your favorite LOCAL Realtor

The answer to this question varies. It depends on what type of financing you're eligible for. The First Time Home buyers program is typically only 3.5% down, but the home must meet certain guidelines in order to qualify for FHA financing. There are also various Conventional loans which can be any where from 5% -20% down or more, depending on how your financing is set up. There are also USDA rural financing options and VA loans specifically made for veterans. I would refer you to a qualified lender that would be able to get you on the right path for you and your specific situation. The process is extremely customized and tailored to each individual to meet their very own needs. You will have guidance and support all the way to the closing table! 

As a real estate professional, when a client comes to me looking to sell I do a CMA. A CMA is a comparative market analyzes. I look at the sales within a mile of your home within the past year. I am taking into consideration the shape, size and unique features of your home. From there I am able to pull comparable properties and see what they were listed at and what they sold for. How many days they were on the market. Relatively how much attention they've received. All of these factors help me identify what your home would ideally list at. It is very important to price your home appropriately so we can draw in the attention it deserves. The goal is the bring as many people in and get you as many offers as possible! What you need to keep in mind is that you and I do not decide the price of your home, it's actually what buyers are willing to pay. Buyers set the tone for the market. 

This question will forever be pondered. People will always feel as though they missed an opportunity or feel like they're not ready because if they wait the market will heat up. The truth of this question is, in real estate, things are never slowing down. If we pull data from the past 20 years, even with all of the different market trends and global issues, homes are still selling. people are still buying. At the end of the day, this is a very important and intimate process for most people and you want to make sure that your actions are well planned. Educate yourself, ask questions. Prepare yourself so you feel ready when the time comes to sell or buy.