10 Questions Home Buyers Must Ask

ISLAMORADA, Fla. - Oct. 19, 2017 - PRLog -- Per Kim Bagnell Thaler, Top Producing Real Estate agent for Sotheby's International in Islamorada Florida,"If you are about to enter the real estate market for the first time, you'll no doubt have many questions about the process.

That's okay, you need answers to be as informed as possible. So, here are the ten most common home buyer questions asked and answered:

• What's the first step to take to buy a home? The first step might be a pre-qualification but it's actually getting pre-approved. The former is a cursory look at your finances, while the latter is more involved. You need a pre-approval to buy a home, a pre-qualification won't help.
• How long does it take to purchase a house? Usually, it's between 30 and 45 days. Once a purchase offer is accepted by the seller, it typically takes about four to six weeks.
• What do Realtors do for buyers? The answer is: just about everything. It's actually shorter to list what the Realtor doesn't do, which is decide which home to buy. They facilitate the sale and help protect your best interests.
• How much does it cost to hire a buyer's agent? It doesn't cost you, the buyer, anything. That's because their commission is part of the seller's costs. So, you get his or her services for free.
• What's the best advice to serve first-time buyers? The best advice is to work with an experienced professional. Work with a local, experienced pro and you'll get the best advice.
• What's the lowest credit score needed to get a mortgage? The average lowest credit score is 620 or more. But, there are home lenders and loans which cater to buyers without such credit scores.
• Are there any special homebuyer programs I can use? Yes. There are all kinds of first-time homebuyer programs. These include VA loans and FHA loans, among others. Ask your real estate professional about these and more.
• How big of a down payment will I need? This is a bit tricky, but down payments start at only 3 to 5 percent. It depends on many factors.
• What are other fees involved with a mortgage? The down payment is it, aside from origination and settlement costs or closing costs.
• 10. When will I get the keys to the house? Typically, the buyer gets the keys to the home right at the closing table.

Kim Bagnell Thaler is a pioneer among Florida Keys realtors. Regarded as one of the most influential realtors in the middle and upper keys, she provides expert and professional real estate service.

With her vast knowledge, 20 years experience and commitment to the highest

ethical standards, Kim remains a standout among other Florida Keys Real Estate  Agents.For help finding Florida Keys Real Estate please see http://www.kimbagnell.com