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Jamie McManis
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515-205-1407
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FAQ

  This is a short list of our most frequently asked questions. For more information contact Liberty Realty and speak with a REALTOR®.

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What is Earnest Money? How Much Should I Set Aside?

Earnest money is money put down to demonstrate your seriousness about buying a home and a show of good faith. The amount you deposit as earnest money will depend on factors such as policies and limitations in your state, the current market, what your real estate agent recommends, and what the seller requires. On average, however, you can expect an earnest deposit within 1% to 2% of the total home purchase price. If your offer is accepted, the earnest money becomes part of your down payment. If the offer is rejected, your money is returned to you. If you back out of a deal, you may forfeit all or a portion of your earnest deposit

How Do I Determine the Initial Offer?

Listen to your real estate agent’s advice, but follow your own instincts on deciding a fair price. Calculating your offer should involve several factors: what homes sell for in the area, the home’s condition, how long it’s been on the market, financing terms, and the seller’s situation. By the time you’re ready to make an offer, you should have a good idea of what the home is worth and what you can afford. And, be prepared for give-and-take negotiation, which is very common when buying a home. The buyer and seller may often go back and forth until they can agree on a price.

How Do I Make an Offer?

Your real estate agent will assist you in making an offer, which will include the following information:

Complete legal description of the property

Amount of earnest money

Down payment and financing details

Proposed move-in date

Price you are offering

Proposed closing date

Length of time the offer is valid

Details of the deal

Remember that a sale commitment depends on negotiating a satisfactory contract with the seller, not just making an offer.

Do I Need to Be There for the Inspection?

It’s not required, but it’s a good idea. Following the inspection, the home inspector will be able to answer questions about the report and any problem areas. This is also an opportunity to hear an objective opinion on the home you’d like to purchase and it is a good time to ask general, maintenance questions.

What Does a Home Inspector Do, and How Does an Inspection Figure in the Purchase of a Home?

An inspector checks the safety of your potential new home. Home Inspectors focus especially on the structure, construction, and mechanical systems of the house and will make you aware of only repairs that are needed.

The Inspector does not evaluate whether or not you’re getting good value for your money. Generally, an inspector checks for repairs on: the electrical system, plumbing and waste disposal, the water heater, insulation and Ventilation, the HVAC system, water source and quality, the potential presence of pests, the foundation, doors, windows, ceilings, walls, floors, and roof. Be sure to hire a home inspector that is qualified and experienced.

It’s a good idea to include an inspection clause in the offer when negotiating for a home. An inspection clause gives you an “out” on buying the house if serious problems are found or gives you the ability to renegotiate the purchase price if repairs are needed. An inspection clause can also specify that the seller must fix the problem(s) before you purchase the house.

How Many Homes Should I Consider Before Choosing One?

There isn’t a set number of houses you should see before you decide. Visit as many as it takes to find the one you want. Just be sure to communicate often with your real estate agent about everything you’re looking for. It will help avoid wasting your time.

What Should I Look for When Walking Through a Home?

In addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists, you may want to consider the following:

Is there enough room for both the present and the future?

Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?

Is the home structurally sound?

Do the mechanical systems and appliances work?

Is the yard big enough?

Do you like the floor plan?

Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage space?

Imagine the home in good weather and bad – will you be happy with it year round?

Take your time and think carefully about each house you see. Ask your real estate agent to point out the pros and cons of each home from a professional standpoint.

How Does the Lender Decide the Maximum Loal Amount that Can Afford?

The lender considers your debt-to-income ratio, which is a comparison of your gross (pre-tax) income to housing and non-housing expenses. Non-housing expenses include such long-term debts as car or student loan payments, alimony, or child support. The lender also considers cash available for down payment and closing costs, credit history, etc. when determining your maximum loan amount.

How Does Purchasing a Home Compare with Renting?

The two don’t really compare at all. The one advantage of renting is being generally free of most maintenance responsibilities. But by renting, you lose the chance to build equity, take advantage of tax benefits, and protect yourself against rent increases. Also, you may not be free to decorate without permission and may be at the mercy of the landlord for housing.

Owning a home has many benefits. When you make a mortgage payment, you are building equity. And that’s an investment. Owning a home also qualifies you for tax breaks that assist you in dealing with your new financial responsibilities- like insurance, real estate taxes, and upkeep- which can be substantial. But given the freedom, stability, and security of owning your own home, they are worth it.

How Do I Know if I’m Ready to Buy a Home?

You can find out by asking yourself some questions:

Do I have a steady source of income (usually a job)? Have I been employed on a regular basis for the last 2-3 years? Is my current income reliable?

Do I have a good record of paying my bills?

Do I have money saved for a down payment?

Do I have few outstanding debts, like car payments?

Do I have the ability to pay a mortgage every month, plus additional costs?

If you can answer “yes” to these questions, you are probably ready to buy your own home.