Answers by Alana Mey

Hi Rose! You most certainly can still purchase a home. I've helped many people in their 70s purchase homes in 55+ Communities. Wishing you happy buying! Alāna Mey Real Estate Broker in Bellingham, WA Compass www.AlanaMey.com

Hello Greg! I would recommend attending open houses that other agents will put on of homes you might be interested in. This will give you a feel for the suburb homes without having to go through the pre-approval process. Open Houses are usually open to the public, on the weekends, within a few hour window and can be found online. Alāna Mey Real Estate Broker in Bellingham, WA Compass www.AlanaMey.com

Hi Rob! I would take photos and share it with your local flooring store, they'll be able to make recommendations on what might look best and stay within your budget. Or look at homes similar to yours that have sold recently and see what their flooring is. New floors (carpet or hard) can be a huge bonus. If you talk with your local agent, there is also the possibility of offering a buyer's credit for new floors which will allow the new owner to choose what they want and could save you money in the long run. Best of luck and happy selling! Alāna Mey Real Estate Broker in Bellingham, WA Compass www.AlanaMey.com

Hi Collette, I would recommend reaching out to an agent in your community to help give you recommendations to lenders, programs, or who can help really get the ball rolling for you specifically. Try and find an agent who has worked with "first-time home buyers" as they are more likely to have the guidance to help get you going. To answer your question of how much money do you need. It varies. Most buyers need some upfront money, even with low-down-payment programs. Typical costs include: • Down payment: can be as low as 3–3.5% of the home price (sometimes 0% with special loans) • Closing costs: usually 2–5% of the price • Emergency savings: lenders like to see a small cushion after you buy If you truly have $0 saved, focus first on: • Building a small savings fund (even $3k–$10k is a solid start) • Checking your credit score (this affects your loan options) • Looking into first-time buyer programs in Texas—they can help with down payment assistance. Asking questions is the best place to start! Wishing you all the best and happy buying! Alāna Mey Real Estate Broker in Bellingham, WA Compass www.AlanaMey.com

Hi David! Interview several different real estate agents in your area. You will most likely need to pick an agent, but it is important to chat with different agents to see who is a good fit. Who did you talk to that you resonated with, didn't pressure you, let you ask questions and felt like they were on your timeline. I wrote a blog that covers questions to ask a variety of people in the real estate journey: https://alanamey.com/blog-alana-mey-realtor/questions-first-time-home-buyers-should-ask-their-real-estate-agent-lender-and-themselves -- It's for my area, but most ring true for any real estate journey. Wishing you the best and happy buying! Alāna Mey Real Estate Broker in Bellingham, WA Compass www.AlanaMey.com

I believe the question you posed at the end of your post is key. I would ask your agent to prioritize the list they provided you. What is the "Must", "Want", and "Need" on the pre-sell checklist. I am in agreement with what Agent Keith wrote as well, starting from the driveway and walking into your home as if you were buying it, what stands out to you? What do you notice? Happy Selling! Alāna Mey Top-Rated Real Estate Broker in Bellingham, WA Compass www.AlanaMey.com

Great question! There are many variables that can come into play that I would recommend talking with your real estate agent about. Is your home in a neighborhood where potential buyers might want a yard for their kids? Then maybe making it grass could cast a wider net for potential buyers. However, I think a native yard sounds lovely and if it is approved by the HOA you do not need to put it back to grass before you sell. Alāna Mey Real Estate Broker in Bellingham, WA Compass www.AlanaMey.com