Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need for a down payment in Utah?
It depends on your loan type. Conventional loans typically require 3 to 5 percent down, FHA loans can go as low as 3.5 percent, and some first-time buyer programs in Utah offer even lower options. I can help you figure out which loan type fits your situation and what your actual down payment would look like.
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
Most conventional loans require a credit score of at least 620, while FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 with a smaller down payment. A higher score generally gets you a better interest rate, but there are Utah loan programs designed for buyers who don't have perfect credit. If you're not sure where you stand, I can connect you with a local lender who can walk through your options.
Do I have to pay a realtor to help me buy a home?
In most cases, no. The seller typically covers the buyer's agent commission as part of the sale, so buyers get full representation without paying out of pocket. This can vary depending on the specific deal, so it's worth confirming upfront, and I always explain exactly how compensation works before we start looking at homes.
What's the difference between a buyer's agent and a listing agent?
A listing agent represents the seller and works to get them the best price and terms. A buyer's agent represents the buyer and works to protect their interests, negotiate on their behalf, and guide them through the purchase process. Having your own buyer's agent means someone is looking out for you specifically, not the seller. If you are selling your home and buying a new one, I can help you with both.
How do I find out what my home is worth?
The most accurate way is a comparative market analysis, which looks at recent sales of similar homes in your area, current market conditions, and your home's specific features and condition. Online home value estimators can give a rough starting point, but they often miss local nuances that actually affect price. I offer free home valuations for Utah County and other Utah sellers who want a realistic number before listing.
What are closing costs, and who pays them?
Closing costs are the fees associated with finalizing a home purchase, typically ranging from 2 to 5 percent of the loan amount, and they can include things like loan origination fees, title insurance, and appraisal costs. Buyers and sellers each pay different portions, and in some cases, buyers can negotiate for the seller to cover part of these costs. I go over the full breakdown with clients so there are no surprises at closing.
How long does it take to sell a home in Utah County?
It varies based on price, condition, and current market demand, but well-priced homes in Utah County often go under contract within a few weeks in a balanced or seller's market. Homes that are overpriced or need work tend to sit significantly longer. Accurate pricing from the start is the biggest factor in how quickly a home sells.
Is now a good time to buy in Utah County?
It depends on your personal timeline and financial readiness more than trying to perfectly time the market. Utah County has historically seen strong long-term appreciation, and waiting for a "perfect" moment often costs buyers more in the long run through rising prices or rates. I can walk you through current market conditions so you can make a decision based on real data, not guesswork.
What should I ask a realtor before hiring them?
Good questions include how long they've worked in your specific area, how they plan to market your home or find you one, how they communicate throughout the process, and what past clients say about working with them. The answers should give you a clear sense of whether they're a good fit, not just a sales pitch. I'm always upfront about my track record and how I work, since that's what actually helps you decide.
What should I fix before listing my home?
Focus on things that affect first impressions and inspection results: fresh paint, minor repairs, decluttering, and curb appeal typically offer the best return for the effort. Major renovations usually aren't necessary and rarely pay for themselves at sale. I walk every seller through exactly what's worth fixing and what isn't before we list, so money goes where it actually helps.
Do you only work in Utah County?
I can work with any one buying or selling a home in Utah. I specifically work in Utah, Salt Lake, Wasatch, and Summit Counties but have worked in Davis, Ogden, Tooele, and Washington Counties as well.
Some of the cites I have worked in the past include: Lehi, American Fork, Highland, Alpine, Cedar Hills, Pleasant Grove, Orem, Provo, Spanish Fork, Payson, Santaquin, Draper, Sandy, Riverton, Bluffdale, South Jordan, Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake City, Hollady, Park City, Heber, Midway, Farmington, Kaysville, Ogden, Tooele, Grantsville, and St. George.
Why should I choose you as my realtor?
I focus on two things clients consistently tell me matter most: clear communication and strong marketing that actually gets results. As an experienced Utah County agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Elite Real Estate, I don't just list a home or show you properties, I stay responsive at every step so you're never left wondering what's happening next. Whether you're selling and want top dollar or buying and want someone negotiating hard on your behalf, my goal is the same: get you an outcome you're actually happy with, not just a closed deal.
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