Buyers FAQs
Buying a home can get nutty — especially the first time around. Here are answers to the questions we hear most, organized to follow your journey from "should I even do this?" all the way to closing day, so you can feel informed and confident every step of the way.
First Things First
Before you fall down the rabbit hole of listing photos, let’s answer the bigger questions — starting with whether now is even the right time.
Should I buy a home?
Whether homeownership is the right move depends on your personal finances, goals, and timeline — there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Our agents are happy to walk through your situation with you and lay out the pros and cons, but the decision, and the numbers behind it, is always yours to make, ideally alongside your lender and financial advisor.
Homebuying seems simple enough — can't I just do it on my own?
You certainly can search listings and tour homes independently. But a licensed agent brings market knowledge, negotiation experience, and a working understanding of contracts and disclosures that most buyers don’t have day-to-day exposure to. Having someone in your corner can help you avoid costly missteps along the way — we’ll cover exactly how your agent is compensated a bit further down, since that’s changed recently across the industry.
As a homebuyer, why should I use The Listing Squirrel?
Our agents work in your interest from the first conversation through closing — helping you understand the process, evaluate homes and offers, and stay on schedule with critical dates. We aim to make the experience more efficient and less stressful, though as with any real estate transaction, outcomes depend on market conditions and the specifics of each deal.
I want to buy a newly built home — can a Listing Squirrel agent still help me?
Yes. Our agents regularly assist buyers purchasing new construction, including reviewing builder contracts, understanding upgrade and warranty terms, and representing your interests throughout the process. We recommend having your own agent involved from your very first visit to a builder’s model home or sales office, since builder representatives typically represent the builder, not you.
Working With Your Agent
The way buyer representation works has changed industry-wide — here’s what to expect when you start working with us.
Will I need to sign an agreement before touring homes with you?
Yes. Following the 2024 National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, real estate agents are required to have a written buyer representation agreement in place with buyers before touring a home together. This agreement spells out what services you’ll receive and how your agent’s compensation is structured. It doesn’t have to be a long-term commitment — agreements can be scoped to a single showing or property if you’re not ready to commit further, and your Listing Squirrel agent will walk you through every term before you sign anything.
Do I pay my agent directly?
It depends on your specific agreement and transaction. Buyer agent compensation is outlined in your buyer representation agreement and is fully negotiable — it’s no longer published or set through the MLS. In many cases, sellers still choose to offer compensation toward the buyer’s agent as part of their listing, which can offset or eliminate what you owe directly; in other cases, it’s a cost you and your agent agree to upfront. We’ll go over exactly how this works before you sign anything, so there are no surprises later.
If I sign a buyer representation agreement, am I obligated to buy a home?
No. A buyer representation agreement establishes the terms of your working relationship with your agent — it doesn’t obligate you to purchase any particular property, or any property at all. You’re always free to walk away from a home that isn’t the right fit; the agreement simply defines how you and your agent work together while you search.
Crunching the Numbers — The Money Part
Nobody wants surprises when it comes to their finances. Here’s what to know before you start house hunting.
Why is pre-approval such an important step?
Getting pre-qualified or pre-approved by a lender before you start house hunting helps you understand what you can comfortably afford and shows sellers you’re a serious, prepared buyer — which can matter in a competitive market. Lenders generally evaluate a few key factors, often referred to as the “Four Cs”:
Capacity — your ability to make monthly payments now and going forward Capital — savings and assets available for a down payment and reserves Collateral — the value of the property securing the loan Credit — your history of repaying debts on time
We’re happy to introduce you to lenders we’ve worked with and trust — you’re always free to choose any lender you prefer, and we encourage you to compare rates and terms before deciding.
How much money do I need for a down payment?
Down payment requirements vary by loan type, lender, and your individual financial profile — they can range from 0% (for certain qualifying loan programs) to 20% or more. Because this depends on your specific circumstances, we recommend speaking directly with a licensed lender to get an accurate number for your situation.
