FAQ's
How much do real estate agents charge?
Prices are negotiable and vary from agency to agency. At Casas & Houses Realty, homebuyers and home sellers are responsible for compensating the agent that is representing them.
Who pays the closing cost when buying a house?
The closing cost closing cost is the homebuyers’ responsibility; however, sometimes the sellers pay in full or partially for this service, if requested.
Do I need to sign an agreement just to view a house?
Yes, as of August 17 2024, that's the new real estate law for all Realtors. A prospect buyer interested in a showing, must sign an agreement with a real estate agency BEFORE viewing a listing.
How long does it take to sell a home?
Selling a home depends on several factors and actions taken by both Agent and home ownwerd. Luxury homes take longer to sell than a standard home, so we recommend to list the home for sale early enough to allow suficient time for the sale's process. Eventhough it is not guaranteed, most standard homes get under contrac within the first 3 months.
What is the first step to purchase a home?
The first step is to provide your Real Estate agent a copy of the pre-qualification letter, or proof of funds to purchase the property. If you will be providing a letter from your bank or a bank statement, for your protection, we highly recommend that you crossout the account number, leaving the last 4 digits only.
Does Casas & Houses Realty represent first time homebuyers, as well?
Yes, our team also represents families that have never owened a home before. The future homebuyers must have a pre-qualification letter or proof of funds, before requesting a home showing.
How do I get pre-qualified?
Contact your bank or mortgage lender and mention that you are interested in purchasing a house and would like to be pre=qualified. The lending institution will provide you a letter (pre-qualification) that states the amount that you prequalified for.
Does it take too long to purchase a house?
It all depends on how soon you provide the necessary documents to the mortgage lender. Normally, it takes from 30-45 days to close on the sale of an already built home. FHA and VA loans could take a few more days.
Why do I need a pre-qualification letter?
Most, if not all, agents will request the pre-qualification letter to make sure you are financially ready to make an offer, once you’ve selected a property. If you are buyer paying cash for the purchase of a property, proof of funds is required before any showings.
Do I have to do home inspections?
You do not have to, but it is highly recommended that you inspect the property for termite, lead base paint, radon gas, septic, and anything else that you deem appropriate, to make sure there is no major damage.
My family only speaks Spanish, will the transaction be in Spanish?
While our team is bilingual, a transaction done in Spanish is a courtesy to our clients, when is needed or desired. Your agent will communicate with you in Spanish, as much as possible.
My agent speaks Spanish, will he/she interpret conversations for other service providers involved in the transaction?
No. The agent representing you as a buyer or seller is not allowed to do any interpreting between you and third parties involved in the transaction. This includes the attorney, inspectors, lenders, or any type of service that is not provided by your agent. You are welcome to arrange interpreting services to communicate with third parties, if needed.
My agent speaks Spanish, will he/she fill out the forms that I need?
Your agent will fill out most of the forms needed, but there are a few that the clients must complete on their own. Keep in mind that all the forms needed for the transaction must be filled in English.
Is this neighborhood safe?
Whether the neighborhood is safe or not, it is something that your real estate agent, by law, is prohibited from answering. Homebuyers should do their own investigation of the areas that attracts them the most.