FAQs FOR BUYERS

If you have trouble seeing web pages, the US Social Security Administration offers these tips for optimizing your computer and browser to improve your online experience. Use the keyboard to navigate screens Increase text size Magnify your screen Make your mouse pointer more visible (Windows only)

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, there are several accessibility features available to you. Transcripts A text transcript is a text equivalent of audio information that includes spoken words and non-spoken sounds such as sound effects. Learn how to turn captioning on and off in YouTube. Captioning A caption is transcript for the audio track of a video presentation that is synchronized with the video and audio tracks. Captions are generally rendered visually by being superimposed over the video, which benefits people who are deaf and hard-of-hearing, and anyone who cannot hear the audio (e.g., when in a crowded room). Most of NAR's video content includes captions. Learn how to turn captioning on and off in YouTube. Volume controls Your computer, tablet, or mobile device has volume control features. Each video and audio service has its own additional volume controls. Try adjusting both your device's volume controls and your media players' volume controls to optimize your listening experience.

If you find a keyboard or mouse difficult to use, the following information explains how to use speech recognition software to navigate web pages and online services on ssa.gov. Speech recognition software allows the user to move focus to an application object by voicing the object label name or the object type. Object types include: Text Box List Box Link Image Screen File Each of these object types are given a label name that is visible on the screen and the voice user can say the name to move focus to that object. A screen, an application or file can be accessed by voicing the text in the Title Bar. If there is an object or many objects on a screen without labels then the user can voice an object type which will number all objects of that type on that screen. For example voicing "link" would number all links that are on the visible screen and then a specific link can then be accessed by choosing the number desired. Voicing "checkbox", "radio button, "text box, etc. will operate in the same manner. If the screen design does not allow moving focus by voicing a label or an object type then the speech recognition software may provide a utility to move the mouse pointer in discrete steps or continuously. Social Security has designed web pages and applications to utilize several different methods of using speech in order to provide flexibility in using speech recognition capabilities. Users should try combinations of these methods to determine what best meets an individual's needs. How to train Dragon NaturallySpeaking Respond to warning messages

If the offer you accept is an all cash offer it won't affect the sale unless the buyer's ask for a reduced price. Then your agent works for you to negotiate the deal with the buyer's agent. If the buyer's are financing the home, the financial institution can not loan more than what the home is worth and your agent will be able to advise you.

Most of the costs come out of escrow at the closing of the sale, not out of pocket. Agents and brokerages typically have an industry standard that is charged as a commission. Remember, you get what you pay for and great agents earn their commissions.

You can sell your home at any time of the year, although some seasons are better than others. In most areas, the spring and fall months are the hottest homebuying seasons of the year, while sales slow down in the summer as families are busy with sports and vacations. Winter is the other season sales can be slow due to the holidays.

As your agent, I can help you negotiate a rent-back option if it is needed.

Your real estate agent will provide you with a comprehensive market analysis that will show you what the local market trends are and how they will impact the sale of your home.

Once an offer has been accepted, the clock starts running. The home inspection is part of that process and your agent will work with the buyer's agent to schedule the home inspections.

Your agent will provide you with a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) for homes in your area that will demonstrate to you an approximation of your homes’ value.

Determining what repairs are needed to get the price you expect is another topic your agent can help advise you on. The more "move-in" ready your home is, the more likely it will draw potential buyers.

The appliances that remain with the home should be listed in the contract. Your agent can help you negotiate the terms of the contract for any appliances that you may want to be a part of the sale. The Seller is not obligated to leave appliances that are not built in.

That depends on how long it takes for you to find the right home and get an offer accepted. Once you are in contract, the average escrow is 30 days.

Generally, loan institutions look for a minimum of 620, but there are programs offered by other agencies that may go lower depending on the circumstances. The lower the credit score the higher the interest rate.

The seller makes a choice as to which offer they want to accept. Your agent can help you set yourself up for success and put your best foot forward.

The down payment is usually the largest cost associated with buying a house. Lending fees are the second largest costs to homebuyers. Most lenders will charge between 2% to 4% of the loan amount for loan origination fees, depending on the loan type. Conventional loans usually have lower loan origination fees, but require more money down. Your loan officer will be able to help you determine how much you can expect to pay towards loan origination and closing cost.

A REALTOR® is your most valuable asset when buying a home. They will walk you through every part of the home buying process. They will educate and inform you of all your options. They will represent you throughout the transaction and beyond.

Conventional loans usually require a 20% down payment. There are programs that offer as low as about 3% down or even 0% with some programs. Your loan officer can help advise you on your best options.

Getting pre-approved. This will help you know what price range you can afford. Remember, you can also set a mortgage budget that you are comfortable with as long as your approval is equal to or more than the budget you set.