Home Buying FAQs

Vancouver, Washington Real Estate Agent Christie Conley.

  • The first step is usually getting pre‑approved for a mortgage so you know your budget and demonstrate to sellers that you’re a serious buyer. A pre‑approval helps guide your home search here in Washington.

  • Typical down payments range from 10–20%, but there are loan programs available with as little as 3% down, especially for first‑time buyers. Your lender can help you find options that fit your situation.

  • Closing costs include fees for your mortgage, appraisal, title insurance, and more, typically around 2–5% of the home’s purchase price. These are standard whether you’re buying in Vancouver, Camas, or elsewhere in Washington.

  • There are options like contingency offers and bridge loans that can help you buy before selling or align both transactions smoothly. I can walk you through what might work best for your situation.

  • On average it takes about 30–45 days from accepted offer to closing, though timing can vary depending on market conditions and your financing.

  • Yes — a home inspection is highly recommended to uncover any potential issues before finalizing your purchase. It gives you peace of mind and negotiating power if needed.

  • I’ll provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) based on recent sales of similar homes in the area, so you have solid data and insight into current market value.

Home Selling FAQs

Vancouver, Washington Real Estate Agent Christie Conley.

  • Spring and early summer often see higher buyer interest, but with the right strategy, any time of year can be successful. It depends on your goals and local market trends.

  • I use a combination of a comparative market analysis, recent sales data, and your home’s unique features to price your property competitively for today’s Washington market.

  • Simple updates like decluttering, deep cleaning, and minor repairs can make a big difference. I can also provide tailored recommendations to help your home shine for buyers.

  • The timeline varies based on price, location, and market conditions, but I’ll help set realistic expectations and adjust our approach as needed.

  • Sellers usually pay agent commissions, title insurance, and transfer taxes, which often total around 6–10% of the sale price. I’ll review the details so there are no surprises.

  • You’re required to disclose any known material defects. I’ll guide you through everything that needs to be shared to keep your transaction transparent and compliant.

  • I use a tailored marketing approach that includes professional photography, virtual tours, online listings, open houses, and targeted promotion to help your home stand out.