Frequently asked questions

  • Your home affordability depends on your income, debts, credit score, down payment, and current interest rates. Most lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio to determine what you qualify for, but what you qualify for and what you’re comfortable paying monthly can be very different. I always help buyers review realistic monthly payments, not just the loan amount, so you can buy confidently without feeling house-poor.

  • Yes — and it’s one of the most important first steps in the home-buying process. A pre-approval shows sellers that you’re a serious, qualified buyer and gives you a clear budget before you start shopping. It also helps you move quickly and competitively when the right home hits the market, especially in multiple-offer situations.

  • Your home’s value is based on recent comparable sales, current market conditions, buyer demand, location, condition, upgrades, and neighborhood trends. I use real-time local data — not just online estimates — to create a pricing strategy that positions your home competitively to attract strong offers while protecting your bottom line.

  • Not every repair or renovation is necessary before listing. I’ll help you identify which updates will actually bring a return on investment and which ones you can skip. Often, small changes like decluttering, paint, lighting, and curb appeal can have a bigger impact than expensive renovations.

  • A strong investment property depends on your goals — whether that’s monthly cash flow, appreciation, or a mix of both. Key factors include purchase price, rental demand, location, property condition, operating expenses, and long-term neighborhood growth. I help investors analyze realistic numbers so they can make smart, data-backed decisions instead of guessing.