Buyer FAQs

Start with a consultation and pre-approval. Your lender will help determine how much you can comfortably spend, and our team will build a custom home search around your goals, budget, and timeline.

A pre-qualification is a quick estimate of what you might afford, while a pre-approval means your lender has verified your income, assets, and credit.
A pre-approval letter makes your offer much stronger when competing for a home.

Down payments vary based on loan type and borrower profile:
– VA: 0%
– USDA: 0%
– FHA: 3.5%
– Conventional: 3%–30% depending on terms.
Your lender can help you explore programs that fit your needs best.

Closing costs include lender, title, and recording fees — typically around 2%–5% of the purchase price.
We’ll give you an upfront estimate early in the process, so there are no surprises later.

Earnest money is a good-faith deposit that shows your commitment to buying a property. It’s usually about 1% of the purchase price and is applied toward your closing costs or down payment once the sale is finalized.

Absolutely. We specialize in helping out-of-state and relocating buyers.
From video tours to trusted vendor recommendations, we make your transition seamless and stress-free.

Common inspections include:
– General home inspection
– WDO/termite inspection
– Septic or well (if applicable)
– Pool, stucco, or roof (as needed)
We’ll recommend licensed local inspectors we trust to protect your investment.

Most closings take 30–45 days after your offer is accepted, depending on your loan type, inspection results, and title process.
Our team works proactively to keep your timeline on track.

You’ll review and sign your final documents, wire your closing funds, and receive your keys once the transaction is complete.
We’ll guide you through each step and celebrate the moment you become a homeowner!

Typically:
– Principal & Interest: Your loan payment
– Taxes & Insurance: Often escrowed into your monthly payment
Some communities may also include HOA or condo fees separately.

It depends on your financial situation and the local market.
Some buyers prefer to sell first for easier financing, while others buy first to avoid temporary housing.
We’ll help you evaluate what’s best based on your timing and goals.

Avoid opening new credit, changing jobs, large deposits, or moving money between accounts.
Even small financial changes can affect your approval.
(See our [Mortgage & Loan Guide] for full Do’s and Don’ts.)

That’s great! Once we’ve verified the details and prepared your offer strategy, we can move fast.
Our team handles all the steps — from writing and submitting the offer to negotiating on your behalf — so nothing slips through the cracks.

If your neighborhood has an HOA, you’ll pay regular dues that maintain shared areas and amenities.
We’ll review the rules and costs with you before you commit to any property so there are no surprises later.

We stay connected! You’ll receive our Home Maintenance Resources, local vendor recommendations, and market updates so you can protect your investment and stay informed.
The Talley Group is here long after the closing table.