How much do I actually need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan type. Conventional loans can go as low as 3-5% down, FHA loans start around 3.5%, and VA loans can require 0% down for qualifying veterans. I can walk you through which options you qualify for before you start touring homes.
What's the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender — no verification involved. Pre-approval means a lender has actually checked your credit, income, and documents, and is a much stronger signal to sellers that you're ready to buy. I always recommend getting pre-approved before we start touring.
How long does buying a home usually take?
From your first showing to closing day, plan on 30-60 days once you're under contract — sometimes faster with a strong pre-approval and a motivated seller. The house-hunting phase itself can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on how specific your must-haves are.
What are closing costs, and who pays them?
Closing costs typically run 2-5% of the purchase price and cover things like loan fees, title insurance, appraisals, and escrow. In Nevada, buyers and sellers each pay their own set of costs, though some of this is negotiable as part of your offer.
Does it cost me anything to work with you as a buyer?
In almost all cases, no — the seller typically covers the commission for both the listing agent and the buyer's agent as part of the sale. You get full representation without an out-of-pocket fee.
What's the checklist for things to do during escrow?
Once you're under contract, the main things to stay on top of are: schedule your home inspection right away, order your appraisal (usually your lender handles this), shop for and secure homeowners insurance, stay in close contact with your lender to clear any loan conditions, review the title report and disclosures as they come in, and do a final walkthrough right before closing. I keep track of every deadline and let you know exactly what's needed and when, so nothing slips through the cracks.
How much do inspections or appraisals usually cost?
A general home inspection typically runs $300-$500 depending on the size of the home, with specialty inspections (sewer scope, pest, roof) running extra if needed. Appraisals usually cost $500-$700 and are ordered through your lender. Both are generally paid out of pocket by the buyer, though these are estimates — I can point you toward local providers with current pricing.
How do you decide what to list my home for?
I pull recent comparable sales in your neighborhood, factor in your home's condition and upgrades, and look at current buyer demand and days-on-market trends. The goal is a price that attracts strong offers quickly without leaving money on the table.
Do I need to make repairs or updates before listing?
Not always — it depends on your home and your timeline. Small, high-impact fixes (paint, deep cleaning, decluttering) almost always pay off. Bigger renovations are case-by-case, and I'll tell you honestly whether a project is worth doing before you list or better left for the buyer.
How much are real estate commission fees?
Commission is negotiable and we'll agree on it upfront before listing. I'll walk you through exactly what's included — marketing, negotiation, paperwork, and everything in between — so you know what you're paying for.
How long will it take to sell my home?
In today's Reno market, well-priced homes are averaging around 24 days on market before going under contract. Pricing, condition, and presentation all affect that timeline — I'll give you a realistic estimate specific to your property and neighborhood.
What happens if my home doesn't sell right away?
We revisit the strategy — pricing, photos, marketing, or timing — and adjust. A slower start doesn't mean something's wrong; sometimes it just means the price or presentation needs a second look. I'll always be upfront with you about what the market is telling us.
What closing costs are associated with selling my home?
As a seller, you'll typically cover the real estate commission (the largest cost, and negotiable), title and escrow fees, Nevada's real property transfer tax, prorated property taxes and any HOA dues, and payoff of your existing mortgage if you have one. Altogether, seller costs usually land somewhere between 6-10% of the sale price including commission — I'll walk you through your specific numbers before we ever list.
Do I need to visit Nevada in person before buying, or can it be done remotely?
Most of the process can be handled remotely — video tours, digital paperwork, and e-signatures cover a lot of it. That said, most buyers try to visit at least once before closing, even briefly, to see the home and neighborhood in person. I coordinate everything around your travel schedule.
How does Nevada's cost of living and taxes compare to where I'm coming from?
Nevada has no state income tax, which is a big draw for people relocating from states like California. Property taxes here are generally lower too. I'm happy to point you toward comparison resources, though for a full picture of your specific situation I'd recommend talking with a tax professional.
How do I figure out the right neighborhood if I've never been here?
This is where local guidance matters most. I'll walk you through the differences between areas like Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Minden, and Incline Village — commute times, schools, lifestyle, and price points — so you can narrow it down before you ever set foot here.
Can you help coordinate the move itself, not just the home purchase?
I can point you toward trusted movers, temporary housing options, and other local resources, and I'll help time your closing around your move. I'm not a moving company, but I've helped enough relocating clients to know what tends to go smoothly and what doesn't.
Is there a best time of year to plan a move to Northern Nevada?
Spring and early summer tend to have the most homes on the market, but winters here are milder than people expect in the valley areas. The right timing really depends on your job start date, school calendars, and current lease — I'll help you plan backward from whichever date matters most.
Brandon Wright · Real Estate Professional