Your Top Questions and Answers About
Buying & Selling in Hampton Roads
Q: We’re PCSing to Hampton Roads and are worried about the traffic. Where should we look?
A: We’ll compare Peninsula and Southside options by commute to your duty station, and I’ll show you realistic drive times with and without the tunnels. We’ll balance that with what matters at home, like neighborhood feel and access to services. If you’re out of state, I handle virtual tours, e-signing, and on-the-ground checks so the search stays simple.
Q: We’re concerned about safety and schools. Can you help?
A: I can’t define what is “safe” for your family, but I can point you to objective resources like local crime data, school reports, and municipal information so you can make the call. I’ll add market context and neighborhood logistics to help you compare areas apples to apples. I also suggest visiting neighborhoods at different times of day and speaking directly with school administrators or local authorities for the best perspective.
Q: We’re only going to be here for 3 years. Should we buy or rent?
A: We’ll run a clear buy-vs-rent analysis using your BAH, today’s prices and rates, estimated closing costs, and likely resale or rental scenarios at the end of your tour. If buying with a VA loan aligns with your goals and the numbers make sense, great; if renting is the smarter play, I’ll say so. Either way, you’ll leave with a plan that fits your timeline and risk comfort.
Q: We’re worried about the money. Can we afford a house without a big down payment?
A: Many buyers purchase with 3–5% down on conventional loans; qualified military buyers can use 0% down VA; FHA starts at 3.5% down with typical credit. I’ll connect you with reputable local lenders to compare payments, total cash at closing, and any assistance you may qualify for. Getting pre-approved early brings clarity to the budget and helps us target the right homes.
Q: We want an agent we can trust and who won’t push us.
A: Interview at least two REALTORS® and choose the one who listens, communicates clearly, and can explain their plan for pricing, offers, inspections, and timelines. My approach is service over sales, steady communication, and straight advice, even when that means slowing down or walking away. I aim to be your long-term resource, not a one-and-done transaction.
Q: What if something goes wrong: bidding wars, inspection issues, appraisal gaps?
A: I prepare you up front with strategies for competitive offers, including ways to stay strong without overspending. If inspections or appraisals raise concerns, I’ll explain your options in plain English and negotiate repairs, credits, or timeline adjustments as needed. You’ll get regular updates and solutions, not surprises.
Q: What are the steps to selling my home?
A: 1) Pricing review & Comparative Market Analysis to develop a strategy. 2) Prep: declutter, deep clean, quick fixes, curb appeal. 3) Marketing launch: pro photos/video, MLS syndication, targeted social media, email blasts and web marketing. 4) Showings & feedback with rapid tweaks. 5) Negotiate price, terms, and timelines. 6) Contract‑to‑close: inspections, appraisal, title, and deadlines. I manage the moving pieces and keep you updated at every step.
Q: How do we determine the right list price?
A: I prepare a data‑driven Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) using recent local sales, current competition, and trends by neighborhood. We adjust for your home’s features and condition, then match pricing to your goals and timeline. As a Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), I recommend a number that attracts serious buyers without leaving money on the table.
Q: How should I prepare my home before selling?
A: Focus on the highest‑ROI items: declutter and depersonalize, deep clean, repair small defects, add fresh neutral paint, and improve curb appeal. Consider targeted staging for key rooms or virtual staging for vacant homes. These steps boost photos, showings, and offers. I can refer reliable cleaners, contractors, painters, and stagers.
Q: How will my home be marketed?
A: Your listing gets pro photography, compelling copy, and MLS syndication to major portals. I run targeted social ads, feature the home on my site, email my buyer and agent networks, and host open houses when appropriate. Thoughtful follow‑up and weekly reporting keep us aligned.
Q: How long does it take to sell a home in Hampton Roads?
A: It depends on: price, condition, location, and overall market demand. The single biggest lever is pricing it right from the start, a data-driven list price that matches recent comps and current competition draws more showings and stronger offers; overpricing leads to stale days on market and price cuts. I’ll analyze neighborhood sales and buyer activity to recommend a strategy for your specific property.
Q: What if I need to sell and buy at the same time?
A: We can align both moves with options like a home sale contingency, a seller rent‑back, buying first with a bridge loan, or using short‑term housing to remove contingencies. The best path depends on your finances and risk tolerance. I coordinate both transactions so dates, funds, and keys line up with minimal stress.
Q: I’m a first-time buyer and don’t know where to start.
A: You’re not alone; the process has lots of moving parts, and that’s why I map it out with you from the first call. We’ll talk budget, timing, and neighborhoods, then line up a pre-approval so you know exactly what you can afford. From there I’ll guide you through search, offers, inspections, and closing, so you always know what’s next and why it matters.