistakes include overstretching budget, skipping inspections, focusing only on cosmetic features, underestimating closing costs, and waiting too long and missing good homes. Good advice upfront prevents expensive lessons later.

Home value depends on recent comparable sales, condition and upgrades, lot, layout, location, and current market demand. Online estimates can help, but a local, data-backed pricing strategy is far more accurate. I can provide a no-obligation home value assessment at no cost.

In many cases, yes, especially for well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods. The key is pricing correctly from day one and presenting the home in a way that attracts serious buyers.

Well-priced homes may sell in two to six weeks. Homes priced too high often sit longer. Pricing, condition, and marketing quality make a big difference.

Focus on high-impact, low-cost improvements such as paint touch-ups, decluttering, lighting upgrades, minor repairs, and curb appeal. You do not need to renovate. You need your house to present well and be priced smart.

Staging often helps buyers emotionally connect with a property, which can lead to stronger offers and faster sales. Even light staging or styling guidance can make a noticeable difference but it is not required. We also have options for virtual staging we can utilize although the impact can differ.

Mortgage payments depend on purchase price, interest rate, and down payment, and can change once property taxes and condo fees are added. A lender can estimate payments, and I can help clients factor in the real cost of ownership.

Plan for approximately 1% to 2% of the purchase price. This typically includes legal fees, title insurance, and other adjustments. These costs are reviewed upfront so there are no surprises. This does not include expenses such as home inspections or moving costs.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Fixed mortgages offer stability, while variable mortgages can offer long-term savings. The best choice depends on risk tolerance and financial plans. A conversation with a trusted mortgage broker can help you determine what's right for you.

Prices have generally trended upward over time, with seasonal fluctuations. Some neighborhoods outperform others, which is why local insight matters when choosing where to buy.

It depends on lifestyle, maintenance preference, budget, and long-term plans. Condos offer lower maintenance, while detached homes offer more control and land value.

Important factors include condo fees, reserve fund health, bylaws such as pet or rental restrictions, and insurance responsibilities. Condo documents should always be reviewed carefully before committing.

You can go it alone, but a REALTOR® helps with pricing accuracy, negotiation, legal protection, risk reduction, and time savings. Most clients choose representation because it reduces stress and costly mistakes.

In most cases, the seller pays the commission, which means buyers typically receive professional representation at no direct cost.

A strong listing agent sets a pricing strategy, prepares the home for market, markets aggressively, screens buyers, negotiates offers, and manages the transaction through closing. The goal is to maximize price, minimize stress, and protect your position.

A licensed inspector reviews the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and safety concerns. This helps buyers understand what they are purchasing before committing.

Yes, if conditions such as financing, inspection, or condo document review are not met. Once conditions are removed, contracts become legally binding.

AI tools can provide rough estimates, but they do not account for condition, renovations, street-level demand, or buyer psychology. A local market evaluation is far more reliable.

They are a starting point, not a pricing strategy. Two similar homes on the same street can sell for very different prices depending on presentation and timing.

I can prepare a free, no-pressure home value report using current market data.

Share your budget and monthly comfort range and I can help estimate realistic options and connect you with trusted local lenders if needed.

Yes. By understanding your lifestyle, commute, school needs, and priorities, I can recommend areas that truly fit how you live.