Real Estate FAQs
Real Estate FAQs
Common Real Estate Questions

What is the first step of home buying/Selling a Home?
The process of buying or selling a home can be a long and confusing process. But thankfully you do not have to go through it alone.
Your first step is to meet with an experienced, local Realtor who knows your area and has excellent referrals. Your Realtor will guide you through each step and represent, protect, and negotiate on your behalf. You should have a true pro on your side when going through one of the largest financial transactions of your lifetime.
When you are ready contact experienced Northern Colorado Realtor Jason Grentz to get started.
Is Renting or Buying Better?
Buying a home has many advantages over renting. Instead of throwing your money away in rent, you can begin to experience the tax, equity, and appreciation benefits of owning your own home. Real estate is a rewarding investment and one of the single biggest ways Americans build wealth and prepare for a stable retirement.
What is a Seller's Market?
In a seller’s market, increasing demand for homes drives prices up. Economic factors, interest rates, and low inventory play important parts in the current real estate market. The best time to sell your home is when you are ready. Trying to time the market often leads to disappointment or missed opportunities.
What is a Buyer's Market?
A buyer’s market is defined by declining home prices and reduced demand. Several factors affect long-term and short-term buyer demand such as economic disruption, unemployment rates, rise in interest rates, high inventory, natural disasters. In general, the best time to buy a home is when you are ready. Trying to time the market often leads to disappointment and missed opportunities.
How Much Does a Realtor Cost?
Homebuyers pay no fees to a Realtor to buy a home. Realtors who represent the buyer are compensated by the seller. When the home sells the listing fees are split between the buyer and seller agents. Thus, buyers do not pay commission fees to buy a home.
Do I Need a Realtor To Buy a New Construction Home?
Many homebuyers make the mistake of not having a Realtor represent them during the home buying process of new construction homes. The myth is this will save money on the purchase of the new home.
This is false. Builders do not reduce the price of the home because you are unrepresented. Realtor fees are built into the price of the home. The builder’s representative is there to protect the builder, not you. It is important to have a Realtor present representing you and your financial interests.
Buying a home is one of the largest financial investments you will make in your lifetime, do not make the mistake of going through the process unrepresented.
What Should I Expect at Closing?
Closing on a home is an exciting day. The closing date is when the sale transaction is officially complete. You will typically meet at an escrow or title agency office with the buyer/seller to sign all necessary paperwork. In some cases, your attendance may not be mandatory. Discuss with your Realtor if you may sign paperwork ahead of time, if necessary.
What Is Pre-approval?
Pre-approval is an important first step in buying a home. Pre-approval is often confused with pre-qualified and this confusion can leave many first time home buyers unprepared to make an offer on their dream home. Pre-approval requires the lender to verify your financial information and credit history. Pre-approval is a strong sign of what you can afford and adds credibility to your offer. Pre-approval puts you ahead in the competitive home-buying world.
realtor vs real estate agent?
Knowing the difference between a Realtor and a real estate agent will make your home buying or home selling process much smoother. A Realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and is held to a high standard of ethics and professionalism. This is an important distinction when deciding who you want to represent you in one of the biggest financial investments of your lifetime.
A good Realtor will help you navigate the buying or selling process with minimal stress due to the high standards and knowledge base required to be a member of NAR.
when is the right time to buy/sell?
The right time to buy or sell a home is when you are ready. Attempting to time the market leads to frustration and missed opportunities. The right time for you is when you are ready and can afford to make the move. We will work together to assure you are ready to get started, know what to expect, and are prepared every step of the way.
What is a CMA Report?
A comparative market analysis or “CMA” is a custom market report specific to your property. Your CMA report will include market analysis on your home’s location, proximity to desirable areas, comparative analysis on recently sold properties close to your home, currently listed homes in your area, and data on your home’s condition. Your CMA report guides the correct pricing of your home.
Working closely with a trusted, local Realtor who knows your area is the best way to set emotion aside and correctly value your home to sell quickly and at a competitive price.
If you are thinking of selling your home, connect with me for a free CMA report of your property.
Can I Ask You for Advice?
Absolutely! I am here to help you. No question is too small. I am an expert in our local Northern Colorado real estate market and love to share my passion with you. Reach out today and let’s get started!
Know What to expect
The Buying and Selling Process Explained in Easy to Understand Steps

Home Buyer's Journey
Buying a Home in 8 Easy Steps

Home Seller's Journey
Selling Your Home in 8 Easy Steps
Let's Find You the Place You Deserve
In today’s market you need an experienced Realtor on your side. Let’s connect and see how, together, we can get you in the home you deserve.