FAQ

Get pre-approved. That's it. Before we look at a single home, you need to know your number and have a lender in your corner. It makes your offers competitive and keeps us from wasting time on homes outside your range. Once that's done, we'll put together a game plan and start the search. Check out my Buyers Guide for a full breakdown of what to expect.

Once you're under contract, plan on 30 to 45 days to close. Finding the right home is the variable. It could be two weeks, it could be two months. Depends on the market and how specific your criteria are. I'll keep you from rushing into something that isn't right. My Buyers Guide walks through the full timeline.

Millcreek, Holladay, Cottonwood Heights, and Murray are all solid. Good schools, parks, and they each have their own vibe. I live and work in this area, so I can give you a real on-the-ground take rather than just whatever Zillow says. Just ask and I'll match you to the right spot.

The listing agent works for the seller. A buyer's agent works for you. In Utah, you can have your own representation at no cost to you. The seller covers both sides. You want someone fully in your corner, especially when it comes time to negotiate.

Not always. There are 0% down programs available in Utah for qualifying buyers, FHA loans at 3.5% down, and VA loans for veterans. I work with great lenders who can find the right fit for your situation. Don't assume you need 20% down to get started.

It means the seller accepted an offer and the home is no longer actively on the market. There's still a due diligence window where inspections, appraisals, and financing get sorted out. If something falls through during that period, the home can come back up. It's worth keeping an eye on homes that go under contract if you like them.

Earnest money is your good-faith deposit. It tells the seller you're serious. In Utah that's typically 1 to 3% of the purchase price. It sits in escrow and goes toward your down payment at closing. If the deal falls through for the right reasons, you can usually get it back.

Price matters, but it's not the only thing. A strong earnest money deposit, a flexible closing date, and a clean offer can all make a difference. I'll tell you exactly what matters to each specific seller so we're not just throwing money at a situation. Strategy wins deals, not just the highest number.

A professional goes through the whole property, roof to foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC. I recommend one on every deal. It gives you real information and negotiating power before you're locked in. Never skip it.

Plan for 2 to 5% of the purchase price on top of your down payment. That covers loan fees, title insurance, the appraisal, and prepaid items like insurance and taxes. Your lender will give you a Loan Estimate early in the process so nothing surprises you at the table.

The best time to sell is when it makes sense for your life and the numbers work in your favor. Spring and early summer tend to bring the most buyers in Utah, but a well-priced home moves in any season. Want a real sense of where the market is right now? Take a look at the Market Report.

I run a detailed Comparative Market Analysis looking at recent sales, what's currently active, and where the market is trending in your specific area. Pricing isn't just a formula. Getting it right from day one is what separates a strong sale from a home that sits and goes stale. Get a free home valuation here.

I'll walk the home with you and tell you exactly what's worth doing and what isn't. Fresh paint, decluttering, a deep clean, and good landscaping go a long way. We focus on what actually moves buyers, not just what looks nice to you. Check out the Sellers Guide for more on getting your home show-ready.

Every listing gets professional photography, strong MLS placement, targeted social media, email outreach to my buyer network, and digital ads. For higher-end properties we add video, drone footage, and luxury-specific marketing. The goal is getting the right buyers through the door, not just generating clicks.

Commission structures vary and they're always negotiable. I'll be upfront about everything before we sign anything. What I'd tell you is this: the right marketing and negotiation strategy will net you a lot more than chasing a discount on commission. Reach out and let's talk through the specifics.

A well-priced, well-presented home in the SLC area can sell in days. Park City and higher price points tend to take a bit longer depending on the season. I'll give you a straight answer based on what the market is actually doing right now. See the current Market Report.

Nope. Most sellers live in their homes while they're listed. I'll help you set up a showing schedule that works around your life. Vacant homes sometimes show better, but it's absolutely not a requirement.

Utah law requires sellers to disclose known material defects, things like prior water damage, roof issues, or HOA problems. I'll walk you through the whole process so you're protected and buyers know what they're getting into. The Sellers Guide covers this in more detail.

Yes. It's called a short sale and it requires lender approval. It takes longer than a traditional sale, but it's a real option and it's a lot better for your credit than foreclosure. I've navigated these before. Reach out and let's talk through your situation.

I cover the greater Salt Lake City area, including Millcreek, Holladay, Murray, Cottonwood Heights, Sandy, Draper, and Midvale. I also work extensively in Park City and Summit County. Not sure if you're in my area? Just ask. Reach out here.

100%. First-time buyers are some of my favorite clients. I'll walk you through everything, no jargon, no rush. You'll know what's happening and why at every step. Start with the Buyers Guide and then let's connect.

I'm direct, I move fast, and I actually care about the outcome. I know this market well because I live in it. I'm also involved in the community year-round through events, sponsorships, and causes that matter to me. That network shows up for my clients in real ways. More about me here.

Same day, usually within a few hours. Real estate moves fast and slow communication costs deals. Text, call, or email, whatever works for you. Contact me here.

Yes, and I do it regularly. It takes coordination and a clear plan, but it's very doable. We'll map out the timing together and make sure neither transaction is left hanging. Let's talk through your situation.

Yes. Single-family rentals, ADU plays, short-term rental properties, fix and flips. I understand the numbers and I'll help you evaluate deals beyond just the listing price. Browse current listings or reach out to talk strategy.

Yes. I donate 10% of commissions on transactions connected to the BrockStrong Foundation directly to that organization. It's something I'm proud to do and it's a commitment I take seriously. Learn more about who I work with.

Market conditions shift throughout the year and it varies by price point and neighborhood. I keep a close eye on inventory, days on market, and price trends. Check the Market Report for a current read or reach out and I'll give you my honest take.

Most conventional loans want at least a 620. You'll get better rates with a 740 or above. FHA can go down to 580. Your lender will look at the full picture, not just the score. Don't let a number stop you from asking.

Pre-qualification is a ballpark based on what you tell the lender. Pre-approval is verified. Income, assets, credit, all confirmed. In this market, sellers take pre-approval seriously. Pre-qual won't cut it if you're competing for a home. More on this in the Buyers Guide.

A lot. A 1% rate change can shift your purchasing power by tens of thousands of dollars on the same monthly payment. That's why I always recommend connecting with a lender early so you're working with real numbers. The Market Report covers rate trends too.

Pretty reasonable compared to most of the country. Effective rates run around 0.5 to 0.6% depending on the county. Your lender will roll property taxes into your monthly escrow payment so it's not a surprise.

An ADU is a secondary unit on your property, like a basement apartment or a detached garage unit. Utah has been expanding ADU-friendly zoning and some loan programs let you use projected rental income from an ADU to help you qualify. It's a smart move in the right situation. Ask me if a property you're looking at qualifies.

You've got options. Negotiate the price down with the seller, pay the gap in cash, or walk away if you have an appraisal contingency in the contract. I'll help you figure out which move makes sense. It happens more than people expect and it's manageable.