Dauphin Realty knows that today's Buyers and Sellers want to be knowledgeable about the sale and purchase of property. What is important to you is important to us. Our aim is to make the process as easy as possible by providing information that will help you understand real estate, avoid confusion, and build confidence and trust in your real estate agent. Whether you are buying or selling, you will have plenty of questions. Remember, the only bad question is the one that is not asked.

Why do I need a real estate agent?
Real Estate agents work diligently to help you buy or sell a home. They are a wealth of information. Good agents are truly aware of the market, prevent obstacles, and some unforeseen problems that may arise in the process. They help you through the ups and downs until the procedure is concluded.

What constitutes a good real estate agent?
A good real estate agent is professional, personable, ethical, and knowledgeable about the real estate market in your area. The agent also is service oriented, communicates well, and understands what is taking place in the selling and buying process.

What is MLS?
Multiple Listing Service is a database system of the housing market in a particular area, which brokers use to work together for the sale and purchase of homes. Most brokers and their agents are members of MLS which gives the greatest exposure possible to a seller's property and provides the most complete information for buyers.    Click here to search the entire MLS.

What are comps?
A comparative market analysis (CMA) is an agent's evaluation of the best possible price a home will get in the current market of a particular area. The CMA is based on listing and sales data from the MLS and is used to determine list price for the seller and to assist the buyer in deciding what offer to make on a property.
Click here for a free Comparative Market Analysis.

What is my home worth?
The true value of your property is the price a ready, willing and able buyer is willing to pay. Real estate agents who are knowledgeable of the local market can provide a comparative market analysis and also inform you of changes in the market that can affect the value of your home.

How do I prepare my home for sale?
Look at your home as if you were a potential buyer. You can then determine what repairs may be needed, painting, and elimination of clutter. Beware of doing improvements that you will not be able to recoup financially. Your real estate professional will be a big help in deciding what needs to be done.
Click here to get our free selling tips guide

How will my home be advertised?
Dauphin Realty uses a variety of resources to advertise listed properties, including MLS, newspapers, Numerous Internet sites, photo tours, virtual tours, National magazine, Television, magazines, and mailouts. Ask your agent for the ad campaign

When is the best time to put my home on the market?
Springtime is usually the busiest time in the real estate market. However, when inventory is low during times such as the holidays, you can often get a quick sale at a good price, because competition is not as high. The best time to sell your home really depends on your personal needs.  Get our free selling tips guide

How can I sell my home quickly for the highest price?
Your home should be well priced for the market, in the beginning. A knowledgeable agent will give you information on comparable sales in the local area and also add insight about the homes in your neighborhood. The condition of your property and good market exposures will also help the home sell quickly.
Click here to get our free selling tips guide : Click here for a free Comparative Market Analysis.

Is it safe to use a lock box?
Only licensed professional real estate agents can access the new computerized lock boxes. The lock boxes are not only convenient for the seller, they are the safest way to market a property. They even include data of each showing and the agent that showed the home.

What do I have to disclose about my home?
Disclosing known material defect in your home protects you against the possibility of law suits. Buyers find it helpful to know ahead of time what problems they may have and they can budget accordingly and avoid future problems. Disclosure of defects rarely keeps a home from selling. On the other hand, it often aids the sale because potential buyers are more aware of what to expect and feel they are avoiding surprises.

How long will it take to sell my home?
The average time to sell a home varies with the location, condition of the home, and several other factors taking place in the economy and real estate market. The market is in a constant change and this can sometimes present a challenge. Pricing your home for the present market, getting your home in good showing condition, and finding a knowledgeable, hard working Realtor will usually get your home sold in the quickest possible time. Sometimes, for no reason, a home does not sell as soon as it should. Eventually it will with a little patience.
Get our free selling tips guide : Free Comparative Market Analysis. : Click here for our monthly newsletter

I am thinking about buying a home. Where do I start?
Buying a home is probably the largest purchase people make. When you are serious about purchasing a home, you need to first consider what your personal wants and needs will be. The next step will be to find a real estate agent that is knowledgeable, reputable, and with whom you will feel comfortable in searching for your home. Finally, your agent can assist you with this step, you need to talk with a lender to find out what price home you can afford to buy. The loan officer will work to get you pre-approval and the buying process will move much smoother.    Click here to get our free buyers tips

What kind of insurance will be needed?
When you purchase a home your lender will require you to have hazard (homeowners) insurance on the property at the time of closing to protect against fire, water damage, and other loss. The cost most likely will be based on an estimate to rebuild. In flood zones, additional coverage may be required. Also, you will need title insurance guaranteeing you are receiving clear title to the property. The lender usually asks for a lender's title policy to insure the lender's interest in the property, as well.   Click here to search our Real Estate Dictionary

Is mold something to be concerned about?
Concern about mold is a relatively new issue to residential real estate and there is much we do not know about it. News stories and magazine articles have made the public aware of this environmental hazard. Potential home owners need to be aware of the hazard related to mold in order to make informed decisions about what should be done if mold is found. Moisture needs to be present for mold to grow. Reducing moisture in your home is the first step in preventing mold growth.