Reading the Market
Timing the market perfectly isn’t really the goal — being ready is.
What about the current market — should I still consider buying a home?
Real estate markets shift over time, and no one, including us, can predict exactly where prices, rates, or inventory are headed next. Rather than trying to time the market perfectly, the more useful question is usually whether you’re financially ready and have a stable enough outlook to take on a home purchase right now.
Our agents can help you understand current local conditions — inventory levels, pricing trends, and competition in the neighborhoods you’re considering — so you can make a well-informed decision. For guidance on how broader economic conditions might affect your personal financial readiness, we’d also encourage a conversation with your lender or financial advisor. Whenever you’re ready, we’re here to help you navigate the process.
Let's Get You Started
Ready to begin? Here’s how the first move works.
How do I get started with an agent at The Listing Squirrel?
Easy — call us or fill out our buyer contact form, and we’ll reach out to get you started.
Already working with a lender or have a pre-approval?
Let us know in the comments section of the form, and have your lender send your pre-approval letter to info@listingsquirrel.com.
Need a lender or want to get pre-approved first?
No problem — reach out and we can point you toward a lender to start that conversation.
What are some common terms used in the homebuying process?
Real estate comes with its own vocabulary — terms like earnest money, option period, contingency, appraisal, title commitment, and closing disclosure come up often. We’ve put together a glossary to help you follow along, and your agent is always happy to explain any term as it comes up in your specific transaction.
The Nutty Buying Process
Once you’re under contract, things move fast. Here’s what to expect at each stage.
I found the house I want — what's next?
Great news! Your agent will help you evaluate a fair offer price based on factors like recent comparable sales in the area, the property’s condition, and your budget. If you’re already pre-approved, you’ll be in a strong position to move forward with confidence. Your agent will also walk you through strategies that may help your offer stand out in a competitive situation — though we can’t guarantee any offer will be accepted, as that decision ultimately rests with the seller.
I submitted an offer — what happens if it's not accepted?
It happens, and it’s rarely personal — sellers may receive multiple offers or have specific terms in mind. If your offer isn’t accepted, your agent will help you regroup, adjust your strategy if needed, and continue the search until you find the right fit.
My offer was accepted — how do I make sure the home is in good condition?
Once under contract, your agent will help you schedule a professional home inspection during your option period. Licensed inspectors evaluate the property’s condition and provide a written report. Your agent can help you review that report and, where appropriate, negotiate repairs or credits with the seller — but the inspection findings and any repair recommendations come from the licensed inspector, not your agent.
What is the appraisal process, and what happens if it comes in different from the offer price?
If you’re financing your purchase, your lender will typically order an independent appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the loan amount. If the appraisal comes in at or above your offer price, the process generally continues as planned. If it comes in lower, you and your agent will discuss your options, which may include renegotiating the price, covering the difference in cash, or, depending on your contract terms, ending the contract. Your agent can walk you through these options, though the final course of action is yours to decide.
Closing Day
The finish line — where all the paperwork becomes a set of keys.
Who handles the final step of closing on my new home?
Closing is typically coordinated between your agent, your lender, and a title company. We often work with Independence Title, though you’re welcome to choose any title company you prefer. Our agents will help keep the process on track and be available to answer questions as you approach the closing table, with all final documents reviewed and signed under the guidance of the title company’s closing team.
Got More Questions?
No question is too small — or too nutty. Here’s how to reach a real person who’s ready to help.
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
That’s alright — real estate is full of “what ifs,” and no FAQ page can cover them all. Reach out and we’ll give you a straight, personal answer, whether it’s a quick clarification or something that calls for a deeper conversation.
The information above is educational in nature and reflects general real estate practice in Texas. It is not legal, tax, or financial advice. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult a licensed attorney, tax professional, or financial advisor.
The Listing Squirrel is a licensed Texas real estate brokerage. Equal Housing Opportunity. This FAQ is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice.
