BUY WITH CONFIDENCE

Talk to a REALTOR, get pre-approved, search and tour homes, and write an offer. Once it is accepted, you pay earnest money and schedule the inspection, then it is appraisal and underwriting, a final walk-through, and closing. Our free buyer guide walks through every step.

Beyond the down payment, plan for earnest money (typically 1 to 3% of the price, which goes toward your purchase), a home inspection (usually $400 to $600), an appraisal ($400 to $600), and closing costs of about 2 to 3% of the purchase price.

Usually about 2 to 3% of the purchase price, covering lender fees, title fees, prepaid property taxes and homeowners insurance, and any HOA fees. Closing costs are negotiable, and in some markets the seller covers part or all of them.

Yes. Minnesota Housing's Start Up program offers first-time buyer loans with down payment and closing cost help, Hennepin County runs a Homebuyer Assistance Program, and cities including Minneapolis have their own. Income and price limits apply, so ask your lender which ones fit. We can connect you with lenders who use them regularly.

Sometimes. VA and USDA loans can allow 0% down for eligible buyers, and Minnesota down payment assistance programs can cover much of the upfront cost for qualifying first-time buyers. You will still want funds on hand for earnest money and the inspection.

The search can take a few weeks or a few months depending on inventory and your must-haves. Once your offer is accepted, closing typically follows in 30 to 45 days with financing.

It is negotiated. Your buyer broker agreement covers our compensation, and it also lets us ask the seller to pay it. Many sellers still do, and when they do not, it can be written into your offer or paid at closing. We walk through it with you before you write an offer.

Clear communication at every step, local knowledge across the west and northwest suburbs, a reputation listing agents trust (which helps offers get accepted), and our vetted list of lenders, inspectors, and contractors, reserved for our clients.