What is a contingency?
A contingency is a condition to an accepted contract that must be satisfied prior to closing . Contingencies such as financing, inspections, and title clearance are part of most contracts. Other contingencies may be added, such as, the sale of a present home. A time limit is usually put on contingencies and as soon as they are satisfied the sale becomes binding and proceeds toward closing.
Click here to search our Real Estate Dictionary

What is earnest money?
Earnest money is presented with an offer to let the Seller know that the buyer is sincere in making the offer on the property. The amount of earnest money varies with the price of the property and is held in the selling broker's trust account until the close of the sale. The earnest money is deducted from the cash amount the buyer is required to have at closing.   Click here to search our Real Estate Dictionary

What is a walk-through?
A walk-through is the final inspection of the property just before closing to ascertain that the mechanical systems are in working order, any required repairs have been completed, and nothing unexpected has occurred with the property since the inspection.  Click to search our Real Estate Dictionary

What is a termite letter?
A termite clearance letter or wood infestation report (WIR) is an inspection of the property for wood destroying insects or fungus that causes damage. The report inspects visible, accessible areas for active bugs and organisms and also reports previous damage that has been treated. Most lenders require a WIR on the property. Buyers feel secure when the property is clear of any active infestation or structural damage. Many homes carry a termite bond or contract that is transferable and renewed yearly. This assures the home owner that the property is checked yearly for the presence of active wood destroying insects. Termite bonds are not a requirement, but homes are rarely sold without a termite clearance letter.  Search the Real Estate Dictionary

When do I transfer the utilities?
The real estate agent will coordinate a date for the transfer of utilities so nothing is shut off. Often the costs of connection fees are saved by the seller and buyer mutually agreeing on a transfer date.
Click here for a list of Utilities Websites and contact numbers.

Do I need a home inspection?
Home inspections should be a top priority in the purchase of a home. Even though most homes have a disclosure of material defects provided by the seller, there are often problems or potential problems unknown to the seller. A professional inspection helps you plan and budget for repairs, that may be needed in the future. The inspection also helps the buyer in deciding if he can afford to repair and maintain the home.
Click here to view our buyers tips : click here to request our current home inspectors list

How do I know what to offer for a home?
This can be one of the hardest parts of the home buying process. You do not want to overpay for a home, but you also do not want to have a seller totally ignore an offer that is too low. A knowledgeable real estate agent can be invaluable in this process. There is usually a certain amount of guess work involved and an agent is your best asset.   Click here to view our buyers tips : Click here to find out a homes value

Do I need to get pre-qualified?
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage loan can eliminate problems and expedite the buying process. This procedure helps you know what you can afford and how much cash you will need to bring to closing for down payment, closing costs and prepays. A pre-approval letter from your lender will help with negotiating your purchase agreement because it gives the seller assurance that you can financially afford to buy their property. Your real estate agent can help you find a lender that offers several programs that can fit your financial needs to purchase a home.   Click here to see if you are pre-qualified  : Click here for more Mortgage Information

What price home do I qualify for?
Your mortgage lender will be able to look at your financial status and determine how much of a mortgage you can afford. You will then be looking at homes in the price range that best suits your personal finances.
Click here to see if you are pre-qualified : Click here for more Mortgage Information

How much money will I need to close?
What size down payment will be required? Your mortgage lender will let you know your costs and the necessary cash you will need to close. Today, there are a variety of options and the lender will determine the program that best fits your needs.    Click here for our Mortgage Calculator

What is the difference between Mortgage brokers and lenders?
Unlike a banker/lender, a mortgage broker does not have their own funds to lend and therefore have to send a client's application to either mortgage lenders or bankers to get financing. The lender/banker can approve the loan and send it back through the broker to close the loan with the client. A mortgage broker may charge the client higher fees for closing costs and points for brokering the loan if they are not getting a fee from the lender/banker. The client in the end makes the payment to the banker, not the broker.
Click here for more Mortgage Information

What mistakes do buyers make?
Often buyers do not do their homework. Be sure you do not get in financially over your head. Make sure the home you are buying fits your personal needs. Choose a real estate agent that you can communicate with and who is willing to listen to you. Be sure you look at all aspects of your financial situation, and not purchase a home that makes you house poor and unable to have a good quality of life. A good agent will help you avoid mistakes and make the process an enjoyable experience.