Real Estate Frequently Asked Questions
Buying & Selling
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in St. Helens, Scappoose, or the Portland metro area, these are the questions people ask me all the time. This page is just straight answers so you understand how it actually works before you jump in.
If you want to talk about your specific situation, just reach out.
Buying
Do I need 20% down?
No. A lot of buyers use 3%–5% down. 20% just avoids PMI. The right amount depends on your finances and what payment you’re comfortable with.
What credit score do I need?
Usually low-to-mid 600s for most loans. Higher score = better rate. A lender can tell you exactly where you stand.
What are closing costs?
They’re the fees to finish the deal (lender, title, escrow, taxes, insurance). Around here it’s usually about 2%–4% of the price.
How long does it take?
Once you’re under contract, about 30 days in most cases.
What does a buyer’s agent do?
Find homes, write and negotiate offers, set up inspections, explain the paperwork, and keep you from making expensive mistakes.
What inspections should I get?
At least a home inspection. Radon and sewer scopes are common around here depending on the house.
What is earnest money?
It’s a deposit that shows you’re serious. It goes toward your closing costs or down payment and is protected by your contingencies if you follow the contract.
What if the appraisal is low?
We either renegotiate, you bring in cash, challenge it, or walk away depending on the situation and your contract.
Selling
How much is my home worth?
Whatever similar homes are actually selling for in your area. Online estimates are often wrong. You need real local comps.
How do commissions work when I sell my home?
Real estate commissions aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re negotiable and depend on the specifics of your home, the market, and the strategy we use to sell it. Before you list, I’ll walk you through exactly how compensation works, what your options are and how to structure things in a way that makes sense for your goals.
Do I need to fix everything first?
No. Some things are worth fixing. Some aren’t. The goal is to make you more money, not just spend money.
How long does it take to sell?
Depends on price, condition, and location. Some sell fast, some don’t. After you accept an offer, closing is usually about 30 days.
What does a listing agent do?
Helps price it right, markets it, handles showings and offers, negotiates, and manages the deal to closing.
Should I Start High on Price?
Usually, no. Homes that are priced too high tend to sit longer, get fewer showings and often end up selling for less after price reductions. The best strategy is to price based on what similar homes are actually selling for in your area right now. That creates more interest, more showings and better chances of strong offers early.