Q. If I purchase a home thru a Realtor who is not the listing agent, will I owe my Realtor a commission?

A. No, in most circumstances. If the property is listed on the multiple listing system, which most are, the listing agent has agreed in advance to split his commission with the agent who represents the buyer. One exception to this would be if it is a for-sale-by-owner and the seller refuses to pay a commission to the buyer's agent.

Q. How do I go about buying a government foreclosure?

A. First you have to contact an agent who is registered with HUD. They will help you find a property that fits your criteria and will submit your offer when you're ready to do so. You'll need to have a prequalification letter from your lender or proof of funds if you're paying with cash. A certified check is required for the earnest money deposit. The amount of earnest money needed is $500 if the purchase price is $50,000 or less and $1000 for purchases over $50,000. You will also need to sign a one page sales contract which will be transmitted to HUD's listing office.

Q. Where can I go to find a registered HUD agent?

A. Any agent who works in our office will be register with HUD. Give us a call or send us an email and we will get in contact with you.

Q. I want to buy some land, where can I go to get financing?

A. The best place is to either a local bank or to the Farm Credit System. A local bank will be familar with unimproved property in their area and will feel comfortable lending on such. The Farm Credit System is made up of lenders that specialize in rural properties. We can give you a number of contacts in this area.

Q. I want to purchase a home, what is my first step?

A. The very first step is to address the financing issue. Unless you are paying cash for the home, you need to find a lender that you are comfortable with and begin to work with them to determine how much house you will be needing and can afford. Once you have this information you can feel more confident about shopping. When you find your special home you'll already have been pre-qualified and have the advantage of the seller knowing that you are serious buyers.

Q. When is the best time of the year to sell my house?

A. There is no "best" time of the year. There are so many different factors that drive the housing market that no one can predict when the activiy is going to peak in any given year, and every year is different. The most important thing you can do is to have your home in the very best showing condition as practical. First impressions are very important.