Title Insurance protects the buyer and seller from any disputes that could arise later related to the ownership, boundaries and claims against the property. It is therefore a crucial part of any real estate transaction.

Real estate transactions are very complicated. Representing yourself in a real estate transaction is akin to going to court without an attorney. A real estate agent can advise you as to what deal is fair and what pricing is most accurate for a given market.

Usually between 30 and 45 days

Buyer's Agent = Working for the person BUYING the home

Listing Agent = Working for the Person SELLING the home

A short sale is when a lender agrees to accept a sales price that is less than the mortgage amount owed by the homeowner....It falls SHORT

Every short sales is different but you can expect the process to take at least 4-6 months

Closing Costs are fees that buyers and sellers incur upon transferring the ownership of real estate. These fees can come from: Taxes, Insurance, Title , Mortgage, etc...

FSBO means For Sale By Owner. This means that there is no REALTOR representing the sale of the transaction. It is always recommended that you use a REALTOR when buying or selling a property even if the person selling the home is offering it as a FSBO.

A Contingency is a qualification placed on the sale of the home that dictates certain stipulations must be met before the contract can be finalized.

The MLS is the Multiple Listing Service. It is a computerized listing of all homes for sale in a certain region. Searching the MLS is a great way to find your next house.

Pre-Qualified means that you have been qualified to potentially get a loan of a certain amount. It does not mean you could necessarily get a loan in that amount

Pre-Approval means that you have gone through all the financial requirements to receive a loan of a certain amount and would most likely be able to get a loan at that amount.

Both processes are helpful when buying a home but serious buyers should be Pre-Approved before making an offer.

Set up a meeting with a mortgage representative and obtain a pre-approval.

Only you can decide what the listing price will be BUT your real estate agent will give you a range of what they believe the fair market value of your home is based on other comparable homes that have sold in your area and the condition and square footage of your home.

When you list your home is completely up to you. Most sellers have better luck in the spring months when home sales tend to spike every year.

Comps is shortened from the word Comparable. Your agent will give show you a number of comparable properties that are on the market and that have sold recently in your area. The average sale price of these homes helps to determine the price your home could sell for.

You can, but your shouldn't. If you are serious about selling your home, you should list it at a price comparable to other similar homes in the area.

Buyer's agents are always looking for properties to show their clients. If your property is overpriced, it won't even be considered for showing.

An offer is a price a buyer is willing to pay for your property.

A counteroffer is what you offer in return if you do not agree upon the buyers pricing or terms of sales.

You do not need to make all the repairs suggested by the home inspector. You should work with the buyer to make only the repairs needed to satisfy the terms of deal. It is really your call what repairs or upgrades you want to make. Be prepared to make some concessions before sale.

• Maintain Your Property
• Be Accessible for Showings
• Secure or Remove Pets
• Leave the House During Showings
• Lock Up All Valuables